Delta Chat vs Element
Comparing two open source alternatives to WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger . Use the comparison below to decide which one fits your needs.
Delta Chat
GPL-3.0Decentralized private messenger using email infrastructure for secure, end-to-end encrypted communication.
Element
AGPL-3.0Open-source Matrix client for secure, decentralized messaging, voice, and video — runs on your own server.
Side-by-side comparison
| Delta Chat | Element | |
|---|---|---|
| License | GPL-3.0 | AGPL-3.0 |
| Self-hostable | No | Yes |
| GitHub Stars | 1,519 | 13,180 |
| Forks | 237 | 2,647 |
| Open Issues | 75 | 3,663 |
| Last Commit | Jun 7, 2026 | Jun 7, 2026 |
| First Released | Aug 20, 2018 | Jul 22, 2015 |
| Categories | ||
| Tags |
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