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HexChat vs Microsoft Store

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

HexChat icon
HexChat
Microsoft Store icon
Microsoft Store

HexChat vs Microsoft Store: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

HexChat: HexChat is an open source, free IRC client for Windows, Linux, and macOS. It supports multiple servers and channels, theming, plugins, and features useful for IRC chat, including notifications, auto-reconnecting, and text styling.

Microsoft Store: The Microsoft Store is an app store for Microsoft Windows devices. It allows users to browse, search for, download, and install applications developed for the Windows platform.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature HexChat Microsoft Store
Sugggest Score — —
Category Social & Communications Online Services
Pricing Open Source —

Product Overview

HexChat
HexChat

Description: HexChat is an open source, free IRC client for Windows, Linux, and macOS. It supports multiple servers and channels, theming, plugins, and features useful for IRC chat, including notifications, auto-reconnecting, and text styling.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Microsoft Store
Microsoft Store

Description: The Microsoft Store is an app store for Microsoft Windows devices. It allows users to browse, search for, download, and install applications developed for the Windows platform.

Type: software

Key Features Comparison

HexChat
HexChat Features
  • Multi-platform support (Windows, Linux, macOS)
  • Supports multiple IRC networks and channels
  • Highly customizable with scripts and plugins
  • Encrypted communication via SSL/TLS
  • Auto-reconnect and auto-join channels
  • Notification support
  • Text formatting and styling
  • Logging and scrollback
  • Proxy support
  • IPv6 support
Microsoft Store
Microsoft Store Features
  • Browse and download apps
  • Manage app purchases and updates
  • Leave reviews and ratings for apps
  • Discover new apps through recommendations
  • Access Xbox games and entertainment

Pros & Cons Analysis

HexChat
HexChat
Pros
  • Free and open source
  • Very customizable and extensible
  • Stable and lightweight
  • Supports all major IRC features
  • Available for all major desktop platforms
  • Active development community
Cons
  • Steeper learning curve than some clients
  • Limited native mobile support
  • Less user-friendly than modern chat apps
  • Some platform versions more outdated than others
Microsoft Store
Microsoft Store
Pros
  • Large selection of apps
  • Easy to navigate interface
  • Automatic updates for installed apps
  • Integrated into Windows OS
  • Includes both free and paid apps
Cons
  • Limited selection compared to other app stores
  • Quality control issues with some apps
  • Only works on Windows devices
  • Requires Microsoft account for downloads

Pricing Comparison

HexChat
HexChat
  • Open Source
Microsoft Store
Microsoft Store
  • Not listed

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vs HexChat vs Microsoft Store

Learn More About Each Product

HexChat
HexChat
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
Microsoft Store
Microsoft Store
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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