Viber
Viber: A versatile free messenger with strong chat privacy but unencrypted backups. Ranked #10 of 36 in Secure Messaging Apps by our editors (8.2/10); pricing: Free plan; best for mainstream mobile-and-desktop messaging.
At a glance
- Editor score8.2 / 10
- PricingFree plan
- Best forMainstream mobile-and-desktop messaging
- Free planYes
- Account requirementPhone
- Facts checked21 Sep 2026
Where it wins
- End-to-end encryption for one-to-one and group chats
- Apps for Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android
- Disappearing messages, hidden chats, and synchronized conversations
Where it doesn't
- Backups are not encrypted
- A phone number is required for an account
- Group chats support up to 250 participants
Our verdict on Viber
Viber is a freemium messaging and calling app for people who communicate across mobile and desktop devices. Its free service covers messaging and calls between Viber users, with one-to-one chats, group chats, voice and video calls, communities, channels, stickers, and GIFs. A phone number is required for an account, and conversations synchronize across Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. It is a practical fit for mainstream personal communication where broad device coverage matters.
Privacy features are substantial for everyday chats. One-to-one and group chats use end-to-end encryption, while disappearing messages add automatic message removal and hidden chats can be protected with a PIN. The main privacy limitation is that backups are unencrypted, so users who need encrypted backups should consider an alternative with that capability. Viber's source status is also unverified, which may matter to buyers who prioritize independently verifiable software transparency.
The free tier provides the core messaging and calling experience, while Viber Out and Viber Plus are paid offerings. Viber Out pricing varies by destination and region, and Viber Plus does not have a fixed price shown in the available plan details. The product supports group chats of up to 250 participants and includes desktop apps alongside mobile apps. Choose Viber for a familiar, cross-device messenger with private chats and calling; choose another service if encrypted backups or a verified source status are essential requirements.
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Viber pricing
Viber fact sheet
| Free plan | Yes |
|---|---|
| Paid from | Not verified |
| Account requirement | Phone |
| Encrypted backups | No |
| Desktop apps | Yes |
| Maximum group size | 250 members |
| Multi-device support | Yes |
| Disappearing messages | Yes |
| Deployment | Desktop, Mobile |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android |
| Support | Docs, Tickets, Live chat · 24/7 |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise (editorial estimate) |
| Pricing | Free plan (source) |
| Website | viber.com |
| Facts checked | 21 Sep 2026 |
Alternatives to Viber
- 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
Also Ranked In
Viber is ranked in 4 of our directories.
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Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
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