Nheko

Free#27 of 36 in Secure Messaging Apps

Nheko: Free, open-source Matrix messaging for desktop, with an unaudited encryption implementation. Ranked #27 of 36 in Secure Messaging Apps by our editors (6.4/10); pricing: Free plan; best for desktop Matrix users who prioritize encryption.

6.4/10★★★☆☆Editor score

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At a glance

• Editor score
  6.4 / 10
• Pricing
  Free plan
• Best for
  Desktop Matrix users who prioritize encryption
• Free plan
  Yes
• Paid from
  Free
• Account requirement
  Username
• Facts checked
  23 Sep 2026

• Where it wins

  • End-to-end encrypted messaging with room and invitation controls
  • Sends files, images, audio, and other media
  • Available for Linux, macOS, and Windows

• Where it doesn't

  • Encryption implementation has not been audited and is not guaranteed secure
  • Voice and video calling support varies by platform
  • Desktop-only deployment excludes mobile apps

Our verdict on Nheko

Nheko is a native desktop client for the Matrix network, aimed at people who want Matrix messaging in a desktop app. It supports end-to-end encrypted messaging, room creation and joining, invitations, and media sharing, alongside replies, read receipts, typing indicators, and notifications. The project provides downloads for Linux, macOS, and Windows, and is free and open source under GPL-3.0. Nheko connects to Matrix homeservers, so account availability and registration depend on the chosen server.

Its feature set goes beyond text chat: people can send files, images, audio, and other media, use custom stickers and emoji, and make voice or video calls. Calling support varies by platform, so it is worth checking platform-specific support before choosing Nheko for calls. Separate profiles are also available through a command-line option. The desktop focus suits people who want a native Matrix client on a computer, but is a limitation for anyone seeking a mobile app.

Security deserves particular care. The maintainers state that Nheko’s encryption implementation has not been audited and make no security guarantees. That caveat matters for anyone choosing a messenger primarily on the strength of its encryption: the presence of end-to-end encryption should not be read as an independent security validation. Nheko is a reasonable fit for desktop Matrix users comfortable with that qualification and its platform-specific calling support. Those who require audited encryption, mobile availability, or consistent calling across platforms should consider alternatives.

Your product? Our editors can test Nheko in depth and publish a review, labelled as paid · from $149/mo →

Nheko pricing

Nheko fact sheet

Alternatives to Nheko

• SignalFree, open-source messaging with encrypted calls, groups, and optional paid backups.9.4
• WWhatsAppA broadly available free messenger with strong everyday privacy features and wide platform support.9.3
• ElementA secure, extensible collaboration app for teams that need control and interoperability.9.1

See all Nheko alternatives →

Featured on iTechGuides

Nheko is listed in our Secure Messaging Apps directory. Add the badge to your site — it links back to this page.

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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026

Advertiser disclosure: iTechGuides is reader-supported. Vendors can pay for top positions in our rankings and for a place on other products' pages, and we may earn a commission when you click some links. Bought places stand at the number bought; this page and our disclosure say so. Paying vendors may get a fuller, more detailed review from our editors, and that review can change their score. How we rank.

Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update