Looking for affordable Slack alternatives in 2025? Here are 10 options that offer robust communication tools without the high price tag. Whether you're a small team or a large enterprise, these platforms provide features like messaging, video calls, and integrations at a fraction of Slack's cost.

Top Picks:

• Pebb: Free for up to 1,000 users, premium at $4/user/month with unlimited storage.

• Microsoft Teams: Starts at $4/user/month; integrates seamlessly with Microsoft 365.

• Chanty: $3/user/month with built-in task management and unlimited message history.

• Rocket.Chat: Self-hosted or cloud options for secure communication.

• Google Chat: $6/user/month with strong Google Workspace integration.

Quick Comparison Table:

If you're on a budget, Pebb offers the best value with its free plan supporting up to 1,000 users and unlimited storage. For more security-focused needs, Rocket.Chat provides flexible deployment options. Dive into the article for a detailed breakdown of each platform!

8 Best Slack Alternatives

1. Pebb

Pebb stands out as a top choice among 2025 Slack alternatives, offering an all-in-one internal communication platform at an affordable price. With a free plan that supports up to 1,000 employees and premium features starting at just $4 per user per month, it’s a budget-friendly solution for modern workplace communication needs.

The Standard (Free) Plan includes:

• Unlimited message history in Work Chat

• A company-wide news feed and knowledge library

• Task management tools and an integrated calendar

• Unlimited clubs for team collaboration

• Options for organizing by department and branch

For teams looking for additional features, the Premium Plan provides expanded options:

Pebb combines essential communication and collaboration tools into one platform. Its user-friendly interface allows for easy access to messaging, announcements, collaboration spaces, and document sharing. With mobile and desktop compatibility, it’s a great fit for remote or distributed teams, all while maintaining strong security standards.

"We wanted to make daily work for our workers as seamless as possible and equip them with the tools they need without compromising on data security and privacy", says Rene Jahnke, Solution Architect at the City of Cologne.

2. Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams is a solid choice for organizations already using the Microsoft ecosystem. It offers a free plan along with several paid options, as shown below.

Its integration with Microsoft 365 allows users to switch between tasks 37% less often compared to Slack, making workflows smoother.

Teams is designed for hybrid work, featuring AI tools like Smart Recap for meeting summaries and Project Cortex for surfacing important documents. These features make it a strong option for businesses adapting to flexible work environments.

"Businesses save $9,000/year per 100 users by consolidating Zoom, Asana, and Dropbox licenses into Teams", says Forrester analyst Amy Chang in the 2024 Collaboration Tools Report.

The platform also prioritizes security, with certifications like FedRAMP High, HIPAA, and ISO 27001. Features such as Advanced Threat Protection, which scans shared files for threats, and Sensitivity Labels for detailed access control, make it suitable for industries with strict compliance requirements.

Microsoft Teams has proven its effectiveness in real-world scenarios. For instance, Walmart's frontline workers reported a 28% improvement in shift coordination using Teams' walkie-talkie feature compared to Slack's mobile interface, according to a 2024 case study.

That said, Teams does have some drawbacks. File storage is capped at 1TB per user, and its search functionality can struggle with older messages in large workspaces. Additionally, European businesses should be aware that due to recent antitrust rulings, Teams must now be purchased separately from Office 365.

3. Chanty

Chanty is a budget-friendly team collaboration tool offering a mix of affordability and useful features. At just $4 per user per month, it’s priced well below Slack’s Pro plan, which costs $7.25 per user.

What sets Chanty apart is its ability to streamline workflows. Its "Teambook" acts as a central hub for tasks, messages, and files, eliminating the need for multiple tools. For example, Gridwise, a Denver-based startup, automated 70% of its project updates by integrating Chanty with Jira and HubSpot via Zapier.

Chanty also offers AI-powered "Smart Replies", which reduce response times by 30% for support teams. Its "Task Roles" feature has proven effective too - TechFlow, an Austin-based development team, reported a 40% drop in missed deadlines during Q1 2025. Additionally, its compliance features make it a strong choice for regulated industries.

"Chanty's flat pricing and built-in task management make it ideal for sub-200-person teams prioritizing cost over ecosystem breadth", says Lena Torres, a collaboration analyst at Gartner, in their 2025 Collaboration Guide.

Chanty caters to industries with strict regulations through GDPR compliance and HIPAA-ready plans. For instance, VitalCore, a Boston-based MedTech startup, replaced Slack’s $20/user/month Enterprise Grid with Chanty for encrypted patient data discussions.

Migration is straightforward too. BrightMind successfully moved 85 employees to Chanty in a single day using its import tool. While Chanty offers 50+ native integrations compared to Slack’s 2,400+ app directory, for teams focused on core communication and task management, the cost savings are hard to ignore.

