Microsoft Teams is one of the most popular tools for team communication today, with over 320 million active users in 2024. But it’s not the perfect fit for everyone. Some users find it too complex or expensive, while others want different features or better flexibility.
That’s why many businesses are looking for alternatives. From simple chat tools to full-featured platforms, there are many great options available today. And with the team collaboration software market expected to reach $41.1 billion by 2028, more tools are entering the space every year.
In this article, we’ve listed the top 15 best Microsoft Teams Alternatives offering unique features to help your team work better.
What to Look for in a Microsoft Teams Alternative
- Ease of Use: Choose a platform with a clean and intuitive interface so your team can start using it with little to no training.
- Collaboration Features: Look for chat, video calls, file sharing, task management, and real-time editing, depending on your team’s needs.
- Integration Support: Make sure the tool integrates well with other software your team already uses, like Google Workspace, Zoom, or Slack.
- Scalability: Pick a solution that can grow with your team, from a few users today to hundreds or thousands in the future.
- Security and Compliance: Ensure the tool follows strong data protection policies, especially if you’re in a regulated industry like finance or healthcare.
Why Businesses Are Switching from Microsoft Teams
- Overwhelming Interface: Some users find Microsoft Teams too complex, with too many tabs and features they never use.
- High Costs for Premium Plans: Small teams often look for budget-friendly tools with fewer restrictions and better free plans.
- Better Asynchronous Communication: Teams working in different time zones prefer tools that support asynchronous communication, like Twist or Chanty.
- Open-Source or Self-Hosted Needs: Privacy-focused organizations may choose tools like Mattermost or Rocket.Chat for full control over data.
- Task and Project Management: Many Teams alternatives combine chat with project tracking, reducing the need for multiple tools.
List of Top 15 Best Microsoft Teams Alternatives
1. Slack
Slack has become one of the most prominent team communication platforms and is widely regarded as a leading choice among Microsoft Teams alternatives. It is especially favored by startups, tech teams, and remote-first businesses for its sleek interface and powerful integrations. Slack enables real-time collaboration through channels, direct messaging, and voice or video calls. Threaded conversations help maintain context within fast-moving chats, while integrations with over 2,000 apps like Google Drive and Zoom enhance functionality.
With advanced notification controls and a thriving app ecosystem, Slack helps teams stay connected and productive without feeling overwhelmed. The second feature by which Slack stands out, however, is its focus on asynchronous communication and knowledge sharing. It is a decided communication hub, but also an agreeable archive of records and discourses that can be sought after.
With its workflow automation features, teams can automate certain tasks and produce the bot models that can be customized thus improving efficiency. Although it may become costly in cases of bigger teams, its user-friendly UI and a wide variety of customizations show that it is a good alternative to Microsoft Teams.
Top Features:
- Organized communication via channels and threads
- Over 2,000 integrations with third-party apps
- Advanced workflow automation and bots
- File sharing with instant previews
- Voice and video calls with screen sharing
Pricing:
| Free | Pro | Business+ | Enterprise+ |
| $0 | $2.79/mo | $6.34/mo | Available on request |
2. Zoom
Zoom is generally regarded as a mighty video conferencing software, although it has grown into a complete suite of collaboration tools over the past years. However, it has gained a new spot in the market as a viable competitor to Microsoft Teams when an organization considers how they integrate video communication the most.
The interface of Zoom is getting clean and user-friendly, and it has HD video and audio having a solid level of encryption, providing transparency as well as security. In addition to video conferencing, the team chat feature of Zoom allows sending messages, creating channels, and sharing files in real-time.
Smart summarization, real-time translation, and meeting highlights are also added to the new Zoom AI Companion, introducing more value to the platform as a productivity tool. Zoom will be particularly beneficial over Teams to businesses that frequently make use of webinars, or those that require more robust scheduling or breakout room functionalities.
Top Features:
- High-quality video conferencing with breakout rooms
- Team chat with file sharing and emoji reactions
- Smart AI Companion with summarization and insights
- Secure encryption and compliance options
- Integration with Google, Microsoft, and calendar apps
Pricing:
| Basic | Pro | Business |
| $0 | $13.33/mo | $18.33/mo |
3. Google Chat + Google Meet
Google Chat, when used alongside Google Meet, provides a collaboration solution that is extremely effective and connected to the rest of Google Workspace. This combination offers a Microsoft Teams alternative to teams that are already using Gmail, Google Drive, Docs, Sheets, and Calendar.
Google Chat can be used to create a structured conversation in areas (spaces), whereas Google Meet is cool to have a video meeting with live captioning, screen sharing, and recording. The ease of incorporation in workflows should be ranked among the most appealing features of Google Chat and Meet. To give an example, video meetings can be easily scheduled and joined through a Google Calendar invite, and shared Google Docs can be edited in real-time.
