Understanding the Differences Between Telegram Groups and Channels
Conclusion: Telegram groups and channels each have unique features, catering to different social needs. Groups facilitate multi-user interaction, whereas channels are designed for broadcasting information. Understanding these distinctions helps users utilize Telegram more effectively.
Key Features of Telegram
Telegram offers various communication methods, including private chats, groups, channels, and bots.
1. Private Chats
Private chats are one-on-one conversations with a specific account, categorized into standard private chats and encrypted conversations.
2. Groups
Groups allow multiple people to chat simultaneously. Group owners can create groups, and users can join and participate in discussions. Currently, all newly created groups are supergroups, which can accommodate up to 200,000 members. Groups are categorized 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 users who haven't joined can also view group messages and the member list.
2.2 Private Groups
Private groups do not support public links; only group owners 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 Differentiating Public and Private Groups
- Group owners can check the group type in group settings.
- Check the group's info/description for a public link.
2.4 Creating a Group
On the Contacts screen, tap the button in the top right corner and select "New Group."
2.5 Viewing Your Created Groups
[In the Telegram Desktop client](/blog/en-US/telegram-0052-change-telegram-font), click the three horizontal lines in the top left, right-click "New Group," and you will be able to view the groups you have created.
3. Channels
Channels are similar to WeChat Official Accounts. Users can only subscribe or unsubscribe. Only channel owners and administrators can publish content, while members can only view and forward messages. Channels are divided into private channels and public channels. Members cannot view the list of other members; only channel owners and administrators can view it.
3.1 Creating a Channel
On the Contacts screen, tap the button in the top right corner and select "New Channel."
3.2 Viewing Your Created Channels
In the Telegram Desktop client, click the three horizontal lines in the top left, 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 a comment feature.
5. How to Post as a Channel in a Group
Only administrators can post as a channel in a group; this operation needs to be done in the administrator settings interface.
By understanding the differences between Telegram's groups and channels, users can better choose the communication method that suits their needs and enhance their user experience.