Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

Textnow.com VS FluffyChat

Compare Textnow.com VS FluffyChat and see what are their differences

Textnow.com logo Textnow.com

It lets you text your friends, aka my only source of happiness

FluffyChat logo FluffyChat

Open. Nonprofit. Cute ?
  • Textnow.com Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-03-09
  • FluffyChat Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-01-30

Textnow.com

Release Date
2009 January
Startup details
Country
Canada
State
Ontario
City
Waterloo
Founder(s)
Derek Ting
Employees
100 - 249

Textnow.com features and specs

  • Free Phone Number and Text
    TextNow provides users with a free phone number that can be used for texting and calling within the U.S. and Canada, helping users save on communication costs.
  • Wi-Fi Calling
    The service allows users to make calls over Wi-Fi, which can be beneficial for those in areas with poor cellular reception.
  • Cross-Platform Availability
    TextNow is available on various platforms, including iOS, Android, and web browsers, providing users with flexibility in how they access their messages and calls.
  • Affordable Premium Options
    TextNow offers premium plans at competitive prices, which include additional features like ad-free experiences and voicemail transcription.
  • Free Voicemail
    Users get access to a voicemail feature without additional charges, allowing them to receive and manage voice messages conveniently.

Possible disadvantages of Textnow.com

  • Ad-Supported Free Version
    The free version of TextNow includes ads, which can be distracting and may hinder the user experience for some people.
  • Limited International Calling
    While domestic services are free, international calling may incur charges, limiting its usefulness for users needing frequent global communication.
  • Variable Call Quality
    The quality of calls can vary depending on Wi-Fi or network conditions, leading to inconsistent call experiences.
  • Data and Privacy Concerns
    As with many free services, there are concerns about how TextNow handles user data and privacy, especially given that the app relies on ads.
  • Features Locked Behind Paywall
    Some of the more useful features, such as ad removal and call forwarding, require a premium subscription.

FluffyChat features and specs

  • Open Source
    FluffyChat is an open-source project, which means the code is available for anyone to inspect, modify, and distribute. This enhances transparency and security, as users can verify what the software does.
  • Decentralized
    Being a Matrix client, FluffyChat allows users to connect to any Matrix server, promoting decentralization and reducing the reliance on a single service provider.
  • Cross-platform
    FluffyChat supports multiple platforms including Android, iOS, and web, allowing for a consistent experience across different devices.
  • End-to-End Encryption
    FluffyChat supports end-to-end encryption, ensuring that messages are secure and can only be read by the intended recipients.
  • User-friendly Interface
    FluffyChat has a clean and intuitive interface, making it accessible even for users who are not tech-savvy.
  • Rich Features
    The app includes a range of features such as group chats, multimedia sharing, and notifications, making it a comprehensive communication tool.

Possible disadvantages of FluffyChat

  • Resource Intensive
    Like many modern messaging apps, FluffyChat can be resource-intensive, potentially leading to higher battery consumption on mobile devices.
  • Learning Curve
    For users unfamiliar with decentralized communication platforms, there might be a learning curve when it comes to setting up and using the app effectively.
  • Less Popular
    Compared to mainstream messaging apps like WhatsApp or Telegram, FluffyChat has a smaller user base, which could be a limitation for some users looking for wider adoption.
  • Occasional Sync Issues
    Users have reported occasional issues with message synchronization, which can lead to delays or missed messages.
  • Feature Parity
    Not all features available in other more established Matrix clients may be present in FluffyChat, potentially limiting its functionality for advanced users.

Analysis of Textnow.com

Overall verdict

  • TextNow.com is a good option for those seeking an affordable alternative to traditional phone plans, particularly users who primarily need texting and Wi-Fi calls. Its ad-supported model allows for free basic services, although users should be aware of potential privacy concerns related to data collection.

Why this product is good

  • TextNow.com offers free texting and calling services through an app, making it appealing to those who want to save money on communication costs. It provides a user-friendly interface and is accessible across various devices including smartphones and web browsers. The app is especially beneficial for individuals who frequently communicate internationally, as it can significantly reduce the costs associated with long-distance calls.

Recommended for

  • People looking to save money on texting and calling services.
  • Individuals who often travel or communicate internationally.
  • Users who have reliable Wi-Fi access and prefer using digital communication tools.
  • Those who don't mind ads in exchange for free services.

Analysis of FluffyChat

Overall verdict

  • FluffyChat is considered a good chat application, especially for users who prioritize privacy, security, and open-source software. It offers a reliable alternative to mainstream messaging apps, with features and performance that generally satisfy both individual and group communication needs.

