FranzLinux
vs
Microsoft Teams (consumer version)Windows
Franz as a Linux alternative to Microsoft Teams (consumer version)
Updated
Our verdict
Franz is not a direct replacement for Microsoft Teams (consumer version). It aggregates messaging services like WhatsApp, Telegram, and Slack, but does not natively support Microsoft Teams as a service. If you're relying on Teams for chat, calls, or meetings, Franz won't provide that functionality out of the box. It may suit users who want one app for multiple messengers but already have Teams access separately. For Teams-dependent workflows—especially voice/video calls, screen sharing, and file collaboration—Franz alone is insufficient.
- License
- Apache-2.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 6.3.1 (June 12, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Both support group chat with message history
- Available on Linux, Windows, and macOS
- Offer notification badges and system tray integration
- Support dark mode and theme customization
- Enable cross-platform sync for accounts added
What is different
- Franz does not include built-in voice or video calling for Microsoft Teams
- No native screen sharing or meeting functionality
- Lacks integrated file storage and sharing within Teams context
- Franz aggregates third-party services but doesn't host its own
- No calendar or task integration specific to Teams
Opening your Microsoft Teams (consumer version) files
Franz does not handle Microsoft Teams file formats or exports. If you share files via Teams, you must download and manage them separately. Franz only relays messages from supported services and doesn't support importing Teams chat logs, exported data, or meeting recordings. File compatibility depends on the individual service connected to Franz, not Teams itself.
Switching from Microsoft Teams (consumer version) to Franz, step by step
- Install Franz via Flathub: flatpak install com.meetfranz.Franz
- Open Franz and add supported services like Slack or WhatsApp
- Use web version of Microsoft Teams in a separate browser or container
- Bookmark your Teams workspace for quick access
- Manually manage notifications across apps
- Keep Teams open in background if frequent use is needed
Key features of Franz
- Supports WhatsApp, Slack, Telegram, Facebook Messenger, and others
- Groups multiple services in one window with tabbed sidebar
- Customizable themes and dark mode
- Notification badges and system tray integration
- Basic message sending and receiving across services
- Available as Flatpak via Flathub for Linux
- Cross-platform: also runs on Windows and macOS
How to install Franz on Linux
flatpak install flathub com.meetfranz.FranzFrequently asked questions
Can Franz log in to Microsoft Teams directly?
No, Franz does not support Microsoft Teams as a built-in service. You cannot log into Teams through Franz.
Is there a way to use Teams inside Franz?
Not officially. Some users add Teams as a custom service using Franz's 'unofficial' plugin, but calling and screen sharing often break.
Does Franz support video meetings like Teams?
No. Franz only handles text-based messaging from supported services. It lacks built-in video or voice call support for Teams.
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