Discord Alternatives: 10 Best Platforms for Community Building in 2025

Discord has long been a favorite communication platform for gamers and creators, offering a plethora of instant messaging features like group chat, voice calls, and screen sharing all in one app. 

However, as online communities grow and needs evolve, many users find themselves searching for alternatives that offer more tailored features like advanced collaboration tools or secured privacy. 

Whether you're a content creator managing a community or a gamer coordinating a team, exploring new platforms can unlock solutions that better align with your goals. 

In this article, we'll explore the 10 best alternative communication platforms to Discord, highlighting their unique features, benefits, and why they might be the perfect fit for your evolving community or team.

Why Look for a Discord Alternative?

While Discord has earned its place as a leading communication platform, it's not without its limitations. Here are some common reasons why users are exploring alternatives:

Server Limitations

Discord’s server restrictions, including member caps and limited message storage, can be frustrating for larger communities or those with active text chat and voice calls. These limitations often lead users to create multiple channels or prune older content, disrupting community growth and organization.

Subscription Costs

While Discord Nitro offers perks like enhanced video calls, screen sharing, and custom emojis, the recurring cost can be a barrier for smaller communities, individuals, or those seeking affordable collaboration tools.

Moderation and Customization

Managing large communities with Discord’s built-in moderation tools can be challenging. Many users seek communication tools with more advanced functionality, such as automated moderation, detailed permission settings, or better task management integrations.

Niche Needs

Communities have unique requirements that Discord may not fully address. Gamers may prioritize low latency and immersive voice calls, businesses might require file sharing and project management, and educators could need video conferencing features or collaboration tools for virtual learning.

Interface Complexity

Discord’s feature-rich interface can feel overwhelming, making some users prefer a more organized and intuitive messaging app. Simpler team communication tools often appeal to those who value a streamlined user experience.

Innovative Competitors

New chat apps and open source platforms like Tox or Telegram are introducing unique features, such as better integrations, enhanced business communication tools, and customizable direct messaging capabilities. These emerging alternatives provide fresh solutions for instant messaging, voice messages, and video chat needs.

In the end, exploring alternatives helps users find the right communication platform that balances their priorities, whether it’s security, collaboration, cost, or ease of use.

Key Features to Look for in a Discord Alternative

When choosing a Discord alternative, it's essential to consider the specific needs of your community or team. Here are some key features to evaluate:

• Voice and Video Call Quality: If real-time communication is crucial, prioritize platforms with clear audio, high-quality video, and low latency. This is especially important for gamers, remote teams, and online communities that rely on voice and video calls for interaction.
• Server Customization and Moderation Tools: Look for platforms that offer robust server customization options, allowing you to create roles, manage permissions, and organize channels effectively. Strong moderation tools are essential for maintaining a healthy and safe community environment.
• Platform Compatibility: Choose a platform that is available on the devices your community uses, whether it's mobile, desktop, or web browsers. Cross-platform compatibility ensures that everyone can participate and stay connected.
• Privacy and Security: Consider features like end-to-end encryption, data control, and privacy settings. These are crucial for protecting user data and ensuring secure communication.
• Pricing Plans: Evaluate free tiers and paid plans to find the best value for your needs and budget. Consider factors like the number of users, storage limits, and access to premium features.
• Community Size and Support: Consider the platform's existing user base and community support resources. A larger community can mean more opportunities for interaction and support, while active developers and support teams can ensure that the platform is well-maintained and updated.
• Integrations: Check if the platform integrates with tools your community already uses, such as cloud storage services (Google Drive, Dropbox), project management apps (Trello, Asana), or other productivity tools. Integrations can streamline workflows and enhance collaboration.

10 Best Discord Alternatives in 2025

1. Rocket.Chat

Rocket.Chat is a powerful open-source collaboration platform designed for teams that prioritize security, flexibility, and customization.

