WhatsApp and Signal are both popular messaging apps that offer end-to-end encryption. With growing concerns over privacy and data collection, many WhatsApp users are considering switching to Signal. But is it worth it? Here is an in-depth comparison of WhatsApp vs Signal to help you decide if you should make the switch.
Privacy and Security
Privacy and security are the main reasons many people choose Signal over WhatsApp. Here is how they compare:
Encryption
Both WhatsApp and Signal use end-to-end encryption for messages, calls, media, and status updates. This means only the sender and recipient can read the messages, not even the company providing the app. The encryption protocols are open source and have been vetted by experts.
However, WhatsApp encryption is not enabled by default for chat backups. So if you back up your WhatsApp chats to Google Drive or iCloud, they are not protected. With Signal, your chat history is always encrypted.
Metadata
While message contents are encrypted, metadata like who you are talking to and when is not protected. Signal collects very limited metadata and does not store data like your contacts or groups. WhatsApp collects more metadata about your usage and social graph.
User Anonymity
Signal does not require any personal information to create an account. Just a phone number is needed, and it does not have to be your real phone number. WhatsApp requires your real phone number and ties your account to your identity.
Company Ethics
Signal is developed by a non-profit foundation focused solely on privacy. WhatsApp is owned by Facebook, which has a poor track record on privacy and has monetized data from its other services.
Features
Beyond privacy and security, here is how WhatsApp and Signal compare in their features and user experience:
Messaging
The core messaging experience is very similar between WhatsApp and Signal. You can send text messages, make voice and video calls, share locations, media, GIFs, documents etc. WhatsApp has a larger emoji collection. Signal has better support for tablets and multiple devices.
Groups
Both apps support groups with up to 256 participants. WhatsApp has more options for group management, admin tools, and group descriptions. Signal focuses more on privacy – group members are anonymous and not visible in each other’s contact lists.
Media Sharing
WhatsApp compresses images and video more aggressively than Signal. So Signal delivers better quality for shared media, but uses more data.
File Sharing
WhatsApp file sharing limit is 100 MB. Signal goes up to 1 GB for images/video and 100 MB for other files.
Desktop and Web Apps
WhatsApp offers desktop apps for Windows and macOS as well as a web version that can be used in any browser. Signal has a desktop app just for macOS and Linux. The web version is in beta.
Sticker Store
WhatsApp has an extensive collection of stickers and allows third-party sticker packs. Signal stickers are limited to the default pack.
Appearance
You can customize chat wallpapers and notification sounds on WhatsApp. Signal has a plain, minimalist interface with no customization options.
User Profiles
WhatsApp shows profile photos, statuses, and “about” information. Signal profiles only display a name and optional avatar.
User Base
The number of people on a messaging platform is an important consideration. Here is how WhatsApp and Signal compare in their user base:
| App | Total Users |
|---|---|
| Over 2 billion monthly active users worldwide | |
| Signal | 40 million total registered users worldwide |
WhatsApp dominates the messaging space globally. Most people already have WhatsApp accounts and use it as their primary chat app. The much smaller user base is a key downside of Signal – it’s hard to get friends and family to switch.
Availability
Here is the device and platform availability for WhatsApp vs Signal:
| App | iOS | Android | Desktop | Web |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Yes | Yes | Windows, macOS | Yes | |
| Signal | Yes | Yes | macOS, Linux | Beta |
WhatsApp is more widely available across desktop and web platforms. Signal is mobile-focused but expanding to more desktop support.
Cost
Price and subscription model is another point of comparison:
| App | Free | Paid Plans |
|---|---|---|
| Yes | No | |
| Signal | Yes | No |
WhatsApp and Signal are both free to use with no paid tiers or extras. WhatsApp previously charged a $1 annual subscription but has been free since 2016. Signal is funded by grants and donations rather than monetizing user data.
Conclusion
Here are some key takeaways from this WhatsApp vs Signal comparison:
- Signal has stronger privacy protections and encryption compared to WhatsApp.
- WhatsApp is more feature-rich while Signal prioritizes minimalism and privacy.
- Nearly everyone is already on WhatsApp, while Signal has a much smaller user base.
- Both apps are free to use across mobile and desktop platforms.
Switching from WhatsApp to Signal requires convincing your friends and family to move as well. But for privacy-concerned users looking to minimize metadata collection, Signal is the more secure choice.