Jami (formerly GNU Ring, SFLphone) positions itself as a potential free Skype replacement
Cost / License
- Free
- Open Source
Application types
Platforms
- Mac
- Windows
- Linux
- Android
- iPhone
- Android Tablet
- iPad




Element is described as 'A secure collaboration app with end-to-end encryption and interoperability across web, desktop, and mobile. Includes chat, voice, and video calls' and is a leading instant messenger in the social & communications category. There are more than 100 alternatives to Element for a variety of platforms, including Android, iPhone, Web-based, Windows and Mac apps. The best Element alternative is Signal, which is both free and Open Source. Other great apps like Element are Telegram, Matrix, Discord and Pidgin.
Jami (formerly GNU Ring, SFLphone) positions itself as a potential free Skype replacement




Exchange messages without SMS fees using this app for iPhone, Android and desktop, featuring group chats, multimedia sharing, and video calls. The app requires an internet connection and the latest version for optimal functionality.




Decentralized messaging app enabling secure peer-to-peer communication over Bluetooth mesh networks with end-to-end encryption, channel-based group chats, store & forward delivery, automatic peer discovery, no accounts or phone numbers, and privacy safeguards.




An open-source decentralized and encrypted messaging app even without internet connection via Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Messages are stored securely on your device, not in the cloud. Connect directly with nearby contacts - no Internet access is required.




Threema is a new mobile messaging app that puts security first. With true end-to-end encryption, you can rest assured that only you and the intended recipient can read your messages.




Self-hosted collaboration platform featuring chat, workflow automation, voice and video calling, screen sharing, AI capabilities, broad third-party integration support, cross-platform apps, compatibility with Slack imports, and flexible deployment options for secure team communication.




Mattermost is FOSS, self-hosted, fast, featured and has pretty good ease of use. A top replacement for Element. It supports matrixbridges to connect to different protocols.
One of the best alternatives to Slack (with Riot and Zulip). It's open source and you can self-host it, which means more control over the app and the privacy of the users.

Threaded group conversations combine live and asynchronous messaging, separating topics for organized collaboration, supporting open-source, cloud, and self-hosted deployments, secure communication with encryption, and multi-platform access for diverse teams.




Open-source and privacy focused, like Riot. It's one of the best alternatives to Slack.
Open source, decentralized platform enabling encrypted chat, secure voice and video calls, anonymous file sharing with swarming, censorship-resistant forums, channels, link sharing, and offline messaging. Uses OpenPGP and OpenSSL for robust privacy and security.




It is the brand new, and fastest ever, Matrix client. It is for personal and community use, and will support enterprise functionality later this year.




Open-source chat server supporting real-time group, direct, and private messaging, video calls, file sharing, helpdesk chat, API integrations, desktop notifications, emojis, LDAP authentication, cross-platform apps, and customizable extensions for teams.




Self-hostable and FOSS like Element and Mattermost. Team chat app. Also supports bridges.

Provides a chat experience over email, with all messages and contacts stored on user devices, open source code, group media support, and compatibility with any provider. No central servers, no tracking, works without SIM, and can be used by anyone just via email.




This is an anonymous/censorship resistant chat app. Element is mainly team chat app.