BitChat vs Threema
BitChat
bitchat.free
Threema
threema.comSide by side
| Figure | BitChat | Threema |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | $3/mo |
| Free plan | Yes | — |
| Free trial | — | Yes |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | — | Yes |
| Windows | — | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | — | Yes |
| iOS | Yes | Yes |
| Android | Yes | Yes |
| API | — | Yes |
| Self-hosted | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 4 |
| Spec score · Encrypted Messaging Apps | 8.9 (#1) | 7.9 (#18) |
| Encryption | The project describes Noise Protocol end-to-end encryption for mesh messages and BitChat private envelopes for Nostr fallback messages. | Threema provides end-to-end encryption for messages, media, calls, profile pictures, group names and group-member lists. |
| Integrations | The listed internet messaging transport is the Nostr protocol, which connects BitChat users through relays. | Threema Gateway lets companies integrate Threema into existing software to send, receive and process messages. |
| Open source | The iOS/macOS project and Android project state that they are released into the public domain. | The Threema apps are open source, with source repositories for Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux and Threema Web. |
| Privacy | The app requires no accounts or phone numbers, but its mesh uses a persistent per-device identifier derived from the identity key. | Threema can be used without providing a phone number or email address, and contact synchronization is optional. |
Plans
Threema
- Core$3 a month
- Professional$5 a month
- Private$6, paid once
- OnPremPriced on request
In their own words
BitChat
BitChat is a decentralized messaging app that uses Bluetooth mesh for nearby communication and Nostr relays for internet messaging. Bluetooth messages can pass between nearby devices across as many as seven hops without internet access. When Bluetooth is unavailable, the app can use Nostr; if neither route is available, messages can wait in a queue. Geographic chat rooms use geohash coordinates.
The app requires no account, phone number, or central server. Live mesh sessions use Noise XX for mutual authentication and forward secrecy, while private Nostr messages use an app-specific encrypted format that works only with BitChat clients. However, mesh announcements expose static keys and nicknames in cleartext, and a persistent per-device identifier can allow nearby listeners to follow a device over time and place. A triple-tap emergency wipe clears app data, including identity keys and queued messages. Android adds Wi-Fi Aware on supported devices and built-in Tor. BitChat is available for iOS, Android, and macOS, and is free.
Threema
Threema is a paid messaging service for private and business communication, supporting text and voice messages, voice and video calls, group calls, media sharing and file transfers. It can be used without a phone number or email address, and contact synchronization is optional. End-to-end encryption covers messages, media, calls, profile pictures, group names and group-member lists. The apps are open source, with repositories for Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux and Threema Web. The regular desktop app and web client require a mobile device with Threema installed and activated. Threema operates its own servers in Zurich data centers of an ISO 27001-certified colocation partner. It says its apps receive regular audits by recognized security experts, including Cure53 audits in 2020 and 2024. Business tools include Gateway integrations, Work APIs and Broadcast features such as feeds, distribution lists, bots and managed group chats. Private use costs $6, paid once, with price varying by app store and country; Core starts at $3 a month billed annually. A 30-day trial is listed.