Best Chatting Apps: How to Choose Right One?

If you are looking for the best chatting apps for your smartphone, this blog is for you.

So, what’s up with all these chatting applications? Well, as per statista, there are over 5 billion smartphone users, which amounts to more than a 3^rd of the world population. And every one of these people is using some kind of online chat app.

Communication is one of the main and basic functions of a mobile phone became a driving force behind the chatting trend.

All of this has led to the development of hundreds and hundreds of chatting apps. We can all agree on the fact that this is quite confusing. If you are looking to download some of these or want to try something new, this blog is for you.

Top 20 Best Chatting Apps That You Should Look At

Here are the top 20 chat apps free to download and use that you should definitely try in 2022.

1) WhatsApp

WhatsApp is one of THE most popular messaging apps that you can use. Title years after year as the best android messaging app, this platform is something different.

Originally, it launched as a stand-alone platform, but in recent years it was acquired by META.  Since then, it has only improved, delivering more than 100 billion messages in a day.

Whatsapp means business; there are no ads, no distractions, and no useless features. When you open the app and you message your friends, that is it. However, this doesn’t mean it is just a plain and boring one. It has the entire required feature needed for you to have a good time with friends and family over the phone.

Top Features of WhatsApp

• No username or login required
• Simple and easy to use for all age groups
• Send messages, photos, videos, documents, and even money
• Free online calls
• Create an account with your phone number

2) iMessage

iMessage is easily the best chatting app for iOS. Being a built-in app makes it even more remarkable.

As a system app, this application is developed and maintained by none other than Apple itself. This offers you an unmatched experience that integrates quite well with the entire iOS thing.

In addition, it also seamlessly unifies SMS with online messaging. Now, there is one big downside. And that is, only people with iPhone can use iMessage to communicate with other people using iOS devices.

Apart from that, this is one of the best messaging apps on the list. So much so that, there are a lot of people who just buy iPhone for iMessage.

Top Features of iMessage

• Inline replies
• Pin an important conversation on top
• Various message effects
• Filter and categorize messages
• Tag people in group chat
• Shake to undo
• Send handwritten notes

3) Android Messages

The android counter part of iMessage is, well, android messages. While this may or may not be the best chatting app for Android, it is quite definitely a strong contender with billions of users.

Developed by Google themselves, this app has something good to offer. However, it is not all that about online chatting but rather more about handling phone SMS.

Nevertheless, it has some amazing features that have helped it become popular among users.  Some of the popular features of this platform are, as mentioned below:

Top Features of Android Messages

• Amazing SMS handling
• Simple Interface
• Easy To Use
• Instant notification
• Share images, stickers, emojis, video files, and GIFs
• Cross-platform

4) Signal – Private Messenger

The signal came to popularity when WhatsApp’s privacy controversy rose. And we have to say, this relatively new platform took the market by storm.

The twist is that the main focus of this platform is privacy and it was developed by former owners and founders of WhatsApp.

Take security seriously, there aren’t any logins or anything, rather it is registered with your mobile phone. If you are looking for the best free chat apps that come with impregnable security, this is it.

Top Features of Signal

• Open-source and free to use
• Free online call
• High security with Private messages
• Allows you to create group chats
• Share voice messages, GIFs, emojis, and more

5) Skype

Skype is one of those old chat apps that everyone has heard of. However, there is something that makes Skype stand out from other picks on the list. And that is, it is mainly used by professionals.

It is cross-platform, allows video calls, cross-platform synchronization, voice calls, and so on. Even today most corporate spaces use Skype for communication. So, if that is something you are looking for, this is your best bet.

Top Features of Skype

• Video calls
• Message communication
• Paid voice calls to landlines and mobile phones
• Group video calls and chats
• Share photos, videos, images, and documents

6) Telegram

Well, well, who hasn’t heard of the infamous telegram. This is one of the most popular Chatting apps by far. Being cross-platform it is avail on Windows, Web, iOS, and Android.

Needless to say, this platform has attracted millions of users over the years with its amazing and unique features.

This platform is fast, it is secure, and it has no limits.  It doesn’t have any advertisements or irritating knick-knacks. The reason being that, it is managed by a company who’s aim isn’t to make a profit but to create a safe space.

Top Features of Telegram

• 100,000 members in a single group chat
• Send custom stickers and GIF
• No Size restrictions on video and document sharing.
• Amazing photos as well as video editing tools

7) Viber – Safe Chats And Calls

There are high chances that you have already come across Viber, which is yet another popular chat app. This platform isn’t used just in the United States of America but across the world.

With features like free video calls, audio calls, sending messages, emojis, stickers, etc, it is safe to say, it is an example of mobile app development done right.

