Non-technical teams and beginner developers find pre-built in-app chat API and SDK easy to build fully functional messaging apps. So I tested 15+ tools for weeks to compile the best 10 In App Chat APIs and SDKs for different use cases.
In this article, we have explained their features, benefits, and suitability for various use cases along with a comparison.
Top In-app Chat APIs & SDKs: Table Comparison
The 10 best In-App Chat API & Messaging SDKs are MirrorFly, Stream, Apphitect, Cometchat, TalkJS, PubNub, Twilio, Agora, Cometchat & Zegocloud.
This quick comparison will assist you in making an informed decision in choosing the right enterprise instant messaging solution.
| Chat API | Best for | Standout Strengths | Pricing Structure |
|---|---|---|---|
| MirrorFly | B2B, SaaS, and enterprises that want self-hosted in-app chat APIs for their Android, iOS, and web apps | Real-time messaging, HD video meeting, SIP/VoIP calling, file sharing, chatbot support, custom prebuilt UI | One-time perpetual license |
| Stream | Developers and businesses that need to embed real-time messaging | Rich messaging features, reactions, threads, and moderation | Starts at $399/month for 10k MAU |
| Apphitect | SMBs and enterprises that need a custom chat API and SDK to build their communication platform with low latency | 1-on-1/group chat, voice calling, video conferencing, AI agent support, multi media sharing, end-to-end encryption | Custom quote based on business |
| TalkJS | Product teams and startups that need to add real-time in-app messaging | 1-on-1 and group messaging, email, SMS, and push alerts | Starts at $279/month for 10k MAU |
| Sendbird | Medium to large businesses that need to embed real-time communication | Private Messaging, Group Chats, Supergroups, Channels | Starts at $429/month for 10k MAU |
| PubNub | Developers and enterprises building scalable chat apps | Real-time data streaming, messaging, presence detection, and data persistence | Starts at $98/month for 1k MAU |
| Zegocloud | Startups that want to embed real-time messaging into their web or mobile apps | Private chat, multi-user group chats, message reactions, typing indicators | Custom pricing |
| Cometchat | Companies that want to add real-time text, voice, and video communication | Real-time chat, threads, user presence, smart replies, file sharing | Starts at $299/month for 10k MAU |
| Agora | Developers and businesses building apps that require real-time communication | Real-time voice and video calling, live streaming, chatroom management | Custom pricing is offered |
| Twilio | Businesses that need to embed custom and real-time messaging into web or mobile apps | Cross-channel messaging, threads, rich media support, typing Indicators & delivery receipts | Custom quote |
Let’s start from the basics.
What is In-app Chat API?
An In-app Chat API (Application Program Interface) is a tool that connects an app to a backend service and server infrastructure for enabling real-time messaging, instantly.
Writing codes manually to build a feature is an interesting task, but its time-consuming. This is the very reason even giants like Reddit, Paytm, Uber, Netflix, Swiggy, & Adobe have enabled messaging on their platforms using a Chat API. No wonder; Chat API & chat SDK saved a lot of time and resources while driving huge engagement on their apps.
If you are choosing this path and would like to find the right API for your platform, stick on. This guide will showcase the top 10 in-app chat APIs that can help your app drive unlimited engagement.
Chat API vs Chat SDK: What’s the Difference?
Chat API is a server-side interface that communicates with the messaging infrastructure to handle conversations, retrieve chat history, manage users, and more. Developers use it to build custom messaging functionality and integrate with their existing web or mobile app.
Chat SDK is a prebuilt library that simplifies the integration of chat functionality into an application. It handles message delivery, user authentication, real-time updates, and connection management. This avoids rebuilding the chat interface for any platform.
How to Choose the Best In-App Chat API for Your App
Now that you are clear on the advantages of choosing a chat API, we will look at how you can pick the right one. For this, you should be asking some questions.
1. Features and Customization: Does the chat solution support one-to-one and group chats, unlimited media sharing, and audio/video calls? Can you customize the features, security, and workflow based on your unique requirements? Can the chat UI be tailored to reflect your brand colour?
2. Platform Support: Does the chat API support all the platforms and frameworks your app needs, including Android, iOS, and web? Does it offer SDKs for frameworks like React Native, Flutter, Angular, and Vue.js? Does it ensure compatibility with browsers like Chrome, Safari, Firefox, and Edge?
