Leaving Telegram? Here's everything you need
Compare 4 EU alternatives side-by-side. Find the right fit based on migration difficulty, pricing, and privacy features.
Your data may be subject to US surveillance laws
Telegram is headquartered in the US. Under the CLOUD Act and FISA Section 702, US authorities can access your data without your knowledge. Switch to an EU alternative to keep your data protected under GDPR.
All EU Alternatives at a Glance
| Alternative | Country | Pricing | Difficulty | Time Estimate | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
ThreemaRecommended The secure instant messenger from Switzerland. GDPR-compliant messaging for individuals and organizations that value security and data protection. | 🇨🇭Switzerland | Free plan available | Medium | 1-2 hours | |
WireRecommended Collaborate without compromise with Wire, the trusted platform for millions worldwide. Stay in control with end-to-end encryption that's invisible, flexible collaboration, and intuitive user interface. Join now for free and boost your productivity. | 🇨🇭Switzerland | Free plan available | Medium | 1-2 hours | |
Element Element is a Matrix-based end-to-end encrypted messenger and secure collaboration app. It’s decentralised for digital sovereign self-hosting, or through a hosting service such as Element Matrix Services. Element operates on the open Matrix network to provide interoperability and easy connections. | 🌍GB | Free plan available | Medium | 1 day | |
N nilly Nilly is a privacy-first messaging app designed to cater to the communication needs of individuals and businesses across Europe. Developed in Switzerland, Nilly ensures that your conversations remain secure and private, aligning with the strictest EU data protection regulations. With its robust web analytics service, users can gain insights into their communication patterns without compromising their privacy. Key features of Nilly include end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only you and your intended recipient can read your messages. The app is EU-hosted, which means your data is stored within Europe, offering enhanced data sovereignty and compliance with GDPR standards. This makes Nilly an ideal choice for privacy-conscious users, businesses, and organizations that prioritize data protection. Nilly's user-friendly interface and reliable performance make it suitable for both personal and professional use. The app is particularly beneficial for European businesses seeking a secure communication platform that respects local data privacy laws. While specific pricing details are not disclosed, Nilly offers a competitive pricing model that reflects its commitment to privacy and security. By choosing Nilly, users can communicate with confidence, knowing their data is protected by some of the world's most stringent privacy laws. | 🇪🇺EU | Free plan available | Medium | 2-3 hours |
Our Top Picks
Best for Privacy
The secure instant messenger from Switzerland. GDPR-compliant messaging for individuals and organizations that value security and data protection.
Certifications:
Migration difficulty data is being enriched for these alternatives.
Detailed Comparison of Each Alternative
The secure instant messenger from Switzerland. GDPR-compliant messaging for individuals and organizations that value security and data protection.
Advantages
- Threema uses Swiss servers, ensuring strong data privacy protections.
- No phone number required for registration, enhancing user anonymity.
- All messages are end-to-end encrypted, ensuring maximum security.
- Threema is GDPR compliant, aligning with EU data protection laws.
Trade-offs
- Limited group size of 256 members compared to Telegram's 200,000.
- Migration may require manual transfer of chats and contacts.
- Fewer bots and automation options compared to Telegram's extensive offerings.
Collaborate without compromise with Wire, the trusted platform for millions worldwide. Stay in control with end-to-end encryption that's invisible, flexible collaboration, and intuitive user interface. Join now for free and boost your productivity.
Advantages
- Wire offers end-to-end encryption for all messages, enhancing security.
- GDPR compliance ensures strict data protection for EU users.
- Customizable user permissions allow for better group management.
- Integrated video conferencing supports up to 50 participants at once.
Trade-offs
- Migration from Telegram may require manual export and import of chats.
- Wire lacks Telegram's extensive bot ecosystem for automation.
- Learning curve for users accustomed to Telegram's interface.
Element is a Matrix-based end-to-end encrypted messenger and secure collaboration app. It’s decentralised for digital sovereign self-hosting, or through a hosting service such as Element Matrix Services. Element operates on the open Matrix network to provide interoperability and easy connections.
Advantages
- Element uses end-to-end encryption by default for all communications.
- Self-hosting options enhance privacy and control over data storage.
- Element complies with GDPR, ensuring strict data protection standards.
- Open-source nature allows for community audits and transparency.
Trade-offs
- Element supports group chats with only 1,000 members, less than Telegram.
- Migration may involve data loss as Telegram's cloud storage is not transferable.
- Learning curve for new users due to Element's different interface and features.
Nilly is a privacy-first messaging app designed to cater to the communication needs of individuals and businesses across Europe. Developed in Switzerland, Nilly ensures that your conversations remain secure and private, aligning with the strictest EU data protection regulations. With its robust web analytics service, users can gain insights into their communication patterns without compromising their privacy. Key features of Nilly include end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only you and your intended recipient can read your messages. The app is EU-hosted, which means your data is stored within Europe, offering enhanced data sovereignty and compliance with GDPR standards. This makes Nilly an ideal choice for privacy-conscious users, businesses, and organizations that prioritize data protection. Nilly's user-friendly interface and reliable performance make it suitable for both personal and professional use. The app is particularly beneficial for European businesses seeking a secure communication platform that respects local data privacy laws. While specific pricing details are not disclosed, Nilly offers a competitive pricing model that reflects its commitment to privacy and security. By choosing Nilly, users can communicate with confidence, knowing their data is protected by some of the world's most stringent privacy laws.
Advantages
- nilly is EU-hosted, ensuring compliance with EU data protection laws.
- Privacy-first approach may offer stronger data protection than Telegram.
- Switzerland's strict privacy laws enhance user data security.
- Potential for better transparency with open-source development.
Trade-offs
- Migration from Telegram may require exporting and re-importing chats.
- nilly lacks Telegram's extensive features like bots and large groups.
- Learning curve due to different interface and functionalities.
Before You Switch
Export your data from Telegram before you start the migration. This ensures you have a backup and makes the transition smoother.
General Data Export Steps
- 1Log into your Telegram account and navigate to Settings or Privacy.
- 2Look for "Download your data", "Export", or "Data portability" options.
- 3Select all data you want to export and choose a standard format (ZIP, CSV, JSON).
- 4Wait for the export to complete — large accounts may take hours or days.
- 5Download and verify the export before proceeding with migration.
Under GDPR Article 20, you have the right to data portability. Telegram is required to provide your data in a structured, commonly used format upon request.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best EU alternatives to Telegram?
There are 4 European alternatives to Telegram. Threema, Wire, Element are among the top-rated options. All are GDPR-compliant and store your data in European data centers.
How long does it take to switch from Telegram?
Migration time varies by alternative. Most migrations can be completed in under an hour with our step-by-step guides. We provide detailed migration guides for each alternative.
Can I export my data from Telegram?
Yes, most services including Telegram allow you to export your data. Check the settings or privacy section of your Telegram account for data export options. GDPR also grants you the right to data portability.
Is switching from Telegram to an EU alternative safe?
Yes, switching is safe when done correctly. We recommend: 1) Export your data from Telegram first, 2) Set up the new EU service, 3) Import your data, 4) Run both services in parallel for a transition period, 5) Update any linked accounts or integrations, and 6) Cancel your Telegram subscription only after verifying everything works.
Why should I switch from Telegram to an EU alternative?
EU alternatives provide stronger privacy protection under GDPR, keep your data in European data centers, and are not subject to US surveillance laws like the CLOUD Act or FISA Section 702. By switching, you gain true data sovereignty and support European tech innovation.