WhatsApp is the world's most-used messaging app, with end-to-end encryption by default, large communities and support on every major platform.
- Brand
- Meta
- Category
- Messaging Apps
- Released
- 2009
- Price
- Free
- VersusAnything Score
- 75/100
Key features
- Over 3 billion users
- Encrypted by default
- Communities and Channels
Best for anyone who needs to reach the most people with encrypted chats.
WhatsApp specifications
| End-to-end encryption | Yes, by default (Signal Protocol) |
|---|---|
| Owned by | Meta |
| Ads in the app | Status ads introduced 2025 |
| Max group size | 1,024 members |
| Max file size | 2 GB |
| Voice and video calls | Yes, up to 32 participants |
| Chat backup | Google Drive / iCloud, optional encrypted backup |
| Monthly active users | 3,000 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
- Over 3 billion users
- Encrypted by default
- Communities and Channels
- Strong overall score (75/100 within messaging apps)
Cons
- No weak scoring group in its category
Compare WhatsApp against
Alternatives to WhatsApp
- Telegram 79/100
- Signal 25/100
- Facebook Messenger 29/100
- Discord 42/100
Sources
- WhatsApp: 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.