Why this product is good

  • FluffyChat is an open-source, decentralized, and user-friendly chat application that emphasizes privacy and security. It is built on the Matrix protocol, which allows for end-to-end encryption and interoperable communication. Users appreciate its clean user interface, cross-platform support, and lack of reliance on centralized servers, making it appealing to those who value data privacy and control.

Recommended for

  • Users who prioritize privacy and security
  • Open-source software enthusiasts
  • Individuals looking for an alternative to mainstream chat apps
  • People who value decentralized communication
  • Those who need a cross-platform messaging solution

Textnow.com videos

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FluffyChat videos

FluffyChat - Matrix Messenger for Ubuntu Touch - Demo screencast

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to Textnow.com and FluffyChat)
Communication
43 43%
57% 57
Group Chat & Notifications
Social & Communications
100 100%
0% 0
Instant Messaging
0 0%
100% 100

User comments

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Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, Textnow.com should be more popular than FluffyChat. It has been mentiond 42 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.

Textnow.com mentions (42)

  • As of about 15 minutes ago, I am now homeless. What’s the best course of action from here?
    Textnow.com is one example for online texting, and I bet you could use it on public wifi. You can use a virtual phone number (VOIP) without fees from the site. Just hope this can help a little. Source: almost 2 years ago
  • I feel like my issues are seriously invalidated and minimized by my non-muslim/non-religious friends
    Have an independent phone service from others. You can get a SIM card for $5 U.S. (price at time of this writing) an unlocked phone -phone not linked to a phone carrier service - at textnow.com or you can get the free phone app from Google's Play Store or the Apple Store at https://www.textnow.com/downloads. If you have an locked phone (phone tied to a phone carrier service), than you may be able to ask a customer... Source: almost 2 years ago
  • Been homeless for 12 days, starting to lose hope
    As for the immediate future I highly recommend that you sign up for temporary employment agencies as soon as possible so that immediate employment can happen until you hear back from more permanent jobs. This forum's comprehensive guide can help give you guidance on signing up fast for SNAP benefits for food support, Medicaid for medical insurance, emergency shelter listings, transportation assistance, listings... Source: about 2 years ago
  • Free or Low Priced Additional Phone Number
    I recently moved to Texas from SF. I have 3 phone numbers with out of state area codes: my cell phone with https://www.h2owireless.com/ (which uses AT&T), a google voice, and a textnow.com phone number. Source: about 2 years ago
  • Update: I found these texts on my husbands phone. I don’t know if I’m being paranoid or not. (35f 38m)
    There are apps like textnow.com that will give you a free phone number with free texting. You could use that to text her from a different number. If she responds you'll know that your number was blocked on her phone. Source: about 2 years ago
View more

FluffyChat mentions (24)

  • Element as a Discord Alternative
    Keep in mind Matrix is a protocol for messaging just like email is a protocol for mail. There's more than one client and Element just so happens to be the most popular one. A really good runner-up would be FluffyChat. Then there's Cinny. Source: about 2 years ago
  • Discord is changing the layout for the mobile app
    That's actually almost a ripoff of FluffyChat with the pull-up server list from Element's Android app. And given Matrix is trying to mimic the semantics of Discord servers with spaces, I don't even like those layouts. Gross. Source: about 2 years ago
  • Will be now, I can fill it.
    There is a package I wanted to use fluffychat (Matrix Client) you can only get it from flathub and snap (officially) there is an aur package for arch (unofficial). This is just an example. There was also some other package that I no-longer use that had a similar case. More will become like this that's for sure. I don't like this future, it sucks. Source: over 2 years ago
  • BundesMessenger is a milestone in Germany’s ground-breaking vision
    @Hamuko I have been on matrix several years, and lately I've been really liking Schildi Chat [https://schildi.chat]. Also, many other users that I know really like Fluffy Chat [https://fluffychat.im/]. In any case, there are several more options nowadays. - Source: Hacker News / over 2 years ago
  • Chat client with voice messaging
    Then I've found FluffyChat, and it seems to working just fine; and has a Linux version too. Source: over 2 years ago
View more

What are some alternatives?

When comparing Textnow.com and FluffyChat, you can also consider the following products

aTalk - An encrypted instant messaging with video call and GPS features for android.

Signal - Fast, simple & secure messaging. Privacy that fits in your pocket.

TextNow - TextNow is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that provides a free phone service to users by using other cellular networks coverage.

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.

Talk360 - Talk360 is a best-in-class communication utility that offers a convenient way to connect with loved ones globally.

TeleGuard - TeleGuard is a secure messenger that makes it store that your data or chats are not stored while collaborating or communicating with partners and friends.