The 5 Best Telegram Client Apps for Android

Telegram has become a staple in the messaging world for its speed, privacy, and wide array of features. But for Android users looking to stretch Telegram’s capabilities even further, third-party clients offer fresh possibilities. Built using Telegram’s open API, these alternative apps give users enhanced customization, additional tools, and in some cases, an entirely different experience from the standard app.

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1. Nicegram – The Cleanest Upgrade to Telegram

Ask around among Telegram power users and one name pops up quickly: Nicegram. It’s not just a skin-deep redesign; Nicegram adds thoughtful features that make everyday messaging smoother and more organized. With support for up to seven accounts and smart chat filters that automatically clean up cluttered inboxes, it’s designed for people who live on the app.

Nicegram gives users more control over their Telegram environment. For instance, you can hide or group service messages, bots, or archived chats so they don’t flood your main screen. There are also toggles that allow or block bot interactions—great for those who frequent bot-heavy communities but don’t always want the noise. And unlike some flashy alternatives, Nicegram sticks close to Telegram’s core interface, making the learning curve minimal.

2. Nekogram – Built for Customization Nerds

If your ideal app includes settings within settings, Nekogram might be your best match. This Android-only Telegram client is all about giving you control—from layout tweaks to extended privacy settings. You can customize fonts, themes, and even how media displays in chats.

What sets Nekogram apart is its attention to small usability details. The app includes better inline media viewing, lets you bypass some regional restrictions with proxy options, and fine-tunes how notifications behave. It’s also open-source, which gives more transparency to those cautious about third-party apps.

3. Plus Messenger – For Those Who Like Structure

Some users treat Telegram like a digital workspace, juggling chats, channels, bots, and groups all day. Plus Messenger is perfect for this crowd. It introduces advanced filtering features and categorization that help you keep everything tidy. You can separate chats by type, create custom folders, and apply different notification settings per category.

Unlike the default Telegram client, Plus Messenger also allows you to hide your phone number from synced contacts while keeping your account linked. Its extensive theme support gives you the freedom to personalize the app without needing advanced design skills. While it may look a bit dated in places, it compensates with deep functionality.

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4. iMe Messenger – A Crypto-Aware Telegram Client

iMe Messenger is the wild card of this list. It merges Telegram’s core with tools geared toward the blockchain crowd. If you’re into cryptocurrency, DeFi apps, or want to manage a wallet inside your messenger, iMe has a lot to offer. That includes integrated crypto wallets, AI-powered tools, and task lists within chats.

Still, even if you’re not into crypto, iMe includes handy extras like voice-to-text conversion and automatic translation, which can be useful in multilingual group chats. It’s a bit more complex than other clients, but for users who want Telegram and productivity in one place, it’s a compelling option.

5. Telegram X – The Speed Demon

Telegram X started as an experimental project by Telegram itself, aimed at testing performance improvements and interface experiments. Built using TDLib, it offers smoother animations, faster transitions, and a lightweight feel. Although official updates have slowed, many users still find Telegram X to be one of the snappiest versions available.

The minimalist interface may appeal to users who want speed without frills. You’ll also find a few differences in chat bubble design and message handling that some prefer over the main app.

Conclusion

Telegram’s official client is powerful, but Android users have plenty of excellent alternatives to consider. Whether you want customization, crypto features, speed, or just a more organized chat experience, there’s a Telegram client tailored to your needs. Just make sure to stick with trusted apps like Nicegram, Nekogram, and others on this list—after all, privacy and stability should never be compromised for a few extra features.