Element vs Nextcloud: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Element and Nextcloud 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 February 28, 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:
- • You need team chat features specifically
- • 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
Nextcloud
Open source content collaboration platform for secure, self-hosted data control and remote teamwork.
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.6/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • You need file management features specifically
- • Self-hosted, open-source content collaboration platform.
- • Combines file storage, communication, office suite, and AI assistant.
| At a Glance |  Element |  Nextcloud |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Team Chat | File Management |
Rating | 80/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Element | Nextcloud |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 80 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Team ChatInternal Comms | File ManagementTeam Chat |
How Element and Nextcloud Compare
Element
Secure communications platform
Free tier available · 80/100 score
Nextcloud
Open source content collaboration platform for secure, self-hosted data control and remote teamwork.
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Element is a team chat tool. Nextcloud is in file management.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Element
Want the highest-rated option?
Element: 80/100. Nextcloud: 86/100.
Go with: Nextcloud
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Nextcloud
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Element is a team chat tool. Nextcloud is in file management. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Nextcloud scores higher: 86/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Nextcloud
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Element
- Better fit for team chat
The Bottom Line
Nextcloud (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Element or Nextcloud better?
Nextcloud scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Element and Nextcloud used for?
Element: Secure communications platform. Nextcloud: Open source content collaboration platform for secure, self-hosted data control and remote teamwork..
What does Element cost vs Nextcloud?
Element is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Nextcloud is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.