Paltalk 1.6

• Quick specs
• Price: Free
• Operating system: Windows 95, Windows NT, Windows 98
• Date added: November 18, 1999
• Total Downloads: 7,162,168
• Downloads last week: 4,224
• See full specifications

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A newer version of Paltalk is available.

Download the latest version | Learn more about PaltalkScene 9.8

(Download doesn't provide access to previous versions of this program.)

CNET editors' review

Reviewed by: CNET Staff

Paltalk's integration of video, audio and text chatting unified into one window makes for a strong chatware program that includes a wealth of features.

Parental controls employ a password to change settings or block groups; adult content is hidden by default and all rooms are moderated. Add in the room ratings of G, R and A, and safe chatting is a cinch. Right-clicking a person's name gives a user-defined amount of personal information, with private room invite and file sending options. Sessions can be printed and saved, and buddy lists from other chat accounts can be automatically imported. Version 9 includes music feeds from Rhapsody and multiplayer games in case you get bored talking.

However, the abundance of pop-up ads, which strike even while you're in the middle of joining a room, might motivate users to pay for a subscription or look elsewhere. Free accounts only can open Webcams for a few seconds; paid users can open multiple video windows. The app crashed for us when closing, and the system slowdowns were disappointing. Uninstalling Paltalk left an icon on the desktop.

Still, the thousands of rooms for politics, karaoke, tech advice, and porn mean that anybody can find a connection on Paltalk.

Publisher's description

Paltalk combines the best features of chat programs with real-time audio. Each user defines a personal list of pals that displays who is on or offline. A simple double-click on an online user allows you to talk to that pal in real time over the Internet--no more typed messages. Paltalk also allows you to leave messages for offline users that will be displayed the next time that user logs on. Paltalk includes file transfer capabilities, an online user search, a keyboard-activated talk button, and voice and text chat in groups or in private.

Note: Users with a Sound Blaster AWE64 card may encounter echoing, followed by failure. Try deselecting 3D stereo on your video and game controller.

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