Microsoft Teams is a collaborative platform for team communication and video conferencing, enabling users to exchange files, engage in direct messaging, and initiate group video conferences and audio calls. However, it presents barriers such as the 200-channel limit per team, difficulties integrating certain apps, connectivity restrictions when sharing screens, and limited support for metadata, which can impact how organizations manage and organize their information and meeting recordings in various forms and affect the user experience under different circumstances.
Microsoft Teams became popular by meeting the need for integrated collaboration tools, combining chat, video calls, file sharing, and project management, especially during the shift to remote work during the pandemic. But now, as the times and work routines change, there has got to be a more evolved solution.Let’s explore, compare, and evaluate different Microsoft Teams alternatives in 2024. So, without further ado, let’s get started.
Limitations of Microsoft Teams
Teams is a decent collaborating application. However, it has a lot of limitations, considering the latest developments in the domain of real-time communications. Some of the limitations of teams are mentioned:
- Channel Limitation: Microsoft Teams allows for creating multiple channels within a team, but there's a cap of 200 channels per team. For organizations with complex projects or diverse teams, this restriction might require them to find alternative ways to organize discussions and files, potentially impacting scalability.
- App Integration Challenges: While private and shared channels in Teams offer focused collaboration spaces, not all applications seamlessly integrate into these channels. This limitation can disrupt workflows, especially for teams reliant on specific tools for productivity enhancements, and may hinder the full potential of these specialized spaces.
- Communication Disruption: Teams have no provision to chat with attendees concurrently during screen-sharing sessions. This limitation can impede real-time communication and collaborative engagement, particularly in scenarios where immediate feedback or clarification is crucial during a presentation, potentially affecting the interactive nature of team collaboration.
- Metadata Constraints: Teams' limited support for metadata affects the platform's ability to organize and categorize content systematically. This constraint might pose challenges in tracking changes and searching for specific files, especially in projects requiring meticulous organization, such as compliance-heavy industries.
- Recording Expiration: Meeting recordings in Teams have an expiration limit, meaning they're only accessible for a certain period. This limitation can be problematic for users needing to maintain comprehensive records of meetings for extended durations, potentially impacting the platform's suitability for long-term documentation and compliance needs.
- Mobile Experience: Teams' mobile app offers a less functional experience than its desktop counterpart. This limitation can hinder users who primarily work on mobile devices, impacting their ability to access all features seamlessly.
- Network Reliance: Teams' performance heavily depends on stable and robust internet connectivity. Users in areas with poor network coverage or unstable connections may experience lags, disruptions, or difficulties accessing and using Teams effectively.
- Administrative Challenges: Admin controls in Teams might be insufficient for organizations with complex user management needs. This limitation can pose challenges in efficiently managing permissions, security settings, and user access levels, potentially causing administrative inefficiencies and security risks.
- Support Limitations: Microsoft Teams relies on community support, which may not always address all user needs promptly or comprehensively. Users might face challenges finding specific solutions or tailored assistance for their issues.
Features to look for while looking for an Alternative to Teams
There is n number of features one could look for while looking for an alternative to Teams, but some of the features are listed below:
- Robust Collaboration Tools: To streamline teamwork effectively, look for alternatives with various collaboration features, such as chat, video conferencing, file sharing, and project management capabilities.
- Seamless App Integrations: Opt for platforms that offer easy integration with popular third-party apps and services to enhance productivity and workflow efficiency.
- Cross-Device Compatibility: Ensure the alternative supports consistent performance across various devices, including desktops, laptops, tablets, and mobile phones, for seamless work transitions.
- Advanced Administrative Controls: Seek solutions with comprehensive administrative features for efficient user management, permissions settings, and security configurations tailored to organizational needs.
- Responsive Customer Support: Choose platforms with reliable customer support services to address queries, provide assistance, and resolve issues promptly for uninterrupted workflow.
- Flexible Pricing Options: To optimize cost-effectiveness, consider alternatives that offer flexible pricing plans suitable for your team size, budget, and specific requirements.
- Strong Security Measures: Prioritize platforms with robust security protocols, encryption standards, data protection features, and compliance certifications to safeguard sensitive information and ensure secure collaboration environments.
