Chatroulette Review 2026: The Original is Showing Its Age

Updated: January 15, 2026
6.5
★★★☆☆
Overall Rating

Summary

Chatroulette pioneered random video chat alongside Omegle back in 2009, but in 2026, the platform feels outdated. While it has improved moderation with face recognition technology, it still struggles with video quality issues and inappropriate content. With only 3M monthly users, it's lost ground to modern alternatives like Komegle.

What Chatroulette Offers

Face Recognition Moderation

Uses facial recognition to detect inappropriate content. While better than nothing, it's not as effective as AI-powered moderation systems like Komegle's.

Safety: ★★★☆☆ 6/10

No Registration Required

Quick anonymous access without creating an account. Good for privacy, but also enables bad actors.

Privacy: ★★★★☆ 7/10

Simple Interface

Straightforward, minimalist design that's easy to use but feels dated compared to modern platforms.

User Experience: ★★★☆☆ 6/10

✅ Pros

  • Face recognition moderation
  • No registration required
  • Free to use
  • Simple, straightforward interface
  • Historical brand recognition

❌ Cons

  • Frequent inappropriate content despite moderation
  • Poor video quality (SD only)
  • No mobile app
  • Outdated interface
  • Smaller user base than competitors
  • No advanced features (filters, interests, etc.)
  • Frequent connection issues
  • No gender or location filters

How Chatroulette Compares

Feature Chatroulette Komegle Ome.tv
Rating 6.5/10 9.5/10 7.5/10
Safety ★★★☆☆ ★★★★★ ★★★★☆
Video Quality SD (480p) HD (1080p) HD (720p)
Mobile App ✗ ✓ ✓
Advanced Features ✗ ✓ Many ✓ Some (Paid)

Final Verdict

Chatroulette holds historical significance as one of the original random chat platforms, but in 2026, it's been surpassed by more modern alternatives. The face recognition moderation is a plus, but it doesn't compensate for poor video quality, lack of mobile apps, and outdated features.

At 6.5/10, it's usable but not recommended when superior options exist. For a modern, safe, and feature-rich experience, Komegle is the clear choice.

Overall Rating: 6.5/10 - Outdated, better alternatives available

Better Alternatives to Chatroulette

Best Choice

Komegle

9.5/10

Modern platform with AI safety, HD video, mobile apps

Try Komegle

Ome.tv

7.5/10

Better moderation, mobile apps, HD video

Camsurf

7.0/10

Strict moderation, location filters
Try the #1 Platform - Komegle