8 tools compared
Best Steam Chat Alternatives in 2026
Steam Chat (Steam Chat is a chatting app for Steam users that enables them to chat through their cell phones and get updated with what is happening) isn't the right fit for everyone. Below are 8 real alternatives, including free options, pulled straight from our Steam Chat profile.
| # | Tool | Pricing | Platforms |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Slack | — | |
| 2 | Mattermost | Open source | |
| 3 | Discord | Open source | |
| 4 | Element.io | Open source, Free | — |
| 5 | Telegram | Open source | |
| 6 | Mumble | Open source | |
| 7 | Ventrilo | — | |
| 8 | Guilded | — |
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. 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 →6. Mumble
Mumble is an open-source communication software well-suited for users seeking low-latency and high-quality voice chat. It stands out with features like positional audio for gaming, built-in encryption, and custom server support that gives users full control over their server settings, security, and privacy. Being cross-platform, it is available on Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Full Mumble profile →7. Ventrilo
Ventrilo is a Communication software option built for users who need low latency audio communication and high-quality audio utilizing multiple codecs. It features a lightweight client that does not require heavy system resources, ensuring smooth operation on less powerful computers. Additionally, users can utilize custom server hosting to maintain greater control over server settings, security, and group management, with cross-platform support available for both Windows and macOS.
Full Ventrilo profile →8. Guilded
Guilded is designed specifically for gaming communities, offering built-in tools like team management, match recording, and integration with gaming platforms. If you need to organize group activities, it provides event scheduling alongside an integrated calendar that syncs with reminders. For server administrators, the platform includes an advanced roles and permissions system to fine-tune member access. Users can also utilize rich text formatting with media embeds and custom styles in their messages.
Full Guilded profile →