28 Discord alternatives for gaming, working, and chatting in 2026

Discord alternatives for gaming

Gaming requires a Discord alternative with real-time voice chat and minimal latency to ensure effective team coordination, especially during complicated boss fights. Let’s take a look at the best Discord alternatives for gaming and voice chats.

PRO TIP: For the fastest multiplayer connections, consider combining these solutions with a VPN for gaming. 

TeamSpeak

TeamSpeak is a popular alternative to Discord that uses Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology to facilitate high-quality voice calls. It is highly regarded in the professional gaming sphere, having been used in major tournaments like the Overwatch League and Call of Duty League.

TeamSpeak’s key features include:

• Minimal latency
• Advanced audio settings like background noise reduction, echo cancellation, and automatic noise reduction
• Both mobile and desktop interfaces
• Top-grade encryption to protect from online gaming security threats

Mumble

Mumble is a free, open-source voice chat tool known for its low latency. Because it is an open-source solution, Mumble users who are comfortable with coding can modify the software. However, this level of customizability also makes Mumble a little more difficult to configure than some other Discord alternatives. 

Mumble stands out for its:

• Positional audio
• Ability to host hundreds of participants at once
• Customizability

Guilded

Guilded is a VoIP communication app that was specifically designed for the gaming community. It offers voice chat, video calling, instant messaging, and file sharing, making it a strong all-in-one platform for gamers.

Guilded’s unique features include:

• Shortcuts to servers related to your favorite games
• Straightforward interface
• Multiple forms of communication
• Screen sharing capabilities

Steam Chat

Steam is a popular gaming platform, but many users may not realize it has its own free Discord alternative: Steam Chat. If you already play games on Steam, you don’t need to create a separate account or download a new app to take advantage of its voice chat and instant messaging service.

Steam Chat offers:

• Integration with your current Steam account and friends list
• Secure communication via Steam’s servers
• Status updates to quickly see who is available to play

Ventrilo

If you're looking for a voice chat platform that won’t put unnecessary strain on your computer’s central processing unit (CPU), Ventrilo may be the right choice for you. This free software is known for its relative efficiency compared to other VoIP platforms.

Ventrilo’s key features include:

• Minimal CPU usage
• Extensive onboarding support

Revolt

Revolt allows for a smooth transition if you’re already very comfortable with Discord’s interface.  Like Mumble, Revolt is a free, open-source VoIP platform. However, it is very similar to Discord, so it’s a great choice for Discord users who don’t want to navigate a completely new interface.

Revolt’s basic features include:

• Similarity to Discord
• Free, open-source code
• Screen sharing 

Take a look at the table below to compare these gaming Discord alternatives at a glance:

Discord alternatives for team collaboration

While Discord is a powerful communication platform, it is not always the most professional option. Corporate and educational teams may prefer a more business-minded alternative to Discord with file-sharing, conferencing, and screen-sharing capabilities. The pricing details mentioned below are accurate as of August 4, 2025, and may be subject to change.

Slack

Slack is one of the most popular business communication tools. It takes a flexible approach to team collaboration with project management options.

Slack’s key features include:

• Ability to create multiple channels for different teams
• Advanced Slack security options for premium users
• Connectivity to Slack channels of partner companies
• Huddle meetings that can be quickly scheduled and conducted within a channel 

Slack offers a free plan that can work for small businesses or personal team projects. It also has more advanced, paid options for larger corporations, including Pro, Business+, and Enterprise Grid plans.

Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams is a collaboration tool that comes with Microsoft 365, a popular suite of productivity software that includes Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. So if you already use Microsoft products, Teams can be a great way to collaborate. 

Teams’ task management features include:

• Integration with Microsoft 365
• Synchronous document collaboration
• Easy file sharing

Microsoft Teams is paid software starting at $4 per user per month. However, this plan gives you access only to Teams, not other parts of the Microsoft 365 software suite. Microsoft Teams is most cost-effective when purchased with one of Microsoft 365’s business or personal plans, which start at $6 per user per month.

Flock

Flock is a business software solution that addresses multiple collaboration needs thanks to its text, video communication, project management tools, and file sharing features.

Flock allows users to:

• Create multiple team channels
• Use built-in video conferencing software
• Create to-do lists and send reminders
• Integrate with cloud services, including Google Drive, Microsoft OneDrive, and Dropbox

If you need an all-in-one communication solution for your team, Flock can be a great option. Flock offers a free plan for up to 20 workers and paid plans for larger teams starting at $4.5 per user per month.

