In fact, if you already use Pidgin, you can easily copy your settings from the installed version to the portable version's Data folder. We liked the installed version when we tested it, and we like the portable version just as much. In all other ways, Pidgin Portable is just like the locally installed version in features and performance. Advanced options include proxy settings, client log-in, and multiple simultaneous log-ins.
We could also use the Add Account tool to configure a local alias and buddy icon to use in all accounts, and we could authorize new mail notifications. Pidgin Portable automatically recognizes most chat programs, but we could also add 17 different accounts manually, and edit our settings from the Add Account dialog. Of course, the general recommendations apply, too-above all, "Stay Safe." The documentation includes specific recommendations for the portable version, such as removing the USB drive when you're finished with Pidgeon Portable if you're running the program from such a device. Pidgin Portable's download includes a browser-based Help file. We saved our download to a folder on our desktop. You can save the program to any directory, including USB drives and other remote or portable destinations, and run it with a click. Since PortableApps converted Pidgin, we were confident that the portable version would download and run with no problems, and that proved to be the case. It handles many plug-ins, including encryption tools. Like the standard installed version, Pidgin Portable is freeware, but its portability means you can take your IM account settings and buddy lists with you on a USB drive. It handles multiple instant messaging accounts in one simple interface, including not only the big names like AOL, Yahoo, MSN, and ICQ but also less common networks such as Jabber, SILC, XMPP, and MXit. Pidgin Portable is a fully portable version of Pidgin, the unified chat app formerly known as GAIM.