The Best Slack Alternatives for Teams

The ranked list

1. Top pick · Editor’s choice
   1

   Mattermost

   A self-hostable, open-source Slack alternative offering maximum control and security.

   Visit Mattermost →

   Best forOrganizations requiring high security and data sovereignty.

   Pros

   • Self-hosted deployment gives complete control over data and infrastructure.
   • Extensive customization options via plugins and integrations.
   • Strong focus on security and compliance.
   • Open-source nature fosters community contributions and transparency.

   Cons

   • Requires technical expertise to set up and maintain.
   • Can be more complex to manage than cloud-based solutions.
   • The user interface, while functional, may feel less polished than Slack.

   PricingOPEN_SOURCE

   Verdict. Mattermost is the best choice for teams prioritizing security, control, and customization. The self-hosting requirement is a barrier to entry for some, but the benefits for those who can manage it are significant.

2. 2

   Discord

   Initially built for gaming communities, Discord offers robust voice and text communication features.

   Visit Discord →

   Best forTeams comfortable with a more casual and feature-rich communication style.

   Pros

   • Excellent voice and video chat quality.
   • Feature-rich with bots, integrations, and customization options.
   • Free tier is very generous.
   • Strong mobile apps.

   Cons

   • User interface can be overwhelming for some.
   • Originally designed for communities and may include features irrelevant to professional use.
   • Privacy concerns have been raised regarding data collection.

   PricingFREEMIUM

   Verdict. Discord is a surprisingly capable Slack alternative, particularly for teams that heavily rely on voice communication. While the gaming-focused origins are apparent, its robust features and generous free tier make it a strong contender.

3. 3

   Rocket.Chat

   An open-source communication platform focused on security and customization.

   Visit Rocket.Chat →

   Best forOrganizations needing a secure, self-hosted communication solution.

   Pros

   • Open-source and self-hostable for complete data control.
   • Offers features like live chat for customer support.
   • Integrates with a wide range of services.
   • Customizable interface and branding options.

   Cons

   • Self-hosting requires technical expertise.
   • Can be resource-intensive to run.
   • The user interface might not be as intuitive as some other options.

   PricingFREEMIUM

   Verdict. Rocket.Chat is a strong open-source alternative providing extensive customization and security options. Ideal for teams with the technical resources to manage their own infrastructure.

4. 4

   Microsoft Teams

   A comprehensive collaboration platform deeply integrated with Microsoft 365.

   Visit Microsoft Teams →

   Best forOrganizations already invested in the Microsoft ecosystem.

   Pros

   • Tight integration with Microsoft 365 apps (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).
   • Robust video conferencing capabilities.
   • Strong security and compliance features.
   • Offers file storage and sharing through SharePoint.

   Cons

   • Can be complex to set up and administer.
   • Requires a Microsoft 365 subscription.
   • Interface can feel cluttered and overwhelming.
   • Performance can be inconsistent.

   PricingPAID

   Verdict. If your organization heavily uses Microsoft 365, Teams is a natural choice. Its deep integration with the suite is a significant advantage, but it's less appealing if you're not already a Microsoft customer. Be sure to compare it to other [communication-platforms](communication-platforms) to assess the full range of options.

5. 5

   Element

   A secure and decentralized messaging platform based on the Matrix protocol.

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   Best forPrivacy-conscious teams that prioritize end-to-end encryption.

   Pros

   • End-to-end encryption by default.
   • Decentralized architecture enhances security and privacy.
   • Open-source and auditable.
   • Interoperable with other Matrix-based clients.

   Cons

   • Can be technically challenging to set up and configure.
   • Smaller user base compared to other platforms.
   • User experience is still evolving.

   PricingFREEMIUM

   Verdict. Element is an excellent choice for teams that demand the highest levels of security and privacy. Its decentralized nature and end-to-end encryption provide a strong layer of protection.

At a glance

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

Frequently asked questions