Unlike Discord, Rocket.Chat offers self-hosting options, giving organizations complete control over their data and compliance with stringent data protection standards.

It also supports integration with over 50 industry-leading apps like Instagram, X, and WhatsApp to enhance your workflows and processes.

With features like real-time chat, group and 1:1 video calls, audio communication, file sharing, and end-to-end encryption, Rocket.Chat is ideal for groups or teams that require secure and seamless communication.

Pricing: 

• Starter: Free for up to 50 users and 100 monthly active contacts, offering premium features like unlimited apps, push notifications, and advanced deployment capabilities for small teams.
• Pro: $4 per monthly user for up to 500 users, including everything in the Starter plan plus branding removal, webform and email support, and optional add-ons like increased active contacts and cloud hosting.
• Enterprise: Custom pricing for large organizations, offering tailored user and contact limits, microservices and multi-instance scaling, advanced permissions, compliance tools, and embedded chat experiences.

Pros:

• Fully complies with privacy standards and features end-to-end encryption.
• Users can tailor the platform to their needs and even self-host for maximum control.
• Includes essential features like group video calls and real-time messaging.
• Easily connects with popular tools and software through its app marketplace.
• Designed for extensive group messaging and enterprise-level use.

Cons:

• Self-hosting and advanced configurations may be challenging for less tech-savvy users.
• Features may exceed the needs of small or midsize organizations managing basic projects.
• While excellent for business teams, it lacks the community-oriented features that make Discord appealing to gaming communities.

2. Chanty

Designed with productivity in mind, Chanty doesn’t just help teams talk—it helps them thrive.

Its standout feature, the Kanban board, lets you transform everyday messages into actionable tasks, assign them to team members, and ensure no deadline sneaks past unnoticed. 

Seamless integrations with tools like Trello, Asana, and Google Drive make it a dream for multitaskers, while end-to-end encryption and role-based access controls keep sensitive data locked down tighter than a vault.

Whether you're hosting a brainstorming session, sharing a screen for quick feedback, or juggling multiple apps, Chanty has the tools to keep your workflow smooth and your team connected. 

Pricing: 

• Free Plan: Includes features like chat, voice messaging, video calls, and task management for up to 5 members.
• Paid Plans: Start at $4 per user per month, offering unlimited team members, group calls, integrations, screen sharing, and 20GB of file storage per user.
• Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing with advanced features and dedicated support for large organizations.

Pros:

• Easy-to-use navigation with structured workflows for enhanced collaboration.
• Chat, video calls, screen sharing, and task management tools designed for effective collaboration.
• The Kanban board and the ability to turn messages into tasks improve productivity and accountability.
• Compatible with popular tools like Trello, Asana, Google Drive, and more.
• Includes end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and compliance with data protection regulations.

Cons:

• The free version supports only 5 members per workspace, and group calls require a paid plan.
• Lacks features like status messages and casual community-oriented tools, making it less appealing for gamers.

3. Slack

Slack is where professional collaboration meets intuitive design, offering a feature-rich alternative to Discord for businesses of all sizes.

With channels for team discussions, huddles for quick voice or video chats, and Clips for sharing updates, Slack ensures every aspect of communication is streamlined and effective.

What makes Slack a standout is its unmatched integration capabilities, seamlessly connecting with tools like Office 365, Mailchimp, and Salesforce to bring all your workflows into one central hub.

Slack’s scalability, from small teams to enterprises supporting up to 500,000 users, combined with robust security features like HIPAA compliance and enterprise-grade encryption, makes it a go-to platform for organizations aiming to keep productivity high and data secure.

Pricing

• Free Plan: $0 – Includes channels, 10 app integrations, file sharing, and 1:1 voice calls, with 90-day message retention.
• Pro Plan: $7.25/month per user (billed yearly) – Unlimited messaging history, app integrations, canvases, and huddles for up to 50 participants.
• Business+ Plan: $12.50/month per user (billed yearly) – Adds SAML-based single sign-on, advanced security features, and 90-day version history for canvases.
• Enterprise Grid: Custom pricing – Includes HIPAA compliance, enterprise-grade controls, and support for up to 500,000 users.

