ElementLinux
vs
ZoomWindows
Element as a Linux alternative to Zoom
Updated
Our verdict
Element is a strong replacement for Zoom if you prioritize privacy and open standards over corporate integration. It handles HD video, screen sharing, and large group calls via WebRTC, with end-to-end encryption by default. However, it is not a drop-in replacement for Zoom’s webinar features or enterprise recording tools. If your team already uses Matrix servers, the transition is smooth. For users relying on Zoom’s polish, one-click recording, or specific integrations with Outlook or Salesforce, Element will feel more technical. It works best for tech-savvy teams or individuals who value data sovereignty and do not need Zoom’s proprietary ecosystem.
- 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 HD video and audio conferencing via WebRTC
- Screen sharing capability for presentations
- Persistent chat rooms with file sharing
- Cross-platform compatibility (Linux, Windows, macOS, mobile)
- Support for large group meetings
What is different
- Lacks native, one-click cloud recording options available in Zoom
- Requires a Matrix server (self-hosted or public) to function
- End-to-end encryption is default, which can complicate joining external non-encrypted calls
- Webinar-specific features like Q&A moderation and registration pages are absent
- Interface is chat-centric, so video calls are secondary to text messaging
Opening your Zoom files
Element does not open Zoom-specific file formats or recordings directly. Zoom recordings are typically stored as MP4 or M4A files, which Element can play if you have a compatible media player installed on your system, but Element itself does not provide a built-in media player for these files. You can share these files within Element rooms, but you cannot edit or manage them through the Element interface. There is no direct import mechanism for Zoom meeting logs or transcripts.
Switching from Zoom to Element, step by step
- Install Element via Flatpak or your distribution’s package manager
- Register an account on a Matrix server (e.g., matrix.org or self-hosted)
- Invite your team members to Element using their email addresses
- Create dedicated rooms for different projects or teams
- Test screen sharing and video call quality with a small group
- Share the Element app link with participants for easy joining
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 join a Zoom meeting directly from Element?
No, Element cannot join Zoom meetings directly. You would need to open the Zoom client separately. Element is a standalone platform based on the Matrix protocol, not a bridge to Zoom.
Does Element support end-to-end encryption for video calls?
Yes, Element provides end-to-end encryption for both chat and video calls by default, ensuring that only participants in the room can access the content.
Is Element suitable for large webinars with hundreds of attendees?
Element supports large group calls, but performance depends on the Matrix server’s capacity and network conditions. For very large webinars, a self-hosted server with sufficient resources is recommended to ensure stability.
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