It is simple to use, reliable and with a familiar UI, teams of any size can adopt the platform without having to experience a big learning curve. Besides, every communication is encrypted, and admins obtain potent user management and data retention controls.
Top Features:
- Deep integration with Google Workspace (Gmail, Drive, Calendar)
- Secure video meetings with Google Meet
- Spaces and threads for team conversations
- Real-time document collaboration
- Mobile and desktop accessibility
Pricing:
- Free
4.ClickUp
ClickUp is more than just a task management tool it’s a complete productivity workspace that combines project management, team collaboration, documentation, goal tracking, and chat in one unified platform. While often seen as an Asana or Trello alternative, ClickUp also stands out as one of the more robust Microsoft Teams alternatives, particularly for productivity-focused teams.
It allows users to communicate in real-time, leave comments directly on tasks, tag teammates, and collaborate efficiently within a structured and centralized environment. The flexibility of ClickUp is seen in the chances to suit the working processes. Whether it is a development team that requires Agile boards or a marketing team that is working on campaigns, ClickUp allows customization of views, links to more than 1,000 tools, and even automation capabilities.
Its Docs module enables us to collaborate in editing a document, and the Whiteboard helps in brainstorming and graphical planning. It assists teams in avoiding the use of numerous tools by using inbox, reminders, dashboards, etc.
Top Features:
- Built-in chat and comment system
- Collaborative Docs and Whiteboards
- Project management with Agile views
- Task automation and integrations
- All-in-one workspace with reminders and goals
Pricing:
- Available on request
5. Discord
Discord was originally designed as a communication tool used by game players, but it has developed to serve as the communication system of communities, teams and even companies. It provides voice channels, text chat, video calling, screen and role-based administrative controls all contained within a highly customizable server framework.
The always-on voice channels of Discord also create perfect facilities to discuss anything spontaneously and even brainstorm, which is a distinctive advantage over more establishment channels such as Microsoft Teams. Discord is popular among many startups and remote teams, as well as other developers, who need these lightweight yet provide high-quality audio.
It allows adding integrations to GitHub, Trello, and others, and bots can be added to carry out specific tasks, moderate the conversation, or handle assignments. Although it does not include all the enterprise level compliance located in Microsoft Teams, Discord compensates with the pace, ease of use and community facilitating characteristics.
Top Features:
- Voice, video, and text communication in real-time
- Always-on voice channels for instant collaboration
- Custom roles and server organization
- Bots and integrations for automation
- Screen sharing and low-latency calls
Pricing:
- Available on request
Suggested Read: Discord Alternatives
6. Zoho Cliq
Zoho Cliq is a robust and affordable team communication tool from the Zoho ecosystem. It offers real-time messaging, voice and video calls, file sharing, and seamless integration with other Zoho applications like Zoho CRM, Projects, and Desk. Its user-friendly interface allows teams to collaborate via channels, bots, and threads, promoting organized conversations and boosting productivity.
It supports both one-on-one chats and team discussions, making it a reliable alternative to Microsoft Teams for startups and SMBs. One of Zoho Cliq’s standout features is its multi-chat view, which allows users to view and respond to multiple conversations simultaneously—something not commonly available in most communication platforms.
Additionally, it provides workflow automation, widgets, and bots that help teams automate repetitive tasks. The mobile and desktop apps are highly optimized, ensuring smooth communication regardless of where you are. It’s ideal for businesses already using Zoho’s suite of tools but also works independently.
Top Features:
- Multi-chat view and threaded messaging
- Integration with the Zoho ecosystem
- Voice and video calling with screen sharing
- Workflow automation and custom bots
- Mobile, desktop, and web accessibility
Pricing:
| Free | Standard | Professional | Enterprise |
| $0 | $7.69/mo | $1.09/mo | $2.05/mo |
7. Flock
Flock is a group chat and collaboration application that is intended to streamline the productivity of a team. It has in-depth chat features such as direct messages, group chat and threaded replies. Video conferencing, check list, reminders and shared file directory are also included in Flock.
It is particularly good in the case of small to medium businesses, which require a platform that is easy to operate and affordable in terms of Microsoft Teams alternatives. The USP of Flock is its simplicity, integrated productivity features. Users will be able to create a poll, create notes, schedule a calendar and also keep track of the tasks and they do not have to tab-undo tab-undo. It can provide a third-party integration to services such as Google Drive, Trello, GitHub and Twitter.
The simplified interface means that the users should not be overwhelmed with features but can concentrate on the communication process. The speed and intuitiveness of Flock make it a very good option in terms of how it can serve a relatively small agile team, to enhance collaboration with low onboarding costs.
