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Top Rated Instant Messaging & Chat Software with Chat/Messaging in 2026

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All user reviews are verified by in-house moderators and provider data by our software research team.  Learn more

Last updated: April 2026

Chat/messaging supports real-time communication, enables file sharing, and enhances collaboration among team members. It facilitates quick and easy interaction, allows for group conversations, and helps maintain efficient workflow across different locations. Our reviewers in instant messaging & chat software rated this feature as highly important.

10 Best Instant Messaging & Chat Software with Chat/Messaging

Product
User rating
Starting price
Microsoft Viva Engage logo
4.2
(819)
8
per user/per month
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Webex Suite logo
4.4
(7.3K)
25
per user/per month
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Google Workspace logo
4.7
(17.4K)
7
per user/per month
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Microsoft Teams logo
4.5
(10.9K)
4
per user/per month
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Telegram logo
4.7
(6.4K)
Empty state illustration for "No pricing info"

No pricing info

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Basecamp logo
4.4
(14.4K)
15
per user/per month
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GoTo Meeting logo
4.5
(11.5K)
14
per user/per month
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Slack logo
4.7
(24K)
8.75
per user/per month
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Google Meet logo
4.5
(12K)
6
per user/per month
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Weave logo
4.3
(666)
Empty state illustration for "No pricing info"

No pricing info

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See other top Instant Messaging & Chat products with chat/messaging

How we picked the 10 top rated products

We chose the high-performing solutions on this list based on verified user ratings on our site. Depending on available data, qualifying products either had to be among the most user-reviewed or the most searched-for products in the Instant Messaging & Chat software category. They also needed to have sufficient reviews about chat/messaging, have a minimum user rating of 3 out of 5 for that feature, and show evidence of U.S. market presence. We then added a distinction for up to three products based on our proprietary ratings and reviews: Highest rated, Highly rated for chat/messaging, and Highly rated for free version. Sponsorship or client status has no influence on the selection of these products, but it may impact the order in which products appear.

Details for the 10 best products

Microsoft Viva Engage logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(33)
3-4(418)
5(368)
Key Features
Real-Time Chat4.4
Real-Time Notifications

User insights about the chat/messaging feature

Users find Microsoft Viva Engage's chat/messaging helpful for staying updated and engaging with colleagues. They appreciate the ability to send messages and kudos easily. However, some reviewers feel it is redundant if they already use MS Teams and mention that email can sometimes be simpler.
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“Chat / messaging allows responses to articles, questions, and for sale ads directly to the appropriate individuals. ”
KS

Karen S.

Technical Professional IV

“Easy to send messages / kudos to team mates. Removes the feeling of remote siloed working.”
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Jack H.

Comms and digital

Starting price
8per user /
per month
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Pros and Cons based on 819 verified reviews
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Global colleague communication

Efficient file sharing

Centralized news sharing

Enhanced employee engagement

Overwhelming notifications

Disorganized post management

Outdated user interface

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Webex Suite logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(132)
3-4(3,248)
5(4,015)
Key Features
Real-Time Chat4.5
Real-Time Notifications4.6

User insights about the chat/messaging feature

Reviewers indicate that Webex Suite's chat/messaging feature is simple and effective for quick communication during meetings. They appreciate the ability to chat without disrupting presentations and the option to send messages to individuals or groups. Users find it secure and easy to use, though some feel it lacks advanced features compared to other platforms.

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“Chat/Messaging has been fluid with Webex providing users to message without disturbing the whole session. It has been set aside on the right and can be hidden from the app interface to avoid any distractions. Important messages can give alert to the admin if important and critical messages are to be read.”
SA

Shamshad A.

Delivery Driver

“This is useful as 2 participants can chat while viewing the main speaker/ presenter. Also allows for questions without disrupting the presentation.”
MG

Mark G.

RN

Starting price
25per user /
per month
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Pros and Cons based on 7,395 verified reviews

Efficient remote collaboration

Robust communication conferencing

Enhanced team collaboration

Interactive webinars

Effective online training

Connectivity issues

Browser compatibility problems

Complicated issue management

Navigation and screen issues

User experience challenges

See pros and cons details
Google Workspace logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(165)
3-4(4,154)
5(13,152)
Key Features
Real-Time Chat4.6
Real-Time Notifications4.5

User insights about the chat/messaging feature

Users appreciate Google Workspace's chat/messaging for its ease of use and integration with other Google tools. They find it helpful for quick communication and collaboration on documents. However, some reviewers feel it lacks the advanced features of other messaging platforms and mention occasional distractions.
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“We chat all the time at work and having the ability to created spaces and groups is great. The new addition of custom Emojis was fantastic and a feature I missed from an old company that used Slack. I think for the price, you can't beat Google's chat functionality that's included with Workspace.”
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Scott N.

