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Open Source Slack Alternatives

A curated collection of the 16 best open source alternatives to Slack.

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.

Piotr Kulpinski's profile

Written by Piotr Kulpinski

Open-source chat solution offering real-time messaging, video calls, and file sharing for teams of all sizes.

Screenshot of Rocket.Chat website

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:

  • Enhanced Security: Self-hosted options and end-to-end encryption ensure your data remains private and secure.
  • Customization: Tailor the platform to your needs with a wide range of integrations and API access.
  • Scalability: Easily grow your communication infrastructure as your team expands.
  • Multi-platform Support: Access Rocket.Chat from web, desktop, or mobile devices for seamless communication.
  • Rich Media Sharing: Share files, images, and videos effortlessly within conversations.
  • Video Conferencing: Conduct face-to-face meetings directly within the platform.
  • Channel Organization: Create public and private channels for efficient team collaboration.
  • Omnichannel Communication: Integrate customer support channels like email, SMS, and social media.

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.

Screenshot of Mattermost website

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:

  • Flexible deployment options: Can be self-hosted on-premises, in private clouds, or air-gapped environments
  • Advanced security and compliance: Built-in access controls, audit logging, and data retention policies
  • Customizable and extensible: Open APIs and integrations to connect with existing tools and workflows
  • Channels for team communication: Secure messaging, file sharing, voice/video calls
  • Playbooks for process management: Checklist-based workflows to standardize repeatable processes
  • AI-powered features: Ability to integrate AI capabilities while maintaining full data control
  • Mobile and desktop apps: Access from any device with native mobile apps

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.

Screenshot of Nextcloud website

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:

  • File sync and sharing across devices
  • Real-time document collaboration
  • Video calls and chat
  • Calendar, contacts and email integration
  • Advanced security and access control
  • On-premises hosting for full data control
  • Customizable and extensible through apps

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:

  • Improved productivity through integrated collaboration tools
  • Enhanced security with end-to-end encryption and granular permissions
  • Compliance with data protection regulations like GDPR
  • Lower costs compared to proprietary cloud solutions
  • Flexibility to customize and extend functionality

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.

Screenshot of Zulip website

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:

  1. 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.

  2. Efficient Communication: The organized structure helps team members quickly catch up on relevant discussions and reduces information overload.

  3. Flexible Deployment: Choose between Zulip Cloud for convenience or self-host the 100% open-source software for ultimate control and compliance.

  4. Cross-Platform Support: Access Zulip from desktop and mobile apps, ensuring seamless communication across devices.

  5. Rich Integrations: Connect Zulip with your favorite tools and services to streamline workflows.

  6. Powerful Search: Easily find past conversations and shared knowledge with Zulip's robust search functionality.

  7. 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:

  • Businesses: From small startups to large enterprises, Zulip helps teams manage projects and communicate more effectively.
  • Education and Research: Universities and research groups use Zulip to facilitate collaboration across departments and continents.
  • Open Source Projects: Many open-source communities rely on Zulip to engage contributors and make faster decisions.
  • Events and Conferences: Organizers use Zulip to create interactive spaces for attendees before, during, and after events.

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.

Screenshot of Huly website

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:

  • Virtual Office Experience: Create customized workspace rooms with high-quality audio/video conferencing
  • Two-way GitHub Integration: Seamless synchronization with GitHub Issues and Projects
  • Team Planning Tools: Centralized calendar, time-blocking, and task management
  • Document Collaboration: Rich text editing with real-time co-editing capabilities
  • MetaBrain Knowledge Base: Connected workflow elements that build your team's collective knowledge

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.

Screenshot of Element website

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:

  • End-to-end encryption: Ensure your messages, calls, and shared files remain private and secure.
  • Decentralized architecture: Choose your own server or self-host for complete control over your data.
  • Cross-platform compatibility: Seamlessly sync conversations across desktop, web, iOS, and Android devices.
  • Rich collaboration tools: Enjoy group chats, voice and video calls, file sharing, and integrations with popular productivity apps.
  • Interoperability: Connect with users on other Matrix-based platforms, fostering open communication.
  • Customization options: Tailor the interface and features to meet your specific needs or brand requirements.
  • Community-driven development: Benefit from continuous improvements and innovations from a global developer community.

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.

Screenshot of Fluxer website

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:

  • Full messaging suite with Markdown support, private DMs, group chats, and organized channels
  • Voice and video calls with screen sharing, noise suppression, and multi-device support
  • Advanced moderation tools including granular permissions, audit logs, and webhook support
  • Powerful search with message history filtering and quick switcher functionality

Customization & Control:

  • Upload custom emojis and stickers to personalize your experience
  • Apply custom CSS themes and display options for a tailored interface
  • Self-hosting capabilities - run your own instance with full control over your data
  • Switch between multiple instances seamlessly

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.