Top Features:
- Direct messages, channels, and threads
- Built-in task management and reminders
- Video conferencing and screen sharing
- Notes, polls, and rich media sharing
- Third-party app integrations
Pricing:
| Free | Pro | Enterprise |
| $0 | $199/mo | Available on request |
8. Chanty
Chanty is an AI-enhanced team chat application designed to integrate a team chat with a collaboration platform to satisfy business of medium and small size requirements. It gives you a non-cluttered space to communicate through messages, voice calls and even video meetings.
Chanty, unlike some more elaborate enterprise tools, keeps usability at the forefront and limits itself to the basic features such as channels, tasks, and integration with external tools. The in-house task management system is one of the exclusive advantages of Chanty, as it allows users to transform every message into a task and delegate it to the teammates.
This fills the gap between communication and execution so that one does not lose the ideas communicated in chat. Teambook helps to have all tasks, messages as well as files organized in a single place. Chanty is a great choice in terms of value, especially to businesses that want to have a cheap no-frills Microsoft Teams alternative.
Top Features:
- AI-powered chat with voice and video support
- Message-to-task conversion
- Teambook for centralized knowledge
- Third-party app integrations
- Intuitive and minimal learning curve
Pricing:
| Free | Business | Enterprise |
| $0 | $3/mo | Available on request |
9. Ryver
Ryver is a messaging/task management/workflow system: Everything integrated into one toolset. It allows users to chat using open forums, private teams and direct chats. Task board Trello look-alike integrated task management enables teams to share their projects and discussions within the same space.
Such capability of messaging and project tracking turns Ryver into an attractive option to Microsoft Teams, particularly regarding task-centered teams. The great strength of one of Ryver is its plug into Zapier which makes it possible to automate with more than 2,000 apps.
It has a conversational-based architecture that enables the communication to occur within the discussions on topic-based forums, thus giving a clear picture and eliminating randomized communication. Ryver is a very powerful and versatile choice when businesses desire the Slack-like communication with Trello-like management of tasks in a single cost-effective platform.
Top Features:
- Unified chat, forums, and task boards
- Trello-style project management
- Workflow automation via Zapier
- Direct messages and group chats
- Role-based permissions and security controls
Pricing:
| Starter | Standard | Enterprise |
| $34.50/mo | $64.50/mo | Available on request |
10. Mattermost
Mattermost is an open-source, self-hosted messaging platform designed for developers and enterprises that prioritize security and customization. It supports real-time team messaging, file sharing, and integrations with CI/CD tools like Jenkins, GitLab, and Jira.
Because it’s open-source, teams have full control over the platform and can customize it to fit their specific security or compliance needs, making it a great alternative to Microsoft Teams for regulated industries. Mattermost functions not only as a secure collaboration tool but also as a Document Management Software, offering advanced permissions, version control, and data governance—making it a strong choice for businesses in highly regulated sectors like finance, government, and healthcare.
As one of the leading Microsoft Teams alternatives, Mattermost supports voice and video calls through integrations, markdown formatting, custom slash commands, and bot integrations. Its flexibility in deployment—whether on private servers or in the cloud—allows organizations to align with internal IT policies while still benefiting from powerful and seamless collaboration features.
Top Features:
- Open-source and self-hosted
- Developer-friendly integrations
- High-security and compliance controls
- Custom workflows and plugins
- Multi-platform support (web, desktop, mobile)
Pricing:
- Available on request
11. Rocket.Chat
Rocket.Chat is a secure and highly customizable open-source team communication tool used by enterprises, governments, and privacy-focused organizations. It supports real-time messaging, voice and video calls, file sharing, and threaded discussions. Organizations can deploy it on-premise or in the cloud, making it an ideal choice for teams that need tight data control and compliance with specific regulations. Unlike Microsoft Teams, Rocket.Chat allows complete access to its source code, empowering developers to tailor the platform to their exact requirements.
It’s also known for its powerful federation and omnichannel support. You can integrate it with other platforms like Slack, WhatsApp, and Facebook Messenger to manage customer support or cross-team conversations from one dashboard.
With support for more than 50 languages and extensive API documentation, Rocket.Chat is especially popular in global teams and highly technical environments. Its robust encryption protocols and customizable UI make it a strong competitor for businesses prioritizing privacy.
Top Features:
- Open-source with full customization
- On-premise and cloud deployment options
- Federation and omnichannel messaging
- Voice, video, and screen sharing
- Multilingual support and robust integrations
Pricing:
| Starter | Pro | Enterprise |
| $0 | $8/mo | Available on request |
12. RingCentral MVP
RingCentral MVP (Message, Video, Phone) is an enterprise-wide communications solution ideal for remote workers and IBD (Insourcing Business Divisions). It provides team messaging, high-definition video conferences, business phones and powerful analytics on a single platform.
As opposed to Microsoft Teams, which is highly dependent on Microsoft 365, RingCentral is an independent suite that can be integrated with other third-party software such as Salesforce, Google Workspace, and Zendesk.
