Signal vs Telegram: Which Messaging App is Better?

October 23, 2024 By Johan Curtis No Comments 8 minutes

Signal vs Telegram: which messaging app is better? The answer depends on several factors, including available features, privacy, and communication quality. In this blog, we will see a detailed comparison between both these apps. You can read our detailed guide on Telegram vs. WhatsApp to find which option is better for you. 

Note: Protect your privacy and secure your conversations by using FastestVPN with messaging apps. It shields your personal data from prying eyes and ensure secure communication wherever you are. Stay anonymous and safeguard your online presence with the added layer of encryption provided by FastestVPN.

As we regularly see new apps all around, it is getting difficult to find secure messaging apps that actually live up to expectations. Therefore, in this blog, we will see and try to figure out which messaging app is better, Signal vs. Telegram. Let’s start with a little background of both applications. 

Signal vs Telegram – A Closer Look At The Features

What is Signal?

Similar to WhatsApp, Signal is a secure messaging application that prioritizes privacy and encryption. Developed by the non-profit Signal Foundation, its primary objective is to furnish users with a secure and confidential messaging environment. The platform fervently advocates for the perpetuation of end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only designated recipients can access sent messages and media, with no intermediary parties able to intercept. Moreover, Signal’s code is open source, bolstering its transparency and facilitating swift identification of any potential vulnerabilities.

What is Telegram?

Telegram is also a messaging app that enables users to send messages, make voice and video calls, share files, and create groups. Despite its inception in 2013, Telegram gained significant traction during 2019-2020 as a tool utilized by protestors to coordinate large gatherings. This surge in adoption was predominantly attributed to its group chat functionality, which supports up to 200,000 members. Moreover, it offers “channels” where organizers can distribute updates. Furthermore, users can enhance anonymity by concealing their phone numbers.

Signal vs. Telegram: Security Comparison

When it comes to security, Signal seems to have the upper hand over Telegram. Signal really focuses on keeping your conversations private and secure. They automatically use end-to-end encryption, which means only you and the person you’re talking to can read your messages. 

Plus, they have secure features like disappearing messages and view-once media to add an extra layer of privacy. And because Signal’s encryption protocol is open source, it gets checked by a lot of people, making it less likely to have any sneaky flaws.

On the other hand, Telegram has its own encryption protocol called MTProto 2.0. While some experts think it’s pretty good, others aren’t so sure. It hasn’t been tested as much as Signal’s encryption. Telegram also collects more of your data than Signal. They might store your IP address and details about who you’re talking to. That could be a concern if your privacy is important to you.

Another thing to consider is who owns these apps. Signal is run by a non-profit foundation, which might make you feel more confident about their commitment to privacy. On the other hand, Telegram was created by some big-shot billionaires, and their operations are based in various places, including Dubai.

So, if you’re all about keeping your chats private and secure, Signal seems like the way to go. They’ve got strong encryption, minimal data collection, and a non-profit vibe that just feels trustworthy.

Signal vs. Telegram: Which Provides Better Device Compatibility?

In this aspect, Telegram holds a slight advantage, providing both a Chrome browser extension and a fully web-based option. Both Signal and Telegram are accessible across the following platforms. Below is a device compatibility comparison of Signal vs. Telegram. 

Which is Better in Terms of User Experience?

When it comes to user experience, both Signal and Telegram offer a fairly straightforward installation process. You simply download the app on your preferred platform, register with your phone number, and enter the verification code received via SMS. Sometimes, Telegram might even call you with the code instead.

Once you’re registered, both platforms allow you to set up your profile with a first name, although it doesn’t have to be your real name—you can use a made up name, or even an emoji with Signal. Additionally, you’ll be prompted to grant app permissions, such as access to your contacts.

Signal takes it a step further by requiring you to create a PIN, which is optional but recommended for added security. This feature can be found under Settings > Privacy & Security > Passcode Lock. Telegram also offers a similar passcode lock feature.

Before you can use the desktop version of either app, you need to set up your account through the mobile app first. Signal provides an in-app QR code for linking other devices, while Telegram offers both a QR code and the option to use your phone number and an SMS verification code.

In terms of changing phone numbers, Signal used to require creating a new account, but now allows you to port your account to a new number, as long as you’re still using the same phone. 

Telegram on the other hand, offers convenient options for changing phone numbers directly within the app. Moreover, you can log into a single Telegram account from multiple devices as long as they are connected to the same phone number. However, it’s essential to ensure the security of your Telegram password.

Overall, both Signal and Telegram offer a smooth user experience, with easy registration processes and convenient features for securing your account.

Signal vs. Telegram: Which Messaging App is Better?

When comparing Signal and Telegram as messaging apps, it ultimately depends on your priorities and what you’re looking to get out of the platform. Signal and Telegram serve different purposes and cater to different user needs.

Signal outperforms when it comes to privacy and security, offering end-to-end encryption for all conversations by default. If your main concern is having secure and private conversations with individuals or small groups, Signal is the way to go. It’s considered one of the most secure chat apps available, prioritizing user privacy above all else.

On the other hand, Telegram offers end-to-end encryption as an option through Secret Chats, but it’s not enabled by default for all conversations. However, Telegram excels in its ability to function as more than just a messaging app. 

It can be likened to a social media platform, allowing users to join large communities and access information through channels, similar to Twitter feeds. If you’re interested in joining movements, accessing information easily, or engaging with larger communities, Telegram may be the better choice for you.

So, if you prioritize privacy and security and prefer one-to-one or small group chats, Signal is the ideal messaging app. But if you’re more interested in joining communities, accessing information, or participating in movements, Telegram offers a broader range of features suited to those needs.

Conclusion

When comparing Signal and Telegram, the decision really comes down to what matters most to you—keeping your conversations private or having access to a wide range of features. If privacy is your top priority, then Signal is the way to go. It’s got strong encryption and a solid commitment to keeping your data safe. But, if your friends and family are all using Telegram, it might be tough to convince them to switch over. Still, Signal’s privacy features are pretty convincing, so it might be worth a shot. Ultimately, the choice between Signal and Telegram depends on finding a balance between your privacy concerns and what works best for staying connected with the people you care about.

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