Special Projects Manager

“I like using that when needing to message everyone about a spreadsheet or documents that I've uploaded. I don't have to exit and go to my emails. ”
KM

Kaitlyn M.

Billing Specialist

Starting price
7per user /
per month
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Pros and Cons based on 17,471 verified reviews
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Effective remote teamwork

Enhanced workflow efficiency

Accessible cloud storage

Seamless document sharing

Seamless app integration

Dependence on internet

Inconsistent customer support

High costs and limitations

Complex account management

Challenging file management

See pros and cons details
Microsoft Teams logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(199)
3-4(4,372)
5(6,360)
Key Features
Real-Time Chat4.7
Real-Time Notifications4.6

User insights about the chat/messaging feature

Reviewers highlight Microsoft Teams' chat/messaging for its real-time communication and integration with other tools. They appreciate the ability to share files, use emojis and gifs, and pin important messages. Users find it essential for staying connected with remote teams, though some mention occasional issues with document sharing and chat search functionality.
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“We as messaging members of various teams all day and this platform allows us to easily do so with members across the entire national organization with ease. ”
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Benjamin S.

Manager Network Performance Analysis

“This is a primary feature of Teams because I used this ever day at work to talk to others in real time and also leave them messages. This improves my productivity by a significant amount.”
DM

Dhaval M.

Associate Electrical Engineer

Starting price
4per user /
per month
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Pros and Cons based on 10,931 verified reviews
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Remote work facilitation

Effective colleague communication

Enhanced team collaboration

Unified communication platform

Seamless office integration

Resource-intensive performance

Inconsistent notifications

Inefficient search functionality

Complex file management

Call management limitations

See pros and cons details
Telegram logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(37)
3-4(1,798)
5(4,571)
Key Features
Real-Time Chat4.7
Real-Time Notifications

User insights about the chat/messaging feature

Users find Telegram's chat/messaging feature fast, secure, and user-friendly. They appreciate the end-to-end encryption, ability to send large files, and the smooth, real-time communication. Reviewers highlight the customizable chat interface, stickers, and emojis, as well as the ability to schedule messages and use chat bots. Some users note the annoyance of receiving messages from unknown contacts.
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“The fact that I can customize my chat page and have all other amazing features with up-to-date stickers and emoji with fast on time delivery of chat and getting immediate response without hassle is topnotch ”
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Akanmu O.

Project supervisor

“Chat/messaging has a significant impact on the way people use Telegram. It has enabled users to communicate with each other quickly and easily, without the need to be in the same physical location. It has also allowed users to share images and videos, as well as create group chats where multiple people can communicate at once. This has made Telegram a popular platform for both personal and business communication, as it allows for a more efficient way to stay in touch with friends, family, and colleagues. ”
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Osmond E.

Data Analyst

Starting price
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No pricing info

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Pros and Cons based on 6,406 verified reviews
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Effective team communication

Efficient file sharing

Reliable communication

High security messaging

Cross-device compatibility

Annoying notifications

Poor contact management

Lack of competitive advantage

User account issues

Messaging system flaws

See pros and cons details
Basecamp logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(319)
3-4(6,845)
5(7,242)
Key Features
Real-Time Chat4.4
Real-Time Notifications4.6

User insights about the chat/messaging feature

Reviewers appreciate Basecamp's chat/messaging, known as Ping, for its simplicity and effectiveness in team communication. They find it useful for keeping project-related conversations organized and accessible. However, some users feel it lacks the advanced features of other platforms and mention difficulties in tracking message threads.
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“It is imperative that we are able to communicate through this platform to keep each other up-to-date on projects. With multiple projects, this feature helps keep us organized by keeping chats and messages within each project.”
AS

Ashley S.

HR & Training Specialist

“The best part about Chat/Messaging in Basecamp is that everyone in the group can view the communications and respond accordingly. ”
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Michelle N.

