Rocket.Chat vs Nextcloud: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Rocket.Chat 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:
Rocket.Chat
Open-source team communication platform
Best for you if:
- • You need team chat features specifically
- • Rocket.Chat is an open-source team collaboration platform
- • It provides messaging, video calls, and integrations with self-hosting option
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 8.2/10)
- • 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 |  Rocket.Chat |  Nextcloud |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Free + Paid |
Best For | Team Chat | File Management |
Rating | 82/100 | 86/100 |
| Feature | Rocket.Chat | Nextcloud |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| Editorial Score | 82 | 86 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Team ChatVideo Conferencing | File ManagementTeam Chat |
How Rocket.Chat and Nextcloud Compare
Rocket.Chat
Open-source team communication platform
Free tier available · 82/100 score
Nextcloud
Open source content collaboration platform for secure, self-hosted data control and remote teamwork.
Free tier available · 86/100 score
Rocket.Chat 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: Rocket.Chat
Want the highest-rated option?
Rocket.Chat: 82/100. 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?
Rocket.Chat 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 82/100.
Key Takeaways
Nextcloud
- Higher score: 86/100 vs 82
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Rocket.Chat
- Better fit for team chat
The Bottom Line
Nextcloud (86/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rocket.Chat or Nextcloud better?
Nextcloud scores 86/100 in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Rocket.Chat and Nextcloud used for?
Rocket.Chat: Open-source team communication platform. Nextcloud: Open source content collaboration platform for secure, self-hosted data control and remote teamwork..
What does Rocket.Chat cost vs Nextcloud?
Rocket.Chat is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Nextcloud is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.