Side by side
KakaoTalk vs Monal
Both stand on instant messaging software. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidMacWindows
Visit KakaoTalk 
Free plan iPhoneMac
Monal provides broad XMPP messaging and calling features without a listed charge. Privacy details vary by function, especially fallback call servers and locally stored logs.
Visit MonalThe facts
| KakaoTalk | Monal | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, Mac, Windows | iPhone, Mac |
| Lowest paid plan | Not published | Free or on request |
| Plans published | None | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | kakaocorp.com | monal-im.org |
| On instant messaging software | #24 of 30 | #20 of 30 |
KakaoTalk: what it does well
Monal: what it does well
- Free iOS and macOS client
- Private and group messaging
- Audio and video calls
- OMEMO encryption listed for private and group chats
- Supports multiple XMPP accounts
What to know first
- Fallback servers may see IP addresses and call duration
- Device logs can contain decrypted message contents
- Volunteer project asks users for donations
Alternatives to KakaoTalk Alternatives to Monal The whole list