The best open source alternative to Slack is Rocket.Chat. If that doesn't suit you, we've compiled a ranked list of other open source Slack alternatives to help you find a suitable replacement. Other interesting open source alternatives to Slack are: Mattermost, Nextcloud, Zulip, and Huly.
Slack alternatives are mainly Team Chat & Messaging Tools but may also be Encrypted Communication Tools or Collaborative Workspaces. Browse these if you want a narrower list of alternatives or looking for a specific functionality of Slack.
Open-source chat solution offering real-time messaging, video calls, and file sharing for teams of all sizes.

Rocket.Chat is a powerful, open-source communication platform designed to revolutionize the way teams collaborate. With its robust features and flexible deployment options, Rocket.Chat caters to organizations of all sizes, from small startups to large enterprises.
Key benefits of Rocket.Chat include:
Whether you're looking to improve internal team communication, streamline customer support, or create a community platform, Rocket.Chat offers the tools and flexibility to meet your unique needs. Experience the power of open-source communication and take control of your team's collaboration today.
Looking for open source alternatives to other popular services? Check out other posts in the alternatives series and openalternative.co, a directory of open source software with filters for tags and alternatives for easy browsing and discovery.
Mattermost provides a flexible, open-source platform for secure team collaboration, designed for organizations with strict security and privacy requirements.

Mattermost is an open-source collaboration platform built for organizations that require high levels of privacy, security and control over their communications. Some key features and benefits include:
Mattermost is designed for industries like defense, government, financial services, and critical infrastructure that have stringent requirements around data sovereignty and security. It provides a self-hosted alternative to cloud-based tools, giving organizations complete control over their collaboration environment.
The platform aims to improve team productivity and accelerate mission-critical work by providing a centralized hub for communication, process management, and integrations. With its focus on security and flexibility, Mattermost enables organizations to collaborate effectively even in highly regulated or air-gapped environments.
Nextcloud offers on-premises file sync, sharing and collaboration platform with advanced security and privacy features.

Nextcloud is an open source, self-hosted file sync and share platform that allows organizations to store, share and collaborate on files securely.
Key features include:
Nextcloud is designed for organizations that need secure file sharing and collaboration while maintaining control over their data. It can be deployed on-premises or with a trusted cloud provider.
Some key benefits of Nextcloud:
Nextcloud is used by thousands of organizations worldwide, including major enterprises, educational institutions and government agencies. It provides a powerful yet easy-to-use platform for secure content collaboration.
Zulip is an open-source team chat app that uses threaded conversations to keep communication organized and efficient for teams of all sizes.

Zulip is a powerful, open-source team chat application designed to revolutionize how distributed teams communicate. Unlike traditional chat tools that can feel chaotic and stressful, Zulip's unique threading model organizes conversations by topic, making it easy to manage multiple workstreams and stay on top of important discussions.
Key features and benefits:
Threaded Conversations: Zulip's core feature is its topic-based threading, which allows teams to have multiple conversations simultaneously without losing context or creating confusion.
Efficient Communication: The organized structure helps team members quickly catch up on relevant discussions and reduces information overload.
Flexible Deployment: Choose between Zulip Cloud for convenience or self-host the 100% open-source software for ultimate control and compliance.
Cross-Platform Support: Access Zulip from desktop and mobile apps, ensuring seamless communication across devices.
Rich Integrations: Connect Zulip with your favorite tools and services to streamline workflows.
Powerful Search: Easily find past conversations and shared knowledge with Zulip's robust search functionality.
Open Source: Benefit from a transparent, community-driven development process and the ability to customize the platform to your needs.
Zulip is ideal for various use cases:
With its focus on organized communication, Zulip empowers teams to work more efficiently, make decisions faster, and create a searchable knowledge repository as a natural byproduct of their conversations. Whether you're managing a small team or coordinating thousands of contributors, Zulip provides the structure and flexibility needed to succeed in today's distributed work environment.
An open-source platform that combines project management, team communication, document collaboration, and virtual office spaces in one integrated solution.

Transform your team's workflow with this comprehensive open-source platform that replaces multiple tools with one unified solution. Featuring robust project management capabilities, real-time team communication, and collaborative document editing.
Key highlights include:
The platform excels in remote team collaboration with features like instant notifications, keyboard shortcuts, and advanced filtering. Teams can manage projects, conduct meetings, share documents, and communicate effectively - all within a single, intuitive interface. The built-in virtual office functionality makes remote work feel natural, while the GitHub integration ensures developers stay in sync with their workflow.
Open-source platform for encrypted communication, file sharing, and collaboration based on the Matrix protocol.

Element is a powerful, open-source communication platform that puts privacy and security at the forefront. Built on the decentralized Matrix protocol, Element offers a comprehensive suite of features for both personal and professional use.
Key benefits of Element include:
Whether you're an individual seeking secure messaging or an organization looking for a flexible, scalable communication solution, Element provides the tools you need to stay connected while maintaining control over your data and privacy.
Looking for open source alternatives to other popular services? Check out other posts in the alternatives series and openalternative.co, a directory of open source software with filters for tags and alternatives for easy browsing and discovery.
Free, open-source instant messaging and VoIP platform with full Markdown support, voice/video calls, moderation tools, and self-hosting options for communities.

Fluxer is a comprehensive communication platform that prioritizes user privacy and community building. This free and open-source messaging app offers everything you need to connect with friends, organize groups, and build thriving communities.
Core Features:
Customization & Control:
Built for Privacy: Made in Sweden with a focus on transparency, Fluxer is fully open source under AGPLv3 license. The platform supports responsible disclosure through their security bug bounty program and maintains active community involvement through their beta program.
Perfect for individuals seeking Discord alternatives, communities wanting data sovereignty, or organizations requiring secure, customizable communication solutions.
Install your own group chat system with @mentions, DMs, and mobile support. One-time purchase, no monthly fees. Includes full source code for customization.