4. Rocket.Chat

Rocket.Chat is a secure alternative to Slack, offering multiple deployment options like self-hosting, air-gapped setups, or secure cloud hosting. These options give you full control over your data, making it a popular choice for high-security environments. In fact, it has been used in classified networks such as NIPRNet and SIPRNet, with Department of Defense Authorization to Operate (ATO) up to IL6.

The platform’s message auditing feature can help organizations save up to 75% on communication-related costs, a big advantage for budget-conscious teams.

"Rocket.Chat met our communication needs - secure messaging, audio and video calls, and document sharing. It checked all the security and usability boxes for us", says Jenny Nilsson, IT Strategist at the Swedish Electrical Safety Board.

Rocket.Chat isn’t just about messaging. It also offers real-time chat, VoIP, and video conferencing, making it suitable for a wide range of operations.

For organizations with specific needs, Rocket.Chat provides customizable pre-built and custom apps. These are especially useful for command and control operations, emergency response, and citizen engagement.

If data privacy is a priority, Rocket.Chat’s self-hosted option eliminates the usual concerns associated with cloud storage, making it a strong choice for enterprises focused on security.

5. Workvivo

Workvivo stands out as another option in the lineup of budget-conscious platforms, but finding detailed information about it can be tricky. Pricing, contract terms, and feature comparisons to tools like Slack aren't openly shared, making it harder to evaluate at a glance.

If you're considering Workvivo, it's a good idea to reach out to the vendor directly for specifics. This contrasts with platforms like Pebb, which provide straightforward pricing and detailed feature breakdowns upfront.

6. Staffbase

Staffbase is designed to support structured company news and boost employee engagement. Its standout features include:

• Company news distribution: Share important updates efficiently.

• Employee directory: Easily access contact details and organizational information.

• Mobile-first design: Optimized for employees on the go.

• Basic chat functionality: Facilitate simple communication.

• Content management system: Organize and manage internal content effectively.

Unlike platforms centered around real-time messaging, Staffbase focuses on delivering top-down, organized internal communications. This makes it a great fit for companies that prioritize formal communication channels over chat-heavy tools like Pebb and Chanty.

7. Google Chat

Google Chat, a part of Google Workspace, provides an affordable alternative to Slack, especially for organizations already using tools like Google Meet and Drive. Its seamless integration within the Google ecosystem makes it a practical choice for many businesses.

The Spaces feature supports project collaboration through threaded conversations, boosting team communication. In fact, after a 2025 AI update, Phoenix Logistics Inc. reported a 40% reduction in meeting follow-ups.

For instance, the Portland School District transitioned 2,000 staff members to Google Chat and saved $120,000 annually.

Key Features of Google Chat

• AI Tools: Includes Smart Reply suggestions and automatic meeting note generation to save time.

• Security: Offers HIPAA compliance and AES 256-bit encryption for Meet recordings, ensuring data protection.

• Hybrid Work Support: Features like location-aware status updates and offline message drafting cater to flexible work environments.

While Google Chat has many strengths, it does face some limitations. It supports only around 850 third-party integrations, compared to Slack's 2,400+, and its search functionality is about 12% less accurate.

Still, the platform's migration toolkit simplifies the switch for businesses. For example, Denver-based FlowMetrics successfully migrated to Google Chat in just three business days.

8. Blink

Blink is a mobile-first alternative to Slack, tailored for frontline workers in 2025. It combines tools like team chat, file sharing, task management, and smart scheduling to help teams stay organized and productive. The platform is built with a mobile-friendly design, making it ideal for both office staff and field workers.

Key Features

• Mobile-optimized interface designed specifically for frontline teams

• Built-in tools for team chat, file sharing, and task management

• Smart scheduling to streamline shift-based work

With its practical features and competitive pricing, Blink stands out as an affordable option for organizations that need to support their teams without losing access to crucial tools. It’s a solid choice for businesses looking to bridge the gap between office and field operations.

9. Unily

Unily is a digital workplace platform designed for large organizations with complex requirements. Its pricing structure reflects this focus, making it a better choice for enterprises that need a highly customizable and scalable solution. However, for small to medium-sized businesses, the cost may be a limiting factor. Teams working with tighter budgets might find more affordable alternatives that align better with their needs. This makes Unily a strong option for larger setups but less practical for smaller teams, as we'll see in the next example.

10. Zoho Cliq

Zoho Cliq delivers key communication tools at a budget-friendly price. The Enterprise plan costs just $6 per user per month, offering cost savings without skimping on performance.

The free plan includes 100GB of storage and allows up to 100 participants per channel, making it a solid choice for smaller teams.

Zoho Cliq stands out with its collaboration features, especially in video conferencing. It supports up to 1,000 participants and 10,000 additional viewers on the Enterprise plan, making it suitable for both small teams and large organizations.

These pricing options make Zoho Cliq adaptable for teams of various sizes.

The platform includes AI-powered chat summaries to highlight key points, which is especially useful for teams working across different time zones. Other productivity tools include message forking (to create sub-chats for specific topics) and customizable keyboard shortcuts.

