MattermostLinux
vs
SlackWindows
Mattermost as a Linux alternative to Slack
Updated
Our verdict
Mattermost is a strong replacement for Slack if you prioritize data sovereignty and developer workflows. It handles real-time messaging, channels, and file sharing effectively. The main trade-off is that you must self-host the server, which requires maintenance effort that Slack users might not want. It is ideal for teams already using Linux infrastructure or those needing strict control over their data. For casual users or small teams without server resources, the setup overhead may outweigh the benefits compared to Slack's managed service.
- License
- Apache-2.0
- Price
- Free
- Latest version
- 6.3.1 (October 15, 2026)
- Rating
- —
What works the same
- Channel-based organization with threaded replies
- Real-time group and private messaging
- File sharing and search capabilities
- Integration with development tools like Git and CI/CD
What is different
- Requires self-hosting a server, unlike Slack's SaaS model
- Built specifically for developer teams, so non-technical integrations may be less polished
- Uses MySQL or PostgreSQL, requiring database management
- Lacks some of Slack's extensive third-party app marketplace ecosystem out of the box
Opening your Slack files
Mattermost does not directly import Slack workspace data or files automatically. You can manually export files from Slack and upload them to Mattermost channels. There is no native converter for Slack message history or file formats, so migrating existing content requires manual effort or third-party scripts that are not officially supported.
Switching from Slack to Mattermost, step by step
- Set up a Mattermost server on your Linux infrastructure using Docker or native binaries
- Configure MySQL or PostgreSQL for the backend database
- Install necessary plugins for Git, CI/CD, and calendar integrations
- Create channels and invite team members via email or link
- Manually upload critical files and export message history if needed
- Set up SSO and MFA in the system console for security
Key features of Mattermost
- Self-hosted server option for full data control
- Deep integration with CI/CD and code repositories
- Support for MySQL and PostgreSQL databases
- Plugin system for extending functionality
- Channel-based organization for project topics
- API-first design for custom automation
How to install Mattermost on Linux
flatpak install flathub com.mattermost.Desktopsudo pacman -S mattermostFrequently asked questions
Can I use Mattermost without hosting my own server?
No, the standard open-source version requires self-hosting. Mattermost offers a cloud-hosted option, but the free tier is limited and different from the self-hosted experience described here.
Is Mattermost suitable for non-technical teams?
It is usable, but the initial setup and maintenance are more complex than Slack. If your team lacks sysadmin skills, the self-hosting requirement can be a significant hurdle.
Does Mattermost support mobile apps?
Yes, official mobile apps are available for Android and iOS, allowing users to access the self-hosted server from their phones.
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