Skip to content

ICQ vs The Public Community

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

ICQ icon
ICQ
The Public Community icon
The Public Community

ICQ vs The Public Community: 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.

The Public Community: The Public Community is an open source alternative to Slack and Microsoft Teams. It is a team communication and collaboration platform focused on privacy and security, allowing teams to have conversations, share files, and collaborate on projects.

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 The Public Community
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

The Public Community
The Public Community

Description: The Public Community is an open source alternative to Slack and Microsoft Teams. It is a team communication and collaboration platform focused on privacy and security, allowing teams to have conversations, share files, and collaborate on projects.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Key Features Comparison

ICQ
ICQ Features
  • Instant messaging
  • Voice and video calls
  • Group chats
  • File transfers
  • Offline messaging
The Public Community
The Public Community Features
  • Open source code
  • Encrypted messaging
  • File sharing
  • Searchable message history
  • Polls and surveys
  • Audio/video calls
  • Screen sharing
  • Third-party app integrations
  • Custom theming
  • Access controls and permissions
  • Guest accounts
  • Mobile apps
  • Bots and automation

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
The Public Community
The Public Community

Pros

  • Free and open source
  • Strong encryption and privacy
  • Active development community
  • Self-hostable
  • Customizable and extensible
  • Open API for integrations
  • Lightweight and fast
  • Available on multiple platforms

Cons

  • Limited native integrations
  • Less user-friendly than Slack
  • Smaller user community
  • Fewer support options
  • Video calling can be buggy
  • Mobile apps lack some features

Pricing Comparison

ICQ
ICQ
  • Not listed
The Public Community
The Public Community
  • Open Source

Related Comparisons

Learn More About Each Product

ICQ
ICQ
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
The Public Community
The Public Community
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

Ready to Make Your Decision?

Explore more software comparisons and find the perfect solution for your needs

ICQ Alternatives
The Public Community Alternatives
Browse More Software