Google Chat

If your team mostly uses Google products for collaboration, you already have a good Discord alternative: Google Chat. Previously known as Google Hangouts, this online chat app offers text and VoIP communication. 

Google Chat’s main features include:

• Integration with the rest of Google Workspace
• Inclusion with a standard Google Account
• Ability to start a Google Meet call directly from Google Chat
• Options to separate personal and professional contacts 

However, Google Chat’s security features lack more advanced techniques, like end-to-end encryption (E2E), so it may not be the best choice if your team handles sensitive information. For basic collaboration on a platform your team already uses, though, Google Chat can be a strong option.

Rocket.Chat

Rocket.Chat is an open-source Discord alternative that is particularly well-suited for tech-savvy businesses. It offers text messaging, voice chat, and video calls. 

The benefits of Rocket.Chat include:

• Customizable open-source code
• Enhanced security features, including E2E
• Team-specific inboxes

Rocket.Chat has a free, open-source community version with many features, including unlimited messaging, group video calls, and full message history. However, you can also choose the paid Enterprise plan, starting at $4 per user per month, designed specifically for corporate use.

Mattermost

Like Rocket.Chat, Mattermost is an open-source collaboration platform. It incorporates Discord’s channel feature with task management tools. Mattermost does not support video calling, but it can integrate with other calling platforms, like Zoom and Jitsi. 

Mattermost’s standout features include:

• Self-hosting options
• Open-source code
• Automated workflows

Mattermost offers a free plan that can work for small teams, but if you want to use advanced features, you will need to purchase an Enterprise or Professional subscription.

Troop Messenger

Troop Messenger is a team communication tool similar to Slack. What makes it stand out are its extensive software integration capabilities.

Troop Messenger’s key features include:

• Integration with third-party tools, like Zapier, Dropbox, and Google Drive
• Burnout, which automatically deletes messages with sensitive information after a set time
• End-to-end encryption
• 7-day free trial

Troop Messenger does not offer a free version, but it is one of the most cost-effective Discord alternatives for business, with its Premium plan starting at $2.50 per user per month.  

Wire

Wire offers a no-frills alternative to Discord with strong security protocols. Security-minded businesses can use Wire’s text messaging, audio call, video call, and file sharing capabilities while keeping their data safe.

Wire stands out for its:

• Intuitive interface
• End-to-end encryption
• Decentralized servers

Wire offers a free version for up to eight devices, which can be ideal for personal use. However, businesses must invest in either a paid Wire for Enterprise plan or the fully customized Wire On-Premises plan.

Zoom

Zoom is a popular video conferencing platform that became a household name during the COVID-19 pandemic because it was frequently used for socially distanced events and hangouts. However, Zoom also has broader business applications.

In addition to voice and video calls, Zoom offers:

• Webinars
• Meeting recordings
• Slack integration

Zoom has a free option with basic features, such as 40-minute meetings and live chat during meetings (it doesn’t have a text messaging option). If you opt for the paid Zoom Pro or Zoom Business plan, you can also access additional business-centric features, like workflow automation, an AI companion, and a meeting scheduler.

Zoho Cliq

Zoho Cliq is a communication offshoot of Zoho CRM that offers text, voice, and video calling. It prioritizes organization, helping teams manage all of their important conversations. 

Zoho Cliq’s standout features include:

• Integration with Zoho CRM
• Extensions for third-party applications like Trello, GitHub, and Google Drive
• Conversation tracking
• Reminder bots

Zoho Cliq offers a free plan, but it also has paid plans at varying price points, starting at $1.80 per user per month.

Take a look at the table below to compare these Discord alternatives:

Discord alternatives for casual chat and social groups

Many people use Discord primarily to chat with friends, content creators, and fandoms. Social alternatives to Discord prioritize ease of use, self-expression, and community building. The pricing details mentioned below are accurate as of August 4, 2025, and may be subject to change.

Telegram

Telegram is a cloud-based alternative to Discord that allows users to send secure messages across multiple devices.

Telegram’s main features include:

• Advanced Telegram security features
• Large groups (up to 2,000 members)
• Ability to sync between multiple devices

Telegram is completely free, but unlike other free communication apps, it doesn’t use ads or user data tracking to fund its software. If you’re worried about data brokers selling your personal information, Telegram can be a smart choice.

