10 Best Omegle Alternatives in 2024: Safe Omegle Video Chats
With so many online chatting sites vying to replace Omegle since its shutdown in 2023, finding safe Omegle alternatives takes a lot of work. Many of them are swarming with hackers, phishing scams, and malware. I scoured the web and picked the best Omegle-like chat sites.
Unfortunately, even these handpicked chat sites can’t guarantee safety. You should ideally use a reliable VPN to use Omegle alternatives anonymously. However, most VPNs lack top-grade security and privacy features and can’t protect you online.
After testing 25 of the industry’s top names, ExpressVPN is my #1 recommendation for Omegle alternatives as it offers military-grade protection against snoops and malware. You can try ExpressVPN confidently as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Editors’ Note: Intego, Private Internet Access, CyberGhost and Expressvpn are owned by Kape Technologies, our parent company.
Why Do I Need a VPN for Omegle Alternatives?
Some Omegle-like sites enforce rules against nudity, abuse, and threats through moderation. But predators and hackers still find a way around it. Additionally, many of these sites are full of ads and trackers that follow you around the web. A solid VPN for Omegle will help you combat both of these threats.
- Hide your IP address — prevents strangers and potential hackers from discovering your actual location, enhancing your privacy during online conversations.
- Bypass network blocks — school and work networks often restrict access to anonymous chat sites, but a VPN can get past such restrictions.
- Protection against malware — top VPNs have ad, tracker, and malware blockers crucial for online safety when chatting with strangers on Omegle alternatives.
- Improve connection speeds — a VPN can get past speed throttles imposed by third parties, ensuring smooth audio and video chats on chat sites like Omegle.
How I Chose the Best Omegle Alternatives
While trying over 50 live chat services, I considered the following criteria to pick the best Omegle alternatives:
- Number of users — I researched each site’s user base and ensured my top picks had at least 100,000 users to ensure chat diversity and platform credibility.
- Live chat options — a chat site like Omegle should support multi-modal chats, such as text, audio, and video, to accommodate all users.
- Security and privacy — a safe Omegle alternative will moderate chats to provide a safe chat space for everyone. You should also read the site’s privacy policy.
- Ease of use — while most chat sites work on desktops, I tried to find ones with iOS and Android apps with a user-friendly interface.
The Best Omegle Alternatives in 2024
Chatroulette
Launched in 2009, Chatroulette is known for its random, roulette-style matching system. It connects you with strangers via webcam chats. You can chat via text, but your webcam must be on. There are no filters or matching options, leaving encounters entirely to chance.
Chatroulette’s interface is beginner-friendly — just go to its website and click ‘Start.’ It’s available in every country except restrictive locations like China and Saudi Arabia. While it doesn’t collect personal information, some reports claim that Chatroulette takes users’ screenshots to moderate the platform.
Emerald Chat
Unlike the roulette-style randomness of Chatroulette, Emerald Chat lets you chat in text or video. You can filter matches based on interests, which increases the likelihood of making more meaningful connections. Emerald Chat’s team actively monitors chats to ensure a safe and respectful environment, and you can report inappropriate behavior.
Its Karma system rewards positive interactions and discourages negativity. You gain karma points for being respectful and helpful, while negative behavior leads to point deductions and potential account restrictions. This gamified approach fosters a more positive community.
ChatHub
ChatHub’s appeal is that it has dedicated rooms based on music genres, hobbies, and languages. This filtered matchmaking system is suitable for finding like-minded strangers. However, it has voice- and video-based chats only, not text.
As CamSurf’s partner, ChatHub has a big pool of potential chat partners. Its multi-language support makes ChatHub attractive for non-English speakers. Be mindful that it may share data with third parties. The data stays unencrypted, so using a reliable VPN is recommended.
Chat Random
With 3.6 million users, Chatrandom is for flirtatious, sexual, and friendly interactions. You can explore different chat rooms, though navigating through the adult-themed ones takes effort. Its Cam4 feature lets you chat with up to 4 people simultaneously.
Despite rules against recording, there’s a risk of conversations being captured, especially in chat rooms with adult content. Chat Random can track your IP address and GPS location. You can avoid that with a reliable VPN with built-in leak protection and military-grade encryption.
