Head-to-Head Comparison · Alternative to Session · 🛠️ dev tools
Session vs Cinny
Cinny offers a simple, elegant, and secure interface for Matrix-based conversations, protected by end-to-end encryption. Here is how Cinny ($0/mo open source) stacks up against Session ($25/mo) across cost, hosting, data privacy, and real-world trade-offs.
Cinny is a verified AGPL-3.0-licensed open-source replacement for Session. Switching from Session ($25/mo) saves $300/yr per solo seat, or $1,500/yr for a 5-person team. Deployment: Runs on Self-host.
The catch: Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Microsoft Teams.
Session vs Cinny Specifications
facts verified 2026-11-07
| Dimension | Session (Paid) | Cinny (Replacement) |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Price | $25 / mo | $0 / mo |
| 1-Year Cost (1 seat) | $300 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $300) |
| 1-Year Cost (5 seats) | $1,500 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $1,500) |
| 1-Year Cost (10 seats) | $3,000 / yr | $0 / yr (Save $3,000) |
| Source & License | Proprietary SaaS | open source AGPL-3.0 |
| Where It Runs | Vendor Cloud | Self-host (your server) |
| Platforms | Web / Cloud | webself-hosteddocker to self-host |
| GitHub Stars | — | ★ 4k (active nov 2026) |
Deep Dive: Switching from Session to Cinny
Trade-offs, installation & data architecture
What you trade away
Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Microsoft Teams.
How to deploy Cinny
Clone https://github.com/cinnyapp/cinny or deploy with Docker Compose
What it takes to run
Deploy via Docker or binary release from GitHub and configure environment variables.
Where your data lives
All application data and configuration live on your own server or local database.
Why fork Cinny instead of vibe-coding a Session clone?
Instead of paying recurring SaaS fees for Session or rebuilding it from scratch, deploy one of the 4 battle-tested open-source alternatives like Signal.
Session vs Cinny FAQ
Is Cinny a good free alternative to Session?+
Yes. Cinny is a verified open-source (AGPL-3.0) replacement for Session. Cinny offers a simple, elegant, and secure interface for Matrix-based conversations, protected by end-to-end encryption.
What is the catch when switching from Session to Cinny?+
Requires self-hosting setup, updates, and server maintenance compared to managed Microsoft Teams.
How much do you save switching from Session to Cinny?+
Session costs $25/mo ($300/yr) per seat, whereas Cinny is $0/mo. Switching saves $300/yr for a solo user, $1,500/yr for a 5-person team, and $3,000/yr for a 10-person team.
How do I install or self-host Cinny instead of Session?+
Install: Clone https://github.com/cinnyapp/cinny or deploy with Docker Compose. Setup: Deploy via Docker or binary release from GitHub and configure environment variables.
