Mattermost vs Slack: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Mattermost and Slack 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:
Mattermost
Open-source team collaboration platform
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need team chat features specifically
- • Mattermost is an open-source messaging platform for secure team collaboration
- • It provides channels, threads, and integrations with self-hosting options
Slack
Where work happens
Best for you if:
- 0
- • You need workflow automation features specifically
- • Channel-based messaging platform with 2,600+ integrations, huddles, Canvas docs, and workflow automation
- • Free plan covers basics (90-day history, 10 apps); paid plans start at $7.25/user/month with unlimited history
| At a Glance |  Mattermost |  Slack |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Team Chat | Workflow Automation |
Rating | — | — |
| Feature | Mattermost | Slack |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Team ChatScreen Sharing | Workflow Automation |
How Mattermost and Slack Compare
Mattermost
Open-source team collaboration platform
Free tier available
Slack
Where work happens
Free tier available
Mattermost is a team chat tool. Slack is in workflow automation.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Mattermost
Want the highest-rated option?
Neither has user reviews yet.
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?
Mattermost is a team chat tool. Slack is in workflow automation. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Key Takeaways
Mattermost
- 0
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Slack
- Better fit for workflow automation
The Bottom Line
Mattermost is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mattermost or Slack better?
Mattermost is rated high in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Mattermost and Slack used for?
Mattermost: Open-source team collaboration platform. Slack: Where work happens.
What does Mattermost cost vs Slack?
Mattermost is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Slack is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.