Briar vs Keybase

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.

Keybase is a free messaging and file-sharing product for Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, web and Windows. It uses public-key cryptography for private chats and says messages and files are end-to-end encrypted so only users and intended recipients can read them. Private keys stay on users’ devices rather than Keybase’s servers. Users can set timers on sensitive messages in one-to-one chats and team, group and community channels. Teams bring together private chats with multiple channels, file sharing and collaboration on Git. Team chats, files and Git are end-to-end encrypted, and team keys change when someone is removed or revokes a device. Teams and subteams can store up to 100 GB of documents, photos and videos; personal Git repositories have a combined 100 GB limit, and each team gets 100 GB for Git. Keybase also supports public communities and identity proofs involving integrated social networks. The download page describes it as open source, and business admin controls are available. For client bugs, Keybase directs users to run `keybase log send` in a terminal and follow the instructions.