Database Coordinator

Starting price
15per user /
per month
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Pros and Cons based on 14,406 verified reviews
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Efficient file sharing

Enhanced team communication

Streamlined team collaboration

Effective project organization

Seamless client management

Frequent technical issues

Overwhelming notifications

Inefficient search functionality

Limited layout customization

Subpar user experience

See pros and cons details
GoTo Meeting logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(166)
3-4(4,838)
5(6,521)
Key Features
Real-Time Chat4.5
Real-Time Notifications

User insights about the chat/messaging feature

Reviewers find GoTo Meeting's chat/messaging feature useful for sharing information during meetings without interrupting the speaker. They appreciate the ability to send messages to individuals or the entire group and find it easy to use. Some users mention they do not use the feature frequently but acknowledge its importance.

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“On go to meeting, chat can be one -on -one or with the whole team anytime.. User can easily invite external colleagues to chat and collaborate with a simple email invitation ”
TA

Tosin A.

Medical assistant

“Nice to have a good chat function on the conference page so participants dont need to use their microphones every time”
AK

Ali K.

Freelancer

Starting price
14per user /
per month
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Pros and Cons based on 11,525 verified reviews

Seamless remote connectivity

Enhanced team collaboration

Effective webinar hosting

Efficient collaborative sharing

Positive GoToMeeting experience

Frequent connection lag

Persistent audio issues

Cumbersome download process

Inferior to competitors

Unstable connection

See pros and cons details
Slack logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(175)
3-4(6,598)
5(17,263)
Key Features
Real-Time Chat4.8
Real-Time Notifications4.7

User insights about the chat/messaging feature

Reviewers appreciate Slack's chat/messaging capabilities for their immediacy and ease of use, making it ideal for remote teams. They highlight the ability to organize conversations into channels, use emojis and gifs, and share files seamlessly. Users report that notifications are helpful and non-intrusive, and the platform supports both individual and group chats effectively. However, some mention occasional message lagging and lost chats.
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“We can instantly chat with everyone within our workspace. We can send a message make a quick video call or simply use the huddle feature to connect with coworkers. This is extremely helpful when we need an update or opinion on certain tasks. This feature helps save time to a great extent ”
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Yashika A.

Analyst

“Chats can be kept neat and organized with the "thread" function. So it is easier for someone who visits the chat later not to miss out on any crucial messages. Also, the massages in chats can be pinned. This helps to highlight and draw attention to important messages on the chat. There is a wide range of fun stickers and emojis that are more expressive. We are having so much fun chatting on slack than on any other platform”
SW

Sithija W.

Online tutor

Starting price
8.75per user /
per month
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Pros and Cons based on 24,036 verified reviews
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Effective remote communication

Efficient colleague communication

Enhanced team collaboration

Streamlined project management

Extensive integration options

High resource consumption

Inconsistent notifications

Confusing thread management

Slack's pricing drawbacks

Messaging limitations

See pros and cons details
Google Meet logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(165)
3-4(4,649)
5(7,261)
Key Features
Real-Time Chat4.6
Real-Time Notifications

User insights about the chat/messaging feature

Users report that Google Meet's chat/messaging feature is helpful for real-time communication during meetings, especially when audio issues arise. They appreciate the ability to share links and files and the chronological update of messages. However, some find it challenging to track messages in large meetings and miss the option for private chats.
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“I rarely use the chat or messaging feature of Google Meet. When there are a lot of participants and are simultaneously discussing in the chat box, it is hard to track the messages since the chat box is flooded already. You can't also individual chat someone. All messages are seen by everyone in the meeting. ”
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Azuntha M.

Corporate QA Specialist

“This is super effective, especially if someone is unable to hear, the chat option comes in handy to ask them if they can hear and also able to share links”
LG

Latoya G.

Customer support agent

Starting price
6per user /
per month
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Pros and Cons based on 12,075 verified reviews
Verified reviewer profile picture

Efficient colleague communication

Enhanced team collaboration

Seamless calendar integration

Reliable communication platform

Effective online learning tool

Frequent connection lag

Inconsistent audio-video quality

Basic messaging features

Limited file sharing capabilities

Poor video and audio quality

See pros and cons details
Weave logo
Reviews Sentiment
 
 
 
1-2(54)
3-4(199)
5(413)
Key Features
Real-Time Chat4.7
Real-Time Notifications4.5

User insights about the chat/messaging feature

Reviewers appreciate Weave's chat/messaging for its real-time communication with patients and team members. They find it convenient for sending quick messages and receiving fast responses. However, some users report issues with message order, system bugs, and alerts not working consistently. Integration with other software like Avimark is also noted.

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“We use this feature with our patients all the time and is critical to our business as we are a small business and not always available to answer our phones, so the chat messaging feature is ideal and has been a great way for us to interact with our patients and potential patients.”
MH

Michelle H.