CamSurf
CamSurf lets you video chat with strangers in a few clicks. It mirrors Omegle’s interface without ad clutter. The paid version unlocks extra filters to give you more control over matches. You can use CamSurf on your desktop, iOS, and Android devices.
The platform enforces a strict rule to keep chats respectful. While collecting standard data like your IP address and usage details, CamSurf claims it doesn’t share your info with third parties. I’m a bit doubtful about that since it doesn’t explain how.
Chatspin
Chatspin offers video and text-based chats and has AR Face Filters that mask your identity for video anonymity. They partially mask your face if you’re feeling camera shy, don’t want to reveal your face entirely, or want to wear a sleek, sci-fi visor.
While basic features like adding interests are free, gender and location filters require a paid Chatspin Plus subscription, and you need an account in every case. Chatspin collects your data but doesn’t share it with marketers without consent.
MeetMe
Instead of random matchups, MeetMe lets you browse profiles on its ‘Meet’ section to find matches. You can swipe profiles like on Tinder and even live stream. MeetMe blends a social and a dating apps.
To use MeetMe, you must create an account and verify your identity with a video selfie. This filters fake and spam profiles but might not sit well with privacy-conscious users. The platform also collects your data and admits to sharing it with third parties.
Shagle
Shagle is for adult video interactions. You don’t need to sign up; just select your identity and interests, then click ‘Start Chatting.’ While basic use is free, gender and location filters are paywalled. You can also send virtual gifts and delete offensive content.
Unfortunately, Shagle collects data for service delivery. It can also share data with law enforcement or marketing agencies. Since it has no sign-ups or vetting methods, you should be vigilant for phishing scams, fake accounts, and hackers and use a reliable VPN.
ChatMate
ChatMate lets you join video chats with streamers rather than random matches. It’s focused on interactions with male and female models who entertain groups and offer one-to-one sessions at a cost. It feels like a combination of Twitch and OnlyFans.
Private chat rooms are available on a pay-per-minute basis. There’s also an option for text-based chats. You can chat on the go with ChatMate’s iOS and Android apps. Just be mindful of the adult content and never give away private information.
Tinychat
TinyChat has video chat rooms with many people instead of one-on-one conversations. It lets you join existing rooms or create your own to provide the communal feel of Twitch while maintaining Omegle’s element of randomness.
As a member, you can create your own chat spaces. You can join a few chat rooms without sign-up, but finding them might take some time. TinyChat collects your IP address and even chat logs, which makes using a VPN non-optional.
The Best VPNs to Use With Omegle Alternatives in 2024
1. ExpressVPN — Best Overall VPN to Chat Anonymously on Omegle Alternatives
Key Features:
- 3,000+ servers in 105 countries for smooth video chats
- TrustedServer technology, built-in leak protection, a kill switch, and post-quantum security
- Works on up to 8 devices on a single subscription
- Provides fast customer support via 24/7 live chat, email, and a knowledge base
- Offers a 30-day money-back guarantee with all plans
ExpressVPN is my #1 choice for chatting on Omegle alternatives. Its Lightway protocol offers lightning-fast speeds even on distant servers to ensure uninterrupted HD video chats. It’s also a pioneer in protection against quantum computing that can theoretically break military-grade ciphers. ExpressVPN also offers:
- Military-grade encryption — uses a 256-bit cipher to turn your data into unreadable code to hide your chats from unwanted snoops.
- Built-in leak protection — prevents your chats from spilling outside the VPN tunnel, ensuring that the Omegle alternative can’t find your true location.
- Perfect Forward Secrecy — creates unique encryption keys to ensure that past and future VPN sessions remain uncompromised even if one key is breached.
- Threat Manager — blocks app trackers and malicious sites using a DNS-based system (ExpressVPN blocked all phishing links I exposed it to).
You can use ExpressVPN’s Chrome or Firefox extensions on desktops to encrypt browser traffic. Unlike other VPNs, these extensions offer full VPN functionality and are like a remote control for the main app instead of being just a proxy.
The only drawback of ExpressVPN is its premium price tag. After careful consideration, I concluded that ExpressVPN is well worth the investment. You get a VPN with the best global coverage and post-quantum protection for a small extra fee.
To get a 49% discount, subscribe to ExpressVPN’s 1-year + 3 months plan. You can try it confidently as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee. I got my refund in just 3 days by submitting a request via live chat without facing unnecessary questions.
