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Element (Matrix) — open source alternative

Decentralized messaging on the Matrix protocol.

Strengths

  • Fully federated — you own your data.
  • End-to-end encryption by default.
  • Bridges to Slack, Discord, WhatsApp, etc.

Weaknesses

  • Self-hosting Synapse or Conduit server is work.
  • E2E encryption UX (device verification) can confuse users.
  • Cross-signing and key backup setup is fiddly.
License: Apache-2.0 Self-host difficulty: 4/5 Hosted cloud optionDesktop: Windows, macOS, LinuxMobile: iOS, Android

Official site · Source on GitHub

Ad slot — OSS middle

Element (Matrix) is used as an alternative to

Slack

Team messaging with channels, threads and integrations.

See all alternatives →

Discord

Voice, video and text chat — popular with gamers and communities.

See all alternatives →

WhatsApp

Global mobile messaging.

See all alternatives →

Microsoft Teams

Video, chat and collaboration bundled with Microsoft 365.

See all alternatives →

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