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Bitmessage vs Signal

Side-by-side comparison for macOS

Bitmessage

6.0
Security & Privacy

P2P communications protocol

Signal

8.0
Communication

Instant messaging application focusing on security

Metric Bitmessage Signal
Category Security & Privacy Communication
AI Score 6.0 8.0
30-day Installs 2 2.8K
90-day Installs 14 9.4K
365-day Installs 37 35.4K
Version 0.6.3.2 8.8.0
Auto-updates No Yes
Deprecated Yes No
GitHub Stars 2.9K 28.4K
GitHub Forks 578 6.7K
Open Issues 221 476
License NOASSERTION AGPL-3.0
Language Python Kotlin
Last GitHub Commit 5mo ago 1mo ago
First Seen Aug 9, 2023 Nov 1, 2017

Reviews

Bitmessage

Bitmessage is a decentralized, encrypted P2P messaging protocol that ensures privacy by eliminating metadata leaks. It's ideal for users prioritizing security, such as activists and journalists, though it lacks auto-updates and has maintenance concerns.

Enables encrypted, peer-to-peer messaging without relying on centralized servers.

Pros

  • + Decentralized and encrypted communication
  • + No third-party trust required
  • + Open-source with a proven track record

Cons

  • - No auto-updates for security patches
  • - High number of open issues may affect stability
  • - NOASSERTION license poses legal uncertainties

Signal

Signal is a privacy-focused instant messaging app with end-to-end encryption, designed for secure communication. It supports text, voice, and video calls, benefiting users who prioritize security and anonymity.

Signal provides secure, encrypted messaging and communication services for text, voice, and video calls.

Pros

  • + End-to-end encryption ensures secure communication
  • + User-friendly interface with strong privacy features
  • + Regular updates and active development

Cons

  • - Persistent issues with call functionality
  • - Lack of desktop app features like read receipts
  • - MacOS app is a web wrapper, not a native experience