Top 12 Apps Like Snapchat You Need To Try

Snapchat is getting more and more popular among the many apps, say millions of users for the first time. Yet, if you are in search of some novelties or want to try out different features, then there are plenty of other apps like Snapchat that offer unique experiences. Among others, these alternatives include the Expiring messages and the Creative filters, which are options to make fun and exciting connections as well as to highlight one’s personality.

If you like instant messaging, want something different, or just love augmented reality, this blog will take you through 12 apps alternatives to Snapchat you can explore. Each app has shuffled the formula around a bit, so there’s always something fresh and exciting to keep your social interactions lively and engaging.

1. How did Snapchat become so popular?

1.1. Key Features

Here’s some Snapchat Key Features you need to know:

Snaps and Stories	Send photos or videos that disappear after viewing, or create a 24-hour Story to share moments all day long.
Lenses and Filters	Let you transform your look with fun AR effects, from silly dog faces to cool filters that spice up your snaps.
Chat	You can text, send voice messages, or video call with a playful interface and customize conversations with stickers and Bitmojis.
Discover	Keeps you updated with content from creators, news, and entertainment, all in one spot.

1.2. Snapchat: More Than Just Snaps

Ever wondered why Snapchat has managed to stay relevant in the ever-evolving world of social media? It’s not just about the disappearing photos and videos. Snapchat has been a pioneer in introducing innovative features that have set it apart from the competition.

• Snapchat has experienced a significant increase in daily active users over the past decade.
• As of the fourth quarter of 2023, the app reached over 400 million daily active users, indicating its growing popularity and user engagement.

• Snapchat has a predominantly young user base. The majority of users fall within the 13-34 age range, with the 18-24 age group being the most active.
• Women outnumber men in all age groups. This trend is particularly pronounced in the younger demographics.

2. Top 12 Snapchat Alternatives You Need To Try

2.1. Facebook Messenger

So, Facebook Messenger—it’s not just a messaging app. When it launched back in 2011, it took the whole Facebook experience and turned it into its own dedicated platform. With Messenger, you’re not just texting; you’re making voice and video calls, sharing photos, videos, and whatever else you want, all in one place. Think of it as Snapchat with a Facebook twist. Messenger’s loaded with features that make staying connected easy and fun. Whether you’re catching up or sharing the latest memes, Messenger’s got you.

Feature

• You can link to your Facebook account for instant access to your friends and groups.
• It enables you to share photos, videos, voice messages, and documents easily.
• Facebook Messenger has a gallery with hundreds of stickers, emojis, and other app integrations.
• You can create group chats with custom names and add all your friends in a snap.

Comparing Facebook Messenger and Snapchat

• With Messenger, you can directly chat with your Facebook friends and groups, while with Snapchat, you can only chat with your friends who are currently using the app.
• When you use Messenger, you will have a traditional messaging experience with deep conversations with others, while Snapchat emphasizes short-lived, ephemeral content.
• Messaging with Facebook Messenger may not be as ephemeral as apps like Snapchat, so you may be concerned about data privacy.

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2.2. Instagram

Instagram is a social app where you can both easily text with your friends and have an engaging visual content experience. Since its launch in 2010, it’s become the go-to place for sharing photos, videos, and stories. You can connect with a global community through likes, comments, and direct messages. With Instagram, you can capture your everyday moments, share them with your followers and chat with your friends.

Feature

• You can easily upload and share photos and videos with your followers.
• Post stories that disappear after 24 hours – perfect for those moments you want to share but not keep forever, just like apps like Snapchat.
• Instagram enables you to create and explore short-form videos (also known as Reels) with its gallery of hundreds of editing tools and effects.
• You can easily send private messages, photos, and videos.

Comparing Instagram and Snapchat

• Instagram focuses on both permanent posts and temporary Stories, while Snapchat focuses on ephemeral content. Instagram also has ephemeral messages, but it’s not default
• Instagram provides its users discovery mechanisms through hashtags and Explore pages, while Snapchat’s discovery is more focused on direct interactions and Stories.

