Updated: November 27, 2022

15 Best Slack Alternatives in 2023

You found our list of the top Slack alternatives.

The best Slack alternatives are team messaging platforms other than Slack used inside an organization for instant communication and teamwork. Examples include Microsoft Teams, Discord, and Fleep. The purpose of these alternatives is to ensure efficient internal communication if your company cannot use the Slack solution.

These tools are similar to remote work software and online collaboration tools for business. If you prefer the original, then you can read about Slack apps, Slack games, and Slack channel ideas.

This article contains:

  • free Slack alternatives
  • self-hosted Slack alternatives
  • open source Slack alternatives
  • Slack client alternatives
  • Slack teams alternatives

Here we go!

List of the best Slack alternatives

Slack is a hosted service, meaning you can register, set up your workspace, and start using the features. If you want Slack team alternatives that serve a similar purpose, the following are some of the best currently available for your perusal,

1. Microsoft Teams

With over 270 million daily active users, Microsoft Teams is quickly becoming one of the main Slack teams alternatives in the enterprise communication space. The app’s primary selling point is its group chat function, which has interactive features such as modifying or removing messages at any time and initiating new threads.

Team’s features include a lively group chat, private chat options, video, and voice calling. In addition, you can host screen-sharing video conferences and even record them. Teams integrates with all Microsoft Office apps, including OneDrive, and features threaded messaging for various themes.

Microsoft Teams offers a free membership with unlimited message history, 5GB of personal storage, and 10GB of shared storage space. For unlimited access to the app’s capabilities. However, you will need to subscribe to a package which costs anywhere from $4 to $22 per user per month.

Learn more about Microsoft Teams.

2. Chanty

Chanty is a basic, feature-limited chat software that focuses on helping complete tasks. Businesses or groups focusing mostly on task management might benefit most from using Chanty’s AI-powered interface. The app maintains a simple interface and includes tools that help teams stay in sync while they complete individual tasks.

The prominent placement of the “task” button emphasizes that task completion takes precedence over chit-chat. A “teambook” is available for coordinating team efforts across tasks, communications, and files. Chanty’s communication features include public and private chats, group phone calls, and video chats. Third-party app integrations are also available.

Neither group calls nor video capabilities are available on Chanty’s free plan, which tops out at ten users. However, for a monthly payment of $3 or $4 per user per month paid yearly, you may upgrade to the premium plan.

Learn more about Chanty.

3. Ryver

Ryver’s chat features are similar to those of Slack. Open forums, private channels for teams to separate issues, and direct conversations with individual users are all excellent options for improving communication. Ryver goes beyond basic task management by allowing users to create kanban-style tasks inside the interface straight from a message and assign due dates and reminders. Although there is technically no limit on the number of participants in a call, the service is optimized for a group of five.

In addition to its usefulness as a project management tool, Ryver’s ability to connect with a wide variety of third-party programs and its infinite chat records, task creation, and personal boards are all noteworthy features. The app also offers SSO feature to keep your data safe and secure.

Despite the lack of a free tier, Ryver does provide a 14-day free trial of its premium plans. This feature is exclusive to the Medium Pack plan, which costs $4.67 per user per month. However, the price increases with the number of users.

Learn more about Ryver.

4. Rocket.Chat

If you seek free, open source Slack alternatives, thenour best bet is Rocket.Chat. Rocket.open Chat’s source nature is one of its distinguishing features. The platform is ideal for companies that value privacy and want complete creative control over their app usage. In addition, you have complete creative freedom to modify the tool’s source code to suit your business requirements.

Rocket.Chat is an instant-deployable, feature-rich alternative to Slack that allows you to develop the app to your specifications. The app is helpful for international teams since it translates chats and discussions into more than 20 other languages. You can make voice and video calls and import and export your Slack data. Rocket.Chat offers end-to-end encryption too.

If you are looking for a cost-free alternative, then consider the self-managed package, which includes an upgrade to the more robust Enterprise plan.

Learn more about Rocket.Chat.

5. Discord

You may be familiar with Discord’s widespread usage in the gaming community. Yet, should also know that the service’s flexible, feature-rich platform suits a wide range of commercial applications. Even though the comparison might seem discordant, Discord remains a great option for organizations searching for cheaper Slack client alternatives.

Despite its popularity as a voice chat and live streaming platform for gamers, Discord has many other useful functions. For example, your company can hold project discussions easily with the file-sharing features and create threads for subtopics. Besides the push-to-talk audio chat, you also get limitless storage space, file sharing, and a searchable message archive. You can create different text and audio channels to sort your workplace communications. Plus, you may share your screen in real-time.

You may try out Discord’s free plan with many built-in features, but the Discord Nitroplan adds HD video and screen sharing, more customization choices, and bigger file uploads if you want to use it for business.