Top Features of Viber

• Group chat with 250 members
• End-to-end encryption
• Secret Chat options
• Smooth video calls, free to use.
• Vast collection of emojis and stickers

8) Hangouts

Hangouts is yet another Google Chat app. You can download it on your Android device and use your Google Account to log in.

Being cross-platform, it can also be used on desktops. It had its time of fame but now it remains a good chatting app with promises of what could have been.

Anyhow, some of the top features of this application are, as mentioned below:

Top Features of Hangouts

• Group chat with upto 150 people
• Cross-platform
• Private messages
• Secure messaging
• Send files and images

9) WeChat

While WeChat is available across the world, it is mainly focused in China. And there, it is one of the best messaging apps online there. Consequently, it has over 700 million strong user base which is increasing day by day.

This chat app is quite different from anything else on the list, with its amazing features which have their own way to keep you entertained. Enough said, let’s look at the features of this platform.

Top Features of WeChat

• Audio and Video Calls
• Multimedia messaging
• Hundreds of sticker collections
• Share GIF, Emoji, Images, And more.
• Meet new people with friendly radar, people nearby, and shake

10) Snapchat

Snapchat is a chatting platform alright, but it is not like your conventional one. It is mainly focused on sharing photos and videos.

As of today, this is one of the most popular platforms. It goes without saying that it is a good mix of chatting and social media app development.

Here, you communicate in the form of “snaps”. In fact, this platform is particularly popular due to its filters. Some of the other popular features are, as mentioned below:

Top Features of Snapchat

• Amazing and entertaining filters
• High end photo editing tool
• Feel free to use
• Video calls and messaging

11) Line

Just like WeChat, Line is particularly popular in Asia with amazing users. While it comes with the entirely amazing feature you’d expect from a messaging app, it also packs something special. This is what makes it one of the top messaging apps for Android and iOS.

Like many other social networking apps, it allows you to make posts and comment on others. In addition, you can also make albums and share them. All in all, the entire user interface is amazing and offers a good experience.

Top Features of Line

• Group Video Calls
• Group Chat with upto 200 people
• Create Polls
• Free Voice calls
• Photo Sharing and vast sticker collection
• Make posts, comments, and update statuses.

12) Facebook Messenger

There is no need to introduce Facebook or shall we say, META Messenger to you. Since the majority of you might already be using it.

This is probably one of the most popular social chat apps that you can come across. It seamlessly integrates Instagram and Facebook allows users to chat with each other.

Enough said, let’s look at some of the features of this platform.

Top Features of Facebook Messenger

• As one of the best chatting apps, it has a good user interface.
• Audio and video calls
• Protected Group Chat
• Thousands of Stickers, Emojis, & GIFs
• Unsend Messages

13) Kik — Messaging & Chat App

Kik is a rather well-designed top messaging app that you would love to try. If you want something different from the conventional application, this is something that you should consider.

It is a highly effective messaging application that has been around for a long time. This scalable solution is easily one of the best chatting apps.

The best part is, it is also one of the secure apps.

Top Features of Kik

• Simple and unique UI/UX Design
• Push Notification
• Private conversation
• Share Videos, GIFs, Audio calls, and Pictures

14) Mood Messenger

In this long list of messaging apps, Mood Messenger stands out. The app is relatively new and quite simply one of the best messaging applications.

Currently, this platform has too many features, but if that is your thing, you do it. But this doesn’t stop it from becoming one of the best applications.

Moving on, the features of this platform are as mentioned below:

Top Features of Mood

• Partly free to use
• Support dual sim
• Group chats with up to 10 members
• Custom Fonts, notifications, backgrounds, emojis, etc
• Block spammers

15) Pulse SMS

This SMS Chat apps free to download is something that you should consider.  Let us tell you, this is more than average.

Pulse is much like a signal, it is quite secure. Compatible with almost every platform, this platform has become quite a trend among users.

Moving on, these are a range of features this platform offers. These are, as mentioned below:

Top Features of

• Unmatched UI/UX Design
• Dual SIM support
• Block unwanted users
• Backup and restore account
• Strong security

16) Discord

If you have ever thought that someone should develop chatting app for gamers, Discord is for you.

All it takes is to click on the link allowing you to connect with your friends on PUBG, League of Legends, or Apex Legends.

This platform provides a good environment that allows gaming communities to prosper. There are no ads or in-app purchases and it is available on all platforms.

Top Features of Discord

• Create invite-only spaces
• Create channels for video sharing and meetings
• Create groups for up to 500,000 members
• Voice Channels
• Share custom emojis

17) Handcent Next SMS

Google Messages apps easily take the top places as far as Android is concerned, but we have to say, Handcent Next SMS gives them a run for their money.

This platform is a rather “nifty” application that has loads of features that you will just love. Plus, this platform is easy to use despite being one of the oldest on this list.

