Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

HexChat VS ZeroChat

Compare HexChat VS ZeroChat and see what are their differences

HexChat logo HexChat

HexChat is a fork of XChat with bug fixes and new features.

ZeroChat logo ZeroChat

An IRC-like chatroom hosted on ZeroNet, a distributed network.
  • HexChat Landing page
    Landing page //
    2018-09-30
  • ZeroChat Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-08-06

HexChat features and specs

  • Open Source
    HexChat is open source, which means the source code is available for anyone to inspect, modify, and enhance. This fosters a community-driven development approach and ensures transparency.
  • Cross-platform
    HexChat is available for multiple operating systems, including Windows, macOS, and various Linux distributions. This makes it a versatile choice for users on different platforms.
  • Customization
    HexChat offers a high degree of customization with plugins and scripts, allowing users to tailor the client to their personal needs and preferences. It supports Python and Perl scripting.
  • User-friendly Interface
    The software comes with an intuitive and user-friendly interface, which makes it accessible even for users who are new to IRC (Internet Relay Chat).
  • Notifications
    HexChat supports desktop notifications, helping users stay informed about important messages or events even when they are not actively looking at the client.

Possible disadvantages of HexChat

  • Learning Curve
    While the interface is user-friendly, the use of IRC itself has a learning curve, particularly for users who are not familiar with IRC commands and etiquette.
  • Limited Modern Features
    Compared to some modern chat applications, HexChat may lack features such as media sharing, integrated voice/video calls, and advanced file transfer capabilities.
  • Security Concerns
    Despite being open source, IRC as a protocol can be less secure compared to modern messaging protocols. Users need to be cautious about sharing personal information and may need to use additional measures like SSL/TLS encryption.
  • Resource Usage
    For users running HexChat on older systems, the application may consume a noticeable amount of resources, affecting system performance.
  • Community Support
    While there is a community around HexChat, it might not be as large or responsive as the support communities for more widely-used, proprietary software.

ZeroChat features and specs

  • Decentralization
    ZeroChat operates on a decentralized network, which means it doesn't rely on a central server. This can enhance privacy and reduce the chances of data breaches.
  • Privacy
    By not centralizing data, users can chat without their conversations being stored on a central server, which is beneficial for those looking for more privacy in their communications.
  • Open Source
    ZeroChat is an open-source project, allowing anyone to review its code for security and functionality. This transparency can build trust with users.
  • Community Driven
    As an open-source tool, it invites contributions from the community, fostering innovation and rapid development of new features or improvements.

Possible disadvantages of ZeroChat

  • Technical Expertise
    Users might need a certain level of technical knowledge to set up and run the application, which could be a barrier for non-technical users.
  • Limited User Base
    As a niche or possibly lesser-known application, ZeroChat might not have a wide user base, which can hinder communication with a broader audience.
  • Feature Limitations
    Compared to mainstream chat applications, ZeroChat might lack some advanced features or polish, which can be a deciding factor for some users.
  • Network Dependence
    The performance and reliability of decentralized networks can vary, potentially affecting the speed and stability of the chat experience.

Analysis of HexChat

Overall verdict

  • HexChat is a highly regarded IRC client, particularly for users who appreciate open-source software and need a reliable tool that's easy to personalize.

Why this product is good

  • HexChat is considered a good choice for an IRC client due to its open-source nature, cross-platform availability, and customizable features. It offers a user-friendly interface, supports multiple servers and channels, and includes features like scripting and plugins for enhanced functionality.

Recommended for

  • Users who participate in IRC chat rooms.
  • Linux users looking for a native IRC client.
  • Developers and tech enthusiasts who value open-source software.
  • Users who need a customizable, multi-platform IRC solution.

HexChat videos

Opensource Spotlight: HexChat & IRC Chat - A Geek Underground

ZeroChat videos

No ZeroChat videos yet. You could help us improve this page by suggesting one.

Add video

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to HexChat and ZeroChat)
Group Chat & Notifications
Messaging
88 88%
12% 12
Communication
86 86%
14% 14
Social & Communications
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

Share your experience with using HexChat and ZeroChat. For example, how are they different and which one is better?
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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, HexChat seems to be more popular. It has been mentiond 7 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

HexChat mentions (7)

  • getting started with IRC. I have some questions.
    Start off using HexChat for a client. You can find channels here: https://netsplit.de/channels/. Source: almost 2 years ago
  • DPReview.com is shutting down
    First off, grab yourself an IRC client. On their connection info page Hackint has information for both WeeChat and Hexchat, but you could use any IRC client. Source: about 2 years ago
  • IRC Chat?
    Gajim is for XMPP. For IRC you need Hexchat or Weechat or something like that. Source: over 2 years ago
  • TIFU by showing my dad the possibilities of the Internet.
    Hexchat is one of the more popular ones. Source: over 2 years ago
  • Online in the 70s, 80s, and early 90s.
    IRC - Also still around and in some cases, the same as it ever was, albeit with a smaller user base. A list of networks can be found here, and while there are many actively developed IRC clients out there, if you don't know where to start, most people recommend HexChat. Reddit's affiliated network is called Snoonet. mIRC is still actively developed by Khaled Mardam-Bey, so by all means, feel free to give that a... Source: over 3 years ago
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ZeroChat mentions (0)

We have not tracked any mentions of ZeroChat yet. Tracking of ZeroChat recommendations started around Mar 2021.

What are some alternatives?

When comparing HexChat and ZeroChat, you can also consider the following products

mIRC - mIRC: Internet Relay Chat client

irssi - Irssi is a terminal based IRC client for UNIX systems.

XChat for Linux - XChat is an IRC chat program for both Linux and Windows.

Kiwi IRC - A hand-crafted IRC client that you can enjoy. Designed to be used easily and freely.

Quassel IRC - Quassel IRC is a modern, cross-platform, distributed IRC client based on the Qt4 framework.

Pidgin - Pidgin is an easy to use and free chat client used by millions. Connect to AIM, MSN, Yahoo, and more chat networks all at once.