3. Scalability and Performance: Can the chat API provider support millions of concurrent connections without compromising on speed? Does it offer high uptime, fast API response times, and low-latency messaging?
4. Security and Compliance: Does the chat solution provide end-to-end encryption, secure authentication, and role-based access controls to protect user data? Does it meet compliance requirements like HIPAA and GDPR? Can you configure security policies based on your business?
5. Price Comparison: Should you pay the provider on a monthly subscription basis, or one-time license available? Do hosting, customization, and maintenance add to the total cost of ownership as your business grows?
6. Flexible Deployment and Integration Support: Does the chat API support deployment options such as on-premises, private cloud, or hybrid hosting to meet your infrastructure requirements? Is a dedicated team available to support the integration? Is technical documentation provided on their official website?
We suggest you to evaluate these factors and ask these question before investing in a chat API provider in 2026.
Best In-app Chat APIs & Messaging SDKs in 2026
If you are choosing this path and would like to find the right chat API & SDK for your platform, stick around. We have explained the top 10 in-app chat API & SDK providers in detail.
First, we start with MirrorFly.
1. MirrorFly: Custom In-App Chat API & SDK Solution
MirrorFly is a self-hosted CPaaS that provides an in-app chat API & SDK to embed in Android, iOS, and web apps. The highlight is that MirrorFly supports customization of chat features, workflows, and security. It helps businesses retain control over conversation data and host on any server of choice.
Yes, that’s true, enterprises can host the chat server on-premises, in a private cloud or third-party data center, or in a hybrid environment. This in-app chat API includes capabilities such as messaging, video calling, SIP/VoIP calling, activity feeds, and live streams.
It isn’t limited. You can integrate up to 1000+ real-time messaging features into the instant messaging app seamlessly. What MirrorFly is most suitable is, for growing organizations, SMBs, and enterprises that may want to handle millions of concurrent conversations. Here’s more detail on the core features.
What are the key features of MirrorFly?
- Private/group chat
- HQ voice calling
- HD video meeting
- Unlimited file sharing
- Video recording
- SIP/VoIP calling
- Activity Feeds
- Live streaming
- AI Chatbot support
- End-to-end encryption
- Chat Rooms
- Chat Moderation
- Calendar Sync
- 100+ CRM & Tool Integrations
How much does the MirrorFly in-app chat API cost?
It actually comes with a one-time perpetual license cost offered to enterprise businesses. The pricing is custom quoted based on the requirements.
Does MirrorFly offer a free trial?
MirrorFly generally offers demos and proof-of-concept options, but a standard free trial is not provided.
How secure is MirrorFly Chat API?
- MirrorFly uses AES-256 encryption to secure all communication channels.
- Provides options to customize the security features as per business requirements.
- Compatible with region-specific compliance needs like GDPR, HIPAA, and OWASP.
- The chat moderator monitors conversations and maintains a safe communication space.
- The profanity filter helps automatically detect and filter offensive language.
2. Apphitect: White-label Instant Messaging API
Apphitect is an instant messaging API provider that helps developers build their own chat and messaging platform. This on-premises chat solution gives businesses full source code access to customize features and workflows. Without any restrictions, you can add the brand logo, colour, and elements to ensure consistency.
The in-app chat and messaging API allows businesses to integrate AI chat features tailored to the industry, creating personalized chat experiences. Also, businesses can host the messaging solution on their own data centers, dedicated servers, or private cloud. This ensures full control over the data and infrastructure.
What are the key features of Apphitect?
- Real-time messaging
- Voice and video calling
- Screensharing
- In-app Notifications
- Auto-meeting reminders
- Channel Management
- Third-party tool Integration
- Scheduled Messages
- File & Media Sharing
- Unlimited Search
How much does the Apphitect in-app chat API cost?
Apphitect’s pricing is typically custom and depends on the specific requirements of the business. Usually offers a one-time license for a lifetime.
Does Apphitect offer a free trial?
No, Apphitect does not offer a free trial currently, but a free demo is available.
How secure is Apphitect Chat API?