List of Top 20 Alternatives to Teams
These are the top 20 Teams Alternatives: Video Calling App, Zoom, Cisco Webex Meetings, Google Meet, Rocket.Chat, Flock, Chanty, Pumble, Bitrix24, Skype, Element, Wire, Zoho Meeting, Vowel, Zoho Cliq, ChatWork, Slack Calls, Brosix, RingEX and Lark. As we move forward to finding an alternative for Teams, let's check out the options individually.
- Video Calling App
- Zoom
- Cisco Webex Meetings
- Google Meet
- Rocket.Chat
- Flock
- Chanty
- Pumble
- Bitrix24
- Skype
- Element
- Wire
- Zoho Meeting
- Vowel
- Zoho Cliq
- ChatWork
- Slack Calls
- Brosix
- RingEX
- Lark
Let’s dive in and look at the features, limitations, and pricing of each alternative separately.
Video Calling App
While Teams may offer simplicity, we'd like to present you with a better alternative for your team communication needs.
Introducing a cutting-edge video communication platform designed to facilitate contextual, targeted, and results-oriented conversations. The Video Calling App (VCA) seamlessly integrates with your current toolset, including platforms like Slack, Linear, and more, managing pre- and post-meeting activities effortlessly.
Video Calling App Features:
- AI-driven summaries that capture key insights and action items for efficient review and alignment.
- Advanced noise cancellation technology for precise, distraction-free communication.
- Real-time translation and transcription services to bridge language gaps and promote inclusivity within global teams.
- Incorporated calendars and agenda planners for simplified scheduling and meeting management.
- Interactive collaboration tools such as digital whiteboards and document viewers enhance brainstorming sessions and idea sharing.
Video Calling App understands transitioning to a new video conferencing platform can be intimidating, but Video Calling App aims to simplify the process. We're providing a free 90-day trial that matches your existing application plan. Interested users can take advantage of this offer by completing a quick online application. Here's an honest comparison of Microsoft Teams vs. Video Calling App.
Video Calling App Pricing
The Video Calling App is currently in private alpha and rolling out access weekly. By joining the waitlist, you'll unlock exclusive access to robust integrations, intuitive contextual features within the meeting interface, advanced AI capabilities, and a refreshing meeting experience.
Zoom
Zoom is designed to meet basic video conferencing needs. It integrates with office applications such as calendars and collaboration software.
Zoom Features:
- High-quality video and audio.
- Screen sharing capabilities.
- Virtual backgrounds.
- Interactive whiteboard feature.
- Chat functionality.
Zoom Limitations:
- There has been much news raising concerns around data privacy and security; Zoom calls were sometimes routed through servers in China, raising concerns about data privacy and potential foreign government surveillance.
- Limits on the number of participants per session.
- High bandwidth and processing power requirements for smooth operation.
- Free plans have no cloud storage.
- User interface complexity.
Get to know more about Zoom features and Zoom limitations.
Zoom Pricing
Zoom pricing varies: Free plans have limitations, Pro plans start at $14.99/month/host, and Business plans from $19.99/month/host.
If you are looking for Zoom Alternatives, check out the Top 20 Zoom Alternatives in 2024.
Learn in depth about Zoom pricing.
Cisco WebEx Meetings
Cisco Webex is a platform for virtual meetings, webinars, and team collaboration via video conferencing. It offers basic features such as customizable layouts, screen sharing, meeting recording, and virtual meetings.
Cisco WebEx Features:
- Customizable layouts.
- Screen sharing capabilities.
- Meeting recording functionality.
- Broadcasting for virtual meetings.
Cisco WebEx Limitations:
- Maximum of six video streams in both directions.
- Potential long load times after significant upgrades.
- Limitations on attendee actions, affecting engagement.
- Performance degrades in low-bandwidth settings, impacting user experience.
- Users find limited customization options for branding in WebEx.
Cisco WebEx Pricing
The price starts at $13.50 per month per host. The plans encompass video conferencing, messaging, and file-sharing functionalities.
We have a detailed article about WebEx alternatives.
Here's a very truthful and honest comparison on how Video Calling App leads over Webex in Cisco Webex vs. Video Calling App.
Also check Zoom vs. Webex, to learn more.
Google Meet
Google Meet, a video conferencing platform by Google, facilitates virtual meetings and collaborations for individuals and businesses.
Google Meet Features:
- Top-notch video and audio quality.
