SimpleX Chat vs Wire
SimpleX Chat
simplex.chat
Wire
wire.comSide by side
| Figure | SimpleX Chat | Wire |
|---|---|---|
| Price from | Free | €7.45/mo |
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Free trial | — | — |
| Open source | Yes | — |
| Web | — | Yes |
| Windows | Yes | Yes |
| macOS | Yes | Yes |
| Linux | Yes | Yes |
| iOS | Yes | Yes |
| Android | Yes | Yes |
| API | Yes | — |
| Self-hosted | Yes | — |
| Plans published | 2 | 4 |
| Spec score · Encrypted Messaging Apps | 8.4 (#3) | 8.3 (#8) |
| Spec score · Secure Messaging Apps | 8.5 (#5) | 8.4 (#6) |
| Spec score · Instant Messaging Software | 8.5 (#10) | 8.4 (#12) |
| Encryption | The network uses end-to-end encryption with continuous post-quantum key exchange for messages and metadata. | Wire says messages, conference calls, and files are end-to-end encrypted, and only conversation participants can decrypt the information. |
| Headquarters | London, United Kingdom | Berlin, Germany |
| Open source | Alternative client applications based on SimpleX Chat code must publish modifications under the AGPLv3 license. | Wire says its source code is fully open source and available on GitHub for verification. |
| Support | Users can contact the team through the in-app “Ask SimpleX team” contact or by emailing [email protected]. | The pricing page lists standard support and optional premium support with first replies within 16 hours during business hours, premium+ within 4 hours, and optional 24/7 platinum support. |
Plans
Wire
- Wire for FreeFree
- Wire for SMB€7.45 a month
- Wire for EnterprisePriced on request
- Wire for PartnersPriced 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.
Wire
Wire is a communications platform for organizations that combines messaging, calls, conferencing, and file sharing with end-to-end encryption. Messages support group conversations, search, sketches, reactions, shared files, and audio and video messages. Conferences support up to 150 participants, with screen sharing and moderation tools. File management and online document collaboration keep files in conversations tied to verified group membership. Wire says only conversation participants can decrypt messages, calls, and files. It lists ISO 27001, ISO 27701, and Cyber Essentials certifications, and says its servers are in Germany and Ireland. Organizations can choose cloud, private cloud, or on-premises deployment, including offline or air-gapped environments. Wire is available on web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android; its Linux binary is described as experimental with community support. The free plan is for up to five people. Wire for SMB costs €7.45 per person/month with annual payment, or €8,94 per person/month with monthly payment.