Matrix (Element) vs Signal vs Session: Decentralized Messaging
Compare Matrix, Signal, and Session for decentralized messaging. Learn which protocol best supports privacy, federation, and user control.
Summary
Matrix (Element) offers true federation with self-hosted servers and interoperability. Session provides decentralization through blockchain-based routing without phone numbers. Signal is centralized but uses proven encryption. For federation and control, choose Matrix. For anonymity without phone numbers, choose Session. For proven security, Signal remains strong.
Understanding Decentralization
Centralized (Signal)
- Single organization controls servers
- All users on same infrastructure
- Easier to maintain and secure
- Single point of control
Federated (Matrix)
- Multiple independent servers
- Servers can communicate with each other
- Users can choose or host their own server
- True decentralization
Decentralized Routing (Session)
- No central servers
- Blockchain-based routing
- No user identifiers required
- Maximum decentralization
Detailed Comparison
Matrix (Element)
Type: Federated messaging protocol
Key Features: - True federation (servers communicate) - Self-hosting possible - End-to-end encryption (E2EE) - Rich features (voice, video, file sharing) - Open standard protocol - Bridges to other platforms
Architecture: - Homeservers store user data - Servers federate with each other - E2EE for private rooms - Open protocol, multiple clients
Pros: - True federation - Self-hosting option - Rich feature set - Open standard - Interoperability - No phone number required
Cons: - More complex setup - E2EE not default in all rooms - Requires server management for self-hosting - Less polished than Signal - Smaller user base
Signal
Type: Centralized messaging
Key Features: - Proven Signal Protocol - Default E2EE - Easy to use - Large user base - Regular security updates - Voice and video calls
Architecture: - Centralized servers - Phone number required - All users on Signal infrastructure - Controlled by Signal Foundation
Pros: - Proven, audited security - Ease of use - Large user base - Excellent encryption - Regular updates
Cons: - Centralized (single point of control) - Requires phone number - No self-hosting option - Less user control
Session
Type: Decentralized routing
Key Features: - No phone number required - Blockchain-based routing - Onion routing (like Tor) - Decentralized infrastructure - Anonymous messaging - Open source
Architecture: - No central servers - Messages routed through network - Blockchain for routing information - Onion routing for anonymity
Pros: - Maximum decentralization - No phone number - Anonymous by design - No central control - Blockchain-based routing
Cons: - Newer, less proven - Smaller user base - More complex - Blockchain dependency - Slower message delivery
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Matrix | Signal | Session |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federation | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | ❌ No |
| Self-Hosting | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | N/A |
| Phone Number | ❌ No | ✅ Required | ❌ No |
| E2EE Default | ⚠️ Optional | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Decentralization | ✅ Federated | ❌ Centralized | ✅ Full |
| User Base | ⚠️ Medium | ✅ Large | ⚠️ Small |
| Ease of Use | ⚠️ Moderate | ✅ Easy | ⚠️ Moderate |
Use Cases
Choose Matrix (Element) If:
- You want true federation
- You need self-hosting
- You want interoperability
- You prefer open standards
- You need rich features
Choose Signal If:
- You want proven security
- You need a large user base
- You prefer ease of use
- You’re okay with centralization
- You want battle-tested encryption
Choose Session If:
- You want maximum decentralization
- You don’t want phone numbers
- You need anonymity
- You prefer blockchain-based solutions
- You want no central control
Technical Deep Dive
Matrix Protocol
Matrix is an open standard for real-time communication: - Homeservers: Store user data and messages - Federation: Servers communicate with each other - E2EE: Optional but recommended for private rooms - Bridges: Connect to other platforms (IRC, Slack, etc.) - Clients: Multiple clients available (Element, FluffyChat, etc.)
Signal Protocol
Signal uses the proven Signal Protocol: - Centralized: All traffic through Signal servers - E2EE: Default for all conversations - Phone Numbers: Required for identification - Proven: Extensively audited and trusted
Session Protocol
Session uses a unique decentralized approach: - Onion Routing: Messages routed through network (like Tor) - Blockchain: Used for routing information - No Servers: Truly peer-to-peer architecture - Anonymous: No identifiers required
Security Considerations
Encryption
- Matrix: E2EE available (not always default)
- Signal: E2EE default, proven protocol
- Session: E2EE default, onion routing
Metadata
- Matrix: Depends on server (self-hosted = better)
- Signal: Minimal but phone numbers visible
- Session: Maximum anonymity, no identifiers
Audits
- Matrix: Protocol audited, implementations vary
- Signal: Extensively audited
- Session: Newer, less audited
Setup Guide
Matrix (Element)
- Choose a homeserver (or self-host)
- Download Element client
- Create account on chosen server
- Join or create rooms
- Enable E2EE for private rooms
Signal
- Download Signal app
- Register with phone number
- Verify phone number
- Add contacts
- Start messaging (E2EE automatic)
Session
- Download Session app
- No registration needed
- Generate anonymous ID
- Share ID securely
- Start messaging
Best Practices
For Matrix:
- Use E2EE rooms for private conversations
- Choose reputable homeservers
- Consider self-hosting for maximum control
- Verify room encryption
- Use bridges carefully
For Signal:
- Verify contact safety numbers
- Enable disappearing messages
- Use screen lock
- Keep app updated
- Be aware of metadata limitations
For Session:
- Share IDs securely
- Understand onion routing delays
- Keep app updated
- Verify contacts when possible
- Be patient with message delivery
Common Questions
Q: Is Matrix truly decentralized? A: Yes, Matrix is federated, meaning multiple independent servers can communicate. You can self-host your own server.
Q: Can I use Signal without centralization? A: No, Signal is centralized. All users connect through Signal’s servers, though messages are encrypted.
Q: Is Session more private than Signal? A: For anonymity and metadata resistance, yes. For encryption strength, both are excellent.
Q: Can I self-host Matrix? A: Yes, you can run your own Matrix homeserver, giving you full control over your data.
Q: Which is best for privacy? A: Depends on your needs: Matrix for control, Session for anonymity, Signal for proven security.
Conclusion
All three platforms—Matrix, Signal, and Session—offer strong privacy features but approach decentralization differently. Matrix provides true federation with self-hosting options. Session offers maximum decentralization with anonymity. Signal provides proven security with a large user base.
For users who want control and federation, Matrix (Element) is the best choice. For maximum anonymity without phone numbers, Session excels. For proven security with ease of use, Signal remains excellent.
The choice depends on your priorities: federation (Matrix), anonymity (Session), or proven security (Signal).