Screenshot of Campfire website

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:

  • @mentions and direct messages for seamless team communication
  • Mobile web support with PWA capabilities and push notifications
  • Private and public rooms with clear visual indicators for unread messages
  • Search functionality with saved searches for easy access
  • Dark mode support for comfortable viewing
  • Chatbot API for custom integrations

Perfect for multiple use cases:

  • Replace expensive chat subscriptions as your primary communication tool
  • Create backup chat systems for when other services go down
  • Establish private executive spaces or board communications
  • Set up temporary chat rooms for conferences and events
  • Use as educational material to study high-quality code

Technical advantages:

  • Runs on your own hardware, cloud services, or hosting providers
  • Automatic SSL certificate setup during installation
  • One-command Docker deployment
  • Automatic updates (can be disabled for manual control)
  • Works on air-gapped networks for high-security environments
  • Scales from 250 to 10,000+ concurrent users

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.

Screenshot of Colanode website

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:

  • Real-time chat for seamless team communication
  • Collaborative document editing with flexible formatting options
  • Built-in file manager for easy file sharing and organization
  • Offline support that syncs when you're back online
  • AI assistant to help with content creation and workflow optimization
  • Zero loading times thanks to local-first architecture

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.

Screenshot of Cinny website

Cinny is an open-source Matrix client that provides a secure and elegant interface for seamless conversations. Built on the Matrix protocol, it offers:

  • End-to-end encryption for enhanced privacy and security
  • A clean and intuitive user interface for effortless navigation
  • Organized conversations, separating DMs from channels
  • Adaptive input that adjusts to your actions without disrupting your workflow
  • Calm visual design with proper alignment and formatting

Cinny is constantly evolving to create a better communication experience. As an open-source project, it benefits from community contributions and transparency.

Key features:

  • Simple and elegant interface
  • End-to-end encryption
  • Organized conversation management
  • Adaptive input system
  • Calm visual design
  • Open-source development

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.

Screenshot of Stoat website

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:

  • Advanced text channels with image attachments, @mentions, and website linking
  • Community building tools including fine-grained permissions and moderation features
  • Bot integration for enhanced functionality and automation
  • Complete customization - design your interface exactly how you want it
  • Next-generation DMs and groups with simple friend request system

Privacy & Security:

  • No ads or trackers - your conversations stay private
  • GDPR compliant - developed in Europe with strict privacy standards
  • Open-source - transparent code you can trust
  • Secure and confidential communication protocols

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.

Screenshot of Wire website

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:

  • Instant messaging, file sharing, and video meetings with invisible security
  • Flexible collaboration tools for internal teams and external partners
  • Complete data sovereignty with on-premises deployment options
  • Enterprise features like SSO, SCIM, and granular admin controls

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:

  • Zero-knowledge encryption
  • Regulatory compliance
  • Digital sovereignty
  • Scalable secure collaboration

Build your own community space for gaming, chatting, and hanging out with friends worldwide. Customize your environment for the perfect social experience.

Screenshot of Mezon website

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:

  • Custom community spaces with personalized layouts and themes
  • Multi-purpose chat channels for text, voice, and multimedia sharing
  • Gaming-focused tools to coordinate gameplay and tournaments
  • Global connectivity to meet and interact with people worldwide
  • Flexible privacy settings to control who can join your communities

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.

Screenshot of Valour website

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:

  • Multi-window chat system - Chat across multiple channels and communities simultaneously with advanced window management
  • Integrated economy system - Reward community members and create engaging experiences
  • Customizable item system - Show achievements and enhance user immersion
  • Blazor & WebAssembly technology - Superior performance without resource-heavy Electron framework
  • Node-based backend - Optimized for large communities without sacrificing core features

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.

Screenshot of Twake Chat website

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:

  • Multi-platform bridges - Connect with contacts across Telegram, Discord, Signal, and 30+ other networks through a single interface
  • Flexible deployment - Use cloud-hosted or deploy on-premise for maximum data control and privacy
  • Cross-device synchronization - Access your conversations seamlessly across tablets, smartphones, and laptops
  • Multi-account support - Switch between personal and work accounts within one unified interface
  • Corporate integration - Connect with contacts from phone books and corporate directories via SSO
  • Jitsi video integration - Built-in quality videoconferencing capabilities

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

Screenshot of SAMA website

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:

  • Advanced messaging capabilities including private/group chats, typing indicators, read receipts, and file attachments
  • Robust user management with authorization, profile editing, user search and blocking
  • Multi-device support allowing users to stay connected across devices with flexible message delivery
  • Real-time presence tracking to monitor online/offline status
  • Push notification support for APNS/FCM/Web to reach offline users
  • Built for scale with clustering support for handling large user bases

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.

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