Slack is one of the most capable team chat solutions. Undisputedly, it is the leader in the field of integrations. This cloud-based collaboration and communication tool has outgrown from being initially used in the form of a messaging app. Using slack means you need to be active constantly to understand what the others are conversing
about. This tech-based app requires vast usage experience, and since it has got an international teamembership, concerns regarding synchronization and security might be very high. It is time you face the truth! Slack is not the one-size-fits-all instant messaging platform. If at all it was, people would not be looking for slack alternatives incessantly. Let us have a detailed look at some of the best Slack alternatives.
1. Hangouts Chat
This alternative to Slack boasts of virtual rooms with the potential of holding around 8000 individuals.
Pros: It comes loaded with features like threaded conversations. Direct messaging and bots are
integrating with the G Suite applications along with the third-party organizations.
Hangouts Chats works in 28 varied languages and even has its focus on the use of machine
learning and artificial intelligence for finding out the requirements of the users.
Cons: It is not a free service, but it can be more affordable than Slack.
2. Mattermost
This is a highly flexible, open-source chat platform making way for secure and safe team collaboration.
Pros: It is one of the very few collaboration applications that serve as social networks at the same time. It works best for teams and industries and is way more affordable than Slack.
Cons: The paid package of Mattermost offers limitless customization options and improved security, but the restriction is that there must be a minimum of 10 users for purchasing this app.
3. Discord
The best thing about Discord is that it is completely free of cost and is one of the most popular team collaboration apps amongst gamers.
Pros: This platform offers users with Slack-like and familiar user-interface, voice chats, and videos like those available with Skype. It is one of the most amazing platforms to use when participating in the Dora 2 battle. However, it is also effective in meeting the collaboration challenges faced by companies.
Cons: The free plan offers several features but might not be useful for teams that want to have larger file uploads, GIF avatars, and customized emojis in their chats.
4. Microsoft Teams
This is a fully dedicated team communication app that integrates very easily in the users work and makes way for smooth communication among the team members.
Pros: The greatest advantage of this app is that it offers exclusive features like meeting recording and scheduled meetings.
Cons: It might take a bit of time for the users to get started. And yes, storage is limited with 2GB available per user and 10GB shared among the team.
5. Skype
Skype has got some unique features not available with Slack. These include screen sharing, along with video and audio sharing.
Pros: Skype lets its users enjoy the notification system, which works very smoothly. The users can even communicate with individuals outside their team. Best of all, Skype can be used even without an internet connection.
Cons: Skype will not be the best app for major team collaborations involving several members.
Parting Words
Go for the above mentioned Slack alternatives if you want features more than what you get on Slack. But understand the integrations these tools allow for before making your final decision.