Message on Reddit 2026 – Chat Limits + Device Steps Table
How to Message on Reddit 2026 – Private Chats + Device Steps
Messaging on Reddit sends private chats to users or subs. Part of core Reddit actions after search Reddit users. Direct macro topic: Reddit private communication methods. Save chat screenshots or linked videos with Reddit Video Downloader.
Envelope → New Message → u/username → Type → Send.
Chats from profiles/comments. New accounts limited (10/day first week).
What is Reddit Messaging?
Private messages go one-to-one between users. Chats work for groups or live talk.
Messages send via envelope icon to u/username. Chats start from comments or profiles. Both show in inbox. 500 char limit first week for new accounts.
Entities Table
| Entity | Attribute | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Message URL | Format | reddit.com/message/compose/?to=username |
| Chat Type | One-on-one | Direct from profile |
| Group Chat | Multiple users | Add from existing chat |
| Inbox Tab | Sections | Messages, Chats, Mentions |
| Limits New | First 7 days | 10 messages/day |
Desktop Message Steps
Web takes username direct to compose box with subject.
- Avatar → Messages → New Message
- Enter u/username
- Type body
- Send
Subject optional. Preview shows before send.
Phone App Message Steps
App chat starts faster from user profiles in threads.
- Tap envelope → + New chat
- Type username
- Message box → Send
Pulls recent contacts first. Voice notes on long press.
Start Chat from Comment
Right-click username in post jumps to message screen.
- Post comment → Tap username
- Chat button
- Type first line → Send opens live thread
Device Steps Table
| Device | Steps | Time | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Desktop | Envelope → New → Username → Send | 15s | Full |
| iPhone | Envelope → + → Username → Send | 12s | Voice notes |
| Android | Chat tab → New → Search user | 14s | 500 char new |
| From Post | Username → Message | 8s | Instant |
New Account Message Limits
Reddit blocks spam with daily caps and char counts.
Day 1: 5 messages max. Week 1: 500 chars each. Lifts after 50 karma. Check profile for current limits.
Private vs Public Chat Difference
Messages stay one-to-one. Chats allow adds and mentions.
Messages: private only you two. Chats: add users, @mentions, leave open. Both delete from both sides on remove.
Block Message Spam
Mute users or report direct from inbox.
Chat → Three dots → Block/Mute. Reports go to mods. Filter unknown in settings blocks cold messages.
No Delivery Fixes
Username exact match. Check if blocked or private.
u/exactname no caps. “Message failed” means blocked. Try chat from profile. New users wait 24h cooldown sometimes.