ElementLinux
vs
Telegram DesktopWindows
Element as a Linux alternative to Telegram Desktop
Updated
Our verdict
Element can replace Telegram Desktop for users who need end‑to‑end encrypted group chats, persistent history, and integrated video calls. It is ideal for teams and communities that already use Matrix or want a single account across desktop and mobile. However, it lacks the lightweight, dedicated bot ecosystem and the simple, native Telegram experience that casual users rely on. For power users who value customization and federation, Element is a solid choice.
- 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
- End‑to‑end encrypted messaging
- Group chats with unlimited history
- Cross‑device sync via same account
- Desktop notifications
- Voice and video calls
What is different
- No native Telegram bot API; Element uses Matrix bots instead
- No built‑in support for Telegram‑specific features like secret chats or channel subscriptions
- No support for Telegram's large media file handling shortcuts
- No direct integration with Telegram's cloud storage
- Telegram’s lightweight, single‑process architecture vs Element’s heavier Matrix stack
Opening your Telegram Desktop files
Telegram Desktop stores chats in a local SQLite database and media in a local folder. Element does not read or write these files directly. To migrate, you must export chats from Telegram (using the export feature) and import them into a Matrix-compatible format, which is not automated. Media files can be manually copied, but the chat history will need manual reconstruction.
Switching from Telegram Desktop to Element, step by step
- Export chats from Telegram Desktop via Settings → Advanced → Export chats
- Copy media files from Telegram’s local folder to a temporary location
- Install Element via Flatpak or native package
- Create a Matrix account or use an existing one
- Manually recreate rooms and import exported chat history using Element’s import tools or a third‑party script
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
Does Element support Telegram bots?
No, Element uses Matrix bots, which are different from Telegram bots. You’ll need to find Matrix equivalents or create new bots.
Can I use the same account on both Element and Telegram Desktop?
No. Element uses Matrix credentials; Telegram uses its own account system. You can’t log into both with the same phone number or token.
Will Element handle my large media files from Telegram?
You can manually copy the media folder, but Element won’t automatically recognize or import those files into chat history. You’ll need to re‑attach them manually.
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