Side by side
Skred 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.
Free plan AndroidiPhoneWeb
Skred focuses on anonymous, encrypted communication without account identifiers. Its free basic service is broad, while the monthly plan adds multi-party audio and video calls.
Visit Skred Free plan AndroidLinuxMac+1
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 ToxThe facts
| Skred | Tox | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, iPhone, Web | Android, Linux, Mac, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Multi-party audio and video calls: €2.99 a month | Free or on request |
| Plans published | 1 | 1 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | skred.app | tox.chat |
| On encrypted messaging apps | #28 of 43 | #24 of 43 |
Skred: what it does well
- No phone number or email required
- End-to-end encrypted peer-to-peer conversations
- Messages can be deleted from both devices
- Available on Android, iOS, and web
- Browser calling through URLs or QR codes
What to know first
- Both users must be online for delivery
- No dedicated desktop app
- Multi-party calls require €2.99 a month
- No disappearing-message feature listed
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