Pros:

• Connects with countless tools to centralize workflows and boost efficiency.
• Channels, huddles, Clips, and templates make teamwork seamless.
• Flexible pricing plans and support for up to 500,000 users.
• Easy to set up and use, even for teams new to collaboration platforms.
• Enterprise-grade encryption, compliance features, and customizable permissions.

Cons:

• Only has a 90-day message history and is capped at 10 app integrations.
• Premium plans can become expensive for organizations with many users.
• Less suited for casual, community-focused communication compared to Discord.

4. Microsoft Teams

If Office365 is the heartbeat of your team’s workflow, Microsoft Teams is the pulse that keeps collaboration alive.

Designed for seamless integration with Microsoft’s ecosystem, Teams transforms how organizations communicate with its powerful blend of chat, voice calls, video conferencing, file sharing, and task management.

The platform offers unparalleled functionality for businesses already invested in Office365, with real-time collaboration across Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and more.

Whether you're hosting webinars, managing tasks, or co-creating documents, Microsoft Teams provides a comprehensive hub for any Microsoft-oriented organization.

Pricing

• Free Plan: $0 – Includes unlimited chat, 5GB of storage, group meetings (up to 60 minutes and 100 participants), and file sharing.
• Microsoft Teams Essentials: $4/user/month – Adds unlimited group meetings (up to 30 hours and 300 participants), 10GB of storage, meeting recordings, and standard security.
• Microsoft 365 Business Basic: $6/user/month – Includes everything in Essentials, plus custom email, web and mobile versions of Office apps, and 1TB of storage per user.
• Microsoft 365 Business Standard: $12.50/user/month – Adds desktop Office apps, webinars with reporting, collaborative workspaces, and video editing tools.

Pros:

• Perfect for businesses already using Microsoft tools.
• Offers meeting summaries, smart scheduling, and chapter markers for enhanced productivity.
• Flexible pricing tiers to fit small teams or large enterprises.
• Enterprise-grade encryption and compliance with industry standards.

Cons:

• May not be as effective for organizations outside the Microsoft ecosystem.
• Meetings over 60 minutes or with more than 100 participants require a paid plan.
• Can feel overwhelming for teams unfamiliar with Office365 tools.

5. Flock

Unlike Discord's more casual vibe, Flock is tailored for business collaboration, combining tools like team messaging, video conferencing, file sharing, and even project management.

Its standout features include channels that help organize discussions by topic, task management with shared to-do lists and reminders, and seamless screen sharing for visual collaboration.

Flock’s integration capabilities shine, allowing you to connect apps like Asana, Zapier, and Zoom, keeping everything you need in one place.

With personalized onboarding, robust security features, and dedicated 24/7 support, Flock ensures your team can focus on achieving goals without distractions.

Pricing

• Starter Plan: Free – Includes 10 public channels, 1:1 video calls, 10,000 searchable messages, and 5GB total team storage.
• Pro Plan: $4.50/user/month – Adds unlimited channels, group video calls, screen sharing, and 10GB storage per team member.
• Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing – Offers unlimited channels, storage, advanced integrations, organizational mapping, and 24/7 priority support.

Pros:

• Combines messaging, task management, video calls, and productivity tools.
• Budget-friendly plans for teams of all sizes.
• Connects with popular apps like Asana, Zapier, and more.
• Channels keep discussions on track and eliminate clutter.

Cons:

• Basic features and storage may not suffice for larger teams.
• Less suited for informal or gaming communities compared to Discord.
• Many advanced features, like group video calls, require a paid plan.

6. Telegram

Known for its lightning-fast performance and seamless synchronization across all devices, Telegram ensures that your messages, photos, videos, and files are always within reach.