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2.3. Telegram

One of the other apps like Snapchat is Telegram. Telegram is a cloud-based messaging app mostly known to everyone for its focus on speed and security. Launched in 2013, Telegram is an effective platform for texting, sending files, and creating groups for texting. Its focus on privacy makes it a popular choice for users who are seeking a top secure messaging app, mostly businessmen. As one of the most secure messaging apps, Telegram provides a range of features that meet everyone’s privacy needs.

Feature

• You can access your messages from any device with seamless synchronization.
• Telegram offers end-to-end encryption for private conversations, with self-destructing messages, which appear in apps like Snapchat.
• You can send files up to 2 GB in size and in all formats. It means that you can send nearly unlimited amounts of all kinds of files.
• This app enables you to create groups of up to 200,000 members.
• A special feature of Telegram is that you can use AI for different tasks and customize themes and settings according to your preferences.

Comparing Telegram and Snapchat

• Telegram focuses on secure, cloud-based messaging with extensive features, while Snapchat emphasizes ephemeral content and creative filters.
• Telegram offers end-to-end encryption in Secret Chats, whereas Snapchat’s privacy is centered around disappearing messages and Stories.
• Telegram supports large file transfers and media sharing, unlike Snapchat, which is more focused on quick, visual communication.

2.4. WhatsApp

Here’s a refined version of the text:

The next Snapchat alternative you should try is WhatsApp. Launched in 2009, WhatsApp has become one of the most widely used messaging apps globally. It’s a simple, secure platform for texting, video calls, and file sharing, perfect for staying connected with family, friends, or even for work. As an app like Snapchat, WhatsApp offers a range of features to suit various messaging needs.

Feature

• WhatsApp applies end-to-end encryption, which ensures your privacy when using it.
• You can easily send messages, photos, videos, voice messages, and documents on this platform.
• Your post’s temporary updates are visible to your contacts for 24 hours, similar to Snapchat’s Stories.

Comparing WhatsApp and Snapchat

• WhatsApp will be suitable for you if you like secure and re-accessible messaging, while Snapchat focuses on ephemeral and creative messaging.
• You can easily send files in both apps, but WhatsApp supports a wider range of file types and sizes compared to Snapchat.

2.5. Viber

Since Viber was launched in 2010, it has attracted billions of people all around the world. If you are looking for an app like Snapchat that is easy to use but still highly secure, Viber is the perfect choice for you. Like most other texting apps, Viber still has basic features such as texting, making voice and video calls, and sending files. With its easy-to-use interface and focus on security, it is becoming the app for everyone.

Feature

• Viber ensures that all communications are private and secure, protecting user data.
• You can make high-quality voice and video calls with Viber.
• It also allows users to send photos, videos, voice messages, and files.
• Viber has a gallery of hundreds of stickers and emojis for you to use.

Comparing Viber and Snapchat

• Both Snapchat and Viber promote privacy, but Viber extends this protection across all forms of communication, including calls.
• Viber is designed for highly secured communication, whereas Snapchat is all about fun, disappearing content, and visual storytelling.
• Viber is ideal for clear, long-term conversations, while Snapchat is geared toward quick interactions that vanish.

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2.6. Snow

If you are looking for an app that enables you to text with your friend AND is integrated with photo editing and video messaging features, Snow will be the best Snapchat alternative for you. Launched in 2015, Snow quickly became popular for its creative tools that let you turn everyday moments into something unique. Snow has hundreds of interactive filters and effects that make your communication with your friends fun. Though Snapchat alternatives are all about playful self-expression, Snow brings its own twist with a constantly updated library of effects to keep your chats fresh and engaging.

Feature

• You can access Snow’s gallery, which contains thousands of filters and augmented reality (AR) effects for photos and videos.
• You can share temporary photos and videos that disappear after viewing, a similar feature of apps like Snapchat.
• Snow provides tools for editing photos and videos with effects, stickers, and music.
• This app enables you to have a chat with your friends through comments, likes, and direct messages.