- Screen sharing functionality.
- Integration with Google Workspace apps.
Google Meet Limitations:
- Limited grid view in extensive meetings.
- Time restrictions on free accounts.
- Possible browser compatibility challenges.
- Hosting larger or longer meetings on Google Meet requires a paid Google Workspace account with participant and duration allowances based on the chosen plan.
Google Meet Pricing
It offers a free version but with limited functionalities. Paid subscriptions begin at $6 per user monthly for business starters and offer extended meeting times and other features.
You can check out the Top 20 Google Meet Alternatives in 2024 to read more about Google Meet alternatives.
Check out this fair comparison of Google Meet vs. Video Calling App.
Also check out Zoom vs. Google Meet and Google Meet vs. Microsoft Teams to get a better understanding.
Refer to Zoom vs. Google Meet pricing to know the difference in pricing plans of the two applications.
Rocket.Chat
Rocket.Chat is an open messaging platform for team collaboration that offers chat, video, and voice communication.
Rocket.Chat Features:
- Real-time messaging for team communication.
- Customizable platform for specific business needs.
- Integrations with other tools for productivity.
- Open-source nature.
Rocket.Chat Limitations:
- The user interface may require some learning curve for new users.
- There are limited in-built features compared to some commercial messaging platforms.
- Emails are not queued and ignored when the sending limit is reached.
- Support and documentation may vary based on the contributions of the open-source community.
Rocket.Chat Pricing
Paid plans start at $4.0 per user per month, offering business functionalities and support.
Flock
Flock is a team collaboration platform that provides messaging, file sharing, and task management capabilities. It also includes audio and video conferencing features, allowing teams to communicate and collaborate within a single interface.
Flock Features:
- Messaging for team communication.
- Built-in audio and video conferencing.
- Integration with various third-party applications.
- Shared to-do lists and reminders.
- Search functionality across messages and files.
Flock Limitations:
- Dependence on stable internet connectivity for optimal performance.
- Limited customization options for the user interface.
- Some features may be less robust compared to specialized tools.
- It has a messaging limit of 10,000 messages, which makes it hard for us to keep messages for future reference.
- Higher tiers are more expensive than other collaboration platforms.
- Occasional issues with notification delays or sync problems.
Flock Pricing
Flock offers a free plan with basic features, while the Pro plan starts at $6 per user/month and provides other tools and integrations for team collaboration and productivity.
Chanty
Chanty is a group chat application that provides workflow management, file sharing, and integration tools for teamwork and project productivity.
Chanty Features:
- User-friendly team chat interface.
- File sharing capabilities within the platform.
- Integrations with popular productivity applications.
- Focus on collaboration and communication.
Chanty Limitations:
- Limited customization options for advanced users.
- Limited integrations may require using additional tools for preferred workflows.
- Customer support lacks efficiency, often failing to provide satisfactory problem-solving responses.
- Integration limitations with specific specialized tools.
Chanty Pricing
Paid plans start at $3 per user monthly and provide functionalities like message history and guest access for teams.
Pumble
Pumble is a team communication platform for collaboration and productivity. It provides instant messaging, file sharing, and task management and integrates with productivity tools.
Pumble Features:
- Real-time messaging for swift communication.
- Share files easily on the platform.
- Track team progress with task management tools.
- Centralized space for team collaboration.
Pumble Limitations:
- Customization options are limited for UI.
- Often slows down by the end of the day (desktop product) and has to be killed and restarted.
- Lack of voice message support and video calls and the problem with alerts in IOS.
- Users find Pumble's search tool challenging due to the need for exact keyword matches.
- Users need better UI/UX in Pumble for a more streamlined experience.
- Users perceive Pumble's limited integrations as hindering workflow efficiency.
- A reliable internet connection is crucial for optimal performance.
Pumble Pricing:
Pumble's free plan includes messaging and file sharing. The Pro plan, at $2.49 per user monthly, offers guest access, integrations, and message history.
Bitrix24
Bitrix24 is a platform that integrates CRM, business processes, and collaboration tools. It emphasizes social work, communication features, and automation.
Bitrix24 Features:
- Offers customer relationship management tools.
- Includes task tracking, Gantt charts, and team collaboration features.
- Facilitates social collaboration and communication within teams.
- Automates routine tasks to improve working.