WhatsApp

WhatsApp is a chat app owned by Meta, the company behind social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook. WhatsApp allows users to send text messages and make voice and video calls over the internet, so you won't incur any extra fees if you’re trying to communicate with friends in different countries.

WhatsApp stands out for its:

• Phone number signup (no Meta profile required)
• Free instant messaging between WhatsApp accounts
• Contact sync to easily find friends
• Availability on mobile devices, tablets, and desktops 

Viber

​​Viber is an internet-based communication app known for its user-friendly interface.

Viber’s main features include:

• Multiple communication options, including voice calls, video calls, file sharing, GIFs, stickers, and text, photo, audio, and video messaging
• Intuitive, all-in-one interface
• Caller ID, even for callers who are not in your contacts 

Snapchat

Snapchat is a free social media platform that originated as a way to share fun photos and short videos that would disappear after opening (called “snaps”). However, Snapchat has expanded its offerings to include chatting features, which can make it an attractive alternative to Discord for casual users who already have the app.

Snapchat’s chatting features include:

• Text, voice, and video calls
• Create group chats with up to 32 users at once
• Snapmap to see where friends are located
• Fun self-expression features, such as Lenses and Bitmojis

Since Snapchat is a social media platform first and foremost, it does not offer as many chat-focused features as other Discord alternatives, and its interface is very different from other messaging apps.

Facebook Messenger

Facebook Messenger is the chat app attached to Meta’s Facebook social media platform. Messenger offers text messaging, as well as voice and video calling. Users must have a Facebook profile to sign up, but the application is free.

Messenger provides:

• Communication with friends, business profiles, pages, and Facebook groups
• Video chat rooms (no Messenger login required)
• Peer-to-peer payment options
• Sync with Facebook and Instagram
• Secret Facebook conversations

Because Messenger is also owned by Meta, it functions similarly to WhatsApp. The main difference is that Messenger requires customers to sign up with their Facebook account, whereas WhatsApp’s signup process uses a phone number.

Reddit (chats)

Reddit is a social media platform that functions as an online forum. Users can create subreddits to explore different interests and populate them with threads (a series of posts and comments). However, Reddit also has chatting features that can be used as an alternative to Discord. 

Reddit chats allow users to:

• Direct message specific Redditors
• Chat in channels within subreddits

Similar to Snapchat, Reddit’s primary purpose is to be a social media platform. That means the chat features are secondary, and Reddit Chat does not offer voice or video calling options. However, you can use Reddit Chats as a casual way to connect with friends and community members on the platform.

Geneva

​​Geneva is a casual event platform that stands out for its various chat room options. It is an all-in-one solution for socializing with your online friends, including scheduling and invite tools.

Geneva offers:

• Traditional text-based chat rooms
• Audio/video rooms
• Voice rooms
• Forum rooms
• Broadcast rooms
• Direct messaging 

Geneva is free, but it doesn’t show users any ads nor share user data. If you’re looking for a casual communication app that protects your privacy, Geneva may be the right choice for you.

Clubhouse

Clubhouse is a chatroom app that functions like an online party. Clubhouse offers video-audio chat rooms with varying levels of privacy, from completely open, public chats to closed, invite-only rooms.

Clubhouse’s additional features include:

• Ability for Clubhouse creators to monetize content
• Clubs for specific interests
• Events like talent shows, trivia, and speed dating
• Peer-to-peer payments

Clubhouse can be a fun way to meet new people or network with content creators and celebrities like Kevin Hart and Tiffany Haddish. However, unlike many other internet-based communication apps, Clubhouse is not free to use. Downloading the app doesn’t cost anything, but subscriptions start at $8.50 per month per user. So if you are just looking to socialize with your offline friends, it may not be worth the cost.

From group chats to virtual events, this quick side-by-side comparison highlights your Discord alternatives for chatting:

Discord alternatives for privacy-focused or tech-savvy users

Online privacy is a major concern for many internet users. If you’re looking for Discord alternatives that protect your sensitive data, let’s take a look at an overview of the most popular security-focused platforms. The pricing details mentioned below are accurate as of August 4, 2025, and may be subject to change.

Element (Matrix)

Element is a messaging app from Matrix, a decentralized communication network. It offers secure group chats, video calls, voice chats, and file sharing without ads or data mining.

