DeltaChat for Mac

What it is and how it works

DeltaChat is a messaging client that uses standard email infrastructure to deliver chat-style conversations. Instead of relying on a proprietary server, it routes messages through your existing email account so chats appear alongside regular mail. The app is available for macOS and is distributed at no cost.

Primary capabilities

• Lets you attach and exchange multimedia (images, videos, documents) within conversations
• Enables multi-person group threads for collaborative discussions
• Provides a near-instant, chat-like experience while operating over email protocols
• Operates with your current email address — no new account creation required
• Compatible with virtually any SMTP/IMAP email service provider
• Offered free of charge for Mac users

Security and interoperability

Because DeltaChat sends and receives messages through email servers, it inherits many of the same privacy characteristics as your mail provider. Messages can be stored on your existing email servers, and the app works with common email setups so you can communicate without migrating to a new messaging ecosystem.

When to consider using it

DeltaChat is a good fit if you want the convenience and immediacy of instant messaging but prefer to keep conversations tied to email accounts for archival, control, or provider-agnostic reasons. It’s especially useful for users who value compatibility with diverse email services and straightforward setup.

Quick alternatives and notes

• Signal — secure, focused on privacy (free)
• Standard email clients (e.g., Apple Mail, Thunderbird) — retain traditional mail workflow
• Matrix-based apps (for decentralized chat) — advanced federation features
• Other cross-platform messengers that offer multimedia and group chats (many provide free tiers)