- Recording options for meetings.
- Integrated chat during video conferences.
Bitrix24 Limitations:
- Users initially find the platform interface overwhelming.
- Some users report a steep learning curve for utilizing all features effectively.
- Limited integrations with external applications could restrict workflow flexibility.
- The free plan limits the number of concurrent participants and meeting duration.
- Users reported occasional connectivity issues.
- Limited mobile app functionality poses challenges for team collaboration on Bitrix24.
Bitrix24 Pricing
Bitrix24 offers a free version with limited features and paid plans starting from $61 per month per user for different user needs.
Skype
Skype is a communication platform that offers video calling, messaging, and voice chat services for personal and business connections. Key features include screen sharing and group calls.
Skype Features:
- Video calls help direct interactions.
- Voice chat enables audio exchanges.
- Screen sharing facilitates collaboration.
- Group calls allow multiple users to connect.
Skype Limitations:
- Connectivity issues may affect call quality.
- Limited UI customization options.
- Concerns regarding data privacy persist.
- Streamline the Skype Lite app size to enhance user experience and accessibility.
- High bandwidth usage in video calls may impact performance.
Skype Pricing
Access premium features like international calling and SMS via Skype Credit or subscription plans starting at $2.99 monthly in the US and $8.01 in India, with additional fees for specific services.
With Skype losing its charm, it’s better to look out for Skype’s Alternatives.
Skype vs. Video Calling App, entails in an honest way how VCA leads.
Element
Formerly called Riot.im, Element is an open-source platform for messaging and collaboration. It has features like end-to-end encryption, decentralized communication, and service integration.
Element Features:
- Secure messaging through end-to-end encryption.
- Decentralized communication model.
- Integration with multiple services.
Element Limitations:
- New user navigation complexity in the interface.
- Limited customization options are provided.
- Performance Delays have been reported.
- Occasional bugs and performance hiccups from frequent updates.
Element Pricing
Element offers a basic plan starting at $5.00 per user per month and an enterprise option commencing at $10.00 monthly.
Wire
Wire is a communication platform with features like end-to-end encryption for messages, voice, and video calls. It claims to prioritize privacy.
Wire Features:
- Utilizes end-to-end encryption for secure messaging, voice, and video calls.
- Prioritizes privacy and data protection for users.
- Offers a user-friendly interface for communication.
Wire Limitations:
- May have occasional performance issues.
- Limited customization options are available.
- Calls often drop frequently, or users report audio connection issues.
- Limiting calls to 3-4 participants is advisable to maintain quality.
- Increasing the participant count can lead to degraded call quality.
- Advanced features require a premium subscription.
Wire Pricing
Wire's pricing is not transparent; you must contact the sales team.
Zoho Meeting
Zoho Meeting is an online platform facilitating video conferencing, screen sharing, and webinars, with additional features like voting, recording, and data encryption for security.
Zoho Meeting Features:
- Real-time video conferencing.
- Screen sharing for presentations.
- Secure data transfer via end-to-end encryption.
Zoho Meeting Limitations:
- Possible audio and video quality issues during peak usage.
- Fewer third-party integrations than competitors.
- Breakout rooms require additional purchases.
- Advanced features like webinar analytics are reserved for higher-tier plans, with restricted external app integrations.
Zoho Meeting Pricing
Zoho Meeting’s free plan supports up to 100 participants for 40-minute meetings. Paid plans start at $3 per organizer monthly for standard features and $7.50 monthly for professional features.
Vowel
Vowel is a video conferencing platform with intuitive interfaces, interactive tools, and features like screen sharing and real-time feedback.
Vowel Features:
- Intuitive interface for seamless navigation.
- Screen-sharing for enhanced collaboration.
- Real-time annotations for interactive discussions.
- Integration with productivity tools like Google Workspace.
Vowel Limitations:
- Limited customization options compared to competitors.
- Connectivity issues may arise during peak usage.
- Advanced features like breakout rooms require higher-tier plans.
- Compatibility limitations with specific operating systems and devices.
Vowel Pricing
The free plan includes essential features for small teams. In contrast, paid plans start at $6.49 per user per month with longer meeting durations and higher participant limits.
Zoho Cliq
Zoho Cliq is a team communication tool that provides real-time messaging, audio and video conferencing, file sharing, and integration with other Zoho applications. It aims to help teams collaborate and manage workflows.
