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Element vs Mattermost: Which Should You Choose in 2026?

Choosing between Element and Mattermost comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.

By Toolradar Team · Last updated April 14, 2026 · Methodology

Short on time? Here's the quick answer

We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:

Element

Secure communications platform

Best for you if:

    0
  • Element is a secure messaging app built on the Matrix protocol for decentralized communication
  • It provides end-to-end encrypted chat, voice, and video with self-hosting options

Mattermost

Open-source team collaboration platform

Best for you if:

    0
  • Mattermost is an open-source messaging platform for secure team collaboration
  • It provides channels, threads, and integrations with self-hosting options
At a Glance
ElementElement
MattermostMattermost
Price
Free + PaidFree + Paid
Best For
Team ChatTeam Chat
Rating
FeatureElementMattermost
Pricing ModelFreemiumFreemium
Community RatingNo ratings yetNo ratings yet
Total Reviews00
Community Upvotes
0
0
Categories
Team ChatInternal Comms
Team ChatScreen Sharing

How Element and Mattermost Compare

Element

Secure communications platform

Free tier available

Mattermost

Open-source team collaboration platform

Free tier available

Who Should Use What?

On a budget?

Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.

Go with: Element

Want the highest-rated option?

Neither has user reviews yet.

Go with: Element

Value user reviews?

Neither has user reviews yet.

Go with: Element

3 Questions to Help You Decide

1

What's your budget?

Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.

2

What's your use case?

Both are team chat tools. Compare their specific features to decide.

3

How important are ratings?

Neither has user reviews yet.

Key Takeaways

Element

    0
  • Free tier available
  • Our pick for this comparison

Mattermost

    The Bottom Line

    Element is our pick.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is Element or Mattermost better?

    Element is rated high in our evaluation. Both are freemium.

    What are Element and Mattermost used for?

    Element: Secure communications platform. Mattermost: Open-source team collaboration platform.

    What does Element cost vs Mattermost?

    Element is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Mattermost is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.

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