FM WhatsApp vs. Signal: Which one is best?

Discover the key differences between FM WhatsApp and Signal in this concise comparison of privacy, features, and usability to find the best secure messaging app for you.

Introduction

Messaging apps have evolved from basic text platforms to feature-rich tools for communication. FM WhatsApp, a modified version of WhatsApp, offers extensive customization, while Signal prioritizes top-tier privacy. This guide compares their strengths to help you choose the right app.

Also check FM WhatsApp vs Telegram.

What Is FM WhatsApp?

FM WhatsApp, developed by third-party creators like Fouad Mokdad, is a modded WhatsApp version with enhanced features. It offers custom themes, privacy controls (e.g., hiding online status), and larger file-sharing limits (up to 1GB). Downloaded via APK, it’s not on the Google Play Store, appealing to users seeking flexibility and control.

What Is Signal?

Signal, created by the non-profit Signal Foundation, is a privacy-first app using the open-source Signal Protocol for end-to-end encryption. Backed by experts and endorsed by figures like Edward Snowden, it’s ad-free, doesn’t track data, and supports secure messaging, calls, and disappearing messages. It’s ideal for privacy-conscious users.

Key Comparisons

Privacy and Security

• FM WhatsApp: Builds on WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption with added privacy options (e.g., hide blue ticks, last seen). As an unofficial mod, its code isn’t verified, raising concerns about malware or data risks.
• Signal: Uses the gold-standard Signal Protocol for all communications, with open-source code and minimal data collection. Features like sealed sender enhance anonymity.
• Winner: Signal, for its transparent, expert-backed security.

Customization

• FM WhatsApp: Offers extensive customization—custom themes, fonts, icons, chat bubbles, and individual chat wallpapers for a personalized experience.
• Signal: Minimalist, with only light/dark modes and basic chat backgrounds, prioritizing function over style.
• Winner: FM WhatsApp, for unmatched personalization.

User Interface

• FM WhatsApp: Familiar WhatsApp layout with added features, but its many settings can feel complex or cluttered for new users.
• Signal: Clean, simple, and intuitive, designed for quick, distraction-free use with no ads.
• Winner: Signal, for its streamlined and user-friendly design.

Group Chats

• FM WhatsApp: Supports groups up to 1,024 members with privacy tweaks (e.g., hide typing status) and broadcast options.
• Signal: Offers secure, encrypted group chats with disappearing messages but lacks advanced admin tools or large group support.
• Winner: FM WhatsApp, for more group management features.

File Sharing

• FM WhatsApp: Allows 1GB file transfers, 100+ images at once, and uncompressed media, ideal for creatives.
• Signal: Limits file sizes (around 100MB) and compresses media for efficiency, prioritizing privacy over flexibility.
• Winner: FM WhatsApp, for larger file limits and better media quality.

App Reliability

• FM WhatsApp: Requires manual APK updates from third-party sources, risking outdated versions or malware. It may also face WhatsApp bans.
• Signal: Available on official stores with automatic updates and reliable support, ensuring consistent performance.
• Winner: Signal, for official support and seamless updates.

Comparison Table

Pros and Cons

FM WhatsApp

Pros:

• Extensive customization (themes, fonts, icons)
• Privacy controls (hide last seen, blue ticks)
• Lock individual chats
• Large file sharing (1GB) and high-quality media
• Anti-delete messages and dual account support

Cons:

• Unofficial, not on Play Store
• Risk of malware or bans
• No verified encryption protocol
• Manual updates, less reliable
• No official support

Signal

Pros:

• Top-tier encryption (Signal Protocol)
• Open-source and ad-free
• Automatic updates via official stores
• Disappearing messages and sealed sender
• Trusted by privacy experts

Cons:

• Limited customization
• Smaller file-sharing limits (100MB)
• Smaller user base
• Basic features, no advanced controls

Key Takeaways

• Choose FM WhatsApp for rich customization, larger file sharing, and advanced group features, but beware of security and reliability risks.
• Choose Signal for unmatched privacy, open-source transparency, and secure communication, ideal for sensitive conversations.
• FM WhatsApp is feature-heavy but unofficial; Signal is secure but minimalistic.
• Your choice depends on whether you value style and flexibility or privacy and trust.

Share your thoughts in the comments or explore our other messaging app comparisons! Have a comparison idea? Email us your suggestions.

FAQs

Reference

• Author: FMWHATA
• Publisher: Abdullah
• Publish Date: 8/26/2025