Our verdict: Wire is a good fit when a small group wants encrypted messaging from a European company with open-source apps. The free plan covers chats, calls and files for up to five people, but group conference calls and larger teams need a paid plan.
About Wire
Wire is developed by Wire Swiss GmbH, and the source code of its clients is published on GitHub under the GNU GPL v3. Messages, calls and files are end-to-end encrypted on every device, including the Windows app.
The free plan, Wire for Free, is meant for teams of up to five people and allows up to eight devices per account and chats with up to 500 participants. Starting conference calls with more than two people, admin controls, SSO and larger teams require the paid SMB or Enterprise plans.
What it does well
- End-to-end encryption. Messages, calls and files are encrypted on every linked device.
- Messaging and file sharing. Chats with text, files, audio and video messages and sketches.
- Self-deleting messages. Set messages to disappear after a chosen time.
- Multiple devices. Use one account on up to eight devices.
- Several accounts. Sign in with up to three accounts on one device.
Who it is for
Good fit
Small teams and families who want an encrypted messenger with open-source apps.
Look elsewhere
Groups that need free video conferences with more than two people.
Pros and cons
Pros
- End-to-end encryption for chats, calls and files
- Open-source clients
- No phone number required to sign up
- Works on desktop, mobile and the web
Cons
- Free plan cannot start conference calls with more than two people
- Free plan is limited to teams of five people
- Fewer people use it than mainstream messengers
How to install Wire
Download the Windows installer from wire.com and run it; it installs for your user without extra offers. Create a free account or sign in, then verify your other devices in the conversation details if you want to confirm their encryption keys.
Questions about Wire
Is Wire free?
Yes. Wire for Free is free for teams of up to five people. Paid plans add conference calls, admin controls and larger teams.
Is Wire open source?
Yes. Wire publishes the source code of its apps on GitHub under the GNU GPL v3.
How many devices can I use with Wire?
Up to eight devices per account.
