SchildiChat
SchildiChat: A flexible Matrix client family for users who value custom layouts over business collaboration features. Ranked #25 of 36 in Secure Messaging Apps by our editors (6.6/10); pricing: Free plan; best for matrix users wanting customizable layouts.
At a glance
- Editor score6.6 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forMatrix users wanting customizable layouts
- Free planYes
- Paid fromNone
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Federated Matrix messaging across web, desktop, and Android
- Custom room-list layouts, themes, message bubbles, and chat lists
- UnifiedPush notifications with Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android support
Where it doesn't
- The legacy Android client is barely maintained
- The original desktop client is archived
- SchildiChat Revenge is still in beta for desktop and Android
Our verdict on SchildiChat
SchildiChat is a family of open-source instant-messaging clients based on the Matrix protocol. It is intended for individuals and communities that want federated Matrix messaging with more control over the interface than a standard client provides. The lineup spans Android, Windows, macOS, Linux, and the web through a hosted variant. SchildiChat Next is the maintained Android option, while SchildiChat Revenge covers desktop and Android in beta. Older Android and desktop clients remain available, but their maintenance status makes the current lineup important when choosing a download.
Customization is the product's clearest distinction. Users can adjust room-list layouts, combine direct and group chats into one list, apply custom themes, and enable message bubbles. UnifiedPush notification support adds an option for Android notifications, while desktop packages and official downloads support access beyond mobile. These features make SchildiChat a focused choice for Matrix users who want a tailored client experience across devices, rather than a general-purpose hosted collaboration suite. Its open-source distribution and availability through F-Droid also fit communities that prefer those delivery options.
The main trade-off is the split between current and legacy clients. Android users should focus on SchildiChat Next, while desktop users are choosing SchildiChat Revenge while it remains in beta. The original desktop client is archived, and the legacy Android client is barely maintained, so the product is not equally mature across every available download. Choose SchildiChat for customizable federated Matrix messaging and cross-platform access; choose another option if you need a hosted business collaboration service or a single mature client line across all platforms.
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SchildiChat pricing
SchildiChat fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | None |
| Account requirement | Not verified |
| Encrypted backups | Not verified |
| Desktop apps | Yes |
| Maximum group size | Not verified |
| Multi-device support | Not verified |
| Disappearing messages | Not verified |
| Deployment | Cloud, Desktop, Mobile |
| Platforms | Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, Android |
| Support | Community, Docs |
| Built for | Solo, Small business (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan |
| Website | schildi.chat |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to SchildiChat
- SignalFree, open-source messaging with encrypted calls, groups, and optional paid backups.9.4
- WhatsAppA 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 SchildiChat alternatives →
Also Ranked In
SchildiChat is ranked in 2 of our directories.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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