ExpressVPN works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Chromebook, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Edge, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV, Roku, smart TVs, routers, and more.
Editors' Note: ExpressVPN and this site are in the same ownership group.
2024 Update! ExpressVPN has dropped prices for a limited time to a crazy $6.67 per month for the 1-year plan + 3 months free (you can save up to 49%)! This is a limited offer so be sure to grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
2. CyberGhost — Smart WiFi Auto-Encrypts Your Data for Secure Chats
Key Features:
- Has 11,800+ servers in 100 countries, with optimized connections for streaming, torrenting, and gaming
- Includes NoSpy servers, military-grade encryption, a malware blocker, IP leak protection, and a kill switch
- Protects up to 7 devices simultaneously
- Support options include 24/7 live chat, email, and an online knowledge base
- Lets you try it risk-free with its 45-day money-back guarantee
CyberGhost’s smart WiFi protection auto-activates the VPN when you join a network. This keeps your anonymity intact if you forgetfully visit a chat site without encrypting your traffic. It’s also handy on unsafe public networks or if your phone is on auto-connect. CyberGhost also has:
- NoSpy servers — are located in CyberGhost’s private data center in Romania, outside any intelligence-sharing alliance.
- Malware blocker — blocks ads that contain malware before they can load on chat sites like Omegle, as many of them have potentially infectious ads.
- Kill switch — cuts internet connectivity if your device crashes and the VPN server drops (though the 15 CyberGhost servers I tested remained stable in my tests).
A small issue with CyberGhost is that it doesn’t work in China and other countries with strict internet censorship. However, it works in locations with mild restrictions, like Turkey. Only a tiny percentage of users might encounter this problem, though.
I suggest getting CyberGhost’s 2-year + 2 months plan for an 83% discount. You can even try it risk-free with its 45-day money-back guarantee. I submitted my refund request via live chat and the support agent approved it immediately without persuading me to stay. I got my money back in 5 working days.
CyberGhost works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Raspberry Pi, Chrome, Firefox, PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, smart TVs, routers, and more.
Editors' Note: CyberGhost VPN and this site are in the same ownership group.
2024 Update! You can subscribe to CyberGhost for as low as $2.19 per month + get an extra 2 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 83%)! This is a limited offer so grab it now before it's gone. See more information on this offer here.
3. Private Internet Access — MACE Blocks Ads and Malware on Omegle-Like Chat Sites
Key Features:
- Extensive network of 35,000+ servers in 91 countries
- Has flexible encryption, Perfect Forward Secrecy, secure protocols, and split tunneling
- Supports unlimited simultaneous connections and works on all major platforms
- Troubleshoot via live chat, email, or consult its online FAQ guides for quick answers
- Gives you a 30-day window to try it risk-free
PIA’s MACE blocks malware-laden chat sites and phishing attempts by preventing you from unknowingly clicking on malicious links. MACE decluttered the interface of every Omegle alternative and improved load times. PIA also has:
- Flexible encryption — lets you switch between 256-bit and 128-bit encryption to tailor the speed-security ratio.
- Split tunneling — activates the VPN only for the chat site instead of your entire device so that you can stream local content while talking to strangers.
Although PIA works on popular platforms, it doesn’t support devices like Fire Stick. But it compensates for this with unlimited simultaneous connections. I used PIA on 8 devices at once without the apps glitching, an issue common with other VPNs.
Besides being one of the most affordable monthly VPNs, PIA also offers a 2-year + 2 months plan that costs just $2.19 a month. You can try it risk-free with its 30-day refund policy. I requested my money back via live chat and was reimbursed within a week.
PIA works on: Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Chrome, Firefox, Opera, Amazon Fire TV, Amazon Fire TV Stick, routers, and more.
Editors' Note: Private Internet Access and this site are in the same ownership group.
2024 Update! You can subscribe to PIA for as low as $2.19 per month + get an extra 2 months free with the 2-year plan (save up to 82%)! This is a limited offer, so grab it now before it's gone! See more information on this offer here!
Editors’ Note: Intego, Private Internet Access, CyberGhost and Expressvpn are owned by Kape Technologies, our parent company.