Zoho Cliq Features:
- Real-time messaging for instant communication.
- Audio and video conferencing capabilities.
- Customizable chat channels for different projects or teams.
- Task management and reminders.
- Mobile app support for remote access.
Zoho Cliq Limitations:
- Dependence on stable internet connectivity for use.
- Free plans have limited features compared to paid plans.
- Unable to add a new person in between a call.
- There is a delay in mobile notifications.
- The interface is cluttered with many options.
- Occasional issues with notification delays.
- Some users report a learning curve for new team members.
Zoho Cliq Pricing
Zoho Cliq offers a free plan for basic communication needs, while its Unlimited plan starts at $2 per user/month and provides other features and integrations for team collaboration.
ChatWork
ChatWork is a team communication tool that combines messaging, task tracking, and file sharing in one platform. It has features like task assignments and group chat to help teams.
ChatWork Features:
- Integration of team messaging, task management, and file sharing.
- Task assignment feature for organized collaboration.
- Group chat functionality for team communication.
ChatWork Limitations:
- Absence of advanced video conferencing capabilities.
- Chaotic conversation UI makes it impossible to follow.
- Limited project management tools compared to other platforms.
- Limited group chat capacity poses a challenge for users needing to join multiple chats, requiring a subscription upgrade for access.
ChatWork Pricing
It offers a basic free version, whereas the paid subscription starts at $7 per monthly user.
Slack Calls
Slack's audio and video calling functionality allows users to engage in one-on-one or group calls from the platform directly. The company is trying to improve real-time interactions with features like screen sharing and third-party integrations.
Slack Calls Features:
- Audio and video communication.
- Initiate calls from channels for collaboration.
- Share screens for presentations.
- Integrate with tools like Google Drive and Zoom.
Slack Calls Limitations:
- Video calls are limited to 15 participants in the free version.
- Users may experience intermittent connectivity issues.
- Advanced features like recording require a paid subscription.
- A reliable internet connection is crucial for optimal performance.
Slack Call Pricing
The free version supports video calls with up to 15 participants at no extra cost. Plans for business communication start at $15 per user per month.
Brosix
Brosix is an instant messaging platform that offers features such as encrypted messaging, file sharing, screen sharing, and collaborative tools to improve data protection and team connectivity.
Brosix Features:
- Secure encrypted messaging.
- Efficient file-sharing capabilities.
- Real-time screen sharing.
- Productivity improving collaboration tools.
Brosix Limitations:
- Limited third-party integrations.
- Inconvenient file-transfer process.
- Poorly designed for time-disparate teams.
- Extra charges for advanced features like video conferencing.
- Potential complexity in the user interface for beginners.
- Reported intermittent connectivity issues.
Brosix Pricing Details
Brosix follows a subscription-based pricing model that starts at $4 per user per month.
RingEX
RingEX is a communication platform that uses video conferencing and real-time transcription and translation functionalities. Key features include high-definition video and audio calls, integration with popular productivity tools, and advanced scheduling options.
RingEX Features:
- Instant transcription.
- Language translation capabilities.
- Video conferencing tools.
- Customizable settings.
RingEX Limitations:
- Reliance on high internet connectivity.
- Language accuracy considerations.
- The menu of features could be simplified.
- Compatibility issues.
- Security vulnerabilities.
- Cost factors to bear in mind.
RingEX Pricing
The basic package is $25 per user per month, and various new tiers are available that offer all Core features plus call recording, analytics, and custom app development.
Lark
Lark is a digital collaboration platform that prioritizes team productivity and communication. It offers messaging, video conferencing, collaborative documentation, and project management tools.
Lark Features:
- Real-time messaging functionality.
- Virtual meeting capabilities through video conferencing.
- Tools for collaborative document editing.
- Project management features for progress tracking.
Lark Limitations:
- Limited scope for customizing the user interface.
- Occasional connectivity challenges in video calls.
- Complicated File sharing process.
- The initial learning curve for new users navigating the platform.
- Customer Service had been reported as disruptive.
- Occasional Bugs.
Lark Pricing
Lark provides a free basic plan with collaboration functions like messaging—a paid monthly subscription at $12 per user to unlock more features.
Comparison of Top 20 Teams Alternatives
