Top 5 Messenger Apps for 2024: Best Picks for All Devices

In 2024, messaging apps have evolved to offer more than just texting. With features like video calls, group chats, file sharing, and even encryption, these apps have become essential tools for staying connected with family, friends, and colleagues. Here are my top five picks for the best messenger apps this year.

1. WhatsApp

Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, Mac

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)

What It Does

WhatsApp is a messaging app that supports text, voice, and video calls. It’s well-known for its easy-to-use interface and strong encryption, making it a popular choice for both personal and professional communication.

Pros

• End-to-end encryption for all messages.
• Supports voice and video calls.
• Works on multiple platforms (Android, iOS, Windows, Mac).

Cons

• Requires a phone number to sign up.
• No support for tablet-only usage.

Download WhatsApp

2. Telegram

Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)

What It Does

Telegram is a cloud-based messaging app that emphasizes speed and security. It’s known for its massive group chats, file-sharing capabilities, and secret chat options that allow messages to self-destruct after a set time.

Pros

• Supports group chats with up to 200,000 members.
• Cloud-based storage for messages and files.
• Secret chats with self-destructing messages.

Cons

• Does not offer end-to-end encryption by default.
• Lacks support for video calls.

Download Telegram

3. Signal

Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, Mac, Linux

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

What It Does

Signal is renowned for being one of the most secure messaging apps available. It uses end-to-end encryption for all forms of communication, including text, voice, and video calls. It’s a top choice for those prioritizing privacy.

Pros

• Top-level security with end-to-end encryption.
• Free and open-source.
• Supports encrypted voice and video calls.

Cons

• Fewer customization options compared to other apps.
• Smaller user base compared to apps like WhatsApp or Telegram.

Download Signal

4. Facebook Messenger

Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, Mac

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)

What It Does

Facebook Messenger is a popular app integrated with Facebook, allowing users to send messages, make video and voice calls, and share files with friends. It also supports group chats and reactions to messages.

Pros

• Works seamlessly with Facebook.
• Supports rich media sharing, including images, videos, and GIFs.
• Available on both mobile and desktop platforms.

Cons

• Requires a Facebook account.
• Collects significant user data for ad targeting.

Download Facebook Messenger

5. Viber

Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, Mac

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5)

What It Does

Viber is a versatile messaging app that offers free messaging and voice calls. It’s ideal for international users because it provides affordable international calling options through Viber Out, making it stand out from other apps.

Pros

• Free messaging and voice calls worldwide.
• End-to-end encryption for private conversations.
• Affordable international calling rates via Viber Out.

Cons

• Smaller user base compared to WhatsApp or Messenger.
• Can experience occasional call quality issues.

Download Viber

Conclusion

These five apps provide a wide range of features that cater to different needs—whether you prioritize privacy, group communication, or cross-platform functionality. No matter which one you choose, each of these messaging apps can help you stay connected with the world in 2024.