3 Easy Steps to Chat Securely on Omegle Alternatives
- Download a VPN. I recommend ExpressVPN because of its audited no-logs policy and other top-grade privacy features.
- Connect to a server. Pick a server from the list or let the VPN find one for you automatically. This will encrypt all data coming and leaving your device.
- That’s it! Now you can safely chat on Omegle alternatives.
Editors’ Note: ExpressVPN and this site are in the same ownership group.
How I Picked the Best VPNs for Omegle Alternatives
When picking the best VPNs for Omegle alternatives, I ensured that my top picks satisfied the criteria mentioned below:
- Security and privacy — pick a VPN with military-grade encryption, a kill switch, and IP/DNS leak protection for security against potential data breaches and snooping.
- Malware protection — the VPNs on my list prevent trackers and malicious ads and block suspicious links if you accidentally click one in a chat.
- Server network — global server coverage ensures you can chat securely on Omegle alternatives while traveling.
- Device compatibility — ensure your VPN works on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, typically used for Omegle alternatives.
- Money-back guarantee — this gives you a risk-free window to try the VPN before committing to your purchase. The listed VPNs have a 30-day refund policy, at least.
FAQs on Omegle Alternatives
Is it legal to use a VPN with Omegle-like chat sites?
Yes, it’s generally legal, and I recommend it. Here’s why you need a VPN for Omegle alternatives. However, some countries like China and Saudi Arabia ban VPNs. In addition, using a VPN to violate a chat site’s terms of use and rules is also not allowed. Therefore, the legality depends on your location and how you use a VPN on a chat site.
Why did Omegle shut down?
While Omegle is no more, other chat sites have gained popularity as potential alternatives. Omegle shut down in November 2023 after a lawsuit that accused it of matching a young user with an individual who sexually exploited her. As a result, Omegle was deemed incapable of moderating the site and preventing misuse.
Are online chatrooms safe?
It depends on moderation, privacy policies, and a chat site’s measures to protect users from harmful content or behavior. Here’s how I chose the best Omegle alternatives, but you still need to stay cautious and never give personal information to anyone. Besides that, you should use a VPN to hide your IP address and protect yourself against phishing scams.
What are the safety tips to keep in mind in online chatrooms?
First and foremost, use a top VPN from this list to become anonymous on the web. This will mask your IP address, encrypt your device’s traffic, and block malicious ads on the site. In addition, some additional safe practices are:
- Guard yourself by never sharing personal details like your address, phone number, or full name. Remember, you’re interacting with strangers online.
- Think before you click on suspicious links or download files, as they could contain malware or lead to phishing scams.
- Trust your gut and disengage when something feels off, like someone’s behavior or requests, and report it to the platform moderators.
- Set privacy settings on the platform to limit what others can see on your profile. Limited visibility is always better in chatrooms with strangers.
What are the best Omegle alternatives for kids?
It’s best to keep children away from online chat sites, as none are 100% safe. If you’re adamant, use a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN for your child’s online safety. Here are a few good Omegle alternatives for kids, but you should research and always supervise children using online chat platforms.
| Clubhouse Kids | Caribu | LEGO Friends Chat | Minecraft Education Edition |
| Discord Kids | Roblox Studio | Supernova | Poptropica |
Is it safe to use a free VPN with Omegle alternatives?
No, it’s risky. Most free VPNs lack top-grade security and privacy features. Instead, use a premium option like CyberGhost for free with its 45-day money-back guarantee. Just request a refund before the period expires, and you’ll be fully reimbursed.
Many free VPNs collect and sell your data to third parties. The worst of them can infect your device. While I found some safe free VPNs, they have constraints like data caps, limited servers, and low bandwidth capacity.
Chat Securely on Omegle Alternatives With a VPN
Most Omegle-like chat sites have predators, abusers, and hackers just waiting for an unsuspecting person to click on a malicious link. Many chat sites, therefore, have to record your IP address and chat conversations, which introduces privacy concerns. Using a VPN encrypts your data and hides your IP address to keep you anonymous on Omegle alternatives.
Unfortunately, most VPNs can’t protect you online. After testing several renowned brands, ExpressVPN is my #1 choice for chat sites. It offers quantum-resistant security and military-grade protection with blazing-fast speeds. What’s best, you can try it confidently as it’s backed by a 30-day money-back guarantee.
