1. Signal

Signal is a highly secure and user-friendly messaging app that offers end-to-end encryption. It provides features like text messaging, voice calls, and group chats, with the option to set messages to self-destruct. Signal's encryption protocol is also used by WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger.

The app is praised by privacy advocates and offers a seamless transfer of accounts between Android devices. With its strong security measures and ease of use, Signal is a top choice for those seeking encrypted messaging and calling capabilities.

2. Telegram

Telegram is a versatile messaging app that allows users to send encrypted messages over the internet by linking their phone number to a Telegram account. It offers more than just messaging, functioning as a global social media platform with large user groups and broadcasts that can reach millions of followers instantly. Users can switch to Secret Chat mode for end-to-end encryption.

In this mode, they can set messages to self-destruct, share videos and documents, and participate in group chats of up to 200,000 users. However, it's important to note that chats with more than two participants won't have end-to-end encryption.

3. Element

Element is a communication platform that prioritizes privacy and security. It offers end-to-end encrypted conversations and allows you to create or join chats easily. You have full control over your data, with privacy settings and the ability to protect the app with a PIN and biometrics.

Element's decentralized network lets you choose where your messages are stored. It is an all-in-one chat app for Android that ensures unparalleled privacy and gives you the freedom to communicate securely with friends, team members, or organizations.

4. Threema

Threema is a highly secure messaging app that prioritizes end-to-end encryption. It generates a unique anonymous Threema ID for users but also allows association with email or phone numbers for easier contact discovery. The app supports various messaging features, including encrypted text, voice, picture, and video messaging, as well as file sharing and group messaging.

Threema has a small fee ($5) to sustain its consumer-focused approach. While it may have limited popularity outside German-speaking regions, its strong security measures make it a worthwhile investment.

5. Wire

Wire is a messaging app that prioritizes end-to-end encryption for instant messages, voice and video calls. It supports various features such as GIFs, audio and video clips, sketches, and file sharing via local storage or Dropbox. The app offers multiplatform syncing and allows multiple accounts for personal and work communications.

Wire's encryption protocol is based on Signal, with open-source code and external security audits. While the company initially moved from Switzerland to the United States and then to Berlin, it still provides free consumer desktop software and mobile apps. Wire aims to cater to both individual and business users, emphasizing privacy and security.

6. Session

Session messaging app is an open-source messaging platform that prioritizes privacy and security. It allows users to communicate anonymously without the need for email or phone number registration. The app utilizes peer-operated servers and a decentralized onion-routing network to transmit messages securely. It employs the Session Protocol, a proprietary end-to-end encryption protocol based on Libsodium, to protect messages, audio calls, and video calls.

Session also takes measures to maintain anonymity by removing EXIF data from attachments. In addition to its focus on security, Session offers a comprehensive messaging experience with features like emoji reactions and customizable themes. The user interface is sleek and intuitive, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable user experience.

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7. Viber

Viber is a messaging app owned by Rakuten, offering end-to-end encryption on all platforms. It provides features like stickers, communities, and augmented-reality filters. Viber has a color-coded lock icon to indicate the level of encryption in conversations and offers to self-destruct Secret Chats and Hidden Chats for added privacy.

These security features complement Viber's robust mobile messaging capabilities, which include text, voice, and group messaging linked to users' phone numbers. While the app and communication with other Viber users are free, there may be charges for calls to non-Viber users.

8. WhatsApp

WhatsApp, the popular chat and call app, has implemented Signal's end-to-end encryption protocol since 2016. It continuously improves its security features, such as refined group invitation controls and heightened awareness of who can access group chats. The app is also testing chat history transfers between iOS and Android, as well as multi-device support. Updates have introduced encrypted backups, default disappearing chats, and the ability to transfer chat history from iPhone to Android. 

Despite being owned by Facebook, WhatsApp remains a widely-used and user-friendly option for end-to-end encrypted messaging. Users can verify security codes for encrypted conversations and should back up messages within WhatsApp. With its broad functionality and encryption, WhatsApp is a robust and popular choice for secure mobile messaging.

9. Wickr Me

Wickr Me is a messaging app focused on secure communication, offering end-to-end encryption for texts, voice messages, videos, and pictures. It prioritizes user privacy with features like the "Shredder" function that permanently deletes chats and media. Wickr Me ensures anonymity for Wickr IDs, doesn't read messages or collect personal information, and allows users to set message expiration times.

Alongside its security measures, the app supports various messaging features such as text, audio, image, and video sharing, as well as group creation with a limit of 10 contacts. Wickr Me is available for free on Android, iOS, and desktop platforms, making it accessible to users across devices.

10. Facebook Messenger

Facebook Messenger offers end-to-end encryption through its Secret Conversations feature, which requires users to opt-in. It allows encrypted exchange of text, pictures, and stickers on a single mobile device, with options for self-destructing messages. Recent updates have added end-to-end encryption for one-to-one voice and video calls, as well as for group chats and calls.

However, screen capturing is still possible, and the opt-in requirement and device limitations should be considered. It's important to note that Facebook, the company behind Messenger, raises privacy concerns.

In today's digital age, protecting communication privacy is crucial. Encrypted messaging apps offer robust encryption protocols, ensuring secure and private conversations. Each app has its unique features and security measures. Choosing the right app is essential to meet specific privacy needs.