SimpleX Chat vs Threema
SimpleX Chat
simplex.chat
Threema
threema.comSide by side
| Figure | SimpleX Chat | Threema |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | $3/mo |
| Free plan | Yes | — |
| Free trial | — | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | — |
| Web | — | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | Yes | Yes |
| iOS | Yes | Yes |
| Android | Yes | Yes |
| API | Yes | Yes |
| Self-hosted | Yes | Yes |
| Plans published | 2 | 4 |
| Spec score · Encrypted Messaging Apps | 8.4 (#3) | 7.9 (#18) |
| Spec score · Secure Messaging Apps | 8.5 (#5) | 8.0 (#17) |
| Spec score · Instant Messaging Software | 8.5 (#10) | 8.0 (#15) |
| Encryption | The network uses end-to-end encryption with continuous post-quantum key exchange for messages and metadata. | Threema provides end-to-end encryption for messages, media, calls, profile pictures, group names and group-member lists. |
| Headquarters | London, United Kingdom | Pfäffikon SZ, Switzerland |
| Open source | Alternative client applications based on SimpleX Chat code must publish modifications under the AGPLv3 license. | The Threema apps are open source, with source repositories for Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux and Threema Web. |
| Support | Users can contact the team through the in-app “Ask SimpleX team” contact or by emailing [email protected]. | Threema provides support forms for the private app and management-cockpit support for Threema Work, plus dedicated Gateway and Broadcast support addresses. |
Plans
Threema
- Core$3 a month
- Professional$5 a month
- Private$6, paid once
- OnPremPriced on request
In their own words
SimpleX Chat
SimpleX Chat is a messaging application for the SimpleX platform, with apps for Android, iOS, Linux, macOS, and Windows. It supports encrypted text with Markdown and editing, media and file sharing, decentralized groups, voice messages, disappearing messages, and audio and video calls. The network does not assign profile identifiers such as phone numbers or usernames. Messages and metadata use end-to-end encryption with continuous post-quantum key exchange. Four servers participate in each chat so relay servers cannot see which IP addresses communicate. Profiles, contacts, and messages remain in a portable encrypted database on user devices; relay servers hold encrypted messages only until delivery. Users may operate their own servers and still reach people using preconfigured servers. Developers can build bots and integrations using protocol SDKs; the TypeScript SDK connects to the Chat CLI over a WebSocket API. A phone or tablet can link to the desktop app only when both devices share a local network. Disappearing messages and recipient-side deletion are not guaranteed when a recipient device is offline or modified. The free plan costs nothing.
Threema
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.