Tox

Free#15 of 44 in Encrypted Messaging Apps

Tox: A free open-source choice for encrypted calls, groups, screen sharing, and file transfers. Ranked #15 of 44 in Encrypted Messaging Apps by our editors (7.7/10); pricing: Free plan; best for free peer-to-peer calls and file sharing.

7.7/10★★★★☆Editor score

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At a glance

• Editor score
  7.7 / 10
• Pricing
  Free plan
• Best for
  Free peer-to-peer calls and file sharing
• Free plan
  Yes
• Paid from
  None
• Encryption coverage
  Default
• Facts checked
  20 Sep 2026

• Where it wins

  • Encrypted text, voice, and video communication
  • File sharing without artificial limits or caps
  • Open-source peer-to-peer networking with Tor support

• Where it doesn't

  • Official platform coverage excludes iOS
  • Clients are described as alpha software under heavy development
  • A professional security audit has not been completed

Our verdict on Tox

Tox is a free, open-source peer-to-peer messenger for personal communication. It supports encrypted text messaging, voice and video calls, group chats, screen sharing, and file transfers without artificial limits or caps. Rather than relying on central servers, Tox uses a peer-to-peer distributed network and is delivered through independent clients such as qTox, Toxic, aTox, and TRIfA. Official downloads cover Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android, making it a fit for people who want no-cost encrypted communication across desktop and Android devices.

Its standout advantage is breadth within peer-to-peer communication. Tox combines messaging, voice and video calls, group communication, screen sharing, and file sharing in one open-source protocol and client ecosystem. Tor support adds another privacy-oriented option, while the absence of artificial file-transfer caps makes it suitable for people sharing larger files. The trade-off is platform coverage: iOS is not included, and multiple-device support is listed as planned rather than as an established capability.

The project’s published client guidance also matters for buyers weighing convenience and assurance. Tox describes its clients as alpha software under heavy development and warns that they may contain usability and security issues. A professional security audit has not been completed. Tox should suit technically minded users who value open-source software, peer-to-peer networking, free calling, and uncapped file sharing. It is a weaker fit for people who require iOS access, verified backups, disappearing messages, or a mature client experience with completed professional auditing.

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Tox pricing

Tox fact sheet

Alternatives to Tox

• SignalA free, private messaging app with broad calling, sharing, and platform support.9.4
• WWhatsAppA 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 Tox alternatives →

Featured on iTechGuides

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

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Guides on encrypted messaging apps

• What Is Signal? How to Use the Encrypted Messaging AppAug 2026
• The Best Encrypted Messaging Apps in 2025: Signal, SimpleX, WhatsApp, and MoreAug 2026
• 8 Best Encrypted Messaging Apps for Your iPhone to Unlock True PrivacyAug 2026

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. How we rank.

Last updated 7 Oct 2026 · How we research and update