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ICQ vs Xabber

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

ICQ icon
ICQ
Xabber icon
Xabber

ICQ vs Xabber: The Verdict

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature ICQ Xabber
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

Xabber
Xabber

Description: Xabber is an open-source chat client for Windows, Linux, MacOS, Android, and iOS that allows users to connect to multiple chat networks and services like Google Talk, Facebook, Jabber/XMPP, MSN, Yahoo and more from one application.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Key Features Comparison

ICQ
ICQ Features
  • Instant messaging
  • Voice and video calls
  • Group chats
  • File transfers
  • Offline messaging
Xabber
Xabber Features
  • Multi-protocol support (XMPP/Jabber, Google Talk, Facebook, MSN, Yahoo etc)
  • Group chat
  • Push notifications
  • File transfers
  • Encryption
  • Customizable interface

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
Xabber
Xabber
Pros
  • Open source and free
  • Available on multiple platforms
  • Supports many chat protocols
  • Good security features
  • Active development and updates
Cons
  • Some features only in paid version
  • Setup can be complex for less tech-savvy users
  • Some bugs and issues reported
  • Lacks some features of proprietary apps

Pricing Comparison

ICQ
ICQ
  • Not listed
Xabber
Xabber
  • Open Source

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Learn More About Each Product

ICQ
ICQ
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
Xabber
Xabber
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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