Pidgin

You use a classic desktop chat client for supported networks and protocols, including XMPP.

Developer Pidgin

Version 2.14.14 · Open source · Windows · Linux

Looking for an alternative to Pidgin?Compare Gajim.Compare alternatives

Pidgin can combine multiple chat accounts in one window. The possibilities depend on the protocol and available plug-ins. The program is particularly relevant for networks that are still supported directly or through maintained plug-ins.

Old lists of supported services are not automatically up to date. Many commercial chat services have changed their protocol or access. Therefore, do not expect that you can simply add WhatsApp, Teams or any other modern service.

Which software suits you?

Compare Pidgin with alternatives

These clients are especially interesting if you want to use an existing chat network or multiple accounts. Therefore, first look at the supported protocols and required plug-ins. You can't just replace every message app with a general chat client.

Differences between Pidgin and Gajim
Software	What can it do?	Platform and licence
PidginYou are viewing this app	You use multiple supported chat protocols in one desktop client. For some networks or additional features you need plug-ins.	Windows, LinuxOpen source
GajimView this alternative	You use a comprehensive XMPP client with multi-account support and plug-ins. You need a compatible XMPP account and server.	Windows, LinuxOpen source

Choose an alternative to explore its features, system requirements and download options.

Who is it for?

You use a supported chat protocol and want to manage multiple accounts in a traditional desktop client.

Getting started

Install via the official website and only add a demonstrable supported account type. Check any plugins separately.

Privacy

Security depends on protocol, server and any encryption plugins. A Pidgin chat window does not automatically mean end-to-end encryption.

Good to know

Protocol support changes through decisions by external services. End-to-end encryption is not standard for every account.

Please note

Check that the required plug-in is still maintained. Do not enter account details via an unreliable protocol extension.

Advantages

Multiple supported accounts Classic clear chat operation Expandable with plugins

Things to consider

Many modern services not supported directly Encryption is protocol-dependent Old plugins can be useless

Download Pidgin

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Official download page

Provider’s website · pidgin.im

Download Pidgin

Version history

2.14.14

You get Pidgin 2.14.14.

This edition maintains the 2.14 series. When updating, check mostly protocol plugins and TLS parts that your account connection uses.

Report a new version

Our verdict

Pidgin is especially useful when you know exactly what supported protocol you need. For example, for an existing XMPP environment, one traditional client can be clear for multiple accounts. The app is less suitable as a general promise to merge all modern chat services.

Before installation, check the current support of your network and any plug-in. Pay attention to encryption and maintenance. An old mention in a manual is not enough. If you use one modern commercial service in particular, the official client is often clearer. For supported open protocols, Pidgin can still be a functional choice.