Gajim
Gajim: A capable desktop XMPP client for users who value provider choice and open-source messaging. Ranked #25 of 44 in Encrypted Messaging Apps by our editors (6.7/10); pricing: Free plan; best for desktop XMPP messaging with optional encryption.
At a glance
- Editor score6.7 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forDesktop XMPP messaging with optional encryption
- Free planYes
- Paid fromNone
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Free and open source with a choice of XMPP providers
- Supports chats, files, reactions, voice messages, and calls
- Runs on Windows, macOS, and Linux with chat synchronization
Where it doesn't
- Encryption coverage is mixed across the product
- Voice and video calling is highly experimental
- No mobile platform support
Our verdict on Gajim
Gajim is a free, open-source desktop chat client for the XMPP network. It suits users who want provider choice, decentralized messaging, and compatibility with users of compatible XMPP applications. Conversations can be individual or group-based, with support for image and file sharing, reactions, replies, voice messages, profiles, message history, read receipts, and chat markers. Gajim is available for Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Its strongest fit is the XMPP ecosystem. Users can choose an XMPP service provider, communicate across compatible applications, and synchronize messages across devices. The client also supports end-to-end encrypted conversations, but its overall encryption model is mixed, so users should distinguish between supported encrypted conversations and the broader messaging experience. XMPP is the central integration point rather than one option among many network ecosystems.
Gajim covers more than text chat, adding voice and video calling, file sharing, voice messages, and device synchronization. However, the published release documentation describes voice and video calling as highly experimental, which makes those features less suitable for users who need a mature calling experience. Gajim is a strong choice for desktop users who want free, open-source XMPP messaging with provider flexibility and optional encryption. Users who need mobile apps or consistently established voice and video calling should choose a different messaging client.
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Gajim pricing
Gajim fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | None |
| Encryption coverage | Not verified |
| Maximum group size | Not verified |
| Linked device limit | Not verified |
| Desktop app | Yes |
| Voice and video calls | Not verified |
| Disappearing messages | Not verified |
| Encrypted backups | Not verified |
| Deployment | Desktop |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux |
| Support | Community, Tickets |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | gajim.org |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Gajim
- SignalA free, private messaging app with broad calling, sharing, and platform support.9.4
- WhatsAppA free, feature-rich choice for encrypted everyday messaging and calls.9.3
- ElementEncrypted collaboration with flexible deployment, open source foundations, and broad platform support.9.1
Also Ranked In
Gajim is ranked in 3 of our directories.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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