Element’s key features include:

• End-to-end encryption
• Option to join existing servers or self-host your own
• Ability to customize the interface

The base Element app is free, but paid plans with business-centric features are available starting at $5.25 per user per month. Because Element is decentralized, all of the content is self-moderated, so you may encounter more offensive content on the app than on some heavily monitored platforms.

Tox

Tox is an open-source messaging app with no central servers collecting or storing data, so the information you share on Tox is truly private.

Tox stands out for its:

• Lack of personal information required for setup
• End-to-end encryption
• Ability to connect with others via Tox ID numbers

While Tox protects much of your data, it has one major cybersecurity vulnerability: IP sharing. When you add someone to your friends list on Tox, they can see your IP address, which means they could potentially find your location. To protect yourself, only send friend requests to people you know and trust, and consider using a VPN to give you a virtual IP address unrelated to your current location.

Signal

​​The Signal app is a free messaging platform that places a premium on security. It offers voice calls, video chats, and text threads, as well as GIF, image, and file sharing.

Signal offers multiple privacy-focused features, including:

• End-to-end encryption
• Session verification to confirm that no one is intercepting your communication
• Disappearing messages

If you want a free communication solution that prioritizes privacy while still providing more traditional customer support, Signal can be a great Discord alternative.

Jitsi Meet

Jitsi Meet is a free, open-source video conferencing platform that is a more secure alternative to Zoom in many ways. It offers audio and video calls, screen sharing, and live chats.

Jitsi Meet’s key features include:

• Fully encrypted communications
• Synchronous document editing via Etherpad
• Customizable meeting URL.

Whether you are looking for personal video calls or professional virtual meetings, Jitsi Meet is an attractive option for consumers whose number one priority is privacy.

Let’s quickly compare security-focused Discord alternatives:

However, you shouldn’t rely solely on your communication platform for security. You should also follow cybersecurity best practices and explore software like NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro^TM.

Discord alternatives for school

Teachers and students can leverage chatting platforms both for virtual programs and group collaboration. However, Discord’s more casual community doesn’t always fit into the educational environment.

Below is a brief overview of Discord alternatives for school use:

• Zoom. Zoom became a top platform for online schooling during the COVID-19 pandemic. Its screen sharing and video conferencing allow educators to simulate the feeling of an in-person classroom online. However, Zoom’s vulnerability issues have led some schools to seek other options.
• Google Chat. If you are collaborating with your classmates on a project on Google Drive, using Google Chat is a no-brainer because it is already integrated into Google Workspace.
• Microsoft Teams. Similarly, if your school uses the Microsoft ecosystem, Microsoft Teams can be a great Discord alternative for education.
• Slack. Slack’s professional focus can make it an attractive collaboration tool for educators. However, it offers limited meeting options, so it’s not a great choice for virtual schooling.
• Telegram. Telegram allows up to 2,000 users in a meeting or chat, making it ideal for large university settings.
• Geneva. Geneva’s different room types can be used to meet various educational needs. For example, teachers can use the broadcast room for announcements and reminders, set up class discussions in the forum rooms, and host lectures in the video rooms.

Students can also use platforms like WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger to coordinate for school projects. However, because they are primarily social, casual platforms, WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger are not ideal for teacher-to-student communication.

Free Discord alternatives to check out

Whether you want a platform for casual chatting, gaming communities, or professional team collaboration, plenty of options won’t cost you anything or will only require payment for premium features. 

Fully free Discord alternatives include:

• Facebook Messenger
• Geneva
• Google Chat
• Guilded
• Jitsi Meet
• Mumble
• Reddit Chats
• Revolt
• Signal
• Snapchat
• Steam Chat
• Telegram
• Tox
• Viber
• Ventrilo
• WhatsApp

You can also choose from partially free Discord alternatives. These platforms offer a free plan with basic features, but you will have to upgrade to access everything the app has to offer:

• Element
• Flock
• Mattermost
• Rocket.Chat
• Slack
• TeamSpeak
• Slack
• Wire
• Zoom
• Zoho Cliq

If you’re looking for a platform geared toward businesses and professional teams, these options fit the bill:

• Clubhouse
• Microsoft Teams
• Troop Messenger

They usually offer limited free plans or trials, but you’ll need to pay to unlock all the features.

Whatever your needs, budget, or privacy concerns, you can always find a suitable Discord alternative!