Apphitect provides custom security with encryption like AES & SSL, along with data protection policies like GDPR and HIPAA.
3. Stream: Chat messaging API provider
Stream’s real time chat SDK offers more feasible multi-platform native chat app development. With its advanced communication infrastructure developers can integrate advanced features in simple steps of integrations.
What are the key features of Getstream?
- Scalable chat and activity feeds.
- Rich messaging features, including reactions, threads, and moderation.
- SDKs for various platforms (iOS, Android, React, etc.).
- Moderation tools and profanity filtering.
- Supports live stream chat.
How much does the Getstream in-app chat API cost?
GetStream uses a tiered pricing model based on monthly active users (MAUs) and feature usage. They have various pricing packages, and you can find detailed information on their website.
Does Getstream offer a free trial?
Yes, GetStream offers a free trial to explore their features.
How secure is Getstream Chat API?
- Offers AES encryption at rest and TLS (SSL) encryption in transit.
- GDPR, HIPAA, and SOC 2 compliant2. SOC 2 compliance means that third-party auditors found it to have the highest security standards.
- Supports end-to-end encryption via TLS and various authentication methods.
4. TalkJS: Secure Real-time Chat API Provider
TalkJS adds user-to-user chat features inside your app. The design and features offered by TalkJS are said to be compatible with any architectural framework making app development more easy and fast.
What are the key features of TalkJS?
- Easy integration with web and mobile applications
- Pre-built chat API and developer SDKs
- Support for group chats, direct messaging, and notifications
- Customizable interface and feature set
- Optimized for customer support and marketplace chat solutions
How much does the TalkJS in-app chat API cost?
- Basic Plan: $279/month for 10,000 MAUs, additional MAUs at $0.04 each
- Growth Plan: Higher MAU allowance, higher price
- Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing, priority support
Does TalkJS offer a free trial?
Yes, TalkJS offers a free trial to explore their platform.
How secure is TalkJS Chat API?
- Encryption with HTTPS
- Data protection in transit and at rest
- User verification
- Regular audits of security policies and infrastructure
- Privacy-Focused Design
5. Sendbird: Scalable In-App Chat SDK
Founded in 2013, SendBird has emerged as one of the most trustworthy chat API providers in the market. Their chat features cover everything needed to build a healthy communication infrastructure. SendBird is one of the reliable providers, especially for startup businesses.
What are the key features of Sendbird?
- One-on-one messaging
- Group chats
- Open Channels
- Custom data transfers
- Rich media
- Spam flood protection
- Announcements
How much does the Sendbird in-app chat API cost?
Comes in 3 monthly packages:
- Developer: Free
- Starter 5K: $499
- Pro 5K: $599
Does Sendbird offer a free trial?
Yes, Sendbird offers a free trial to test their platform.
How secure is Sendbird Chat API?
- Compliance-minded and meets SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA/HITECH, and GDPR security standards.
- Offers features like spam flood protection, file encryption, and moderation tools.
- Sendbird server authenticates API requests using API tokens. It’s crucial not to expose these tokens on the client side.
6. PubNub: Feature-rich In-App Messaging Software
PubNub is an Infrastructure as a Service (IaaS) company well-known for providing APIs for business communications. This provider builds in app messaging SDKs that are compatible with mobile platforms, real-time chat apps and IoT applications.
What are the key features of Pubnub?
- Scalable and reliable infrastructure
- Global data stream network
- Real-time data streaming and messaging
- Presence detection and data persistence
- SDKs available for multiple platforms
How much does the Pubnub in-app chat API cost?
- Free Plan: Up to 200 MAUs with basic features
- MAU-Based Pricing: Cost increases with higher number of active users
- Starter Plan: $49/month for up to 1,000 MAUs
- Scalable Plans: Multiple tiers for different user volume needs
- Customizable Pro Plans: Tailored pricing for larger user bases and specific requirements
Does Pubnub offer a free trial?
Yes, PubNub offers a free tier and trials.
How secure is Pubnub Chat API?
- Authentication and encryption with TLS/SSL and AES
- Role-based access control (RBAC)
- Multi-factor authentication (MFA) support
- Biometric authentication capabilities
7. Zegocloud: Build Real-time Chat Experience
Zegocloud is a popular name when it comes to messaging APIs. You can build the most modern real-time chat experience while adorning your app with all the engaging messaging features. It’s performance is highly reliable, and the latency is too low for any delays or staggers in communication.
