Briar vs Crypho

Briar is free messaging software for communication that does not depend on a central server. Messages synchronize directly between users’ devices. Without Internet access, synchronization can use Bluetooth, Wi-Fi or memory cards; with Internet access, Briar can use the Tor network. It provides private messaging, public forums and blogs. The maker says device communications are end-to-end encrypted, contact lists are encrypted on each device, and messages remain stored locally instead of in the cloud. Briar Mailbox can deliver messages securely when users are online at different times. Android distribution includes Google Play, F-Droid and direct APK download. Briar Desktop is available for Linux, Windows and macOS. Desktop lacks Android features including RSS feeds, disappearing messages, nearby contact adding, Bluetooth, removable-drive connections and Tor bridges. The maker’s July 9, 2026 update places Briar in maintenance mode, with essential security updates and bug fixes planned. Reported longstanding issues include high battery use, unreliable Android background operation, no account backup or file attachments, and difficult contact adding and offline communication.

Crypho is an end-to-end encrypted communications service for chat, file sharing, and video conferencing. Persistent group chats include a shared file folder and are available only to invited members. The service supports encrypted calls and video calls, guest access, and apps for Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, and the web. It uses TOTP two-factor authentication, with tokens available by SMS or mobile app, and offers Norwegian BankID identification for company and customer processes. Crypho lists authenticated AES with 256-bit keys in CCM mode, El-Gamal elliptic-curve 384-bit encryption, and scrypt among its cryptographic methods. The company says user data is hosted on dedicated servers in Norway, without cloud services. The free plan is for personal use, limited to one group and files up to 3 MB. Pro costs €379 a month and allows up to 25 team members, 100 groups, and files up to 100 MB. Enterprise pricing is available by contacting Crypho; listed features include files up to 2 GB, unlimited groups, and an optional on-premise server.