Threema
Threema: A polished, anonymous messaging suite with strong privacy features and no free plan. Ranked #12 of 44 in Encrypted Messaging Apps by our editors (8.0/10); pricing: 30-day trial; best for users wanting anonymous, polished paid messaging.
At a glance
- Editor score8.0 / 10
- Pricing30-day trial
- Best forUsers wanting anonymous, polished paid messaging
- Free planNo
- Paid from$3/user/mo
- Encryption coverageDefault
- Founded2012 · Pfäffikon SZ, Switzerland
- Facts checked19 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- Anonymous account creation without a phone number or email
- Encrypted messaging, calls, backups, and automatic message deletion
- Apps and clients for web, desktop, iOS, and Android
Where it doesn't
- No free plan for private users
- Threema Safe excludes message and media history
- Work plans use annual billing with per-user monthly pricing
Our verdict on Threema
Threema is a Swiss encrypted messaging application for individuals, companies, public authorities, and organizations. It combines end-to-end encrypted text and voice messaging with encrypted voice, video, and group calls, file sharing, polls, contact verification, and desktop access. Private users can create an account with a randomly generated Threema ID without providing a phone number or email address. It suits people who prioritize private communication and organizations that need managed or self-hosted messaging.
Pricing is split between private and business use. Threema Private costs 6 as a one-time purchase, with the currency determined by the app store and country, and includes personal messaging, end-to-end encryption, and desktop and mobile access. A 30-day trial is available, but there is no free plan. Threema Work Core costs 3 per user per month with annual billing and adds central user management for teams of up to 200 employees. Work Professional costs 5 per user per month with annual billing and adds broadcast and automation features, API access, and premium support. Threema OnPrem supports self-hosted deployment, infrastructure and data control, and white-labeling.
Privacy features are central to the product. Private chats can be protected with a passcode or biometric lock, retention settings can automatically delete messages, and Threema Safe provides encrypted backups for account, contact, and group data. The platform is open source and supports the Threema Gateway API, Active Directory, and MDM systems. It runs on web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, with desktop and web clients alongside mobile apps. Choose Threema for anonymous account creation, default encryption, and business deployment options; consider an alternative if a free private plan or backups that include message and media history are essential.
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Threema pricing
All 4 Threema plans and prices →
Threema fact sheet
| Free plan | No |
|---|---|
| Paid from | $3/user/mo |
| Encryption coverage | Default |
| Maximum group size | Not verified |
| Linked device limit | 2 devices |
| Desktop app | Yes |
| Voice and video calls | Yes |
| Disappearing messages | Yes |
| Encrypted backups | End_to_end |
| Free trial | 30 days |
| Deployment | Cloud, Desktop, Mobile |
| Platforms | Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android |
| Integrations | 3 integrations: Threema Gateway API, Active Directory, MDM systems |
| Pricing | 30-day trial (source) |
| Website | threema.com |
| Facts checked | 19 Sep 2026 |
Threema integrations
Threema lists 3 integrations on its own site.
- Threema Gateway API
- Active Directory
- MDM systems
Alternatives to Threema
- 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
See all Threema alternatives →
Also Ranked In
Threema is ranked in 7 of our directories.
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Featured on iTechGuides
Threema is listed in our Encrypted 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
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