HexChat

HexChat gives you access to numerous IRC channels, in which you can chat publicly or have private one-on-one conversations. The software is based on XChat, but it brings some new features to the table. What's more, HexChat is absolutely free. You can enjoy everything it has to offer and join any channels you want, without paying a dime.

The software can be used on Windows, Mac OS X and on Unix-based operating systems. Downloading the setup file takes only a few seconds, even with a slower Internet connection, and the installation process is just as fast. Furthermore, you don't have to meet any special requirements and you don't need powerful hardware.

HexChat will present a list of IRC channels the moment you launch it. All you have to do is select one and click a button to connect. Additionally, you can type in three nick name choices, on the same window, in case the first or second one are already taken. Of course, you can add your own channels to the list, modify existing ones, sort them and add them to a favorites list.

The main user interface has a simple layout, but it still provides everything you would expect from an IRC client. The channels you join are listed on the left side of the window, where you can organize them if you need to. The middle part is the main chat area, while the right side is where you can find all other users who are connected to the channel. Obviously, you can type in a message in the lower region of the window to send a public message or double click a user if you wish to chat in private.

A wide range of useful options can be found in the top menus. You can look for other servers, change view settings and bring up various tools, for exchanging files, managing a ban list and much more.

A comfortable chat experience is exactly what you can expect from HexChat.