Which Is Better in 2025; Telegram Or WhatsApp in Ethiopia?

Telegram vs WhatsApp Apps in Ethiopia – Which Is Better 2025?

Introduction

In Ethiopia, messaging apps dominate everyday communication. Telegram and WhatsApp are among the top two. But which is the better one in 2025? Here, we will compare both apps in terms of their features, speed, data usage, and privacy, particularly given Ethiopia’s unique internet challenges.

1. Availability and Access

WhatsApp is widely used, but it can be fenced off occasionally thanks to political dumpster fires.

Telegram became increasingly popular in Ethiopia as it continues to function despite restrictions on internet access.

VPN-friendly: Telegram is more compatible with VPN and proxy servers, which makes it easier to get during blocks.

2. Speed and Data Usage

WhatsApp is faster but also consumes more data on Wi-Fi when you are on video or voice calls.

Telegram is much lighter and performs great on slow 2G or 3G networks, ideal for rural areas.

3. Features

The size of the files that you can share max 2GB in WhatsApp but in Telegram upto 2GB and more.

WhatsApp group size 1024 but Telegram 200,000

WhatsApp has limited bots and automation, but Telegram has them on advanced level.

WhatsApp not allowed you to log into several devices, while telegram is.

Text, Voice, Video Calling: Telegram is best for public communication, education, media, business and so on.

WhatsApp is more personalized but not so functional.

4. Privacy and Security

WhatsApp also offers end-to-end encryption out of the box.

Telegram does have Secret Chats which use end-to-end encryption, but its regular chats are cloud-based.

For privacy from governmental or local ISP, Telegram (with proxy/VPN) is more dependable.

5. Popularity in Ethiopia

Telegram usage has risen enormously because of:

Internet shutdowns

Government blocks

Increasing Telegram channels in news, religion, sport, education, etc.

WhatsApp remains on top in family/group communications.

Conclusion

Both applications have their uses, but within the Ethiopian context –

Choose Telegram for:

• Sending out messages (media, religion, business)

• Frustrated with the internet restrictions

• Large groups and public channels

Choose WhatsApp for:

• Personal chats

• Video calls with family

• Encrypted conversations

The verdict: In 2025, Telegram is a better all-round option for Ethiopians, especially for education, news and online communities.

If you want the best of both worlds you can use both apps together. Do read it on a book, just don’t forget that good VPN if needed.

Download these applications Telegram and WhatsApp