With the ability to create groups for up to 200,000 participants and broadcast channels with unlimited audiences, it’s ideal for both small teams and large-scale communities.

Telegram prioritizes privacy with end-to-end encryption, secure file sharing, and support for encrypted voice and video calls. Its open-source nature and free access make it an attractive option for businesses and individuals alike.

Whether you're running a project, hosting a discussion, or sharing files across devices, Telegram delivers a versatile and secure messaging experience unmatched by many alternatives.

Pricing

• Free Plan: Always free, offering unlimited messaging, file sharing, group chats, voice and video calls, and robust encryption.

Pros:

• Messages sync instantly across devices with minimal delay.
• End-to-end encryption ensures privacy for all communications.
• Supports groups with up to 200,000 members and channels for unlimited audiences.
• Accessible to everyone without hidden costs or restrictions.
• Use seamlessly across phones, tablets, and computers.

Cons:

• Lacks built-in project management features.
• Does not support integration with other productivity apps.
• Less tailored for professional or enterprise environments compared to alternatives like Slack.

7. Steam Chat

Designed specifically for gamers, this VoIP communication app offers customizable group chats with persistent text and voice channels, enabling seamless coordination for any gaming clan playing on Steam. 

Steam Chat's rich media integration allows inline sharing of images, videos, GIFs, and links, ensuring vibrant, interactive conversations.

The platform's voice chat has been rebuilt from the ground up with a WebRTC-based backend, providing high-quality, encrypted audio that ensures your IP address remains private.

Features like drag-and-drop friend invitations, group notifications, and saved group chats make it easy to stay connected and organized. 

Pricing

• Free Plan: Steam Chat is completely free to use, with no hidden costs or premium tiers.

Pros:

• No fees for use, available on both the Steam client and web browser.
• Encrypted audio with Opus encoding and privacy-protecting server relays.
• Create, save, and personalize group chats with avatars and roles.
• Share images, GIFs, videos, and links directly in chat for a more interactive experience.

Cons:

• Lacks productivity integrations like task management or file storage systems.
• Primarily caters to gamers, making it less suitable for non-gaming communities or businesses.
• Optimized for desktop, with mobile experiences potentially less intuitive than dedicated apps.

8. TeamSpeak

Trusted by gamers, esports teams, and even NASA, TeamSpeak’s VoIP platform delivers unparalleled audio quality with features like background noise reduction, automatic volume adjustment, and echo cancellation.

Its military-grade encryption ensures your data remains private, while its lightweight design minimizes resource usage for a lag-free experience. 

TeamSpeak’s advanced permissions system allows for complete customization of roles and access levels, giving you total control over your server.

Whether hosting private servers or using its SDK for deeper integration, TeamSpeak adapts to your needs with scalability and flexibility.

Pricing

• Free Plan: Host up to 32 slots per server.
• Annual Activation Licenses: Start at $30/year for 32 slots, scaling up to $500/year for 1,024 slots.
• Authorized Host Providers (ATHP): Tiered pricing starting at $0.12 per slot for hosting companies.
• SDK Licensing: Custom pricing based on project needs; includes trial licenses for development and testing.

Pros:

• Industry-leading clarity with advanced features like noise reduction and 3D positional audio.
• Military-grade encryption ensures data protection, and your IP address remains hidden.
• Self-hosted options and customizable permissions give you full autonomy.
• Optimized for minimal CPU and bandwidth consumption.
• Works seamlessly without an internet connection.

Cons:

• Lacks video call functionality, limiting its use for visual collaboration.
• Few connections to third-party business tools or productivity platforms.
• Advanced settings and customizations may be challenging for new users.

9. Mumble

For those who crave simplicity, security, and top-notch audio quality, Mumble is the underdog that packs a punch.

As one of the pioneers of low-latency VoIP communication, Mumble delivers crisp, real-time voice chat that’s perfect for gaming communities and beyond.

