Top 10 IRC Clients for Linux, Windows, and Mac

Resources

Choosing the Right IRC Client

Your IRC client is your window into the network. The right one makes all the difference. Here are the best options in 2026, across all platforms.

1. HexChat (Windows / Linux)

HexChat is the most beginner-friendly graphical IRC client available. It has a clean tabbed interface, supports TLS, SASL, and has a built-in script engine. It's free, open-source, and actively maintained.

• Best for: New users, GUI lovers
• Platform: Windows, Linux
• Website: hexchat.github.io

2. WeeChat (Linux / macOS / Windows)

WeeChat is a powerful terminal-based client with an enormous plugin ecosystem. It supports multiple protocols, has a built-in relay for remote access, and is highly configurable. A favorite among power users and sysadmins.

• Best for: Power users, terminal fans
• Platform: Linux, macOS, Windows (WSL)
• Website: weechat.org

3. Irssi (Linux / macOS)

Irssi is the classic terminal IRC client. Lightweight, scriptable with Perl, and rock-solid. It's been around since 1999 and is still widely used on servers and in screen/tmux sessions for 24/7 connectivity.

• Best for: Server-side always-on IRC
• Platform: Linux, macOS
• Website: irssi.org

4. Textual (macOS)

Textual is the premium IRC client for macOS. Beautiful native UI, full IRCv3 support, iCloud sync, and excellent performance. It's a paid app but worth every penny for Mac users.

• Best for: macOS users who want the best experience
• Platform: macOS
• Website: codeux.com/textual

5. mIRC (Windows)

mIRC is the legendary Windows IRC client that introduced millions of people to IRC in the 90s and 2000s. It's still actively developed, scriptable, and works great today.

• Best for: Windows users, nostalgia
• Platform: Windows
• Website: mirc.com

6. IRC4Fun Web Chat (Browser)

No install needed — just open your browser and start chatting. Our web client is built on KiwiIRC and connects securely via WebSockets with full TLS. Perfect for quick access or users who don't want to install anything.

• Best for: Quick access, no-install users
• Platform: Any browser
• Link: app.irc4fun.net

7. IRCCloud (Web / iOS / Android)

IRCCloud is a hosted IRC client that stays connected 24/7 even when you close the app. It has native mobile apps and an excellent web interface. The free tier has some limits but the paid plan is very reasonable.

• Best for: Mobile users, always-on connectivity
• Platform: Web, iOS, Android
• Website: irccloud.com

8. Goguma (Android / iOS)

Goguma is a modern, open-source mobile IRC client with a clean Material Design interface. It supports IRCv3 features and is a great free alternative to IRCCloud on mobile.

• Best for: Mobile users who want open-source
• Platform: Android, iOS
• Website: git.sr.ht/~emersion/goguma

9. Senpai (Linux / macOS)

Senpai is a modern terminal IRC client written in Go. It's lightweight, fast, and designed with IRCv3 in mind from the ground up. Great for users who want something more modern than Irssi.

• Best for: Terminal users wanting modern IRCv3 support
• Platform: Linux, macOS
• Website: git.sr.ht/~delthas/senpai

10. TheLounge (Self-hosted Web)

TheLounge is a self-hosted web IRC client that gives you always-on connectivity with a beautiful interface. IRC4Fun runs a hosted instance for registered members. It's a great ZNC alternative with a built-in web UI.

• Best for: Self-hosters, power users wanting always-on access
• Platform: Web (self-hosted)
• Website: thelounge.chat

Summary

Whatever your platform or preference, there's a great IRC client for you. Start with HexChat if you're new to IRC on desktop, or just use our web chat to get connected instantly — no install needed!