Break free from endless subscription fees with this self-hosted group chat solution that puts you in complete control. If you've used Slack or Teams, you already know how to use Campfire - but without the monthly charges that never end.
Key features include:
Perfect for multiple use cases:
Technical advantages:
You get the complete Rails source code, allowing full customization for your specific needs. One-time purchase, no recurring fees - own your chat system and your data forever.
Open-source collaboration platform combining real-time chat, document editing, file sharing, and project management. Self-host for complete control.

Colanode is a comprehensive collaboration platform that brings together all the tools your team needs in one self-hosted solution. Unlike traditional cloud-based alternatives, this local-first application gives you complete control over your data while providing instant access to your content.
Key features include:
The platform is designed for teams who value data ownership and privacy while maintaining the collaborative features found in popular tools like Slack and Notion. With self-hosting capabilities, you can deploy Colanode on your own infrastructure, ensuring sensitive information never leaves your control.
Whether you're managing projects, writing documentation, or coordinating with team members, Colanode provides a unified workspace that works both online and offline, making it ideal for distributed teams and organizations with strict data governance requirements.
Cinny offers a simple, elegant, and secure interface for Matrix-based conversations, protected by end-to-end encryption.

Cinny is an open-source Matrix client that provides a secure and elegant interface for seamless conversations. Built on the Matrix protocol, it offers:
Cinny is constantly evolving to create a better communication experience. As an open-source project, it benefits from community contributions and transparency.
Key features:
Whether you're looking for a secure messaging solution for personal use or team collaboration, Cinny offers a refreshing alternative to traditional chat applications. Experience the power of open-source, decentralized communication with Cinny's user-friendly approach to Matrix.
Modern chat platform featuring text channels, community building tools, fine-grained permissions, and complete privacy protection. Open-source and ad-free.

Stoat (formerly Revolt) is a modern chat application that puts you at the center of your communication experience. This privacy-first platform offers a refreshing alternative to mainstream messaging apps with its commitment to user control and data protection.
Key Features:
Privacy & Security:
Whether you're building a community, managing a team, or just chatting with friends, Stoat provides the tools you need while respecting your privacy. The platform combines modern chat features with old-school principles of user ownership and data protection.
Looking for open source alternatives to other popular services? Check out other posts in the alternatives series and openalternative.co, a directory of open source software with filters for tags and alternatives for easy browsing and discovery.
A comprehensive collaboration platform offering end-to-end encrypted messaging, file sharing, and video calls with enterprise-grade security and compliance features.

Wire delivers military-grade security without sacrificing user experience. The platform features always-on end-to-end encryption for messages, files, and calls, while maintaining an intuitive interface for seamless team collaboration.
Key capabilities include:
Trusted by industry leaders including BMW, ExxonMobil, and government organizations worldwide, Wire ensures your sensitive communications remain private and compliant. The platform is particularly valuable for organizations requiring:
Build your own community space for gaming, chatting, and hanging out with friends worldwide. Customize your environment for the perfect social experience.

Mezon is a comprehensive community platform designed for gamers and social enthusiasts who want to create their own digital hangout spaces. Whether you're looking to organize gaming sessions, chat with friends, or build a thriving community, Mezon provides all the tools you need.
The platform allows you to create fully customized spaces tailored to your group's interests and needs. You can set up dedicated channels for different games, topics, or activities, making it easy to keep conversations organized and engaging.
Key features include:
Perfect for gaming clans, hobby groups, study communities, or casual friend circles, Mezon adapts to any social dynamic. The platform makes it simple to invite friends, discover new communities, and maintain active engagement through intuitive design and robust communication features.
Open-source communication platform with multi-window chat, economy systems, and privacy-first approach. Built by communities for superior performance.

A community-driven communication platform that prioritizes transparency, flexibility, and user privacy. Built entirely by volunteers without corporate funding, this open-source solution offers a refreshing alternative to traditional chat platforms.
Key features include:
Privacy and transparency are at the core of this platform. Your data will never be sold, and the entire codebase is open for public inspection. The community-driven development approach ensures features are built for real user needs rather than corporate interests.
Perfect for communities seeking a modern, fast, and ethical communication platform that puts users first.
Free Matrix-based messenger with end-to-end encryption, multi-platform bridges, and on-premise deployment. Connect across 30+ networks securely.

Secure and private by design, Twake Chat leverages the Matrix protocol for decentralized communication that puts you in control. This free and open source messenger delivers enterprise-grade security with end-to-end encryption while maintaining simplicity for both work and personal use.
Key features that set Twake Chat apart:
Perfect for professional teams who need secure communication without compromising on functionality. The Matrix protocol ensures your data remains decentralized rather than controlled by a single entity, while customizable security levels let you add extra encryption when needed.
Whether you're managing team collaboration or need a reliable messaging solution that respects privacy, Twake Chat provides the security and flexibility modern organizations require.
Open source chat server with end-to-end encryption, clustering support, and comprehensive messaging features for building real-time communication apps

SAMA is a powerful open source chat server designed for modern mobile and web applications. It offers enterprise-grade security with built-in end-to-end encryption and seamless scalability through out-of-the-box clustering support.
Key features include:
The platform comes with a modern frontend client, clustering-enabled backend, admin dashboard, and comprehensive API documentation - everything needed to build secure and scalable chat applications.