Comparing Snow and Snapchat

• Both apps have many filters and effects for you to use, but Snow has more beauty filters and AR (Augmented Reality) features.
• A unique point of Snow is that it provides photo and video editing tools apart from its basic texting feature, while Snapchat mostly provides ephemeral content.
• Both Snow and Snapchat offer ephemeral content, but the Snapchat interface is more engaging compared to Snow in terms of messaging.

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2.7. Signal

Among messaging apps like Snapchat, Signal is outstanding for its strong emphasis on privacy and security. Launched in 2014, Signal provides a secure platform for text messaging, voice, and video calls, built on the principles of encryption and user privacy. Its commitment to security makes it a top choice for anyone who values privacy. As an app like Snapchat, Signal provides you with basic messaging features while still keeping your conversations protected.

Feature

• All of your communications in Signal are encrypted, ensuring a high level of privacy.
• You can send disappearing messages easily, much like Snapchat, but with added security.
• You can create group chats that are encrypted, so everyone’s messages are safe.

Comparing Signal and Snapchat

• Signal offers end-to-end encryption for all communications, whereas Snapchat provides ephemeral messaging.
• Both Signal and other apps like Snapchat support disappearing messages, but with a different privacy approach.
• Snapchat emphasizes creative filters and multimedia content, while Signal prioritizes secure and private sharing.

2.8. Slingshot

Slingshot is a cool new messaging app that brings a fresh twist to how we chat online. It’s not your average messaging app—Slingshot makes sending and receiving messages playful and fun, turning everyday conversations into something more exciting. Launched with the idea of making interactions more lively, it’s perfect for anyone who loves adding a bit of fun to their messaging routine.

Feature

• Messages in Slingshot can only be viewed after the recipient sends a response.
• When using Slingshot, you can use a range of creative filters and effects to edit photos and videos.
• You can share different types of files with your friends only with a swipe.
• Slingshot has many interactive features that make your conversations more fun.
• A feature that is similar to apps like Snapchat is that messages and media disappear after being viewed.

Comparing Slingshot and Snapchat

• Slingshot’s unique shot-based messaging requires a response before content is revealed.
• Both Slingshot and Snapchat use ephemeral messaging, but Slingshot’s interactive approach adds an extra layer of engagement.
• While both apps offer creative filters and effects, Slingshot’s emphasis is on interactive communication rather than just multimedia enhancement.

2.9. Discord

Launched in 2015, Discord is becoming one of the most popular communication platforms in the world, especially among gaming and technology communities. Discord has every basic messaging feature you’d expect, but it holds a unique difference among messaging apps similar to Snapchat by creating an environment that’s perfect for real-time communication, community building, and collaboration. This different feature makes it the go-to platform for group interactions, especially among gamers. Whether you’re chatting, sharing videos, or working on a project, Discord provides a space that truly meets the needs of any group, making it more than just a messaging app—it’s a hub for everyone to connect and work together.

Feature

• Discord focuses on real-time voice and video communication, ideal for group discussions and streaming.
• You can create multiple text channels within servers for organized discussions when you use Discord.
• It has effective moderation tools, roles, and permissions for managing large communities.
• You can easily share your screens with your friends or colleagues during voice or video calls for work or gaming.
• Discord integrates with services like Spotify, Twitch, and more to enhance your overall experience.

Comparing Discord and Snapchat

• Discord is all about multi-channel communication and it has many robust tools for managing communities, while Snapchat focuses on quick, creative messaging that disappears.
• Discord offers powerful voice and video features, making it great for group chats, while Snapchat is more about short-lived, interactive content.

2.10. iMessage

iMessage is Apple’s messaging platform that makes communication easy and seamless for anyone using iPhone, iPad, or Mac. Launched in 2011, iMessage offers a variety of features that make chatting between Apple devices smooth and convenient. It’s tightly integrated with other Apple services, which is why so many people prefer it. If you’re looking for an app like Snapchat but want something that fits perfectly within the Apple ecosystem, iMessage is a great choice for both casual and professional conversations.

