Signal, Matrix, XMPP

Updated 13-Feb-2025

These are more-or-less protocols (well, maybe Signal is not). So instead this article could be named: Signal, Element, Dino

I've used Signal for the past number of years as a chat / videocall app, having switched from Telegram after it went full Nazi. But there are other options, some I've tried. Below are some notes on these various options for personal (perhaps professional) use.

There should be some kind of bridge that can talk, say, from XMPP to Matrix, and to other kinds of chat. The main thing is to find a home, that isn't just a compromise, or supports venture capital dudes.

Signal

Matrix / Element

  • Tried it out for several months
  • Too much effort keeping keys and access working
    • Not friendly to multiple apps for the same account
  • Server requirements are very high, some say not even scalable or practicable in certain situations, especially with open source Synapse

XMPP / Conversations.im / Dino

  • PubSub and ActivityPub gateway
  • Open source clients and server, run own server
  • Conversations.im is an interesting implementation, with a decent Android app, free hosting (there are other hosting options).
  • Conversations Android app is not bad
  • Linux app Dino works fine, but old school display, Gajim is a bit better (v.1.9.5 can change font size via keyboard shortcut).
  • ejabberd is one of several servers one can run
  • Snikket is a simple server, that offers self-hosted code and low price hosting (thanks Thej).
  • Movim has an overlay blog / social network that can be used with any xmpp account
  • XMPP looks like the goodest option for what is available (vs. Signal / Matrix)

XMPP and Matrix are two competing federated end-to-end encrypted messengers. XMPP is far better, on server cost decentralization, speed over Tor, degoogled push notifications, multi-identities, and overall privacy.

Jitsi (video conferencing)

  • Open source and own instance
  • Unclear of security model
  • Web, Android apps
  • Kinda replaces Zoom, instead of a chat app

Notes

I'll likely rewrite this article if and when I cutover from Signal.