Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Matrix.org VS Signal

Compare Matrix.org VS Signal and see what are their differences

Matrix.org logo Matrix.org

Matrix is an open standard for decentralized persistent communication over IP.

Signal logo Signal

Fast, simple & secure messaging. Privacy that fits in your pocket.
  • Matrix.org Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-07-21
  • Signal Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-07-20

Matrix.org features and specs

  • Decentralization
    Matrix.org is built on a decentralized architecture, meaning no single entity controls the entire network. This ensures greater resilience, scalability, and prevents single points of failure.
  • Interoperability
    The platform is designed to bridge communications with other networks, such as Slack, IRC, and others, facilitating seamless interaction across different services.
  • End-to-End Encryption
    Matrix.org supports end-to-end encryption, ensuring that conversations are secure and private, and only accessible to the intended recipients.
  • Open-Source
    Matrix.org is an open-source project, allowing anyone to inspect, modify, and contribute to the code base, which promotes transparency and continuous improvement.
  • Rich Communication
    The platform supports a variety of communication forms, including text, voice, video, and file sharing, making it versatile for different use cases.

Possible disadvantages of Matrix.org

  • Complex Setup
    Setting up a Matrix server can be complex and resource-intensive, requiring technical expertise which may not be accessible to all users.
  • Latency
    Due to its decentralized nature, users might experience higher latency compared to centralized messaging platforms, particularly in global communications.
  • Limited Network
    While Matrix is growing, its network is still smaller compared to mainstream alternatives, which might affect user adoption and community size.
  • Resource Intensive
    Running a Matrix server can be resource-intensive in terms of memory and CPU usage, which might demand higher infrastructure costs.
  • Learning Curve
    Users and administrators might face a steep learning curve due to the complexity of Matrix's features and configurations.

Signal features and specs

  • End-to-End Encryption
    Signal uses end-to-end encryption to ensure that only the sender and the recipient can read the messages. This makes it highly secure against eavesdropping.
  • Open Source
    Signal's code is open source, allowing anyone to inspect, audit, and improve it. This transparency helps to build trust and ensure the security of the platform.
  • User Privacy
    Signal is designed to collect minimal data from its users. It does not store metadata about contacts, messages, or user activity, thereby prioritizing user privacy.
  • Cross-Platform Availability
    Signal is available on a variety of platforms including iOS, Android, and desktop, making it accessible to a broad range of users.
  • Multi-purpose Usage
    Beyond just text messaging, Signal supports voice and video calls, as well as file sharing, making it a versatile communication tool.

Possible disadvantages of Signal

  • Limited User Base
    Compared to more popular messaging apps like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger, Signal has a smaller user base, which may limit its utility as a communication tool.
  • Dependence on Phone Number
    Signal requires users to register with a phone number, which can be a privacy concern for some people who prefer not to share their number.
  • Backup Limitations
    Signal does not offer cloud backups for messages, which means users have to rely on local backups that can be more cumbersome to manage.
  • User Interface
    Some users find Signal's user interface to be less polished and user-friendly compared to other mainstream messaging apps.
  • Notification Issues
    There have been reports of unreliable notifications that can result in missed messages or calls, potentially impacting the user experience.

Analysis of Matrix.org

Overall verdict

  • Matrix.org is considered a good platform for secure and decentralized communication.

Why this product is good

  • Matrix.org offers a decentralized communication protocol that ensures user privacy and security. It allows users to host their own servers, providing greater control over data. The platform supports end-to-end encryption, making it a reliable choice for confidential communications. Additionally, Matrix.org has a vibrant open-source community and supports interoperability, allowing communication between different platforms.

Recommended for

    Matrix.org is recommended for individuals and organizations that prioritize privacy and security in their communications. It's ideal for tech-savvy users who value open-source solutions and those who seek to avoid centralized communication platforms. Additionally, it's suitable for developers looking to build custom communication solutions using a versatile protocol.

Analysis of Signal

Overall verdict

  • Yes, Signal is generally considered a good messaging app.

Why this product is good

  • Signal is known for its strong emphasis on privacy and security. It uses end-to-end encryption to ensure that only the communicating users can read the messages. The app is open-source, which allows for external audits of its code, providing transparency. It does not collect metadata or user data beyond what is necessary for the operation of the service.

Recommended for

  • Privacy-conscious individuals who prioritize secure communication.
  • Journalists and activists who require confidential communications.
  • Users who prefer open-source software.
  • Anyone seeking a simple and user-friendly secure messaging app.