Feature

• All of your messages are private so only you and the recipient can see them.
• You can easily send photos, videos, voice messages, and documents.
• Its ability to sync messages across all your Apple devices, like iPhone, iPad, and Mac is its key outstanding feature.

Comparing iMessage and Snapchat

• iMessage focuses on secure, convenient messaging within the Apple ecosystem, while Snapchat emphasizes short-lived and creative messaging.
• iMessage supports sharing rich media and integrates with other apps, whereas Snapchat is more about interactive and temporary content.
• iMessage offers seamless syncing across Apple devices, while Snapchat is designed for cross-platform use without device-specific integration.

2.11. Sweet Snap

Sweet Snap is a lively photo and video app that’s all about making your visuals fun and interactive. Launched to help you jazz up your photos with playful effects, Sweet Snap turns ordinary images into shareable content with its range of creative features. If you are seeking an app like Snapchat, you’ll appreciate Sweet Snap’s tools that make photo and video editing both entertaining and easy.

Feature:

• Offers a wide range of live filters and effects for instant photo and video enhancement.
• Includes AR stickers and animations to add extra fun to your images and videos.
• Lets you edit videos with effects, music, and stickers for a creative touch.
• Makes it simple to share your edited content on various social media platforms.

Comparing Sweet Snap and Snapchat:

• Both Sweet Snap and Snapchat provide lots of filters and effects, but Sweet Snap focuses more on real-time application and beauty enhancements.
• Both use AR technology, but Snapchat offers a wider variety of interactive AR experiences.
• Sweet Snap is all about creative photo and video editing, while Snapchat is more focused on ephemeral content and social interaction.

2.12. Wickr Me

Wickr Me is a secure messaging app designed to keep your conversations private and encrypted. Launched with a strong focus on privacy, Wickr Me makes sure that your messages, calls, and media stay protected from prying eyes. It’s a go-to for those who value confidentiality in their digital interactions. If you like apps similar to Snapchat, you’ll find Wickr Me offers features that emphasize ephemeral content and control over your communications.

Feature:

• Uses robust encryption to ensure that only the intended recipients can read your messages.
• Allows users to send messages that automatically delete after a set time, just like Snapchat’s disappearing messages.
• Supports encrypted voice and video calls for extra privacy during real-time chats.
• Allows you to communicate without revealing personal information, keeping you anonymous.
• Enables secure file and multimedia sharing with encryption to protect your sensitive data.

Comparing Wickr Me and Snapchat:

• Wickr Me focuses on advanced privacy with end-to-end encryption and self-destructing messages, while Snapchat emphasizes temporary content with less focus on security.
• Both apps offer options for temporary content, but Wickr Me puts a stronger emphasis on security and user control.
• Wickr Me is great for secure messaging and calls, while Snapchat is more about short-lived multimedia content.

3. Conclusion

Exploring these 12 apps as alternatives to Snapchat opens up a range of creative and interactive options for enhancing your social media experience. Each app offers unique features, from innovative filters to privacy-focused messaging, allowing you to find the perfect fit for your preferences. Whether you’re looking for fun ways to share content or secure communication tools, these alternatives provide diverse ways to connect and express yourself online.

4. Frequently Ask Questions about Apps Like Snapchat

What are the best alternatives to Snapchat?

The best alternatives include apps like Instagram, TikTok, and VSCO, each offering unique features for photo and video sharing, creative editing, and social interaction.

How do I choose the right app like Snapchat for me?

Consider what features are most important to you, such as photo filters, privacy options, or social connectivity. Experiment with a few apps to see which aligns best with your preferences.

Are these Snapchat alternatives free to use?

Most apps like Snapchat offer free versions with optional in-app purchases or premium features. Be sure to check each app’s pricing details and features.

How can I get my app developed?

Interested in creating your own app? Contact AgileTech today to discuss your mobile app development needs. Our expert team with over 1000+ successful projects specializes in designing and building custom apps tailored to your vision. Let’s turn your idea into reality!