15 Slack Alternatives For Team Messaging In 2024

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Is Slack no longer meeting your team's needs? You're not alone. 

Many organizations are looking for Slack alternatives for team communication either because they’re missing a certain feature and/or want a more cost-efficient solution. 

In this article we’ll be sharing 15 best Slack alternatives to make sure you work with the tools that fit your team best.

1. Rock

Best Slack alternative Rock preview of the messaging and task management functionality in the platform
Rock preview messaging + tasks in one place

Rock is the best Slack alternative because it integrates messaging with tasks, notes, files, and meetings. Teams can manage all aspects of a project without switching between apps for documentation, collaboration and instant messaging. 

Every project space is packed with a complete set of communication & collaboration features:

  • Messaging: Real-time communication through chat with support for gifs, reactions, and mentions.
  • Tasks: Task management with features like task boards, calendar views, time tracking, assignees and comments.
  • Notes: Creation, discussion, and sharing of notes within the team.
  • Files: File management and integration with cloud storage services like Google Drive, OneDrive, Figma, Adobe Creative Cloud  Dropbox, and Smartsheet.
  • Meetings: Integrate with Google Meet, Zoom or Jitsi and create new meetings directly from within the space

What makes Rock a great Slack alternative

Rock is better than Slack for a lot of teams since it integrates essential project management tools with team communication. Here are some of the main reasons why users think Rock is the best alternative to Slack:

  • Integrated task management: Rock combines messaging with robust task management features, including Kanban boards, time tracking, and the ability to attach files to tasks. This integration eliminates the need for additional task management apps.
  • Notes and files in one place: Unlike Slack, which focuses primarily on messaging, Rock allows users to create, share, and discuss notes and manage files within the same platform. This centralization of information ensures that all project-related materials are easily accessible.
  • Flat pricing: Rock offers a flat pricing plan for unlimited users and projects. As a result, teams often save thousands every month by making the switch.
  • Chat in seconds with Quick Connect: Drop the email threads and enable anyone to open a chat with you to discuss new projects, offer support or connect stakeholders with dedicated quick connect links. 
  • Easy migration from Slack: Rock provides an easy three-step process to import all workspace data from Slack, ensuring a smooth transition without losing any past conversations or data.
Free Slack alternative Rock connect with others through Quick Connect

2. Ryver

Slack alternative product preview

Ryver positions itself as a more integrated and cost-effective solution for team collaboration by combining messaging, task management, and voice/video calls in a single app. 

This approach reduces the complexity and cost associated with using multiple separate applications, which is often necessary with Slack. Additionally, Ryver's built-in task management makes it an attractive alternative for teams and enterprises looking for a comprehensive collaboration tool.

3. Flock

Free Slack alternative Flock product preview with different chats and messages in a product preview

Flock differentiates itself from Slack by offering a more integrated suite of productivity tools and a focus on collaboration across various business functions.Flock comes equipped with built-in tools such as to-dos, polls, reminders, and file sharing. 

Security is another strong point for Flock, with comprehensive admin controls, authentication, data retention, and user permissions built into the platform. These features make Flock a compelling alternative to Slack for organizations looking for a comprehensive messaging and collaboration solution.

4. Microsoft Teams

Microsoft teams app preview

Microsoft Teams differentiates itself from Slack primarily through its deep integration with the Microsoft 365 suite. Teams seamlessly integrates with tools like Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, and OneDrive, allowing users to collaborate on documents in real-time directly within the app. 

Combine chat, video conferencing, and voice calling into a single platform, similar to Slack, but with more advanced features for larger-scale meetings and webinars. 

5. Discord

Slack alternative Discord product preview

Discord is a free slack alternative that offers a more social and community-centric experience compared to Slack. Features like integrations with streaming services and community events foster a sense of community and engagement. 

Discord also provides extensive moderation tools and bots, which help manage large communities effectively.

Voice channels are one of Discord’s unique features. Users can drop in and out of conversations effortlessly making it ideal for dynamic, real-time interactions. Discord also supports extensive server customization with roles and permissions.

6. ClickUp

ClickUp chat preview with multiple messages between different users

ClickUp is one of the Slack app alternatives that differentiates itself by offering comprehensive project management and productivity features. The platform offers a wide array of features designed to manage tasks, projects, and workflows all in one platform. 

Features include task management, goal tracking, time tracking, Gantt charts, and customizable dashboards. Project management capabilities enable teams to plan, organize, and execute their work within a single ecosystem, reducing the need for multiple tools and enhancing overall productivity.

