Monal vs WhatsApp
Monal
monal-im.orgSide by side
| Figure | Monal | |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | Free |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | — | — |
| Web | — | Yes |
| Windows | — | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| iOS | Yes | Yes |
| Android | — | Yes |
| API | — | Yes |
| Plans published | 1 | 4 |
| Spec score · Encrypted Messaging Apps | 7.7 (#24) | 8.2 (#11) |
| Spec score · Secure Messaging Apps | 7.7 (#24) | 8.3 (#10) |
| Encryption | The features page lists encrypted private and group chats using OMEMO encryption. | WhatsApp says end-to-end encryption prevents anyone else, including WhatsApp, from reading personal messages or listening to calls. |
| Founded | 2002 | 2009 |
| Headquarters | Bürstadt, Germany | LinkedIn lists WhatsApp headquarters at Menlo Park, California. |
| Messaging | It supports private and group messaging, message history, archiving, and voice messaging. | Chats support text formatting, stickers, GIFs, emoji reactions, voice notes and video notes. |
| Platforms | The install page lists stable and beta downloads for iOS and macOS, plus macOS Homebrew installation. | Downloads are listed for iPad, Windows, Mac, Android, and iPhone, and the site also offers browser access. |
| Product | Monal is an XMPP instant messaging client for iOS and macOS. | WhatsApp provides messaging and calling for free, with data charges potentially applying. |
| Support | Support is available through an XMPP group chat, GitHub issues, and email. | 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
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.