ElementLinux
vs
Microsoft Teams (new interface with AI features)Windows
Element as a Linux alternative to Microsoft Teams (new interface with AI features)
Updated
Our verdict
Element is a viable replacement for Microsoft Teams if your organization prioritizes security, decentralization, and open standards over tight Microsoft 365 integration. It handles core collaboration tasks—encrypted chat, video calls, screen sharing, and persistent rooms—well. However, it lacks AI-powered transcription, background effects, and deep calendar sync. Teams users migrating to Element must accept fewer AI features and a different workflow, but gain control and privacy. Best for teams already using Matrix or those wanting to avoid vendor lock-in.
- License
- AGPL-3.0-only OR GPL-3.0-only
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 1.12.32 (October 16, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both support group and direct messaging with persistent chat history
- Video and audio conferencing with screen sharing via WebRTC
- Custom notifications and keyword alerts for user mentions
- File sharing within chats and support for document collaboration
- Cross-platform clients including desktop and mobile
What is different
- Element lacks AI-driven transcription and real-time meeting summaries
- No virtual backgrounds or background blur effects during calls
- No native integration with Outlook or Microsoft Calendar; relies on third-party or manual setup
- Interface is more minimal and less polished compared to Teams' AI-enhanced UI
- Federation model allows cross-server communication, unlike Teams' closed ecosystem
Opening your Microsoft Teams (new interface with AI features) files
Element does not directly open or import Microsoft Teams chat logs, meeting recordings, or channel content. Files shared in Teams (e.g., Word, Excel) can be viewed in Element if shared externally, but formatting and edit history won't carry over. There's no automated migration path for Teams data into Element. Users must manually transfer files and rely on export features from Teams, if available. Compatibility of shared documents depends on the receiving application, not Element itself.
Switching from Microsoft Teams (new interface with AI features) to Element, step by step
- Install Element via Flathub or official package for your distro
- Create a new account or connect an existing Matrix ID
- Join or create rooms for teams, projects, or topics
- Invite team members and share room links
- Set up bots for notifications or automation from the Element store
- Configure notification rules and keyword alerts for important mentions
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 install flathub im.riot.RiotFrequently asked questions
Can Element replace Microsoft Teams for daily stand-ups and team meetings?
Yes, for audio/video calls and screen sharing. But it lacks AI transcription and background effects, so meetings are more basic.
Does Element integrate with Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace?
Not natively. Calendar events and files must be shared manually or via third-party bridges, which may require setup.
Is my data safe moving from Teams to Element?
Element offers end-to-end encryption and decentralized hosting, which can improve privacy, but requires proper server setup.
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