The interface is designed for smooth navigation and is almost perfect visually. You can build your app on top of any platform Web, Android, Flutter, React Native, whatnot and Zegocloud flexibly does its job without any hassle.
What are the key features of Zegocloud?
- High-quality, low-latency voice, video, and chat communication
- SDKs available for platforms like Web, Android, iOS, Flutter, and React Native
- Customizable UI with rich messaging features
- Live streaming solutions
- Real-time communication for chat, voice, and video
How much does the Zegocloud in-app chat API cost?
- Based on MAU: Pricing is based on the number of monthly active users
- Free Trial: Most plans offer a trial period to test features
- Tiered Plans: Different pricing tiers based on usage volume and features
- Example: $1 for 10,000 MAUs (priced at $0.01 per 100 MAUs)
Does Zegocloud offer a free trial?
ZegoCloud offers a free trial and demo options.
How secure is Zegocloud Chat API?
- User data protection
- Secure programming practices
- Strong encryption for communication
- Robust access controls
- Compliance with industry standards
8. Cometchat: Trusted In-App Messaging by Developers
CometChat delivers interactive instant messaging services, such as in app messaging and voice and video call solutions, to business applications and websites. It is considered one of the budget-friendly SDK providers in the market.
What are the key features of Cometchat?
- Real-time chat, voice, and video calling
- Pre-built UI components and SDKs
- Group chat, private messaging, and file sharing
- Customizable features and integrations
- On-premise and cloud deployment options
How much does the Cometchat in-app chat API cost?
- Free Plan: Build (sandbox plan for testing and MVP creation)
- Growth Plan: $119/month for 500 MAUs
- Scale Plan: Custom pricing for advanced features
- Pro Plan: Variable pricing for up to 1,000 MAUs
Does Cometchat offer a free trial?
Yes, CometChat offers a free trial to explore their platform.
How secure is Cometchat Chat API?
- SSL/TLS encryption for data in transit
- End-to-end encryption in specific configurations
- AES-256 bit encryption for strong security
- Single sign-on (SSO) authentication
9. Agora: Scalable In-App Messaging Provider
Agora is one of the best business instant messaging solution and secure instant messaging service provider. Their APIs and SDKs are enriched with features and compatible with privacy regulations. They are most loved by developers for their high scalability and fully customizable APIs. It is well suited for medium- and large-scale work communication apps.
What are the key features of Agora?
- Real-time voice and video communication.
- Interactive live streaming and real-time messaging.
- SDKs for various platforms.
- Low-latency and high-quality communication.
- Cloud based.
How much does the Agora in-app chat API cost?
Comes in 4 different packages:
- Free: Free upto 500 users
- Starter: Starts at $349 + $0.05/MAU beyond 5K MAU
- Pro: Starting from $699 + $0.05/MAU beyond 10K MAU
- Enterprise: Custom (min. 100K MAU)
Does Agora offer a free trial?
Agora offers a free tier with usage limits, allowing developers to test their platform.
How secure is Agora Chat API?
- Token-based authentication for user access
- Secure transmission via TLS and WSS protocols
- AES-128/256 encryption for built-in security
- Network-level protection with SD-RTN
What is the price of Agora?
- Free and month-on-month subscriptions
10. Twilio: Real-time Messaging API for Web or App
Twilio is the developer friendly in-app chat SDK for website, mobile and any cross platform integration. Developers prefer this platform for omni-channel communication features. The conversational API lets users start in app chat then continue it on WhatsApp.
What are the key features of Twilio?
- Programmable chat, voice, and SMS APIs
- Highly customizable communication solutions
- SDKs available for multiple platforms
- Scalable and reliable infrastructure
- Wide range of communication tools
How much does the Twilio in-app chat API cost?
- Pay-Per-Use Model: Charges based on messages sent and received
- Variable Costs: Depends on active users and messaging channels used
Does Twilio offer a free trial?
Yes, Twilio offers a free trial with credits to test their services.
How secure is Twilio Chat API?
