10 tools compared
Best Matrix.org Alternatives in 2026
Matrix.org (Matrix is an open standard for decentralized persistent communication over IP) isn't the right fit for everyone. Below are 10 real alternatives, including free options, pulled straight from our Matrix.org profile.
| # | Tool | Pricing | Platforms |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Slack | — | |
| 2 | Mattermost | Open source | |
| 3 | Discord | Open source | |
| 4 | Element.io | Open source, Free | — |
| 5 | Tox | Open source | |
| 6 | Signal | Open source | |
| 7 | Telegram | Open source | |
| 8 | Jitsi | — | |
| 9 | Rocket.Chat | Open source | |
| 10 | Revolt.chat | Open source | — |
1. Slack
Slack is a messaging app classified under Project Management for teams who see through the Earth! It facilitates quick decision-making and immediate problem solving through features like Real-Time Communication and Channel Organization. Users can also utilize Integration Capabilities with tools like Google Drive, Trello, and GitHub, powerful Search Functionality, Custom Notifications, and Cross-Platform Availability on desktop, web, and mobile.
Full Slack profile →2. Mattermost
Mattermost is an open source alternative to Slack designed for Team Collaboration, specifically catering to organizations that require strong security controls and large-scale deployments. Because it is self-hosted or hosted in a private cloud, it is well-suited for industries with stringent compliance requirements. The platform includes comprehensive features such as direct messages, group chats, and file sharing, along with plugins and integrations that provide a high degree of flexibility.
Full Mattermost profile →3. Discord
Discord is a communication tool built for online communities and users looking for a free-to-use option. It features high-quality voice and video chat, customizable servers with channels, roles, and permissions, and rich media integration for images, videos, and links. Users can also utilize bots and integrations to automate tasks, provide information, and entertain members through a user-friendly interface.
Full Discord profile →4. Element.io
Element.io is well-suited for users in the Communication category who prioritize privacy, security, and open-source transparency. Built on the Matrix open network, it provides end-to-end encryption for messaging, advanced group chat privacy settings, and secure video calls for teams. Key features include cross-platform accessibility across web, desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux), and mobile (iOS, Android), along with the ability to set up your own server for full data control.
Full Element.io profile →5. Tox
Tox is a communication tool built for users who prioritize privacy and security through end-to-end encryption. It provides text messaging, voice and video calls, and file sharing without relying on a central server, which eliminates single points of failure and reduces data breach risks. Because it is fully open source, users can audit the code for vulnerabilities or contribute improvements directly.
Full Tox profile →6. Signal
Signal is a communication tool built for users who prioritize privacy and security across iOS, Android, and Web platforms. Its standout capabilities include End-to-End Encryption, Open Source code transparency, and a User Privacy policy that does not store metadata about contacts, messages, or activity. Beyond text messaging, it supports voice calls, video calls, and file sharing for versatile day-to-day use.
Full Signal profile →7. Telegram
Telegram is a Communication app built for users who need a free, ad-free messaging platform with a focus on speed and security. It stands out through features like end-to-end encryption for Secret Chats using the MTProto protocol, cloud storage for messages and files, and large group chats supporting up to 200,000 members. Users also get access to file sharing up to 2GB, custom bots for automation, multi-platform support across iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux, and extensive appearance customization.
Full Telegram profile →8. Jitsi
Jitsi is a communication platform suited for users looking for open-source video calling and chat capabilities. It stands out by offering end-to-end encryption, the ability to host your own instances, and a user-friendly interface that does not require an account to start or join meetings. Its source code is freely available for inspection and modification, and it supports integration with various platforms.
Full Jitsi profile →9. Rocket.Chat
Rocket.Chat is a JavaScript-based web chat server built on the Meteor fullstack framework, categorized under Communication. It is well-suited for organizations seeking an open source platform with self-hosted data privacy that complies with data protection regulations. Key capabilities include cross-platform support across web browsers, iOS, Android, and desktop applications, plus integrations with tools like GitHub, Jira, and Google Drive.
Full Rocket.Chat profile →10. Revolt.chat
Revolt.chat is a communication platform built for users who prioritize privacy and customization in their chat applications. The service features end-to-end encryption to secure messages from third-party access, an open-source codebase for transparency, and a community-controlled development model where users can contribute feedback and direct features. Additionally, the platform operates entirely without advertisements for an uninterrupted experience.
Full Revolt.chat profile →