Linux · Internet
Element
Element is a secure, Matrix‑based messaging and video‑conference client for Linux.
- License
- AGPL-3.0-only OR GPL-3.0-only
- Latest version
- 1.12.32 (October 16, 2026)
- Developer
- Element Creations Ltd
- Installs
- 7,608 (Flathub, 30 days)
What is Element?
Element is the official desktop client for the Matrix protocol, which has been around since 2015. It has grown from a simple chat app into a full‑featured collaboration platform with rooms, bots, and end‑to‑end encryption. The latest release, 1.12.32, adds Wayland support and a more polished UI.
The app targets teams, open‑source projects, and anyone who needs a private, federated communication channel. It’s built for Linux users who want a native experience without relying on a browser.
Compared with Windows‑only tools like Discord, Element feels more modular and privacy‑focused. It doesn’t rely on a single vendor’s ecosystem, and its encryption is optional but easy to enable. The learning curve is a bit steeper, but the flexibility makes it worth the effort.
Best for: Teams and projects that need a federated, encrypted chat and video‑conference solution without vendor lock‑in.
Key features of Element
- End‑to‑end encryption for rooms
- Persistent rooms that keep history
- Customizable notifications
- Keyword alerts and @mentions
- Bot integrations via an app store
- Audio/Video calls with screen sharing
- Wayland support (since 1.7.25)
- Cross‑platform sync via Matrix servers
Pros
- Open‑source and cross‑platform
- Strong privacy controls
- Extensible with bots and plugins
- Works well with existing Matrix servers
- Regular updates and active community
Cons
- Initial setup can be confusing for new users
- Room management can feel cluttered
- Performance lags on very old hardware
- Requires a Matrix server or third‑party hosted instance
Windows programs Element replaces
How to install Element on Linux
flatpak install flathub im.riot.RiotTips for Windows users
If you’re coming from Discord, note that Element uses Matrix rooms instead of servers; room URLs are usually in the form https://matrix.org/#/room/… . Shortcuts differ: use Ctrl+Shift+N for a new room, Ctrl+Shift+K to search, and Ctrl+Shift+M to mute. File sharing works by dragging files into the chat, and the history is stored locally in a SQLite database, so you can export it with the built‑in export tool. Remember to enable end‑to‑end encryption in the room settings if you need it.
Recent releases
- 1.12.32 —
- 1.12.31 —
- 1.12.29 —
- 1.12.28 —
Element: frequently asked questions
Does Element support voice and video calls?
Yes, Element includes audio and video call features with screen sharing, but performance depends on the underlying Matrix server and network conditions.
Can I use Element on Wayland?
Wayland support is available from version 1.7.25; run the app with the provided flags or use the Flatpak build for a smoother experience.
Is Element free?
Element is free and open‑source; you can host your own Matrix server or use a hosted service like Element’s own servers.
How do I enable end‑to‑end encryption?
In a room, open the room settings, toggle the encryption switch, and confirm the key exchange. Encryption is optional per room.
Updated