- Granular access control mechanisms
- Vendor risk and security assessments
- Message redaction capabilities
- Global allowlists for phone number management
Benefits Of Using In-app Chat API In Mobile & Web App Development
No one really wants to sit around for months to code and create a feature while there is an instant solution already available. However, the speed of development is not the only advantage of using a chat API. You’ve got more:
1. Customizable Features & Functionalities
Let me be more cautious here while mentioning this: Not every chat API in the market is customisable, but the best ones are. APIs offered by MirrorFly and Apphitect make it possible to build personalised chat experiences with their super-flexible solution.
2. You can white-label it
No, you don’t need to mention the provider’s name anywhere on your app. Chat APIs you purchase from some of the best communication solution providers out there will allow you to white-label the entire app, without affecting the brand experience you deliver.
3. Data Ownership
Although you’ll build the chat system using a third-party API, every piece of data across the app will be completely yours to handle. Neither the API provider nor any other third party will have access to even the bits of your app data.
4. Custom Security
While you build a complete chat infrastructure into an app backed by an external API, you need not worry about how secure your app would be after the implementation.
Remember, the chat API itself comes with in-built security features like AES and SSL, along with region-specific compliances like GDPR, OWASP, and HIPAA. Above this, you’ll also be able to add or customise any security feature that you feel is best for your platform.
5. Flexibility of Hosting
Worried if the provider will force you to choose their hosting?
Platforms like MirrorFly and Rocket.chat ease the situation, letting you choose the deployment you need you can self-manage the entire platform on your on-premise servers, data centers, or private cloud. Or, you can go with the provider’s cloud solutions if you want them to monitor and manage the performance and security with a dedicated team.
Alright, these are some of the noteworthy advantages of choosing a chat API for your platform. Besides, you’ll also enjoy other perks like hiring a dedicated team to take care of the entire integration or adding advanced communication features like SIP/VoIP, activity feeds, and chatbots. Overall, its worth the investment!
Which Is the Best Chat Solution for Your Use Case?
To be frank, there’s no one-size-fits-all chat solution. The right choice depends on your organization’s needs and how much control you want. If you’re looking for a custom messaging solution with hosting flexibility, MirrorFly is worth considering.
The main highlight is that it supports data ownership, full source code access, customization, and self-hosting capabilities. Its one-time perpetual licensing model suits businesses evaluating long-term costs.
However, before investing in an in-app chat provider, compare its features, deployment options, security, and pricing with your requirements.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the Best In app Chat APIs for Enterprise?
The Top 10 In app chat API to use in 2026
1. MirrorFly
2. Apphitect
3. Cometchat
4. TalkJS
5.Sendbird
6. Agora
7. PubNub
8. Getstream
9. Twilio
10. Zegocloud
Can I use an In-App Chat API for both web and mobile apps?
Yes, you can use an in-app chat API to integrate messaging, voice, and video chatting into web, Android, and iOS apps. This saves a lot of time for developers and keeps conversations consistent across devices.
Which In-App Chat APIs support self-hosting?
In-app chat API providers such as MirrorFly, Rocket.Chat, Apphitect, and Cometchat offer self-hosted deployment. With them, businesses can host chat and messaging infrastructure on their own servers or private cloud. This provides more control over data storage, security, and customization.
Is Chat API Safe?
One big advantage of Chat SDK is its in-built end-to-end encryption. This means, the messages exchanged between the users within your app are encrypted and can be accessed only by the intended sender and receiver.
Can the chat UI be customized to match our brand?
Yes, many chat API providers support UI customization, including brand logos, colors, and themes. But very few, like MirrorFly and Apphitect, offer both white-labelling and full source code access to customize features and workflows.
How much Does an In app Chat API Cost?
The cost of using a chat sdk depends on features you need and the usage volume. Pricing models for chat APIs typically include factors such as the number of messages sent, the number of active users, and the level of support or additional features you need. Some messaging software providers offer free tiers with limited usage, while others have tiered pricing plans based on your needs.
Which providers support HIPAA compliance?
The in-app chat providers such as MirrorFly, Rocketchat, Ethora, and Mattermost support HIPAA-compliant implementations. This specifically helps healthcare organizations to protect sensitive information through security controls and encryption.
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