Telegram groups and channels: the difference

Telegram's FAQ says you can create groups for up to 200,000 people, or channels for broadcasting to unlimited audiences.

A group

A group is for conversation. Members can talk to each other, and admins decide what members may do. It suits a class, a team, a neighbourhood or a club.

A channel

A channel is for broadcasting. Admins post and subscribers read; it suits news, notes and updates for a large audience.

Which to choose

• You want people to discuss: group.
• You want to announce to many: channel.
• You want both: a channel for announcements and a group for discussion.

List yours

If yours is public and follows our rules, you can add it to the directory.

Telegram facts on this page were read on 14 November 2026 on Telegram's FAQ. Apps change, so check the app for your options.

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