Leaving Signal? 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
Signal 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 | |
V Vantevo Vantevo is a European messaging app designed to provide secure and private communication for individuals and businesses. Hosted in EU data centers, it ensures compliance with GDPR regulations, offering peace of mind regarding data sovereignty and user privacy. Vantevo supports end-to-end encryption for all messages, safeguarding your conversations from unauthorized access. The app features a real-time message analytics dashboard, allowing users to monitor communication patterns effectively. With customizable user privacy settings and multi-language support, Vantevo caters to a diverse user base across Europe. Secure file sharing and seamless integration with third-party applications make it a versatile choice for businesses seeking reliable communication tools. Vantevo is ideal for privacy-conscious individuals and organizations that prioritize data protection and compliance with European regulations. While specific pricing details are not provided, Vantevo's value lies in its robust security features and commitment to user privacy. | 🇪🇺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 stores data on Swiss servers, enhancing privacy protection.
- Anonymous registration on Threema avoids phone number linkage.
- Threema complies fully with GDPR, ensuring strict data handling.
- Group chats on Threema can include up to 256 participants.
Trade-offs
- Threema is not open source, limiting transparency in security.
- Migrating contacts and chat history from Signal may be complex.
- Threema has a learning curve for users familiar with Signal's UI.
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 secure file sharing with end-to-end encryption.
- Wire supports self-hosted deployment for enhanced data control.
- Wire provides integrated video conferencing within the app.
- Wire is fully GDPR compliant, ensuring strict data protection.
Trade-offs
- Migration from Signal may involve data loss or compatibility issues.
- Wire's user interface may require a learning curve for new users.
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
- Matrix protocol allows interoperability with other messaging platforms.
- Self-hosting options enhance privacy and control over data storage.
- Group chats can accommodate up to 1000 members, ideal for large teams.
- Data retention policies align with GDPR, ensuring compliance in the EU.
Trade-offs
- Migration from Signal may involve data loss and user adjustment.
- Element's interface may require a learning curve for new users.
- Lacks built-in disappearing messages feature found in Signal.
Vantevo is a European messaging app designed to provide secure and private communication for individuals and businesses. Hosted in EU data centers, it ensures compliance with GDPR regulations, offering peace of mind regarding data sovereignty and user privacy. Vantevo supports end-to-end encryption for all messages, safeguarding your conversations from unauthorized access. The app features a real-time message analytics dashboard, allowing users to monitor communication patterns effectively. With customizable user privacy settings and multi-language support, Vantevo caters to a diverse user base across Europe. Secure file sharing and seamless integration with third-party applications make it a versatile choice for businesses seeking reliable communication tools. Vantevo is ideal for privacy-conscious individuals and organizations that prioritize data protection and compliance with European regulations. While specific pricing details are not provided, Vantevo's value lies in its robust security features and commitment to user privacy.
Advantages
- Vantevo's EU-hosted data centers ensure GDPR compliance for users.
- Real-time message analytics dashboard provides insights into usage patterns.
- Customizable privacy settings allow users to tailor their experience.
- Secure file sharing capabilities enhance collaboration within the app.
Trade-offs
- Migration may require transferring contacts and chat history manually.
- Vantevo lacks open-source encryption, limiting transparency in security.
- Learning curve for users familiar with Signal's interface and features.
Before You Switch
Export your data from Signal before you start the migration. This ensures you have a backup and makes the transition smoother.
General Data Export Steps
- 1Log into your Signal 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. Signal is required to provide your data in a structured, commonly used format upon request.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best EU alternatives to Signal?
There are 4 European alternatives to Signal. 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 Signal?
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 Signal?
Yes, most services including Signal allow you to export your data. Check the settings or privacy section of your Signal account for data export options. GDPR also grants you the right to data portability.
Is switching from Signal to an EU alternative safe?
Yes, switching is safe when done correctly. We recommend: 1) Export your data from Signal 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 Signal subscription only after verifying everything works.
Why should I switch from Signal 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.