Element vs Microsoft Teams Classic: is it a good Linux alternative?

Element as a Linux alternative to Microsoft Teams Classic

Updated October 22, 2026

Our verdict

Element is a solid replacement for Microsoft Teams Classic if you prioritize open standards, privacy, and cross-platform sync. It covers core collaboration needs: persistent chat, encrypted video calls, screen sharing, and file exchange. Teams used to Microsoft’s interface may need time to adjust, and organizations relying on deep Office 365 integration will find gaps. Best for teams open to federated communication, self-hosting, or using Matrix-compatible services. Not ideal if you depend on SharePoint, Outlook calendar sync, or Teams-specific workflows.

Feature parity75%

License: AGPL-3.0-only OR GPL-3.0-only
Price: Free
Latest version: 1.12.32 (October 16, 2026)
Rating: —

Install Element Website ↗

Element logged-in frontend

What works the same

Both support group and direct messaging with persistent chat history
Voice and video calls with screen sharing via WebRTC
Cross-platform clients (desktop and mobile) with sync
File sharing within chats and rooms
Customizable notifications and keyword mentions

What is different

Element lacks native integration with Microsoft Office apps and SharePoint
No built-in calendar or email; relies on external tools
Bot and app ecosystem is smaller and less business-focused
User interface is different and may require onboarding
No direct migration path for Teams chat history or channels

Opening your Microsoft Teams Classic files

Element allows uploading and downloading files directly in chats, so documents shared via Microsoft Teams Classic can be manually re-uploaded. However, there's no automated way to import Teams chat history, channel files, or OneDrive/SharePoint links into Element. Files stored in Microsoft 365 must be exported or shared externally first. Once available as standalone files, they can be shared freely in Element rooms. Compatibility depends on file type, not the app.

Switching from Microsoft Teams Classic to Element, step by step

Install Element via Flathub or official package for your distribution
Create a Matrix account or use an existing one with your organization’s server
Invite team members to join the same room or create topic-specific rooms
Set up notifications and keyword alerts for important mentions
Integrate useful bots from the Element store for tasks or automation
Migrate shared files manually by exporting from Teams and uploading to Element

Key features of Element

End‑to‑end encrypted chat and calls
Persistent rooms with unlimited history
Customizable notifications and keyword alerts
Bot integrations via the Element store
Matrix federation for cross‑server communication
Screen sharing and WebRTC video conferencing
Desktop and mobile clients share the same account
Wayland support via Flatpak

How to install Element on Linux

Flatpak (Flathub)flatpak install flathub im.riot.Riot

Frequently asked questions

Can Element replace Teams in a company using Microsoft 365?

Partially. Element handles chat, calls, and file sharing well, but lacks deep Office 365 integration. It works best if your team can use alternative tools for calendar and documents.

Is end-to-end encryption enabled by default in Element?

No. E2E encryption must be enabled per room. Rooms created as private default to encrypted, but public rooms are not encrypted unless manually configured.

Can I use Element with colleagues not on my server?

Yes. Matrix federation allows users from different servers to join the same room, similar to email. Anyone with a Matrix account can communicate across domains.