Keybase vs WhatsApp
Keybase
keybase.ioSide by side
| Figure | Keybase | |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | — | Free |
| Free plan | — | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | Yes | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | Yes | — |
| iOS | Yes | Yes |
| Android | Yes | Yes |
| API | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 0 | 4 |
| Spec score · Encrypted Messaging Apps | 7.7 (#23) | 8.2 (#11) |
| Spec score · Secure Messaging Apps | 7.8 (#21) | 8.3 (#10) |
| Encryption | Keybase says messages and files are end-to-end encrypted so only the user and intended recipients can read them. | WhatsApp says end-to-end encryption prevents anyone else, including WhatsApp, from reading personal messages or listening to calls. |
| File sharing | Keybase says users can store and share group photos, videos, and documents with end-to-end encryption. | WhatsApp allows free document transfers up to 2GB without compression. |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Messaging | Keybase says it uses public-key cryptography so messages stay private and even Keybase cannot read chats. | Chats support text formatting, stickers, GIFs, emoji reactions, voice notes and video notes. |
| Platforms | Keybase’s installation page lists macOS, Linux, Windows, iPhone/iPad, and Android. | Downloads are listed for iPad, Windows, Mac, Android, and iPhone, and the site also offers browser access. |
| Product | Keybase describes itself as secure messaging and file-sharing. | WhatsApp provides messaging and calling for free, with data charges potentially applying. |
| Support | Keybase directs users who encounter client bugs to run `keybase log send` in a terminal and follow the instructions. | The developer hub lists troubleshooting, FAQs, API status, a developer community forum and contact support. |
Plans
- WhatsAppFree
- WhatsApp Business appFree
- WhatsApp MessengerFree
- WhatsApp Business PlatformPriced on request
In their own words
Keybase
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.
WhatsApp is a free messaging and calling app for Android, iOS, macOS, web, and Windows. Users can exchange text, photos, videos, documents, and location, and make voice calls. Voice and video calls are end-to-end encrypted, have no time limits, and work one-to-one or in groups across iOS, Android, and web; group calls support up to 32 people. Calls can also be made in a browser. WhatsApp says end-to-end encryption keeps personal messages and calls private from others, including WhatsApp. Privacy controls include locked chats, disappearing messages, encrypted backups, online-visibility settings, and blocking unknown callers. Users can report messages, people, or businesses, and block contacts. Up to four devices can be linked to a primary phone, which is required to register an account and link new devices. Minimum requirements listed include Android OS 6.0, iOS 15.1, macOS 12.1, and Windows 10 or newer; iPadOS 15.1 is also listed. Data charges may apply, and calls use an internet connection. WhatsApp Business helps businesses showcase products and services and build customer relationships.