As one of the best chatting apps, it packs some serious features, some of which are, as mentioned below:

Top Features of Handcent

• Personalized Fonts, themes, ringtones, colors, and so on
• Handprint Anywhere allows you to send SMS from your PC
• Block Spammers
• More than 1500 emojis and stickers
• Dual SIM support

18) Textra SMS

Over the short time it has been around, Textra has become quite popular and made a strong user base for itself.

What makes it stand out from other online chat apps is the personalization it offers. This covers everything from background and notifications, to emojis and fronts. And the best part is, it is free and safe for everyone to use.

Top Features of Textra

• The app simply supports any dual sim device.
• It is eventually compatible with MightyText, Pushbullet, and Android Wear.
• There are more than 180 material design themes and plenty of GIFs.
• Dark, light, and auto-night modes are available.
• Indeed supports a quick reply popup.
• A message blocking system against spammers is available too.

19) Verizon Messages

Verizon is popular enough that everyone across the United States of America has heard of it. This platform is the result of Verizon consumer group’s ambitious messaging app project.

Simple yet beautiful, this platform is something that you should give a go to. It has some amazing features that attract more and more users to the platform.

Let’s look at some of them below:

Top Features of Verizon Messages

• Driving Mode – reply without typing
• Yelp Integration System, allows use map within app
• HD video calling
• Create group chats
• Cross-platform support

20) GroupMe

Last on the list is best-chatting apps is GroupMe. Owned by none other than Microsoft, GroupMe has become one of the most popular messaging apps in recent times.

The app is really well-built and offers a range of amazing features. As the name itself suggests, the platform is all about creating groups with your friends.

While this is the main focus, it also allows one-on-one chat.

Top Features of GroupMe

• Ease Login and Group Creation
• Push Notification and Notification Management
• Share and Save Media to Gallery
• Wide range of Emojis
• Voice and Video calls

FAQ

Q: What are some popular chatting apps?

A: Some popular chatting apps include WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, Telegram, Signal, WeChat, Viber, Slack, Discord, and Skype.

Q: What factors should I consider when choosing a chatting app?

A: Consider factors like platform compatibility, features (text, voice, video, file sharing), security and privacy measures, user base, ease of use, customization options, integration with other apps, and availability of customer support.

Q: Is the popularity of an app a good indicator of its quality?

A: Popularity can indicate a well-established user base, but it doesn’t guarantee the best fit for your needs. Consider your specific requirements and preferences to choose the right chatting app for you.

Q: Are all chatting apps free to use?

A: Many chatting apps offer free basic features, but some may have premium plans or additional services that require a subscription or in-app purchases. Review the pricing models and features before making a choice.

Q: How important is user privacy and security in a chatting app?

A: User privacy and security are crucial considerations. Look for apps with end-to-end encryption, data protection measures, two-factor authentication, privacy controls, and transparent policies regarding data handling and sharing.

Q: Can I use multiple chatting apps simultaneously?

A: Yes, you can use multiple chatting apps simultaneously based on your needs and preferences. Some people use different apps for personal and professional communication or to connect with specific groups of people.

Q: Can I transfer my chat history from one app to another?

A: Transfer of chat history depends on the app’s capabilities. Some apps provide options to back up and restore chats, while others may not offer this feature. Check the app’s documentation or support resources for specific instructions.

Q: Can I customize the appearance and settings of a chatting app?

A: Chatting apps may offer customization options like theme selection, chat bubble styles, notification settings, and privacy controls. Explore the settings or preferences section of the app to personalize your experience.

Q: How can I get support or assistance for a chatting app?

A: Most chatting apps have support channels like FAQs, help centers, community forums, or direct contact with customer support. Check the app’s website or documentation for information on how to get assistance.

Q: Can I switch to a different chatting app later if I’m not satisfied?

A: Yes, you can switch to a different chatting app at any time. Evaluate your experience with the current app, assess your needs, and explore alternative options to find the right chatting app for you.

Conclusion

So, these were the best chatting apps for android and iOS that the market has to offer. And you can download any of it for free and start chatting with your friend.

However, if you are business minded and want to be on providing side instead of receiving, you need to find messaging app development. You need a company that understands what you want and have the ability to convert it into a mobile app.

This is where we come. Nimble AppGenie is a market leading mobile app development company. You can Hire mobile app developers with the right experience and expertise required to deliver a chatting app for your business.

Niketan Sharma

Niketan Sharma is the CTO of Nimble AppGenie, a prominent website and mobile app development company in the USA that is delivering excellence with a commitment to boosting business growth & maximizing customer satisfaction. He is a highly motivated individual who helps SMEs and startups grow in this dynamic market with the latest technology and innovation.