9 Open Source Alternatives to Microsoft Teams

A list of 9 carefully selected open-source alternatives to Microsoft Teams.

Adrian
Created by
Adrian
Mar 9, 2025Updated9 min read

The open-source alternatives are ranked based on our custom ranking system and score. This system takes into account various factors to determine the best alternatives.

If you’re looking for alternative features or workflows, here is a prepared detailed list of Microsoft Teams open-source alternatives — each with its own distinctive strengths and key features.

#1
Rocket.Chat logo

Rocket.Chat

42,168
11,396

Rocket.Chat is a secure communications platform designed for organizations that demand data protection and real-time collaboration. The open source solution serves government agencies, defense, and critical infrastructure enterprises, offering flexible deployment options and complete control over data.

Rocket.Chat screenshot

Key Features

  • Real-time chat, audio, video calls, and file sharing
  • Flexible deployment: on-prem, cloud, or air gapped
  • Granular access control and customizable permissions
  • End-to-end encryption for secure communications
  • Extensible architecture with app integrations

Rocket.Chat delivers real-time chat, audio, video calls, and file sharing to streamline team communication and external collaboration. It supports cloud, on-prem, and air gapped deployments while ensuring data sovereignty and compliance with strict regulations. The platform includes customizable permissions, end-to-end encryption, and integration capabilities with popular apps, enabling a tailored communication experience that scales with organizational needs.

#2
Nextcloud logo

Nextcloud

28,840
4,200

Nextcloud is a comprehensive open source collaboration platform that enables organizations to securely host, share, and manage data on their premises or in the cloud. It offers powerful tools for file sync, communication, and enterprise-grade security, ensuring complete control over your data.

Nextcloud screenshot

Key Features

  • Self-hosted file sync and sharing
  • Integrated collaboration tools (Talk, Groupware, Office)
  • Enterprise-grade security and audit capabilities
  • Customizable and scalable deployment
  • Local AI assistant for productivity enhancement
  • Compliance and data privacy by design

Nextcloud provides a self-hosted solution that brings together file storage, real-time collaboration, chat, video conferencing, and integrated office tools. Designed for scalability from small teams to global enterprises, it emphasizes privacy, compliance, and robust access control while offering customizable deployment options to suit varied organizational needs.

#3
M

Mattermost

31,850
7,595

Mattermost is an open source platform for secure, workflow-centric collaboration designed for mission-critical environments. It empowers technical and operational teams to communicate efficiently, manage compliance, and customize integrations across the entire software development lifecycle.

Mattermost screenshot

Key Features

  • Secure, channel-based messaging with advanced access controls
  • Custom integrations and workflow automation capabilities
  • Flexible deployment options including on-prem, private cloud, and self-hosting
  • High availability, scalability, and compliance auditing
  • Support for real-time collaboration with integrated audio and screen sharing

Mattermost enables teams to engage in channel-based messaging across web, desktop, and mobile with features such as audio calling, screen sharing, and integrated workflow automation. Designed for self-hosted deployment, it ensures full control over data and compliance while adapting to varied operational needs in environments where failure is not an option.

#4
Zulip logo

Zulip

22,392
8,317

Zulip is an open-source team chat application designed to keep distributed teams productive and focused through organized, topic-based conversations. It streamlines communication for businesses, educational institutions, and open-source communities with its unique blend of asynchronous messaging and real-time collaboration features.

Zulip screenshot

Key Features

  • Organized topic-based threading for clear discussions
  • Cross-platform support with web, desktop, mobile, and terminal apps
  • Extensive integrations and API for customizable workflows
  • Flexible deployment options: cloud or self-hosted
  • Robust security and advanced administrative controls

Zulip streamlines team communication by allowing users to follow multiple conversation threads simultaneously without losing context. Its organized, topic-based threading ensures that discussions remain clear and focused, while native desktop, mobile, and terminal apps keep teams connected anywhere. With robust integration options, a comprehensive API, and strong security protocols, Zulip offers flexible deployment through both managed cloud hosting and self-hosted solutions.

#5
Cinny logo

Cinny

2,131
288

Cinny is a Matrix client built with a focus on simplicity, elegance, and secure communications. Designed with an intuitive interface and end-to-end encryption, it offers a clutter-free and organized chat experience for users who value privacy and ease of use.

Cinny screenshot

Key Features

  • Open source Matrix client
  • Simple, elegant, and secure interface
  • End-to-end encryption for privacy
  • Separated navigation for DMs and channels
  • Clutter-free and calm visual design
  • Adaptive user input system

Cinny provides a user-friendly interface for Matrix-based communication, combining modern design principles with efficient navigation. The tool separates direct messages from channels to enhance organization and minimizes visual clutter, ensuring that only important details are highlighted. Its adaptive input system and calm layout contribute to a seamless, secure chatting experience, making it a compelling choice for anyone seeking a reliable open source communication platform.

#6
Wire logo

Wire

2,453
175

Wire is an open source collaboration tool that harnesses industry-leading encryption to facilitate secure messaging, file sharing, and conferencing. It is engineered for teams, enterprises, and government agencies committed to data protection and seamless communication.

