Rocket.Chat
Self-HostedOpen-source alternative to Slack for team communication
Overview
Rocket.Chat is an open-source self-hosted team communication platform offering real-time messaging, video/audio calls, file sharing, and integrations with tools like GitHub, Jira, and Zoom. It supports custom workflows, multi-language support, end-to-end encryption for private conversations, and role-based access control. Deployable via Docker, Kubernetes, or traditional servers, it gives full control over data privacy and compliance, ideal for teams or enterprises needing a customizable hub without third-party SaaS reliance.
Key Features
- Real-time messaging & HD video/audio calls
- End-to-end encryption for private conversations
- Extensive integrations with third-party tools
- Customizable workflows & role-based access control
Frequently Asked Questions
? Is Rocket.Chat hard to install?
It’s relatively easy to install using Docker (a single command) or pre-built packages for major OSes. For complex deployments like Kubernetes, some technical knowledge is helpful, but comprehensive documentation and community support simplify the process.
? Is it a good alternative to Slack?
Yes—Rocket.Chat offers most of Slack’s core features (messaging, calls, integrations) plus full data ownership and customization options that Slack lacks, making it ideal for privacy-conscious teams or enterprises needing compliance control.
? Is it completely free?
The core platform is open-source (MIT license) and free to use, self-host, or modify. Paid enterprise plans exist for additional support, advanced security features, and managed hosting, but no fees are required for the basic self-hosted version.
Top Alternatives
Tool Info
Pros
- ⊕ Full data ownership & privacy control
- ⊕ Highly customizable for teams/enterprises
- ⊕ No subscription fees for core features
- ⊕ Multi-language support for global teams
Cons
- ⊖ Requires technical setup for self-hosting
- ⊖ Advanced features have a steeper learning curve
- ⊖ Resource-intensive for large-scale deployments