Office Manager

“The chat and instant text feature with our patients is AN ABSOLULTE MUST now with our office. Our patients love the ability to speak/text with our staff in a quick manner. ”
LT

Laura T.

DENTAL OFFICE MANAGER

Starting price
Empty state illustration for "No pricing info"

No pricing info

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Pros and Cons based on 666 verified reviews

Effective practice management

Efficient patient communication

Enhanced client communication

Automated appointment reminders

Unified communication platform

Frequent software glitches

Slow technical support

Inadequate customer support

Account management challenges

High fees and price increases

See pros and cons details

Other Top Rated Instant Messaging & Chat Software with Chat/Messaging in 2026

Slack logo
Category Leaders

A single place for team communication and workflows

learn more
Slack is a single workspace that connects users with the people and tools they work with everyday, no matter where they are or what they do

Read more about Slack

Users also considered
Google Workspace logo
Category Leaders

Collaboration application suite for teams

learn more
Google Workspace is a suite of applications from Google which offers a number of tools to communicate and collaborate with colleagues, store files, and manage data from all devices.

Read more about Google Workspace

Users also considered
Asana logo

Project tracking and workflow management platform

learn more
Asana is a chat and collaboration tool where you can connect all your work in one place and bring teams together, anywhere. From lists to boards, to calendars and gantt charts, organize work your way. Join millions of teams across 190 countries who use Asana to get more done.

Read more about Asana

Users also considered
Google Meet logo

Messaging, voice, and video calls for team communication

learn more
Google Meet is a video conferencing platform for teams to communicate via messaging, voice, and video. Features include high-definition video and audio conferencing for up to 100 participants, multi-device chat sync, stored chat history, real-time captions, meeting recording function, and more.

Read more about Google Meet

Users also considered
GoTo Meeting logo

Online meeting software with HD video conferencing

learn more
GoToMeeting is an IM & chat tool that allows users to host an online meeting with high-definition video conferencing from their Mac, PC, iPad, iPhone or Android device, with up to 250 participants. Users can meet, screen share and chat via internet browser, mobile or desktop application.

Read more about GoTo Meeting

Users also considered
Microsoft Teams logo

Chat-based workspace in Office 365

learn more
Microsoft Teams is a chat-based workspace in Microsoft 365 which lets users collaborate on documents, make voice & video conference calls, view chat logs, and more. Teams has replaced Skype for Business as Microsoft's online meeting solution.

Read more about Microsoft Teams

Users also considered
Basecamp logo

Flexible project management and team communication tool

learn more
Basecamp is a comprehensive project management software that helps teams stay organized and on track. Trusted by millions, Basecamp puts everything needed to get work done in one place, providing a structured way to manage projects, collaborate with clients, and communicate company-wide

Read more about Basecamp

Users also considered
Telegram logo
Category Leaders

Cloud-based mobile and desktop messaging app for all devices

learn more
Telegram Messenger is a cloud-based mobile and desktop messaging platform supported by native apps on most popular operating systems and devices, allowing users or user groups to connect and conduct voice calls, send messages, multimedia and files of all types across an end-to-end encrypted service

Read more about Telegram

Users also considered
Connecteam logo
Category Leaders

Enhance employee management with the only all-in-one app

learn more
Connecteam is the collaboration, engagement and communication app that moves work forward and keeps your team connected in the tap of a button.

Read more about Connecteam

Users also considered
monday.com logo

Project management software

learn more
monday.com is a cloud-based Work OS, where teams create workflow apps in minutes to run their processes, projects, and everyday work. Teams shape workflows and projects, code-free, with a platform that adapts to shifting needs, liberates teams from manual grunt work, and connects teams in a collaborative work space.

Read more about monday.com

Users also considered
Webex Suite logo

One app for everything. And everyone.

learn more
Webex brings together Calling, Meeting and Messaging modes of collaboration into a seamless, engaging, inclusive and intelligent experience.

Read more about Webex Suite

Users also considered
ScreenConnect logo
Category Leaders

Remote meeting platform for resolving customers' queries

learn more
ScreenConnect is a help desk solution that allows businesses to detect and resolve customer queries through remote monitoring capabilities. Agents can prevent potential cyberthreats & protect data via features such as AES-256 encryption and two-factor authentication.