Wire screenshot

Key Features

  • Always-on end-to-end encryption for unmatched data security
  • Instant messaging, file sharing, and video conferencing
  • Flexible collaboration for teams, enterprises, and government bodies
  • Robust administrative controls including SSO and SCIM support
  • Comprehensive data sovereignty and compliance capabilities

Wire is a secure collaboration platform designed to enable instant messaging, file sharing, and video conferencing underpinned by always-on end-to-end encryption. Its robust features include flexible communication across internal teams and external partners, granular administrative controls with SSO and SCIM support, and comprehensive data sovereignty measures. Trusted by over 1,800 customers, Wire empowers organizations to communicate efficiently while maintaining the highest security standards.

#7
Twake logo

Twake

1,822
196

Twake is a secure open source collaboration platform designed to enhance organizational productivity. It integrates essential tools for messaging, file storage, and secure email, enabling teams to communicate and collaborate seamlessly with robust privacy and security measures.

Twake screenshot

Key Features

  • Secure, open source collaboration platform
  • Integrated chat, drive, and mail services
  • Advanced encryption and data protection
  • GDPR compliant with on-premise deployment options
  • Bridges for cross-application messaging
  • Versatile, multi-device synchronization

Twake offers an all-in-one digital suite that includes a secure messenger, encrypted data storage, and professional email services. Built with privacy-first principles, the platform ensures that files and communications are protected through advanced encryption and GDPR compliance. With features such as bridges for cross-application messaging, on-premise deployment options, and integration with third-party tools, Twake empowers teams to work efficiently across devices while maintaining full control of their data.

#8
Element logo

Element

11,543
2,114

Element is a decentralized and secure collaboration platform built by the creators of Matrix. It empowers organizations to maintain full data sovereignty while enjoying end-to-end encrypted communication and versatile deployment options.

Element screenshot

Key Features

  • End-to-end encryption by default
  • Decentralized and federated network
  • Flexible deployment options (self-hosted, cloud, sovereign)
  • Built on the open Matrix standard for interoperability
  • Customizable administration and collaboration tools

Element is a glossy, web-based Matrix collaboration client designed for real-time communication and secure collaboration. It delivers robust features such as default end-to-end encryption, federation, and flexible deployment choices including self-hosted, fully managed cloud, or custom sovereign options. With advanced admin controls, voice and video conferencing, and interoperability based on the open Matrix standard, Element caters to governments, enterprises, and public sectors.

#9
Revolt logo

Revolt

2,205
50

Revolt is a free and open-source chat application designed to bring modern communication to online communities. It offers a dynamic platform with customizable text channels, image attachments, and advanced moderation tools, all while safeguarding user privacy and data. Developed in Europe, Revolt meets GDPR standards with no ads or trackers.

Revolt screenshot

Key Features

  • Robust text channels with image attachment support
  • Interactive features including @mentions and link sharing
  • Customizable interface to match personal or community style
  • Fine-grained permissions and moderation tools
  • Bot integration for enhanced functionality
  • Secure, ad-free, and tracker-free environment
  • Open-source foundation with transparency in data handling
  • Developed in Europe to comply with GDPR standards

Revolt provides a feature-rich messaging experience with text channels that allow seamless sharing of images, @mentions, and website links. It empowers communities through fine-grained permission settings, moderation tools, and bot integration for an enhanced experience. With a fully customizable interface, users can tailor the look and feel of the platform to their liking, while benefiting from secure direct messages and group chats.

Price comparison of Microsoft Teams open-source alternatives

ToolTier 1Tier 2Tier 3Details
Nextcloud logo
Nextcloud
$37.49
Nextcloud Enterprise – Files
$40
Nextcloud Enterprise – Talk
-Learn more
Mattermost
$0
Free
$10
Professional
-
Enterprise
Learn more
Zulip logo
Zulip
$0
Zulip Cloud Free
-
Zulip Cloud Standard
-Learn more
Element logo
Element
$5
Business
$10
Enterprise
-
Sovereign
Learn more

* Pricing shown is based on publicly available information and may not reflect current rates. Visit each tool's website for detailed pricing information and additional tiers.

About Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams Users Group (UG) is a vibrant community that caters to IT professionals and developers with a keen interest in Microsoft Unified Communications. As a trade association, their aim is to provide invaluable information and resources to the community regarding all aspects of Microsoft Unified Communications. The UG organizes meetings that cover both technical and business-related topics, focusing on Skype for Business and Microsoft Teams. These sessions are led by subject matter experts, who provide insights and foster knowledge-sharing among participants. By bringing together expertise on the Microsoft Unified Communications platform, the UG plays a crucial role in nurturing and expanding the collective knowledge base of the community. The UG also boasts an impressive lineup of board members, including Anthony Caragol as the President and Lisa Borchers as the Administrative Officer. With dedicated local chapter organizers in cities across the United States, the UG ensures that knowledge dissemination and networking opportunities are easily accessible to its members. Join the Microsoft Teams Users Group and be part of this dynamic community that strives to enhance your understanding and engagement with Microsoft Unified Communications.
This comparison data was compiled with AI assistance.
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