Tool profile
Element.io
Secure messaging app with strong end-to-end encryption, advanced group chat privacy settings, secure video calls for teams, encrypted communication using Matrix open network. Riot.im is now Element.
Categories
Pricing
What is 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.
Because exact pricing plans are not explicitly detailed in the provided facts beyond being tagged as open source and free, check their official pricing page for current plans. Users can also personalize their experience through rich features like file sharing and voice calls.
Features
Open Source
Element.io is open-source, meaning the code is freely accessible and can be modified by anyone. This allows for transparency, security audits, and customization.
Privacy and Security
Element.io offers end-to-end encryption for secure communication, ensuring that only the intended recipients can read the messages.
Interoperability
It supports the Matrix protocol, which allows for communication across different platforms and services, facilitating greater connectivity.
Rich Feature Set
Element.io provides features such as voice and video calls, file sharing, and integrations with other services, making it suitable for both personal and team use.
Cross-Platform
Available on various platforms including web, desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux), and mobile (iOS, Android), ensuring accessibility from any device.
Customizability
Users can personalize their experience through various settings and even set up their own server for full control over their data.
Screenshots
Element.io vs. its alternatives
| Element.io |  Slack |  Mattermost |  Discord |  Zulip | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pricing | Open source, Free | — | Open source | Open source | Open source |
| Platforms | — | ||||
| Listed features | 6 | 6 | 5 | 8 | 8 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Element.io free?
Element.io is tagged as open source and free. For current plans and advanced offerings, check their pricing page directly.
What is Element.io used for?
Element.io is a communication app used for secure messaging, file sharing, voice and video calls, and encrypted team collaboration via the Matrix open network.
What platforms is Element.io available on?
Element.io is available across web browsers, desktop operating systems including Windows, macOS, and Linux, and mobile devices running iOS and Android.
What is the Open Source feature in Element.io?
Element.io is open-source, meaning its code is freely accessible and modifiable to allow for transparency, security audits, and customization.
Can I use custom servers with Element.io?
Yes, users can set up their own server to gain full control over their data.
What are the best alternatives to Element.io?
Top known alternatives include Slack, Mattermost, and Discord. You might prefer these depending on your specific team communication and platform integration needs.
Alternatives to Element.io
Read the full comparison →Slack
A messaging app for teams who see through the Earth!
Mattermost
Mattermost is an open source alternative to Slack.
Discord
Step up your game with a modern voice & text chat app. Crystal clear voice, multiple server and channel support, mobile apps, and more.
Zulip
Chat for distributed teams. Zulip combines the immediacy of real-time chat with an email threading model. With Zulip, you can catch up on important conversations while ignoring irrelevant ones.
Tox
Send messages, files, create groups and make Tox to Tox audio and video calls. Securely.
Signal
Fast, simple & secure messaging. Privacy that fits in your pocket.
Telegram
Telegram is a messaging app with a focus on speed and security. It’s superfast, simple and free.
Wire
Private & Secure Messenger
WhatsApp Messenger: More than 1 billion people in over 180 countries use WhatsApp to stay in touch with friends and family, anytime and anywhere.
Matrix.org
Matrix is an open standard for decentralized persistent communication over IP.