MyGalaxySide by side
| MyGalaxy | Signal | |
|---|---|---|
| Sign up | Username and PIN, no phone number, free | Phone number required; a paid option without a number ($2.99) is in the Android beta since September 2026 |
| Direct chats and groups | End-to-end encrypted by default | End-to-end encrypted by default |
| Forward secrecy | Planned | Yes |
| Open source | No | Yes |
| Independent audit | Planned | Yes |
| Channels and communities | Yes | No public channels |
| Price | Free | Free (donations) |
Where Signal is stronger
- Open source and independently reviewed by security experts.
- Forward secrecy and the well-studied Signal Protocol.
- Run by a non-profit foundation.
Where MyGalaxy is stronger
- Free sign-up with only a username and PIN, on Android and in any browser.
- Public channels, communities and status for businesses and creators.
- Business tools on the way: shops, business channels and Mini Apps.
Which should you choose?
For the highest level of proven security today, Signal is the benchmark. For a free, number-free messenger that also has channels and communities, choose MyGalaxy. See how MyGalaxy protects your messages.
Sources
Facts about other apps were checked on 1 November 2026. Apps change, so please check their own pages too.
- EFF Surveillance Self-Defense, reviewed 15 Jun 2026: Signal needs a working phone number
- Privacy Guides, 16 Sep 2026: Signal tests sign-up without a phone number (Android beta)
- Gizmodo: Signal Login is a one-time $2.99 purchase in the Android beta
Try MyGalaxy free
Free download, no ads, no phone number needed. Get it on Google Play or open it in your browser. The iPhone app is coming to the App Store; until then use MyGalaxy in Safari.