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ICQ vs Profanity

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

ICQ icon
ICQ
Profanity icon
Profanity

ICQ vs Profanity: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

ICQ: ICQ is an instant messaging client and software that was first released in 1996. It became popular in the late 1990s as one of the first multi-platform instant messaging clients. Key features of ICQ include one-on-one and group text chats, voice and video calls, offline messaging, and file transfers.

Profanity: Profanity is an open source instant messaging client that supports multiple chat protocols including XMPP/Jabber, IRC, Telegram, and Twitter. It provides a lightweight and customizable interface for chatting.

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 ICQ Profanity
Sugggest Score — —
Category Social & Communications Social & Communications
Pricing — Open Source

Product Overview

ICQ
ICQ

Description: ICQ is an instant messaging client and software that was first released in 1996. It became popular in the late 1990s as one of the first multi-platform instant messaging clients. Key features of ICQ include one-on-one and group text chats, voice and video calls, offline messaging, and file transfers.

Type: software

Profanity
Profanity

Description: Profanity is an open source instant messaging client that supports multiple chat protocols including XMPP/Jabber, IRC, Telegram, and Twitter. It provides a lightweight and customizable interface for chatting.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Key Features Comparison

ICQ
ICQ Features
  • Instant messaging
  • Voice and video calls
  • Group chats
  • File transfers
  • Offline messaging
Profanity
Profanity Features
  • XMPP/Jabber support
  • IRC support
  • Telegram support
  • Twitter support
  • Lightweight and customizable interface
  • Encryption support
  • Audio calls
  • File transfers

Pros & Cons Analysis

ICQ
ICQ
Pros
  • Cross-platform availability
  • Easy to use interface
  • Large user base
  • Free basic version available
Cons
  • Limited features in free version
  • Privacy concerns
  • Ads in free version
Profanity
Profanity
Pros
  • Open source
  • Supports multiple popular chat protocols
  • Lightweight and fast
  • Customizable and themeable interface
  • Available on multiple platforms
Cons
  • Limited features compared to some proprietary chat clients
  • Setup can be tricky for less technical users
  • Some protocols like Facebook Chat not supported
  • Audio/video calling support still limited

Pricing Comparison

ICQ
ICQ
  • Not listed
Profanity
Profanity
  • Open Source

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Learn More About Each Product

ICQ
ICQ
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
Profanity
Profanity
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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