Psi is an instant messaging client supporting the XMPP protocol, which makes it compatible with a large number of messaging services, such as GoogleTalk, LJTalk, Nimbuzz and HipChat.
The application has a nice and simple-to-use interface, which adapts itself to your system’s configuration to match the selected look. Moreover, you are free to pick the desired colors, icons and emoticons. Other aspects, such as keyboard shortcuts can be customized as well.
Psi is stable and light. Besides, it runs on multiple platforms as it is Java-based and designed on QT. It supports connecting through a proxy and encrypting all the data transferred. However, it also inherits some of the limitations of the XMPP protocol. For instance, it does not support QoS. Moreover, its text-based communication shows a higher network overhead compared to binary solutions. Likewise, it has intrinsic difficulties in terms of transferring large amounts of binary data, which is fortunately solved by opening gateways to other services.
Pros
- Compatible with a large number of instant messaging services
- Light and stable
- Easy-to-use and customizable interface
- Supports connecting through a proxy
Cons
- Does not support QoS
- May show a higher network overhead compared to binary solutions
- Not good at transferring large amounts of data