Learn more about Discord.

6. Google Meet

Google Meet, formerly Google Hangouts, is a tool developed and tailored for enterprises that rely heavily on Google Workspace. If you need features like meeting coordination, email exchange, and presentation, Google Meet may be a better option than Slack.

While it is true that Slack allows integrations with other Google products, there are advantages to utilizing the platform itself rather than a third-party program. Beyond making audio and video calls instantly and creating virtual rooms for teleconferences, you can also make breakout rooms.

Google Meet offers one-on-one and group chat options. The app integrates with other applications, such as HubSpot and Salesforce, for better optimization. Additional benefits include higher security features like two-factor authentication and single sign-on. You can use Google Meet to coordinate your team’s efforts across Google Workspace products.

Google Meet has a free tier and premium tiers that range from $6 to $18 per user per month. The Enterprise package is ideal if your company is bigger and requires special pricing.

Learn more about Google Meet.

7. RingCentral Video

If you are tired of constantly moving between chat, task management, calendar, and file management apps, then you will love RingCentral Video, previously known as Glip. With RingCentral Video, you can save the hassle of switching between platforms by keeping your applications in one central location. The app encourages teamwork by reducing managers’ workloads in several areas.

The centralized app administration is the main selling point of RingCentral Video, but the free messaging and access to team discussions and communications are nice bonuses. In addition to its task management and project management tools, RingCentral Video also allows for asynchronous collaboration with project management features and group video calls and meetings. Plus, the platform provides over 20 custom integrations.

Multiple plans are available for RingCentral Video, allowing you to choose the best fit for your business. The Essential plan allows up to 20 users, while the next tier supports up to 99. Each plan has a little price increase if you have over 100 users.

Learn more about RingCentral Video.

8. Pumble

Pumble is unusual among the programs because its free subscription includes features like unlimited users, chat history, and messages. The app markets itself as an alternative to email, Microsoft Teams, and Discord, as it incorporates features from all three. Pumble works with many operating systems and is usable on mobile apps.

From a feature perspective, it is equivalent to or even superior to Slack. The app’s direct messaging, channel creation, and threaded discussions inside channels are all reminiscent of Slack’s features. In addition, you can host phone and video calls, exchange files, and work directly with users outside of your organization. Paid users, however, have access to features like screen sharing and administrative controls.

Pumble’s free plan is among the finest in the industry, but it only allows a total of 10GB of storage. The Pro plan’s per-user 10GB storage is a tempting offer for just $1.99 per month. Guest access, screen sharing, permissions control, and a tappable sidebar are also available.

Learn more about Pumble.

9. Flowdock

If you are seeking cheaper self-hosted Slack alternatives but still want all the features, Flowdock is an excellent paid option to consider. Originally intended as a means of communication among programmers, the app’s success caused the developers to tailor it to the requirements of project managers and other specialized business users.

Like Slack’s “channel” idea, Flowdock employs threads to organize discussions, with an additional color-coding option for the threads. This feature is ideal for teams that need to work together on various topics, rather than just having one-on-one conversations. In addition, you may share your screen while chatting through voice or video.

Private conversations may take place in one-on-one Flows with chosen coworkers, and every user can access a common team mailbox. If you are looking for more complex capabilities, Flowdock has an open API you may utilize to tailor your integrations to your use case.

Flowdock is also compatible with mobile devices. You can try Flowdock for free for 30 days and see whether it meets your needs. Afterward, the cheapest plan is $3 per user each month. Upgrading to the Enterprise package gives you features like data encryption, Flow-level management, and single sign-on.

Learn more about Flowdock.

10. Fleep

Fleep is a streamlined instant messaging service ideal for teams who like keeping processes simple. If your workflow relies heavily on email for communicating about critical subjects, then this integration will be a huge boon. The app has an open-network approach, so you can talk to workspaces and businesses outside your immediate area if they also use Fleep.

Fleep allows users to have endless private discussions and even provides read receipts for texts sent. Assigning tasks and keeping tabs on their progress is a breeze with the pinboard feature of this powerful project management tool. In addition, Fleep allows cloud storage for documents and cross-collaboration.

Fleep offers a freemium version. However, users are restricted to 1GB of storage and may only have one group chat at a time. When you upgrade to the Business plan, you can access services like unlimited individual or group chats and 100GB of file storage. You can try out the Enterprise package instead if you have a big team and want to save money.

Learn more about Fleep.

11. Mattermost

The main selling point of Mattermost is its privacy possibilities, in contrast to other applications where chat-based capabilities and project management perspectives dominate. The program is accessible through a browser, desktop web app, or mobile device. You can install the software via a server-based option on any operating system.