TechRadar praised Cliq for its "simple and obvious interface." If your organization is already using Zoho tools, Cliq integrates smoothly with Zoho CRM and Projects, helping streamline workflows. However, its third-party app support is somewhat limited, with around 500 apps available - less than some competitors.

For added security, the Enterprise plan includes features like:

• Data loss prevention

• eDiscovery

• IP-based access restrictions

• Branch-specific security policies

Zoho Cliq balances affordability, collaboration tools, and security, making it a strong option for teams of any size.

Price and Feature Comparison

Here's a feature and pricing breakdown for popular Slack alternatives:

This table outlines the core features of each platform, helping you decide which best suits your business needs.

Pebb stands out for its free plan supporting up to 1,000 users and unlimited storage, making it an excellent choice for teams on a budget. Its premium plan, priced at $4/user/month, includes features like voice and video calls, analytics, and enterprise SSO. At this price point, Pebb offers a competitive package that balances affordability with functionality.

Rocket.Chat has also proven effective in enterprise environments. For example, the Swedish Electrical Safety Board successfully implemented Rocket.Chat, showcasing its flexibility and reliability for large organizations.

When choosing a platform, consider these factors:

• Deployment Options: While most platforms are cloud-based, some offer on-premise or air-gapped solutions for added security.

• Integration Capabilities: Integration options vary, with platforms like Zoho Cliq supporting up to 500 apps, while others provide more extensive options.

• Security Features: Premium plans often include advanced security features, which can vary widely between platforms.

• Storage Limits: Free plans range from 10GB to unlimited storage, with premium plans generally offering more generous allowances.

Platform Selection Guide

Choosing the right platform goes beyond just pricing and features. It’s about finding one that aligns with your organization’s needs for operations and security. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make the best choice:

Assess Your Security Requirements

Security should be a top priority. Look for platforms that offer strong data protection measures, such as encryption, compliance certifications, and secure access controls.

Key areas to focus on:

• Data encryption standards: Protect sensitive information.

• Compliance certifications: Ensure the platform meets industry regulations.

• Access control features: Manage who can access what.

• Authentication methods: Add layers of security to user logins.

Evaluate Deployment Options

Once security is addressed, think about how the platform will be deployed. Different deployment types offer various benefits depending on your needs.

Match Features to Work Setup

Your team’s work environment should guide your feature selection. For example, features like secure messaging, video calls, and document sharing are crucial for streamlining workflows.

Key Features by Team Type:

Consider Integration Requirements

A platform that works well with your existing tools can save time and improve efficiency. Look for:

• Compatibility with your tech stack

• API availability and custom integration options

• Support for automating workflows

Budget Planning

Cost is always a factor. Evaluate the platform’s pricing based on:

• Total number of users

• Features you need

• Storage capacity

• Level of support offered

For organizations watching their budgets, Pebb stands out at just $4 per user per month. This includes unlimited storage and critical features like voice and video calls, making it a smart choice for growing teams.

Scalability Considerations

Think ahead and choose a platform that can grow with your organization. Consider:

• Projected team size growth

• New features your team may need

• Options for expanding storage

• Integration capabilities as your needs evolve

Conclusion

With our detailed guide, organizations now have several affordable Slack alternatives to consider in 2025. Among them, Pebb stands out by offering a free plan for up to 1,000 users and a competitively priced premium option.

The market is leaning toward solutions that focus on secure, integrated communication. Here's how Pebb measures up against the industry average:

This comparison highlights how Pebb offers more for less, especially with premium features like voice and video calls included - features that other providers often charge extra for. For organizations focused on balancing security and cost, Pebb's Premium plan is a practical choice.

FAQs

Why is Pebb a more affordable and comprehensive alternative to Slack?

Pebb stands out as the most cost-effective communication platform on the market. It offers a free all-in-one solution and a premium plan priced at just $4 per user per month, making it significantly more affordable than many competitors.

Despite its low cost, Pebb includes all the essential features for seamless team communication and collaboration, such as work chat, a news feed, groups, a people directory, voice and video calls, and more. This makes it an ideal choice for businesses seeking a budget-friendly yet robust communication tool for both frontline and office employees.

How does Pebb protect the data and privacy of both frontline and office employees?

Pebb takes data security and privacy seriously, ensuring that all employee information - whether from frontline or office staff - is protected. The platform uses end-to-end encryption for communication, secure data storage, and complies with industry standards for privacy regulations.

Additionally, Pebb provides role-based access controls to ensure only authorized users can access sensitive information. This makes it a safe and reliable solution for businesses of all sizes, keeping your team's communication and data secure at all times.

Does Pebb work with the tools and platforms our team already uses?

Yes, Pebb is designed to integrate seamlessly with a variety of tools and platforms your team may already rely on. This ensures a smooth transition and allows you to keep using your favorite apps while enhancing team collaboration and communication.

For specific integration options or to see if Pebb supports the tools your team uses, reach out to the Pebb team for more details.

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