Top Apps to consider for WhatsApp Alternatives as to control privacy more effectively

Top 5 WhatsApp alternatives you can consider instead of WhatsApp

Source: Pexels

With the update in privacy policy of WhatsApp, a lot of people already started to feel uncomfortable to use WhatsApp. I have already discussed the changes in WhatsApp policy, and you can read that article by clicking on this link. WhatsApp has become a deeper part of human interaction for the past few years, and now it is very difficult to suddenly get out of its ecosystem. Feature rich messaging app with simple UI made this app people's first choice of instant messenger. Its large user base and seamless connectivity even in low bandwidth made this app everyone's favourite. Due to its large user base, it is very difficult to suddenly switch to another messenger. However, people have to make a choice whether to continue using WhatsApp or switch to another subsequent alternatives.

Let's move to the list of apps you can consider giving a try if you don't want to agree to the new privacy policy.

 1. Telegram Messenger

Telegram Messenger is a privacy focused messenger app with cross-platform support. Unlike WhatsApp, it can be accessed simultaneously on multiple devices, ranging from smartphone to Desktops. Telegram can also send files up to the size of 2 GB for any type of files whereas for WhatsApp this limit is 100 MB only and 16 MB for media files.

 

Telegram Messenger

 

Pros: Users can also pin a message in Telegram. Telegram bots increase the experience to manage the channels created on Telegram. Telegram also allows a user to become an 'Anonymous Admin' which is not possible in WhatsApp as of now.

Cons: The App lacks video calling feature, comparatively small user base.

Download: Telegram Messenger, Telegram X (Android)

 2. Signal Private Messenger

Signal can be one of the top choices for WhatsApp's alternatives. Signal provides its services which are end-to-end encrypted like WhatsApp. Admittedly, WhatsApp uses Signal's end-to-end encryption protocol for providing the encryption service. Signal can be ideal choice to make if you want to be safe online with your communication, and it can  also send self-destructing message like Telegram.

 

Signal Private Messenger

Pros: It can prevent anyone from taking screenshot of chats, Data accessed (essential for running) is not linked to user's identity.

Cons: Small user base to connect easily to peers.

Download: Signal Private Messenger

3. Hike Messenger

 Hike messenger is a sticker centric chat app. Hike is an Indian option for cross-platform messaging app. Unlike most internet based instant messenger, hike enjoy an advantage of being able to send hike message through SMS service when offline. In the hike app, you can hide a chat also. You can share any kind of files for up to 100 MB.

 

Hike Messenger

 Pros: Hide chats, Unique Stickers.

Cons: 100 MB limit on sharing of files, unpopular and less user base.

Download: Hike Messenger (Web | Android | iOS)

4. Discord

Discord's popularity amongst gamers is skyrocketing day after day. Discord is not just an app to chat. Using discord, a user can create a server also, which can be used for real time discussion using not only text, but also with voice chats. Using Discord, you can browse together with your friends after sharing screen. Several other services such as Twitch, YouTube, Battle.net, Steam, Reddit, Facebook, Twitter, Xbox Live, and GitHub, etc. are also integrated in Discord which gives a user another experience of connected ecosystem.

 

Discord

Pros: Popular among gamers, Ability to create servers.

Cons: Some game servers can be toxic to join, Chat bombarding in servers can be an issue.

Download: Discord ( Download | Web)

5. Snapchat

 Okay, I admit it. Snapchat is not intended for chatting in the first place, but considering privacy, this can turn the best pick among others because chat messages are self-destructed after certain set period of time. It can be more inclined toward the Social Media App category rather than just a messaging app.

 

Snapchat

 Pros: Original Concept of 24 hours stories, self-destructing messages.

Cons: Not ideal for daily chat app.

Download: Snapchat 

Other Alternatives and Conclusion

Skype, Viber, etc can also be some options if above options do not suite your needs. If you want a feature rich experience like WhatsApp with privacy, then Telegram and Discord can be your pick for you. If only privacy is what you want, then Signal Private Messenger is what you need.

 

Which WhatsApp alternative did you like more and what made you like it more? Do share your views in the comment section below.