Read more about ScreenConnect

Users also considered
Miro logo

Miro is a visual workspace for innovation

learn more
Miro is #1 collaborative whiteboard platform, trusted by over 13M users worldwide. Easily collaborate, ideate and centralize communication. Get feedback, reviews, and approvals with multiple communication options using video, chat, commenting and many other collaborative features and integrations!

Read more about Miro

Users also considered
Zoho Desk logo

Customer service software for businesses of all sizes

learn more
Zoho Desk is a web and mobile-based customer service software that enables businesses of all sizes and types to deliver customer support, empower agents, and maintain operations.

Read more about Zoho Desk

Users also considered
Homebase logo

All-in-one platform to manage hourly team

learn more
All-in-one team management with scheduling, time tracking, time clock, payroll, onboarding, HR, and communication tools for small businesses.

Read more about Homebase

Users also considered
Zoho Meeting logo
Category Leaders

Web conferencing tool to host online meetings and webinars.

learn more
Use Zoho Meeting's built-in instant messenger tool to send instant chat messages to meeting participants during web conferences

Read more about Zoho Meeting

Users also considered
Workplace from Meta logo

A simple and secure way to connect your organization.

learn more
Workplace from Facebook is a secure enterprise social networking platform that allows co-workers to connect immediately via Work Chat instant messaging

Read more about Workplace from Meta

Users also considered
Discord logo

Online platform for audio, text, and video communication

learn more
Discord is a complete communication tool that makes it possible to exchange text and audio messages, and individual or group video calls. This interaction takes place on public or private servers, which are only accessible to users who have received an invitation.

Read more about Discord

Users also considered
Avaza logo
Category Leaders

All-in-one, client-focused project management for teams.

learn more
Avaza is a business management solution which includes features for project management, resource scheduling, online timesheets, expense management, online invoicing, recurring invoicing, quotes and invoices, and more. Avaza also integrates with third party platforms to streamline workflows.

Read more about Avaza

Users also considered
Bitrix24 logo

All in one business management workspace

learn more
Find your colleagues quickly in address book. See if they are available, busy or absent with the help of online indicator. Use group chat. View chat history.

Read more about Bitrix24

Users also considered
Weave logo

Customer communication and appointment scheduling solution

learn more
Weave is the all-in-one customer communications and engagement platform for small and midsize business. From the first phone call to the final invoice and every touchpoint in between, Weave connects the entire customer journey.

Read more about Weave

Users also considered
Microsoft Viva Engage logo

Enterprise Social Network (ESN) to connect and communicate

learn more
Microsoft Viva Engage is a private enterprise social networking solution that enables employees to collaborate securely across time and distance. Microsoft Viva Engage provides a single, secure platform on which companies can share information, resources and business applications

Read more about Microsoft Viva Engage

Users also considered
3CX logo

Web & mobile-based (Android, iOS) communications system.

learn more
With 3CX’s integrated live chat feature your website and Facebook page visitors are able to start a chat or call in real-time. Your agents can answer them immediately from their 3CX web client or app. If chat is not enough, they can switch to a call or video in a single click.

Read more about 3CX

Users also considered
Flock logo

Communication and collaboration platform for teams

learn more
Flock is a collaborative messaging app for teams which enables users to discuss projects and find and share information and ideas effectively and efficiently

Read more about Flock

Users also considered
Front logo

AI-enabled customer service platform for collaboration

learn more
Front is a customer operations platform that enables support, sales, and account management teams to deliver exceptional service at scale. Front streamlines customer comms by combining the efficiency of a help desk and the familiarity of email, with automated workflows and real-time collaboration.

Read more about Front

Users also considered

Key features for Instant Messaging & Chat software

Based on GetApp's analysis of verified user reviews collected between July 2021 and August 2024.

  • Real-Time Chat: Reviewers highlight quick message delivery, group chat creation, instant notifications, and security features as significant aspects of real-time chat. 93% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.
  • Real-Time Notifications: Users value customizable and immediate alerts for messages and updates, improving responsiveness and keeping them informed. 91% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.
  • Mobile Access: Reviewers appreciate staying connected on the go, accessing full functionality for meetings, messages, and documents from mobile devices. 91% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.
  • Document Storage: Users highlight secure, easy access and sharing of files, seamless integration with other tools, and effective organization as key benefits. 90% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.
  • Two-Way Audio & Video: Reviewers note high-quality video and audio for clear communication, essential for meetings, collaboration, and personal interactions. 88% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.
  • Screen Sharing: Users value the ability to share screens for presentations, collaboration, and real-time problem-solving, enhancing understanding and productivity. 86% of reviewers rated this feature as important or highly important.