Top Microsoft Teams Alternatives for 2024

The ranked list

1. Top pick · Editor’s choice
   1

   Slack

   A leading team communication platform with robust integrations and a user-friendly interface.

   Visit Slack →

   Best forTeams needing extensive integrations and a well-established ecosystem.

   Pros

   • Extensive app directory with integrations to over 800 tools, streamlining workflows.
   • Huddles offer quick audio/video calls directly within channels, fostering spontaneous collaboration.
   • Powerful search functionality allows users to quickly locate messages and files across all channels.
   • Canvas feature supports document co-editing and project management within Slack.

   Cons

   • Can become expensive as team size grows, due to per-user pricing.
   • Message history limitations on the Free plan may be insufficient for some teams.
   • The abundance of features and integrations can feel overwhelming for new users.

   PricingFREEMIUM

   Verdict. Slack is a feature-rich and highly extensible platform that’s ideal for teams heavily invested in integrated workflows. However, cost can be a significant factor as usage scales.

2. 2

   Mattermost

   An open-source, self-hosted Slack alternative offering greater control and security.

   Visit Mattermost →

   Best forOrganizations with strict security requirements or a preference for self-hosting.

   Pros

   • Self-hosting provides complete control over data and security.
   • Open-source nature allows for customization and extension.
   • Strong focus on security with features like data encryption and compliance certifications.
   • Mobile and desktop apps provide a consistent user experience across devices.

   Cons

   • Requires technical expertise to set up and maintain self-hosted instances.
   • The app directory is smaller than Slack’s, potentially limiting integration options.
   • User interface can appear less polished compared to commercial offerings.

   PricingOPEN_SOURCE

   Verdict. Mattermost is an excellent choice for security-conscious organizations willing to invest in self-hosting. It provides a powerful and customizable communication platform with complete data control.

3. 3

   Discord

   A versatile communication platform originally designed for gaming communities, but also effective for professional teams.

   Visit Discord →

   Best forTeams that want a free, feature-rich platform with excellent voice and video communication.

   Pros

   • Excellent voice and video quality, making it ideal for meetings and presentations.
   • Robust permissions system allowing granular control over channel access.
   • Free to use with a generous feature set, making it accessible for small teams.
   • Screen sharing functionality built-in for easy collaboration.

   Cons

   • Originally designed for gaming, so the interface and terminology may not appeal to all professional users.
   • Limited integration options compared to Slack or Microsoft Teams.
   • Focus on communities can sometimes lead to a less organized communication structure.

   PricingFREEMIUM

   Verdict. Discord is a surprisingly strong contender, especially for teams prioritizing voice and video communication and seeking a cost-effective solution. Its gaming roots don't necessarily detract from its professional usability.

4. 4

   Rocket.Chat

   A customizable, open-source team chat platform with a focus on data privacy.

   Visit Rocket.Chat →

   Best forOrganizations prioritizing data sovereignty and requiring a highly customizable chat solution.

   Pros

   • Open-source and self-hostable giving full data control.
   • Offers end-to-end encryption for secure communication.
   • Livechat functionality supports customer support interactions.
   • Extensible through apps and integrations.

   Cons

   • Self-hosting requires technical expertise to set up and maintain.
   • The user interface can feel less polished than some commercial alternatives.
   • Pricing for cloud-hosted solutions is contact sales only.

   Pricingself-hosted, contact sales

   Verdict. Rocket.Chat provides a powerful and flexible communication platform for organizations prioritizing data privacy and control. Self-hosting is fairly complex, but the security benefits may justify the effort.

5. 5

   Zoho Cliq

   A streamlined team communication tool integrated within the Zoho ecosystem.

   Visit Zoho Cliq →

   Best forBusinesses already using other Zoho applications seeking a unified platform.

   Pros

   • Seamless integration with other Zoho products like CRM and Projects.
   • Offers task management and workflow automation capabilities.
   • Built-in video conferencing and screen sharing.
   • Affordable pricing plans suitable for small and medium-sized businesses.

   Cons

   • Less extensive app directory compared to Slack.
   • May not be the best choice for teams not already invested in the Zoho ecosystem.
   • Feature set is less comprehensive than some of the leading platforms.

   PricingFree trial

   Verdict. Zoho Cliq is a compelling option for Zoho users, offering a convenient and integrated communication experience. However, its standalone value may be less competitive for teams not already using other Zoho products.

At a glance

Side-by-side comparison of the alternatives ranked above.

Frequently asked questions

Head-to-head

• Integrations

  Winner: Slack

  Slack's extensive app directory provides unparalleled integration options.

• Security

  Winner: Mattermost

  Self-hosting and open-source nature provides complete control over data and security.

• Price

  Winner: Discord

  Discord's generous free plan offers significant value.

• Ease of Use

  Winner: Slack

  Slack offers a polished and intuitive user interface.