ElementLinux
vs
Microsoft Teams (old version with full calling features)Windows
Element as a Linux alternative to Microsoft Teams (old version with full calling features)
Updated
Our verdict
Element is a solid replacement for Microsoft Teams (legacy) if you don’t rely on PSTN calling or deep Microsoft 365 integration. It handles chat, video conferencing, screen sharing, and file sharing well, with strong encryption and cross-platform sync. Teams already using Matrix or prioritizing privacy will adapt easily. However, organizations needing dial pads, outbound phone calls, or calendar sync with Outlook won’t find equivalent functionality. Element works best for collaborative teams open to shifting workflows rather than matching Teams feature-for-feature.
- 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
- Supports group and direct chat with persistent history
- WebRTC-based video conferencing with screen sharing
- File sharing during conversations
- Available on Linux, Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS
- Custom notifications and keyword mentions
What is different
- No PSTN calling or dial pad support
- No integration with Microsoft Calendar or Outlook
- Bot system differs and lacks Microsoft-specific tools like Power Automate
- Calling uses WebRTC, not traditional telephony
- User interface is more chat-focused, less meeting-centric
Opening your Microsoft Teams (old version with full calling features) files
Element allows uploading and downloading files directly, so any documents shared in Microsoft Teams can be manually re-uploaded. There’s no automated import of Teams chat history or file structure. File formats like PDF, DOCX, or images work without issue, but metadata, timestamps, or threaded replies from Teams are not preserved. Migration requires manual effort or custom scripting.
Switching from Microsoft Teams (old version with full calling features) to Element, step by step
- Export important files and contacts from Microsoft Teams
- Set up a Matrix server or choose a public one like matrix.org
- Install Element on all devices using Flathub or official packages
- Create rooms mirroring your Teams channels or projects
- Invite team members and configure notifications and bots
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 I call regular phone numbers with Element like in Teams?
No, Element does not support PSTN calling. Voice calls are peer-to-peer over WebRTC, limited to other Matrix users.
Does Element work with Microsoft Calendar or Outlook?
No, Element has no built-in integration with Outlook or Microsoft 365 calendars.
Can I migrate my Teams chat history to Element?
Not automatically. Chat history and files must be manually exported and re-uploaded.
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