Side by side

Signal vs Tox

Both stand on encrypted messaging apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.

Signal

Free plan AndroidiPhoneLinux+2

Signal covers everyday messaging, file sharing and voice or video calls, with encryption and group controls. Keep the phone-registration and desktop setup requirements in mind.

Visit Signal

Choose Tox if you want free, open-source communication with messaging, calls, video, groups, and uncapped file sharing. Look elsewhere if hiding your IP address, professionally audited software, or formal general-user support is essential.

Visit Tox

The facts

	Signal	Tox
Free plan	Yes	Yes
Open source	Not published	Not published
Runs on	Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Windows	Android, Linux, Mac, Windows
Lowest paid plan	Free or on request	Free or on request
Plans published	1	1
Maker	Not published	Not published
Website	signal.org	tox.chat
On encrypted messaging apps	#20 of 43	#24 of 43

Signal: what it does well

Messages and calls are end-to-end encrypted by default.
Supports voice and video group calls.
Group chats include admins, permissions and @mentions.
Users can connect through a unique username.
Available across mobile and desktop platforms.

What to know first

Phone number registration is required.
Desktop app requires prior phone installation.
Accounts can link up to five devices.
Minimum age is 13, subject to higher local requirements.

Tox: what it does well

Free forever with no advertising
No artificial file-sharing limits or caps
End-to-end encryption with perfect forward secrecy
Voice, video, screen sharing, and group chats
Decentralized network without central servers

What to know first

Adding a contact reveals your IP address
Clients are alpha software under heavy development
Possible usability bugs or security vulnerabilities
General support is directed to forums or mailing lists

Alternatives to Signal Alternatives to Tox The whole list