Version scope and comparison basis
Sources checked on:
ET-Chat (ETChat): Original ET-Chat 3.0.6 as introduced by developer Evgeni T. on 29 July 2009. Later 3.0.7 packages and forks are outside this table’s scope.
SPChat: Download version 1.0.7 for self-hosting. The linked product documentation and license form the basis for its details.
Unknown means that the checked sources do not establish the detail. It does not mean that a feature is absent. This documentation comparison contains no common performance or security tests.
Features and operation compared
On narrow screens, scroll the table sideways. With a keyboard, focus the table and use the arrow keys.
| Criterion | ET-Chat (ETChat) | SPChat |
|---|---|---|
| License and usage rights | CC BY-NC 2.0 according to the developer; a commercial license was offered for a fee at the time, current terms: Unknown [1] | Domain-bound single-site license; non-transferable [2] |
| Documented PHP requirement | Reworked for PHP 5 according to the developer; PHP 8 compatibility: Unknown [1] | PHP 8.2 or newer [3] |
| Database / storage | MySQL or PostgreSQL [1] | MySQL or MariaDB, InnoDB and utf8mb4 [3] |
| Text message transport | AJAX; specific transport mechanism: Unknown [1] | SSE; HTTP polling fallback [4] |
| Rooms | Unknown | Permanent and temporary rooms, optional passwords [4] |
| Private messages | Unknown | Inbox and dockable chat windows; controlled by group permissions [4] |
| Moderation | Unknown | Kick, ban, IP bans, word filter and audit log [4] |
| Customization | Unknown | Custom CSS and optional JavaScript in the admin panel [2] |
| Website integration | Unknown | Widgets and optional WEB-PHP CMS module [5][6] |
ET-Chat originals and later developments
ET-Chat is also written as ETChat or ET Chat. The developer’s post used here describes the original 3.0.6 release. It lists MySQL and PostgreSQL. PostgreSQL is therefore a documented option for this ET-Chat version, while SPChat requires MySQL or MariaDB.
Which license covers your ETChat package?
The developer describes CC BY-NC 2.0 for non-commercial use with the copyright notice retained, and a commercial license offered at the time. That does not verify a current price or a commercial license available today. Check the license file and origin of your specific package.
Forks can differ in code, features, PHP support and licensing. A fork is not treated as a substitute for the original in this comparison. Historical statements are not extended to all 3.0.7 installations either.
Before choosing an alternative
If your ET-Chat installation already fits your hosting and account system, that is a useful starting point. Check the rooms, login integrations and customizations you use before switching. This table does not assess your installation’s stability or security.
For SPChat, see the server requirements and installation guide. Transferring ET-Chat data requires an assessment of your specific package.
SPChat Download costs
SPChat Download costs €99.99* once, including one year of update access. Update access can then be renewed optionally for €39* per year. The installed version remains usable. Your own hosting and its costs are separate. There are no artificial user or room limits; server resources determine capacity. See the pricing page for details.
Sources and limitations
Sources relate to the scope stated above. Historical documentation does not confirm current PHP compatibility. Later versions and private modifications may differ.