Matrix.org videos

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Signal videos

Why We Should All Be Using Signal Messenger

More videos:

  • Review - WhatsApp vs Telegram vs Signal: Which is the BEST?!
  • Review - THE SIGNAL: explained

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Matrix.org and Signal)
Communication
49 49%
51% 51
Group Chat & Notifications
Messaging
41 41%
59% 59
Instant Messaging
49 49%
51% 51

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare Matrix.org and Signal

Matrix.org Reviews

Top 10 Team Chat Software for a Self-Hosted environment specifically designed for Large Enterprises
Matrix.org never charges. It's completely free. Its free servers are open to all for public registrations.

Signal Reviews

7 best Mattermost alternatives for secure business messaging
Signal offers a secure instant messaging platform for businesses and others concerned about privacy. On Signal, business teams communicate one-on-one or in groups through text, voice, or video calls. The software is open-source and the server, mobile, and desktop client is published through AGPL v3.0 restrictive license. All data and messages are end-to-end encrypted.
Source: www.rocket.chat
20 Telegram Alternatives to Chat With in 2024
Signal is not a broadcasting app (although it does have a stories feature), nor is it a community-building app. It's a simple messaging Telegram alternative for those wanting to chat with friends.
10 Best Secure Messaging Apps to Keep Your Conversation Private
In our comparison between Signal vs Telegram vs WhatsApp, we found that Signal is the most secure messaging app out there. Signal uses the gold standard, open-source Signal Protocol to implement end-to-end encryption. And it implements E2E encryption on all forms of communication on Signalโ€“ be it voice/video calls, chat messages, media, or audio clips.
Source: beebom.com
10 Best Telegram Alternatives in 2024
Signal is an alternative Telegram app which was first developed in the year 2014 by Moxie Marlinspike and Brian Acton, Signal was launched after whatsapp and after its launch various organizations shifted their work to Signal from Whatsapp due to its highly secured and safe features than any other app.
Top 10 Apps like Telegram for Android and IOs [2023]
Signal is a messaging program that offers all the features you would anticipate from a modern instant messaging app, with a heavy focus on privacy. Signal is one of the safest messaging apps on the market thanks to its open-source architecture, end-to-end encryption, and commitment to never accumulating user data. If you're seeking secure apps like Telegram, Signal's...

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Matrix.org should be more popular than Signal. It has been mentiond 593 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.

Matrix.org mentions (593)

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Signal mentions (185)

  • Build a Signal Clone with React Native and Stream - Part One
    Ever wondered how popular messaging apps like Signal manage features such as real-time chat, voice calls, and video chat? In this tutorial, we'll build our own Signal-inspired messaging app using React Native, with Clerk handling authentication and Stream powering real-time chat and calls. - Source: dev.to / 2 months ago
  • Magic of software; what makes a good engineer also makes a good engineering org
    This is the Moxie that created Signal.[0] I'm pointing this out because people are acting like he's a bit naive. But Moxie has built a very successful company, without the need for VCs, and the tech is used by many big tech companies. Several use the signal protocol. It's a successful nonprofit building open source software. If your focus is to make large amounts of money, maybe his isn't the best advice. But if... - Source: Hacker News / 5 months ago
  • Rely less on Third-Party Services
    Signal is an end-to-end encrypted messenger,. - Source: dev.to / 7 months ago
  • How to Make a Product Secure: A Developer's Perspective
    Signal: This messaging app is built with end-to-end encryption at its core. Itโ€™s open-source, allowing experts worldwide to audit its security protocols. - Source: dev.to / 10 months ago
  • 3G Cell Service Has a HUGE Security Flaw. ๐Ÿซข
    Well, the best thing you can do right now is stop using cell service (particularly 3G networks) whenever possible. For texting and phone calls, use an encrypted internet based service, like Signal or WhatsApp. Use authenticator apps or passkeys for two-factor authentication instead of your phone number. - Source: dev.to / about 1 year ago
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What are some alternatives?

When comparing Matrix.org and Signal, you can also consider the following products

Element.io - Secure messaging app with strong end-to-end encryption, advanced group chat privacy settings, secure video calls for teams, encrypted communication using Matrix open network. Riot.im is now Element.

Telegram - Telegram is a messaging app with a focus on speed and security. Itโ€™s superfast, simple and free.

Mattermost - Mattermost is an open source alternative to Slack.

WhatsApp - WhatsApp Messenger: More than 1 billion people in over 180 countries use WhatsApp to stay in touch with friends and family, anytime and anywhere.

Discord - Step up your game with a modern voice & text chat app. Crystal clear voice, multiple server and channel support, mobile apps, and more.

Tox - Send messages, files, create groups and make Tox to Tox audio and video calls. Securely.