Our verdict: Pidgin is still a solid choice for XMPP and IRC users who want all accounts in one lightweight window. It is free, open source and extensible with plugins, but it does not support today's big messengers out of the box, and the Windows build is 32-bit.
About Pidgin
Pidgin is a long-running open-source chat program licensed under the GNU GPL. It lets you sign in to accounts on several chat networks at once, so you can talk on XMPP and sit in an IRC channel in the same app.
Out of the box it supports Jabber/XMPP, IRC, Bonjour, Gadu-Gadu, GroupWise, Sametime, SILC, SIMPLE and Zephyr, and third-party plugins add more networks and features. The Windows installer downloads its own copy of GTK; an offline installer and a portable version are also available.
What it does well
- Multiple networks. Use XMPP, IRC and other accounts in one buddy list.
- Plugins. Extend Pidgin with plugins for more protocols and features.
- File transfers. Send files on networks that support it.
- Typing notifications and away messages. Standard chat features across supported networks.
- Local GTK runtime. GTK is installed only for Pidgin and does not affect other apps.
Who it is for
Good fit
XMPP and IRC users who want a lightweight multi-account chat client.
Look elsewhere
People who mainly chat on WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord or similar services.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free and open source
- Several chat networks in one window
- Large plugin ecosystem
- Portable version available
Cons
- No built-in support for popular messengers like WhatsApp or Telegram
- Windows build is 32-bit
- Interface looks dated
How to install Pidgin
On the official install page choose the standard Windows installer, which downloads GTK during setup, or the offline installer if the PC has no internet access. The files are hosted on SourceForge, the project's official download host. Add your accounts under Accounts → Manage Accounts.
Questions about Pidgin
Is Pidgin free?
Yes. Pidgin is free, has no ads and is open source under the GNU GPL.
Which networks does Pidgin support?
XMPP, IRC, Bonjour, Gadu-Gadu, GroupWise, Sametime, SILC, SIMPLE and Zephyr out of the box, and more with plugins.
