Head-to-head · Team Communication Software
Google Chat vs Element
Google Chat leads on 0 checks, Element on 0, and 1 is even. Who comes out ahead on the 1 yes/no, price and count check where we have data for both products. The editor score weighs everything else too.
Our verdict
- Highest scoreGoogle Chat · 8.9/10
- Free planboth
- Free trialonly Google Chat
Google Chat scores higher on our rubric for team communication software: 8.9 against 8.8 out of 10; our editors rank them #3 and #5.
Google Chat is the better fit for teams already working in Google Workspace. Element is the better fit for teams needing encrypted, self-hosted communication.
- Google Chat fits best
Teams already working in Google Workspace
- Element fits best
Teams needing encrypted, self-hosted communication
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Side by side
| Feature | Google Chat 8.9/10 Visit ↗ | Element 8.8/10 Visit ↗ |
|---|---|---|
| At a glance | ||
| Editor score | 8.9 | 8.8 |
| Ranking | #3 in Team Communication Software | #5 in Team Communication Software |
| Best for | Teams already working in Google Workspace | Teams needing encrypted, self-hosted communication |
| Pricing model | Free plan + paid | Free plan + paid |
| Starting price | $7/user/mo | — |
| Free plan | ✓ | ✓ |
| Free trial | 14 days | — |
| Deployment | Cloud, Mobile, Browser extension | Cloud, Self-hosted, Desktop, Mobile |
| Platforms | Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android | Web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android |
| Support | Live chat, Email, Community, Docs | Email, Community, Docs |
| Compliance | SSO/SAML, 2FA | ISO 27001 |
| Integrations | 14 integrations | 13 integrations |
| Built for | Solo, Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise | Small business, Mid-market, Enterprise |
| Features Google Chat 0/3 · Element 0/3 | ||
| Video meetings | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| External guest access | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Custom retention controls | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Specs | ||
| Message history limit | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Meeting participant limit | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| File storage per user | Not checked yet | Not checked yet |
| Our review | ||
| Pros |
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| Cons |
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| Our verdict | Google Chat is a cloud-based messaging and collaboration service for individuals, teams, and organizations. It combines direct messages, group conversations, persistent spaces, threaded discussions, file sharing, tasks, external guest… Read the review → |
Element is an end-to-end encrypted messaging and collaboration application built on the Matrix open standard. It suits communities, enterprises, governments, and other organizations that need data ownership, interoperability, and control… Read the review → |
Strengths and trade-offs
Google Chat — where it wins
- Persistent spaces and threaded discussions organize team topics.
- Docs, Sheets, Slides, Drive, Gmail, Calendar, and Meet work together.
- Guest access, tasks, Gemini features, and third-party integrations broaden collaboration.
Where it doesn't
- Advanced security and management controls require higher Workspace tiers.
- Message history settings can vary by account and administrator configuration.
- Google-centered workflows may fit less naturally with non-Google ecosystems.
Element — where it wins
- End-to-end encryption with QR-code or emoji device verification
- Unlimited history, guest access, threads, polls, and voice messages
- Web, desktop, mobile, self-hosted, cloud, and air-gapped deployment options
Where it doesn't
- Paid tiers are presented as contact-sales offerings
- Rooms and spaces differ from conventional channel structures
- Self-hosted and air-gapped options require infrastructure ownership
- Google Chat8.9/10 · Free plan · 14-day trial
A flexible Google Workspace team hub with spaces, threads, guests, tasks, and integrations.
Visit Google ChatFull verdict → - Element8.8/10 · Free plan
Encrypted Matrix collaboration with broad deployment choices, unlimited history, and flexible integrations.
Visit ElementFull verdict →
More comparisons
All team communication software comparisons → · Full ranking →
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
Last updated · How we research and update