The app is open-course, meaning the code, libraries, and server APIs are all available for customization. Although Mattermost does provide both public and private chatting with limitless message searching, it does not include a group video conferencing feature.

Additionally, if you choose, you may use a more secure kind of authentication called multi-factor authentication when exchanging files. Mattermost offers over 700 third-party integrations.

The free version of Mattermost has a small storage capacity of 10GB. The monthly cost for the least paid plan begins at $10 per user. The Enterprise package comes with more complex integrations and reporting for compliance purposes, with pricing tailored to each company.

Learn more about Mattermost.

12. Meta Workplace Groups

Meta Workplace Groups is a free alternative to consider if your business is searching for a low-key way to facilitate communication and cooperation among employees and clients. Meta Groups works with the Workplace suite, designed for internal corporate communication and collaboration. You can communicate with an unlimited number of users at no cost. If you are working in a team and want to ensure users see your changes, utilize the Official Groups.

Comments and reactions to your articles are another way to get feedback and replies. Meta Workplace Groups offers free video and audio calls for groups of up to 20 individuals and one-on-one collaboration.

Learn more about Meta Workplace Groups.

13. Troop Messenger

Like the other team communication tools on our list, Troop provides text messaging with a read-receipt option, video calling, and voice calling. Managers searching for a more secure environment may take advantage of the remote desktop control and still share their screens with employees for reference purposes.

As a bonus, “burnout” is available in the paid premium edition and allows users to collaborate in a private post that stores no message history. In addition, Troop Messenger allows for two-way audio and video calls and text-based chats for private interactions. Alternatively, you may hold group chats or talks convos. The main features previews of shared files, remote screen sharing, and desktop control. Additionally, Troop Messenger is an encrypted messaging app for teamwork.

If you want to try out Troop, then you can do so risk-free for seven days. SaaS Premium is the most well-known model. However, prices vary by use case and kind of business. The Enterprise plan offers 1TB of storage for $5 per user per month and is a good choice if you need additional space.

Learn more about Troop Messenger.

14. Hive

Hive does not see itself as primarily a communications tool, hence it is not easy to categorize. Instead, Hive revolves around project management capabilities that let you set up, allocate, and check in on assignments. Users can be sure that their teams will remain on top of critical tasks while using the app’s real-time chat feature.

Personal to-do lists, project status updates, and direct job assignments are just a few features available. Hive also allows integration with other applications and has one-on-one and group conversations.

Although Hive is a free option on our list of alternatives to Slack, its freemium approach is only suitable for single users. Organizations should probably go with a subscription service. On the other hand, hive Enterprise is an excellent option for bespoke project management needs.

Learn more about Hive.

15. Jostle

Jostle blends the idea of a messaging app with the philosophy of an intranet to help organizations maintain a connection with their staff and increase morale. You may compare the app to an internal social network that only your company’s employees can access.

Jostle has standard capabilities, including voice and video calls and the ability to send and receive messages and status updates in several languages. Streaming software like JostleTV and real-time polling tools may increase audience participation. Jostle also offers third-party integrations and a user directory to help you track your team’s output.

Jostle is unlike most other services since it does not use a tiered price structure. The price depends on the size of your company and the functionality you need. There is no zero-cost option.

Learn more about Jostle.

Conclusion

The effectiveness of Slack is a significant factor in its widespread adoption. The platform is more versatile than most team chat systems and performs well in most situations, yet it is not without its drawbacks. Due to its focus on specialized usage, larger firms may experience issues. In this case, it is a good idea to explore comparable options that might provide additional features useful to your organization. Slack is only for some, but if it does not work for you, you have other choices to try.

Next, read more about collaboration at work and team building tools.

FAQ: Slack alternatives

Here are frequently asked questions about Slack alternatives.

What are Slack alternatives?

Slack alternatives are group chat or team messaging apps aside from Slack. Some of these options offer online video chat and features that enable teamwork and collaboration. Fortunately, you may choose from a wide range of possibilities when searching for a team communication method that works for you.

What are the best alternatives to Slack?

The best alternatives to Slack include Flowdock, Rocket. Chat, and RingCentral Video. Slack alternatives work well for various companies. Your current software ecosystem, company culture, and team size all play a role in determining the best option for you.

Are there any free Slack alternatives?

If you want a free alternative to Slack, you should consider Pumble, Chanty, and Twist. Depending on your needs, these options offer a free plan and a chance to update to a higher-tier package.

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Author:

People & Culture Director at teambuilding.com.
Grace is the Director of People & Culture at TeamBuilding. She studied Industrial and Labor Relations at Cornell University, Information Science at East China Normal University and earned an MBA at Washington State University.

LinkedIn Grace He