7. Rocket.Chat

Rocket.Chat differentiates itself from Slack primarily through its open-source nature. Organizations have the flexibility to host the platform on their own servers, providing enhanced control over data privacy and security.

Open source functionality can be particularly appealing to enterprises with stringent compliance requirements or those in regulated industries. Rocket.Chat allows for extensive customization and integration with other tools, enabling organizations to tailor the platform to their specific needs and workflows. 

Additionally, Rocket.Chat is a secure Slack alternative that supports a broader range of communication protocols, including federation and interoperability with other messaging systems like Matrix and XMPP. 

8. Troop Messenger

Troop Messenger is an alternative to Slack that provides both SaaS and on-premise deployment options. As a result organizations can choose the level of control they need over their data. 

On-premise deployment for a messaging solution is particularly beneficial for industries with stringent security requirements, as it enables complete data ownership and compliance with regulatory standards. 

Troop Messenger's emphasis on security is further highlighted by features such as end-to-end encryption, multi-factor authentication, and LDAP/SSO integration, providing a robust and secure communication environment.

9. Bitrix24

Bitrix24 differentiates itself from Slack by offering a comprehensive suite of tools that extend beyond simple team communication. While Slack primarily focuses on messaging and collaboration, Bitrix24 combines these functions with a robust CRM, project management, and online workspace capabilities. 

The CRM includes features like sales management, contact center integration, and sales team collaboration, which are not available in Slack.  Moreover, Bitrix24 offers significant advantages in terms of cost and scalability. A flat-fee structure eliminates the unpredictable costs associated with adding more team members. 

Bitrix24 also supports on-premise deployment, giving organizations the ability to host the platform on their servers for greater control over data security and compliance. 

10. Mattermost

Mattermost is purpose-built for organizations operating in highly regulated and sensitive environments such as defense, government, and critical infrastructure.

Mattermost differentiates itself from other alternatives to Slack by offering features like on-premise deployment, air-gapped network support, and fully self-sovereign infrastructure.

This Slack alternative also supports extensive integrations with tools like MS Teams, Atlassian (Trello), and GitLab, facilitating seamless workflows across different platforms.

11. Basecamp

Slack app alternatives Basecamp product image

Basecamp differentiates itself from Slack by offering a comprehensive project management platform that focuses on organization and productivity rather than just communication. A holistic approach allows teams to keep all project-related information and communication in one place, reducing the need for multiple tools.

Basecamp emphasizes asynchronous communication through message boards and automatic check-ins. This work philosophy supports a more deliberate and less stressful work pace, encouraging deep work and reducing distractions. 

12. Twist

Slack alternatives for team communication Twist product preview

Twist differentiates itself from Slack by focusing on asynchronous (async) communication. Channels are organized by topic, project, or client to break down silos, making it easier for teams to stay focused and prioritize their work without the anxiety of keeping up with notifications. 

This Slack alternative also does away with certain real-time features like "available" status bubbles and stress-inducing notification dots, which can create a pressure to respond immediately.

Twist encourages deep work and minimizes digital stress by allowing team members to engage with communication when they are ready, rather than feeling compelled to be "always on." 

13. Pumble

Secure slack alternative Pumble product preview with a chat with multiple people exchanging messages

Pumble differentiates itself from Slack by offering a completely free communication platform that includes unlimited users, unlimited message history, and unlimited channels. Paid subscription plans (Pro, Business, Enterprise, and Productivity Suite) offer additional features and increased storage compared to the free plan.

14. Google Chat

Google Chat differentiates itself from Slack by deeply integrating with the broader Google Workspace ecosystem. The messaging functionality works alongside Google’s existing services such as Gmail, Google Drive, Google Meet, and Google Calendar. 

The close integration with Google Workspace makes Google Chat an attractive option for organizations already invested in Google for their email communication, simplifying workflows and enhancing productivity.

Google Chat also includes robust search functionality powered by Google’s search technology, making it easier to find past conversations and shared documents. 

15. Workplace by Meta

Formerly Workplace by Facebook. Workplace by Meta differentiates itself from Slack by offering an integrated business communication that resembles Facebook in some parts. 

Workplace's design mirrors Facebook’s interface, which simplifies adoption and usability, particularly for employees already familiar with social media navigation. 

The business messaging app is built on the same infrastructure that supports Facebook, ensuring high levels of security and reliability suitable for large-scale enterprise use.

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