Understanding the Difference Between Telegram Groups and Channels
Conclusion: Telegram Groups and Channels each have unique characteristics and cater to different social needs. Groups facilitate multi-person interaction, whereas Channels are primarily focused on information dissemination. Understanding the distinction between the two will help users leverage Telegram more effectively.
Key Features of Telegram
Telegram offers various modes of communication, including Private Chats, Groups, Channels, and Bots.
1. Private Chats
Private Chats involve one-on-one communication with a specific account and are categorised into regular private chats and secret chats.
2. Groups
Groups allow multiple people to chat simultaneously. A group owner can create a group, and users can join and participate in discussions. Currently, all newly created groups are 'supergroups' and can accommodate up to 200,000 members. Groups are categorised into Private Groups and Public Groups.
2.1 Public Groups
Public Groups require a public username to be set as a link (e.g., @{name} or https://t.me/{name}). Users can view and join the group via this link. A key characteristic of Public Groups is that even unjoined users can view group messages and the member list.
2.2 Private Groups
Private Groups do not support public links. Only the group owner and administrators can create shareable links (format: https://t.me/+xxxx). Users can only view group messages and the member list after joining a private group. Public groups can also generate private shareable links.
2.3 Distinguishing Between Public and Private Groups
- The group owner can check the group type in the group settings.
- Check the group description for a public link.
2.4 Creating a Group
On the 'Contacts' page, tap the top-right button and select "New Group".
2.5 Viewing Groups You've Created
[In the Telegram Desktop client](/blog/en-IN/telegram-0025-telegram-change-language), click the three horizontal lines in the top-left corner, right-click "New Group", and you will be able to view the groups you have created.
3. Channels
Channels are similar to WeChat's Official Accounts, where users can only subscribe or unsubscribe. Only the channel owner and administrators can post content, while members can only view and forward it. Channels are categorised into Private Channels and Public Channels. Members cannot view the list of other members; only the channel owner and administrators can view it.
3.1 Creating a Channel
On the 'Contacts' page, tap the top-right button and select "New Channel".
3.2 Viewing Channels You've Created
In the Telegram Desktop client, click the three horizontal lines in the top-left corner, right-click "New Channel", and you will be able to view the channels you have created.
4. Channel Comment Feature
Channels can be linked to groups to enable the comment feature.
5. How to Speak as a Channel in a Group
Only administrators can speak as a channel in a group. This action needs to be performed from the administrator settings interface.
By understanding the distinction between Telegram Groups and Channels, users can better choose the communication method that suits their needs, thereby enhancing their user experience.