Its standout feature, positional audio, immerses players by simulating the direction and proximity of other users’ voices based on their in-game locations.

Mumble’s encryption ensures your conversations remain private, while its open-source, self-hosted design gives administrators complete control over data security and functionality.

With a robust permissions system, customizable server settings, and tools for automation, Mumble provides flexibility for gamers and professionals alike.

Pricing

• Free Download: Mumble is entirely free, with no hidden costs or premium tiers.

Pros:

• Low-latency communication and positional audio enhance gaming experiences.
• Completely free software with no licensing restrictions.
• End-to-end encryption and public/private key authentication ensure privacy.
• Extensive permission system, server scripts, and APIs for tailored functionality.
• Low resource consumption makes it ideal for small servers and large-scale use.

Cons:

• Lacks modern design elements and browsing features common in Discord.
• Primarily focused on gamers, limiting its appeal for broader professional use.
• Advanced configurations and server management may be daunting for newcomers.

10. Ventrilo

Known for its minimal CPU usage, Ventrilo ensures smooth gameplay even during the most demanding sessions while offering crystal-clear voice communication.

Its encrypted client-server architecture keeps conversations secure, with all data stored locally rather than on external servers.

Gamers will appreciate features like per-player volume adjustments, push-to-talk or voice activation modes, and immersive sound effects, such as surround sound and ducking.

Ventrilo’s customizable channels and robust admin controls make it ideal for both small gaming groups and large multiplayer environments.

Though its interface may feel outdated, Ventrilo’s focus on performance and functionality ensures it remains a trusted choice for gamers seeking a no-frills, high-quality VoIP solution.

Pricing

• Free: Ventrilo is free for both clients and servers, with no premium tiers.

Pros:

• Runs efficiently with low CPU demands, perfect for gaming.
• Features surround sound, ducking, and customizable sound profiles.
• Encrypted connections and local data storage protect user privacy.
• Includes push-to-talk, positional audio, and individual player volume control.
• Robust server management and channel options for tailored user experiences.

Cons:

• The design feels dated and may deter modern users.
• Embedded menus and advanced configurations can be confusing for new users.
• Available only for Windows and Mac, with no mobile app.

How to Choose the Best Platform for Your Needs: A Step-by-Step Guide

Choosing the right Discord alternative can seem daunting, but by breaking it into manageable steps, you can find the ideal communication platform for your specific needs. Whether you're a gamer, content creator, or business professional, this guide will help you make an informed decision.

Step 1: Assess Your Needs

Start by defining your priorities. Consider these key questions:

• What features are essential for your team communication?
• Are voice calls, video calls, or text chat the primary focus?
• Do you need collaboration tools like task management, channels, or file sharing?
• Is low latency critical for gaming or real-time interactions?
• What is your budget?
• How large is your server or community?

Understanding your specific requirements will narrow down the chat apps that suit your needs.

Step 2: Compare Pricing

Evaluate the pricing plans of your shortlisted platforms. Look at the number of users allowed, storage limits, and access to premium features like screen sharing, video conferencing, or end-to-end encryption. 

Platforms like Telegram offer free or open-source versions, while others provide freemium plans or free trials to test their functionality before committing.

Step 3: Prioritize Your Needs

Different platforms cater to different use cases:

• Gamers: Prioritize platforms like Ventrilo or TeamSpeak, known for their low latency and immersive audio features.
• Businesses: Look for business tools with strong integrations, project management capabilities, and seamless video conferencing options.
• Educators: Platforms with robust video chat features and tools for virtual learning are essential.

Align the platform's strengths with your primary goals.

Step 4: Test Voice and Video Quality

If voice calls, video chat, or voice messages are central to your activities, thoroughly test the platform’s audio and video performance. Pay attention to:

• Audio clarity and echo reduction.
• Low latency for real-time communication.
• Video resolution and stability during video calls.

Platforms like Steam Chat, Mumble, and TeamSpeak are known for their reliable VoIP and audio quality.

