When comparing StealthChat vs Handcent Next SMS, the Slant community recommends StealthChat for most people. In the question“What are the best messaging apps for Android?” StealthChat is ranked 17th while Handcent Next SMS is ranked 36th. The most important reason people chose StealthChat is:
Messages can be set to self-destruct after a set time.
Specs
Ranked in these QuestionsQuestion Ranking
Pros
Pro Can send self-destructing messages
Messages can be set to self-destruct after a set time.
Pro Offers 3 types of encryption
The app claims to be the only communication app that encrypts data in transit, on disk and on screen. Encryption in transit is used to make sure no-one can listen in on your conversations even if the traffic is going through their servers, encryption on disk is used to make sure that even if someone gets ahold of your phone and is capable of extracting your messages from it they won't be able to read them and screen encryption is essentially a lock screen that sets in after a set amount of time used to make prevent "shoulder surfing".
Pro Can split a group text
Splitting a group text is a great option, so that follow-up can be personal and not everyone sees every response.
Pro Missed notification reminders
Pro Can text from a PC, Mac or tablet
Texting from another device allows one to not pick up one's phone every minute.
Pro Customizable appearance
Cons
Con Many people have difficulty registering the app
Multiple people have reported not being able to receive the activation code required to register the app.
Con Code is not verified
Con Poor support
Con Lacks group chat
Con Closed source
No way to verify security practices.
Con Name is confusing
In your app drawer you'll see "Next SMS" but in Google Play "Handcent" is the first word of the app. That might confuse some people.
Con Texting from a PC, Mac or tablet requires extra work
