Jamal Awad

over 6 years ago • 7,553 • 3 minutes read • 2


Regarding messaging apps, two heavyweights come to mind: WhatsApp and Telegram. The choice of one to use depends on an individual's needs and preferences. Although both messaging apps share some similarities, some differences make them suitable for specific purposes.

This article aims to highlight some of these differences to help readers decide which app to use depending on their needs. Here are some of the areas of comparison:

  1. Group chat:
    If you're looking to have a group chat with a large number of people, Telegram is the way to go. The app allows up to 100,000 people in a group, which is significantly more than WhatsApp. However, large groups can be challenging to keep track of, and Telegram's interface can become quite rowdy. WhatsApp is more suitable for smaller groups.
  2. Expressions:
    Expressions such as stickers and emojis can convey feelings and emotions in a chat. Telegram takes the lead in this area with its unique stickers that convey richer expressions than WhatsApp's traditional emojis.
  3. Status updates:
    WhatsApp's status updates are only visible to your contacts, making it a more social tool than Telegram. Meanwhile, Telegram's interface is more business-oriented, making it an ideal app for serious business activities.
  4. Security:
    Telegram takes security seriously, boasting end-to-end encryption and winning users' hearts with its stance against giving the Russian government access to encryption keys. On the other hand, WhatsApp is owned by Facebook, which has had trust issues with users regarding data privacy.
  5. Business model:
    The business model of a messaging app is essential, as it informs what the app is willing to trade for money. It's unclear what WhatsApp's business model is, while Telegram is going into the crypto ecosystem. Telegram's move is healthy, and they've already done a pre-ICO. Meanwhile, WhatsApp may adopt the ad model, as Facebook has, which may not be ideal for users.
  6. Data usage:
    Both apps are pretty similar in terms of data usage. However, Telegram's ability to handle larger files and the volume of activities it can perform may make it a bit more data-consuming.
  7. Channels:
    Telegram's channels are a feature not available on WhatsApp. Channels enable users to connect to information without being in a group chat. Channels post information without comments or analysis.
  8. User interface:
    WhatsApp's interface is neater and more organized than Telegram's, with options such as archiving chats. Telegram's interface is still good, but WhatsApp has an edge in this area.
  9. File sharing:
    Telegram allows users to transfer heavy files, while WhatsApp has a size limit on what can be uploaded. Telegram is a good app for file sharing.
  10. Meeting new people:
    Telegram offers users a higher chance of meeting new people than WhatsApp, as it focuses on integrating a much wider world. Telegram's group chats are open, allowing users to join by following a link.
In conclusion, WhatsApp and Telegram are both useful messaging apps, but their strengths lie in different areas. As such, the app you choose to use will depend on your specific needs. Regardless of your choice, it's always important to be conscious of your privacy and security when using any messaging app.

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User Comments:

Khaled Mohammad

Freelance Writer · over 6 years ago

I totally agree.
can u plz write about the "whatsapp plus", and how it is different than whatsapp in terms of security?
Thank you for your helpful posts.

Jamal Awad

Freelance Writer · over 6 years ago

Many thanks, Khaled. I will look into your suggestion to write an article about the differences between WhatsApp and WhatsApp plus and mainly in terms of security. Stay tuned :)