Step 5: Evaluate Ease of Use

Choose a messaging app or communication tool that is intuitive and user-friendly. A cluttered or overly complex interface can deter discord users and new members from engaging effectively. Look for platforms that offer:

• A clean, organized interface.
• Simple direct messaging and text chat functionality.
• Easy channel creation and management.

Step 6: Research Features and Integrations

Ensure the platform offers the apps and integrations you need. Examples include:

• Task management tools for businesses.
• File sharing capabilities for seamless collaboration.
• Compatibility with popular apps like Flock or Telegram.
• Advanced customization for open source platforms.

Step 7: Read Reviews and Seek Recommendations

Leverage user reviews and recommendations to learn from others’ experiences. 

Forums and social media are excellent places to get feedback on collaboration tools, messenger apps, or specific features like video conferencing and voice messages.

Step 8: Test the Platform with Your Team

Before fully committing, test the platform with a small group from your community or team. 

This trial run will reveal its real-world functionality and help you gauge how well it meets your needs for team communication, instant messaging, or project management.

Boost Your Community Growth with Fourthwall!

While choosing the right communication platform is essential, consider complementing it with tools that enhance community engagement and monetization. Fourthwall is a platform that empowers creators, teams, and community builders to grow and monetize their audience through:

• Customizable Storefronts: Create a professional online storefront to sell branded merchandise directly to your community. Offer products like apparel, accessories, and digital goods to strengthen community identity and generate revenue.
• Membership Tools: Implement subscription-based membership tiers to generate recurring revenue and provide exclusive content or benefits to your most loyal fans.
• Engagement Features: Connect with your community through Q&A sessions, AMAs (Ask Me Anything), early access content, and other interactive experiences. Foster a sense of belonging and strengthen relationships with your audience.
• Integration with Discord: Enhance your Discord server with Fourthwall's Membership integration, which allows you to automatically manage roles and perks for your community members. This integration empowers you to reward your supporters with special roles tied to membership tiers.

By combining a powerful communication platform with Fourthwall's community-building and monetization tools, you can create a vibrant and sustainable online space for your audience.

Sign up with Fourthwall and discover how you can build a thriving online community today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What Did Discord Replace?

Discord replaced a range of earlier chat apps and voice chat platforms that dominated specific niches before its launch.

Platforms like TeamSpeak and Ventrilo were go-to tools for gamers due to their reliable group chat and low-latency communication, while Skype and Slack catered to businesses for business communication and messaging app needs.

Discord's introduction combined the best features of these tools—such as text chat, video chat, and seamless group chat—into a single platform, making it a favorite for both casual and professional users.

What Did Gamers Use Before Discord?

Before Discord, gamers relied on platforms like TeamSpeak, Ventrilo, and Mumble for voice chat and group communication during multiplayer games.

These tools offered low-latency audio and customizable server options but often required a more technical setup. 

For text chat and general messaging, many gamers turned to Skype, which provided basic group chat and video chat functionality, though it lacked the real-time efficiency gamers needed.

Some also used in-game voice chat systems, though these were often limited in quality and features.

Today, Discord has revolutionized gaming communication by combining voice chat, text chat, and seamless group chat in one intuitive platform, making it a go-to tool for gamers worldwide.

Is There a Better Streaming Service Than Discord?

While Discord is a popular choice for streaming to small audiences due to its screen sharing, voice chat, and integrated text chat, there are other platforms that may better suit specific streaming needs. 

Services like Twitch and YouTube Live are ideal for creators looking to reach larger audiences with advanced features like monetization tools, analytics, and higher-quality streams. 

For teams or business use, Microsoft Teams and Slack offer robust video chat and collaboration tools that cater to professional environments.

If you're looking for Discord alternatives tailored for streaming, platforms like Zoom or Chanty may provide the right mix of features for a more seamless experience. 

In the end, the best service really depends on your goals, audience size, and desired features.