Olvid vs Threema

Olvid is an instant messaging app for text messages and attachments, available on Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, web, and Windows. Olvid says it does not require identifying details such as a phone number, email, name, address, or birth date. It also says messages and metadata are end-to-end encrypted, so it cannot know who is communicating with whom. Each message and file uses a single-use ephemeral key, intended to protect message history if a key is compromised. The app supports synchronization across devices without a master device. Secure audio and video calls are end-to-end encrypted; video calls support up to two contacts, while group audio calls have no participant limit. Receiving calls is free, and initiating them is free during a one-month trial that ends without billing or automatic subscription. The free plan includes unlimited messages and attachments, group discussions, ephemeral messages, multiple profiles, and inbound calls. Business costs €990 a year; Enterprise costs €990.50 a year.

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.