Mattermost vs Element: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Mattermost and Element 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:
Mattermost
Open-source team collaboration platform
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.4/10 vs 8.0/10)
- • Mattermost is an open-source messaging platform for secure team collaboration
- • It provides channels, threads, and integrations with self-hosting options
Element
Secure communications platform
Best for you if:
- • 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
| At a Glance |  Mattermost |  Element |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Team Chat | Team Chat |
Rating | 84/100 | 80/100 |
| Feature | Mattermost | Element |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 84 | 80 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Team ChatScreen Sharing | Team ChatInternal Comms |
How Mattermost and Element Compare
Mattermost
Open-source team collaboration platform
Free tier available · 84/100 score
Element
Secure communications platform
Free tier available · 80/100 score
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Mattermost
Want the highest-rated option?
Mattermost: 84/100. Element: 80/100.
Go with: Mattermost
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Mattermost
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?
Both are team chat tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Mattermost scores higher: 84/100 vs 80/100.
Key Takeaways
Mattermost
- Higher score: 84/100 vs 80
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Element
The Bottom Line
Mattermost (84/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mattermost or Element better?
Mattermost scores 84/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Mattermost and Element used for?
Mattermost: Open-source team collaboration platform. Element: Secure communications platform.
What does Mattermost cost vs Element?
Mattermost is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Element is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.