Version scope and comparison basis
Sources checked on:
PHPopenchat: PHPOpenChat project description and 3.x file archive on SourceForge, which lists 3.0.2. The description does not tie its features to an individual release.
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 | PHPopenchat | SPChat |
|---|---|---|
| License and usage rights | GPLv2 according to the project description [1] | Domain-bound single-site license; non-transferable [3] |
| Documented PHP requirement | Unknown | PHP 8.2 or newer [4] |
| Database / storage | Unknown | MySQL or MariaDB, InnoDB and utf8mb4 [4] |
| Text message transport | Unknown | SSE; HTTP polling fallback [5] |
| Rooms | Private channels are listed [1] | Permanent and temporary rooms, optional passwords [5] |
| Private messages | Unknown | Inbox and dockable chat windows; controlled by group permissions [5] |
| Moderation | Moderation, ignore list and text filters are listed [1] | Kick, ban, IP bans, word filter and audit log [5] |
| Customization | Unknown | Custom CSS and optional JavaScript in the admin panel [3] |
| Website integration | Unknown | Widgets and optional WEB-PHP CMS module [6][7] |
What is documented for PHPopenchat?
PHPopenchat is documented on SourceForge as a PHP web chat. Its description already lists private channels and moderation. These are therefore not features exclusive to SPChat. The 3.x archive lists version 3.0.2. That does not establish current PHP 8 support or the condition of a customized installation.
Which alternative fits your installation?
If you have customized PHPopenchat, first check your actual package, its changes and the intended PHP version in a test environment. GPLv2 and the SPChat domain license have different usage terms. Read both before deciding to switch.
SPChat documents PHP 8.2 or newer and requires MySQL or MariaDB. Transferring existing accounts, passwords and messages needs a separate assessment. This comparison does not promise an automatic PHPopenchat importer. The checklist for replacing older PHP chats helps you prepare.
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.