Facebook Messenger
Messenger is Meta's Facebook-linked chat app, now end-to-end encrypted by default, with games, payments and the largest social reach in the West.
- Brand
- Meta
- Category
- Messaging Apps
- Released
- 2011
- Price
- Free
- VersusAnything Score
- 29/100
Key features
- Tied to Facebook contacts
- Encrypted by default since 2023
- Rich stickers, games and reactions
Best for people whose friends and groups already live on Facebook.
Messenger specifications
| End-to-end encryption | Yes, by default since 2023 |
|---|---|
| Owned by | Meta |
| Ads in the app | Yes, sponsored messages and ads |
| Max group size | 250 members |
| Max file size | 0.03 GB |
| Voice and video calls | Yes, up to 50 participants |
| Chat backup | Secure storage with PIN |
| Monthly active users | 1,000 million |
| Platforms | iOS, Android, Web, Windows, macOS |
| Price | Free |
Score breakdown
- Overall (100%)
Scored against every messaging app in our database using the messaging apps weighting.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Tied to Facebook contacts
- Encrypted by default since 2023
- Rich stickers, games and reactions
Cons
- Weaker overall score (29/100 within messaging apps)
Compare Messenger against
Alternatives to Messenger
Sources
- Messenger: Meta official (manufacturer)
Specifications last verified: 2026-10-01. Prices are launch or official list prices in US dollars unless stated. See our sources and data policy.