Matrix (Element)
Decentralised, open-source protocol for private team communication.
Matrix is an open-source decentralised communication protocol, commonly used via the Element client. It enables end-to-end encrypted messaging, calls, and file sharing across federated servers, allowing organisations to run private instances.
| Pricing from | Free (self-hosted) |
| Best for | Organisations seeking decentralised communication with the option to self-host and maintain complete control. |
| Website | matrix.org |
Strengths and trade-offs
- Fully open source and decentralised with federated architecture
- Self-hosting option provides complete data sovereignty
- Setup and maintenance complexity requires technical expertise
- User experience lags behind centralised platforms
Appears in
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Questions about Matrix (Element)
How much does Matrix (Element) cost?
Lister lists Matrix (Element)'s pricing as: Free (self-hosted).
Is Matrix (Element) free?
Yes. Its pricing reads: Free (self-hosted).
Who is Matrix (Element) best for?
Matrix (Element) is best for organisations seeking decentralised communication with the option to self-host and maintain complete control.
Where does Matrix (Element) rank?
Matrix (Element) is ranked #7 in Top 10 Secure Communication Tools (Lister Score 78.7).
What are the best alternatives to Matrix (Element)?
The closest alternatives on Lister are Signal (#1 in Top 10 Secure Communication Tools), Wire (#2 in Top 10 Secure Communication Tools) and Wickr (#3 in Top 10 Secure Communication Tools).
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