Element (Matrix)

Active

Country: United Kingdom (GB)
Founded: 2017
Developer: Element (team that created the Matrix open standard)
Pricing: Freemium (free open-source client, paid server suite)
Open source: Yes
Platforms: macOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, Web

Indexes

Community/Forums Encrypted Messaging Messaging Video Calling

Overview

Element is a Matrix-based end-to-end encrypted messenger and secure collaboration app that supports messaging, voice/video calls, and file sharing across decentralized servers. It targets individuals, teams, and organizations seeking interoperable, self-hostable communication with control over data sovereignty. Key distinctions include its foundation on the open Matrix standard for federation and native interoperability with other Matrix systems.¹²⁵

Key Features

End-to-End Encryption - Provides secure messaging with encryption by default across all communications.
Voice and Video Calls - Supports unlimited 1:1 and group voice/video calls directly in chats.
Spaces - Groups rooms and people into public or private organizational structures for communities or teams.
File Sharing - Enables sending files, images, voice notes, location, and polls in chats.
Federation - Connects across decentralized Matrix servers for interoperability.
Self-Hosting - Allows organizations to host their own Matrix servers with Element Server Suite Pro.
Device Verification - Verifies devices for secure account management and backups.
Notification Settings - Customizes notifications per device or account-wide.

Pricing

Plan	Price	Includes
Free	Free	Open-source client app with core messaging, calls, and collaboration features.
Element Server Suite Pro	Paid (professional)	Professionalized Matrix server for organizations to host solutions with enhanced control and management.

Platforms & Requirements

Element runs on Web, desktop (Windows, macOS, Linux), and mobile (iOS, Android) clients connecting to any Matrix server. No specific minimum requirements detailed; web version accessible via browser. Mobile apps recently updated with new layouts for iOS and Android.³⁶

Integrations & Ecosystem

Matrix federation (interoperable with other Matrix clients/servers)
Matrix open standard API
Self-hosted server deployments
Public/private network connections

Alternatives

App	Difference
Signal	Centralized server with phone-number registration; lacks federation.
Slack	Proprietary, centralized platform without end-to-end encryption or decentralization.
Discord	Focused on gaming communities with centralized servers; no E2EE by default.
Teams	Microsoft proprietary with enterprise focus; limited interoperability outside ecosystem.

Reputation

Element is recognized for its strong security through end-to-end encryption and decentralized Matrix protocol, appealing to users prioritizing privacy and sovereignty. It receives praise for interoperability and self-hosting options suitable for organizations. Criticisms include a potentially complex interface for casual users compared to streamlined apps like WhatsApp.¹²⁷

Sources (9)