Alternatives
Best Element Alternatives in 2026 (Verified)
4 verified options for people leaving Element — usually over pricing, platform support or the source model. Each one carries its own dated Trust Report.
What is Element?
Element is a messaging, voice and video app built on the open, federated Matrix network, with end-to-end encryption on by default. It runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android and the web, and is developed by the UK company Element (New Vector Ltd).
The shortlist
Signal
Speak freely, message privately
Choose Signal if
you want the simplest phone-based encrypted messenger, run by a nonprofit.
Telegram
Fast cloud-based messaging at scale
Choose Telegram if
you want a very large network with cloud chats, channels and bots.
Threema
Swiss messenger without phone numbers
Choose Threema if
you want a Swiss, no-phone-number messenger you pay for once.
Mattermost
Self-hosted team chat (Slack alt)
Choose Mattermost if
you want a Slack-style single-org workspace with deep integrations.
Why look for a Element alternative?
Most people weighing a switch are balancing one of three things: what it costs (free · open source), how it’s built and licensed (AGPL-3.0-or-later), or where their data lives. None of these make Element a bad choice — they’re trade-offs, and a different tool may simply balance them in a way that fits you better.
Platform coverage is the other common reason. Element runs on Windows · macOS · Linux · iOS · Android · web — if your devices fall outside that list, or you’d rather align on a different source model, the options above cover the same ground from a different angle. Each carries its own Trust Report, so switching doesn’t mean starting your research from zero.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best free Element alternative?
Signal is the strongest free option on this list (Free). you want the simplest phone-based encrypted messenger, run by a nonprofit.
Is Element safe to use?
Element recorded 8/9 of nine checks verified in Altapp’s independent Trust Report, last reviewed Jul 19, 2026 — covering source verification, permissions, trackers and known risks. Findings are stated rather than scored, and any check that did not pass is listed on its app page.
What should I consider when switching?
Export your data first, confirm the new app covers your platforms, and read its Trust Report. Run both apps side by side until you’re confident nothing was left behind.