Team CommunicationUpdated 2026-05-09By Smith Elly

7 Best Slack Alternatives in 2026

Quick Answer

The top Slack alternatives in 2026: Microsoft Teams, Discord, Google Chat, Mattermost. All offer free trials.

Looking for a Slack alternative? Whether the pricing doesn't fit your budget or you need different features, here are the 7 best alternatives we've tested.

1. Microsoft Teams

A strong Slack alternative for teams that prioritise value. Compare pricing and features vs Slack before deciding.

2. Discord

A strong Slack alternative for teams that prioritise ease of use. Compare pricing and features vs Slack before deciding.

3. Google Chat

A strong Slack alternative for teams that prioritise integrations. Compare pricing and features vs Slack before deciding.

4. Mattermost

A strong Slack alternative for teams that prioritise scalability. Compare pricing and features vs Slack before deciding.

5. Twist

A strong Slack alternative for teams that prioritise collaboration. Compare pricing and features vs Slack before deciding.

6. Rocket.Chat

A strong Slack alternative for teams that prioritise reporting. Compare pricing and features vs Slack before deciding.

7. Chanty

A strong Slack alternative for teams that prioritise customisation. Compare pricing and features vs Slack before deciding.

How Slack Compares

Before switching, see how Slack stacks up:

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best free Slack alternative?

The best free alternative depends on your use case. Microsoft Teams offers a generous free plan for small teams.

Why do people look for Slack alternatives?

Common reasons: pricing (Free (90-day message history)), missing features, or wanting to consolidate tools.

Is there a cheaper alternative to Slack?

Yes — Discord and Google Chat typically have lower per-seat pricing. Compare plans before switching.

See Slack pricing first

Make sure you know the full cost before evaluating alternatives.

Compare Pricing