The platform allows international calling, voice mail transcription, team huddles and file sharing. Another feature offered by RingCentral MVP is the voice activity quality and noise reduction, they offer AI-powered meeting summaries or transcriptions. It offers enterprise security, call routing capability, and performance visibility making it a great choice to customer support organizations and large companies with requirements of connecting departments without loss to different time zones.
Top Features:
- Unified messaging, video, and phone
- AI features like transcription and summaries
- Global calling and enterprise-grade VoIP
- Integration with helpdesk and CRM tools
- Admin controls, analytics, and performance tracking
Pricing:
- Available on request
13. Twist
Twist by Doist is a feature of a calm and asynchronous communication app focused on replacing distractions and encouraging deep work. As opposed to real-time messaging services such like Microsoft Teams, Twist focuses on long-form threaded communication that is more akin to email but with a new modern interface.
Every conversation is held on a separate thread, which makes conversations more organized and can be easily searched, particularly when working on remote or async first teams. Twist is of particular use to remote teams which operate in varying time zones. It enables groups to get out of the habit of frequent pings and concentrate on meaningful communication.
No real-time indicators of typing activities or push notifications will be found, but Twist promotes transcendent messaging and note-taking. It does not come with integrated video calling but enables working with other tools like Zoom to complete the thoughtful communication system.
Top Features:
- Asynchronous, thread-based messaging
- Minimal notifications for deep focus
- Organized communication across channels
- Integrates with Zoom, GitHub, Todoist
- Ideal for remote and async teams
Pricing:
| Free | Unlimited |
| $0 | $6/mo |
14. Basecamp
Basecamp is an all-in-one communication and project management platform that combines messaging, task management, document sharing, schedules, and file storage. Unlike Microsoft Teams, which focuses more on messaging and integration with Office tools, Basecamp offers a minimalist approach where everything a team needs lives in one centralized place.
Each project in Basecamp includes its own message board, to-dos, file storage, calendar, and real-time group chat (Campfire). Basecamp promotes a calm and focused work culture with features like automatic check-ins and the ability to pause notifications outside working hours. Its clean and intuitive interface is ideal for teams that prefer managing projects without the complexity of traditional software.
While it doesn’t offer built-in video calling, Basecamp integrates smoothly with tools like Zoom and Google Meet. As one of the simpler yet effective Microsoft Teams alternatives, it’s especially popular among creative agencies, marketing teams, and freelancers who value structure, clarity, and ease of use.
Top Features:
- Project-based organization with dedicated spaces
- Built-in chat, message boards, and file sharing
- Calendar and task management tools
- Focused interface with no clutter
- Real-time collaboration with check-ins
Pricing:
| Free | Plus | Unlimited |
| $0 | $15/mo | $299/mo |
15. ProofHub
ProofHub is an all-in-one project management and team collaboration tool designed to simplify how teams plan, communicate, and deliver work. Unlike Microsoft Teams, which focuses primarily on communication, ProofHub offers a broader suite of tools including task management, Gantt charts, notes, discussions, timesheets, and file sharing.
Teams who wish to consolidate project planning and communication without juggling several apps will find it suitable. As part of the growing category of Workflow Management Platforms, ProofHub stands out with its flat pricing model—there are no per-user charges, making it more budget-friendly for growing teams. It also offers custom roles, detailed reports, and real-time collaboration through discussions and @mentions.
Whether you’re managing marketing campaigns, client projects, or product development, ProofHub gives you a clean and effective workspace that boosts accountability and productivity.
Top Features:
- Managing tasks and projects with Gantt charts and Kanban
- Team chat, discussions, and file sharing
- Time tracking and reporting tools
- Flat-rate pricing (no per-user fees)
- Custom roles and access permissions
Pricing:
| Essential | Ultimate |
| $45/mo | $85/mo |
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right team communication tool can make a big difference in how smoothly your team works together. Despite being a strong platform, Microsoft Teams isn’t the ideal choice for everyone. Fortunately, there are plenty of excellent substitutes available; some are more affordable, some more adaptable, and some simpler.
Before switching, consider what is most important to your team: Do you require more effective chat? Easier task tracking? Additional privacy safeguards? You’re likely to find a tool that fits your workflow and keeps your team connected and productive among the Microsoft Teams alternatives listed in this article.
FAQs
Q. Can I find a good collaboration tool that’s free to use?
Yes, many communication platforms offer free plans with essential features like messaging, file sharing, and video calls. Some even allow unlimited users with basic limitations.
Q. What features should I prioritize when choosing a collaboration tool?
Look for real-time chat, video conferencing, file sharing, task management, and strong integration support. Security, ease of use, and scalability are also key factors to consider.
Q. Are there options available for highly secure or regulated industries?
Absolutely. Some tools offer self-hosted or on-premise solutions with strong encryption and compliance certifications suitable for healthcare, government, and finance sectors.
