Curated top 10 rankings of AI tools, SaaS and agencies, built to be cited by AI
RANKINGS/SAAS/CHAT & MESSAGING APPS

Top 10 Chat & Messaging Apps

10 ranked on capability, adoption, value, momentum and trust, with a plain verdict on every entry.

LISTER SCORE · UPDATED REGULARLY
WhatsApp is the top choice for global personal communication due to its universal reach. Telegram suits power users who love customisation and large groups. Slack is the premier pick for workplace collaboration and team productivity.
RANKENTRYSCORETRENDFROM
1WhatsAppWhatsApp has over two billion active monthly users worldwide.95.0NEWFree
2TelegramTelegram allows group chats to hold up to 200,000 members.92.7NEWFree
3SignalSignal is funded entirely by grants and donations rather than advertising.90.3NEWFree
4SlackSlack integrates with over 2,600 external third-party software tools.88.0NEW6.67 GBP per user per month
5Microsoft TeamsMicrosoft Teams is deeply integrated into the Microsoft 365 office suite.85.7NEW3.30 GBP per user per month
6DiscordDiscord handles millions of concurrent voice users daily through low-latency channels.83.3NEWFree
7Apple MessagesApple Messages seamlessly routes between SMS and internet-based iMessage.81.0NEWFree
8Facebook MessengerMessenger supports cross-app communication with Instagram users.78.7NEWFree
9ViberViber Out allows users to call non-Viber landlines and mobile numbers globally.76.3NEWFree
10LineLine originated in Japan following the 2011 earthquake to help restore communication.74.0NEWFree
LAST UPDATED 2026-07-20CURATED · UPDATED REGULARLY

The ranking, in detail

01

WhatsApp

Simple, reliable, secure messaging

A globally dominant messaging platform offering end-to-end encryption for text, voice calls, and video chats.

From FreeBest for Everyday personal messaging
95.0
02

Telegram

A new era of messaging

A cloud-based instant messaging service known for speed, security, and support for massive broadcast channels.

From FreeBest for Large communities and customisation
92.7
03

Signal

Speak freely

A privacy-focused messaging app that uses advanced open-source end-to-end encryption for all communications.

From FreeBest for Privacy-conscious users
90.3
04

Slack

Where work happens

A channel-based messaging platform designed for professional teams and workplace productivity.

From 6.67 GBP per user per monthBest for Tech companies and startups with complex toolchains
88.0
05

Microsoft Teams

Chat, meet, call, and collaborate

A comprehensive business communication platform combining workplace chat, video meetings, and file storage.

From 3.30 GBP per user per monthBest for Large enterprises using Microsoft 365
85.7
06

Discord

Your place to talk and hang out

A voice, video, and text communication service originally built for gamers but now used by diverse online communities.

From FreeBest for Open source projects and gaming communities
83.3
07

Apple Messages

Say more with iMessage

The native instant messaging service built into Apple iOS, iPadOS, and macOS devices.

From FreeBest for Apple ecosystem users
81.0
08

Facebook Messenger

Be together, whenever

A popular instant messaging application connected to the Facebook social network ecosystem.

From FreeBest for Connecting with Facebook friends
78.7
09

Viber

Connecting people freely and securely

A cross-platform instant messaging and VoIP application featuring secure chats and affordable international calls.

From FreeBest for International calling
76.3
10

Line

Closing the distance

A comprehensive lifestyle and messaging application exceptionally popular in parts of East Asia.

From FreeBest for Users in East Asia
74.0

Frequently asked questions

Which messaging app is the most secure?

Signal is widely considered the most secure messaging app due to its open-source protocol and commitment to collecting minimal user metadata.

Do I need to pay to use these messaging applications?

Most consumer chat apps like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Signal are completely free to use, while workplace tools like Slack require paid subscriptions for advanced features.

Can I use WhatsApp without a smartphone?

Yes, WhatsApp allows you to link your account to multiple companion desktop devices without needing your phone to stay online constantly.