Threema vs Element
A detailed comparison to help you choose between Threema and Element.
Threema Swiss messenger with no phone number or email required. | Element Decentralized messenger built on Matrix protocol. | |
|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.4 (330 reviews) | 4.0 (461 reviews) |
| Pricing Model | paid | free |
| Starting Price | From $4.99/mo | Free |
| Best For | Best for users seeking privacy and security tools | Best for users seeking privacy and security tools |
| Free Tier | ||
| API Access | ||
| Team Features | ||
| Open Source | ||
| Tags | — | — |
Threema
Pros
- + No phone number required for sign-up
- + Ibex protocol adds forward secrecy for chats
- + E2EE covers calls, chats, and files
- + Encrypts group metadata like names and members
- + Open-source apps with public repositories
- + Regular third-party audits listed by Threema
Cons
- - Server-side code isn’t open source
- - No multi-mobile-device sync for one Threema ID
- - Private app requires upfront payment
- - Business tiers billed annually per user
Element
Pros
- + Works across Matrix servers; supports federation
- + End-to-end encryption supported and encouraged by default
- + Open-source client code available on GitHub
- + Secure Backup and device verification for multi-device E2EE
- + Element Call roadmap for modern voice/video
Cons
- - Encrypted rooms still expose some metadata to servers
- - Multi-device encryption setup can be confusing
- - Enterprise pricing is sales-led, not fully public
- - Security track record includes past critical client vulnerabilities
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