Looking for the best workplace chat app in 2025? Here's a quick breakdown of the top options to boost team communication, collaboration, and productivity:

• Slack: Best for teams needing advanced integrations and tools like AI summaries and project management. Starts at $7.25/user/month.

• Microsoft Teams: Ideal for businesses using Microsoft 365, offering seamless integration and robust features. Starts at $4/user/month.

• Pebb: Budget-friendly with a free plan for up to 1,000 users and premium features at $3.50/user/month.

• Google Chat: Perfect for Google Workspace users, with simple collaboration tools starting at $6/user/month.

• Workvivo: Focused on employee engagement and internal communication. Pricing available upon request.

Quick Comparison

Each app has unique strengths. If you're on a budget, Pebb offers the best value. For advanced tools, Slack and Microsoft Teams are top choices. Google Chat is great for simplicity, while Workvivo excels in engagement-focused features.

Choose based on your team's size, budget, and collaboration needs.

15 Best Team Communication Tools (2025)

1. Slack

Slack, used by 200,000 organizations as of 2025, has grown from a simple messaging tool into a comprehensive platform for workplace collaboration.

Key Features

Slack organizes discussions into channels, making it easy to manage conversations by projects, topics, or departments. It also provides a searchable message history and supports over 2,600 enterprise app integrations to simplify workflows.

Some of its latest tools include:

• Slack AI: Offers smart summaries and advanced search, saving teams an average of 97 minutes per week.

• Workflow Builder: A no-code tool to automate repetitive tasks.

• Canvas: A shared workspace for storing and sharing important business documents and resources.

• Lists: A built-in project management tool that works seamlessly within conversations.

These updates are designed to improve team efficiency and streamline daily operations.

Impact on Team Performance

Slack delivers measurable improvements across various departments:

• Sales: 36% increase in win rates.

• Customer Service: 32% faster case resolution.

• Marketing: 37% quicker decision-making.

• IT: 38% higher employee productivity.

Additionally, 90% of users report better team connectivity, and organizations see a 47% overall productivity boost. It's clear that Slack's tools help teams work smarter.

Pricing

Integrations and Automation

On average, teams connect 43 apps per Slack workspace. Popular integrations include Salesforce CRM, which provides quick access to customer data, and Agentforce, which enhances automation with AI features.

While Slack offers powerful tools and integrations, its pricing and extensive features might be more than smaller teams need.

2. Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams combines real-time collaboration, communication, and file sharing. Over three years, it can deliver a 291% ROI, equating to a net benefit of $35 million.

Core Features

Teams is tightly integrated with Microsoft 365, offering tools for document collaboration, meetings, and project management in one platform. Here's what stands out:

• File Storage: Upload files up to 15GB.

• Meeting Capacity: Host up to 500 participants in paid versions.

• Shared Storage: Paid plans include 1TB of storage.

AI-Driven Tools

With 75% of knowledge workers now using generative AI in their jobs, Teams includes several AI-powered features:

• Microsoft 365 Copilot: Productivity tools that work across Teams and other Microsoft apps.

• Intelligent Recap: Automatically creates meeting summaries and action items.

• Real-time Translation: Helps global teams communicate without language barriers.

Enterprise Integration

Companies like REI have streamlined operations by managing nearly all workflows within Teams. This level of integration pairs well with Teams' competitive pricing and enterprise-grade features.

2025 Pricing Plans

Note: Prices are based on an annual commitment.

Business Advantages

Teams offers several benefits that can help organizations streamline their operations:

• All-in-One Platform: Integrates with 250+ apps and services across all plans.

• Strong Security: Enterprise-grade security and compliance tools.

• Efficient Collaboration: Works seamlessly with Microsoft 365 for co-authoring and real-time editing.

While Teams is a robust solution for larger organizations, its extensive features and pricing may not suit smaller teams looking for simpler tools. Additionally, users unfamiliar with Microsoft products may face a steeper learning curve. It's worth weighing these factors when deciding whether Teams aligns with your organization's needs.

3. Pebb

Pebb offers a comprehensive communication platform with tools designed for both office and frontline workers. What's more, it’s free for teams of up to 1,000 employees, making it a standout choice for businesses of any size.

Key Communication Tools

Pebb provides a range of tools to keep teams connected and informed:

• Work Chat: Unlimited message history with advanced search options

• Voice & Video Calls: High-quality audio and video for seamless communication

• News Feed: Central hub for company-wide announcements

• Knowledge Library: A centralized space to store and access important information

• Employee Directory: Profiles and contact details for all team members

Advanced Features for Teams

Pebb also includes features designed to boost collaboration and security:

• Advanced Permissions: Fine-tuned control over access and sharing

• Enterprise SSO: Secure single sign-on for easy access

• Analytics Dashboard: Insights into how the platform is being used

• Cross-Platform Access: Works smoothly on both mobile and desktop

• HR System Integration: Connects seamlessly with existing tools

Pricing for 2025

What Users Say

Pebb’s user-friendly design consistently earns praise. Xinyi Pang, a Digital Marketing Specialist, shared:

"Average time spent on page increased by 4x and onsite engagement went through the roof".

Flexible for Growing Teams

The free Standard plan supports up to 1,000 employees, while the Premium plan offers scalable options at $3.50 per user. This combination of affordability and robust features makes Pebb a strong option in the market.

4. Google Chat

Google Chat works perfectly for organizations already using Google Workspace. With over 3 billion active users, it integrates smoothly with essential productivity tools, making communication simple and efficient.

