Signal vs WhatsApp

In the debate of Signal vs WhatsApp, people usually find that Signal provides a way to chat with friends without giving your personal data to a big company. Signal keeps every message private and never tracks who you talk to or when you use the app¹.

Signal SW Score
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4.6/5
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Signal vs WhatsApp

Private messaging for everyone

Signal is a free app that keeps your conversations safe with high-level security that no one else can read. It works on all your devices and focuses on protecting your information instead of tracking your habits¹.

How it's different

Keep chats private without tracking

Signal uses special codes so only you and your friends can read your messages or see your photos¹.

Eliminate metadata collection from Meta

Signal only stores your phone number and when you joined instead of tracking your activity like other apps do⁹.

Open code for everyone's safety

The app's code is open for experts to check at any time to ensure your data stays secure¹.

How Signal compares to WhatsApp

Feature
Signal
WhatsApp
Ownership
Non-profit foundation¹
Meta (Facebook)⁶
Data Collection
Minimal (Phone number only)⁹
Collects metadata and usage⁷
Code Transparency
Fully open-source¹
Hidden, private code⁶
Account Security
Stable and secure access¹
Frequent reports of blocks⁸
Cost
Always free¹
Free for personal use⁶
Ads
Zero ads or trackers¹
No ads in chats yet⁶

Put Signal to work.

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What people are saying

"Industry-standard encryption"
The industry-standard end-to-end encryption is the biggest draw for me. Unlike other 'secure' apps, Signal is open-source and operated by a non-profit.
Paul B., Verified User
"Top notch security"
The security of Signal is top notch. It makes communicating with others around the world easy, safe, and secure.
Jonathan B., Videographer
"Outstanding privacy features"
Outstanding privacy features set this messenger apart. One thing I really appreciate is the privacy feature, which is something many other messenger apps are missing.
Natasha C., Musician

Frequently Asked Questions

How does Signal vs WhatsApp compare on privacy?
While both use encryption, Signal does not collect data about who you message or where you are, whereas WhatsApp collects metadata that is shared with Meta⁷⁹.
Is Signal really free to use?
Yes, Signal is a non-profit application that provides all its security and messaging features for free without any subscriptions or ads¹.
Can I use Signal on my computer?
Signal allows you to sync your messages across Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux so you can chat from any device¹.

Put Signal to work.

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Sources & Citations