Key Features

Google Chat stands out because of its strong connection to Google Workspace. You can collaborate on documents directly within chats, set up meetings through Calendar, and jump into video calls via Google Meet. Here’s what it offers:

• Spaces: Channels designed for teams with threaded conversations

• Smart Replies: AI-driven suggestions for quick responses

• Real-time Document Collaboration: Edit documents directly in the chat

• Multi-Platform Access: Works on web, desktop, and mobile devices

Seamless Workspace Integration

One of Google Chat's standout features is how it integrates directly into Gmail, creating a centralized hub for communication. Beyond Gmail, it connects effortlessly with other Google tools:

This level of integration simplifies daily tasks and makes Google Chat a go-to for teams seeking efficiency.

Organized Conversations and Message History

Google Chat lets organizations keep their entire messaging archive without extra costs. Its "Spaces" feature also keeps discussions organized with threaded conversations, making it easy to track topics.

Why It Works for Businesses

Google Chat’s clean design and tight integration with Workspace tools make it perfect for businesses that want to keep things simple. Compared to Microsoft Teams and Slack, it’s a great choice for teams focused on clear and straightforward communication.

5. Workvivo

Workvivo is an employee experience platform used by over 3 million people across 93 countries, achieving 200% year-over-year growth. It's positioned as a powerful tool for workplace communication.

Workvivo offers a range of tools designed to meet the needs of today’s workforce:

The platform features Workvivo AI, powered by Zoom AI Companion. This technology automates repetitive tasks and simplifies communication, helping teams work more efficiently.

Workvivo has proven its impact on employee communication and engagement. For example, Flight Centre Travel Group connected 18,000 employees across 30 brands in 23 countries. Ryanair also highlighted its success, with adoption rates surpassing 90%.

"Workvivo transformed employee communication. It's your modern intranet, comms, engagement, and employee app all blended into a simple social experience that people naturally embrace, therefore offering companies the compliance and oversight they need while giving employees the freedom, inclusion, and flexibility they desire", says Matthew C., Internal Communications Business Partner.

The platform’s mobile-first design is ideal for remote and frontline employees. Ather Energy, for instance, scaled from 20 to nearly 2,000 employees while maintaining smooth communication through their Workvivo-powered intranet, "Interstellar".

With its broad integration options and detailed analytics, Workvivo delivers a streamlined communication experience. It reduces the need for switching between apps and provides actionable insights, making it a practical solution for improving workplace productivity.

Features and Pricing Comparison

Here's a breakdown of how top workplace chat apps compare in terms of features and pricing as of April 2025.

Key Highlights

Each platform has its strengths, and understanding these can help you decide which one fits your needs best:

• Slack stands out for its extensive app integrations, with over 2,600 options available. On average, teams use 43 integrations, making it a great choice for organizations with diverse toolsets.

• Microsoft Teams shines with its deep Office 365 integration and unlimited message history. It's also a strong choice for video conferencing, all starting at $4 per user/month. With 270 million daily active users, it's a trusted option for many businesses.

• Pebb is the most budget-friendly option, offering robust features like unlimited message history and video calls for just $3.50 per user/month. Its free plan supports up to 1,000 users, making it ideal for growing teams.

• Google Chat offers seamless integration with Google Workspace and provides a clean, streamlined experience for $6 per user/month. However, it lacks some of the advanced customization options found in Slack.

• Workvivo focuses on employee engagement and HR integrations. Since it requires contacting sales for pricing, it may suit larger organizations with specific needs.

Factors to Consider

When choosing a workplace chat app, take into account:

• User count and scaling costs: How much will it cost as your team grows?

• Tool integrations: Does it work well with the tools your team already uses?

• Security and compliance: Are your industry requirements met?

• Message history storage: How much history do you need to retain?

• Video conferencing needs: Do you need basic calls or advanced features like breakout rooms?

For small and medium-sized businesses, Pebb offers a strong balance of features and affordability. While Slack and Microsoft Teams dominate the market, their higher prices can strain budgets, especially for teams looking to scale.

How to Choose the Right Chat App

Choosing the right chat app can make a big difference in how effectively your team communicates. Research shows that companies with open communication channels see a 25% boost in employee retention rates.

Assess Your Team's Communication Style

Start by understanding how your team prefers to communicate. If visual content plays a big role, look for apps that handle multimedia well. For example, Pebb offers built-in voice and video features that go beyond just text.

Think About Growth

Your chat app should be ready to handle your company's growth. Key factors to consider include:

• How easy it is to add new users

• Storage capacity for message history

• Performance with more users

• Pricing changes as your team grows

Look for Integrations

A good chat app should work smoothly with the tools you already use. Check if it connects with:

• HR and payroll software

• Project management tools

• File storage platforms

• Calendar apps

• Security systems

Prioritize Employee Engagement

Keeping employees engaged is crucial. In fact, employees who feel valued are 2.7 times more likely to stay engaged. Features to look for include:

• Recognition tools to celebrate achievements

• Spaces for team interaction

• Channels for feedback

• Team-building options

• Sentiment tracking tools

Budget Matters

Compare costs carefully. Look at per-user pricing, setup fees, training costs, storage, and ongoing support expenses.

Security and Compliance

Security is non-negotiable. Make sure the app meets your industry's standards by checking:

• Data encryption methods

• Relevant certifications

• Access controls

• Audit features

• Data retention policies

These details, combined with integration and cost considerations, will help you choose a platform that supports your business needs.

Why It Matters

Research shows that 70% of employees value flexible work options, and effective communication plays a huge role in job satisfaction. The right chat app can directly impact both employee happiness and business outcomes. For example, Pebb offers a cost-effective solution at $3.50 per user/month, often outperforming more expensive options like Slack.

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