Menu
English

Element

You can chat via Matrix with your own server selection, group rooms and encrypted calls where they are enabled.

Developer Element

Version 1.12.28 · Open source · Windows · macOS · Linux

Looking for an alternative to Element?Compare Session, SimpleX Chat, Jami.Compare alternatives

Element is a client for the Matrix network. You can use private conversations and group rooms and choose which home server your account is on. As a result, the app is not tied to one central provider of all accounts.

Encryption, recovery and server management require separate attention. Save recovery data for your encrypted message history. A link to another chat network may have privacy properties other than a direct Matrix call.

Save access to encrypted history

Set recovery before replacing or erasing your only notified device. Knowing only your account password does not automatically mean that you can read all the old encrypted messages on a new device. Verify new sessions via a trusted device and check that your recovery data is available outside that device. The selected home server will also remain responsible for its own storage policy.

Which software suits you?

Compare Element with alternatives

If you want a different setup than an ordinary central chat service, compare accounts, network architecture and contact exchange. Self-contained or without a phone number does not mean that each app offers the same level of anonymity. Your partners must use the same solution or a compatible network.

Differences between Element and Session, SimpleX Chat, Jami
SoftwareWhat can it do?Platform and licence
ElementYou are viewing this app You use Matrix for calls and groups, with the possibility of your own server. Encryption and management also depend on the rooms and server facilities. Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source
SessionView this alternative You chat without a phone number as an account identity and use Sessions network for message exchange. Please take into account your own contact and network setup. Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source
SimpleX ChatView this alternative You exchange messages without a central user ID and connect contacts via invitations. That differs from searching on a public account or phone number. Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source
JamiView this alternative You chat and call via a distributed setup without a mandatory central service for your calls. The connection between your devices and conversational partners is part of the operation. Windows, macOS, LinuxOpen source

Choose an alternative to explore its features, system requirements and download options.

Who is it for?

You want to use Matrix for personal conversations, groups or your own managed community.

Getting started

Install Element, choose your home server and set up instant recovery of encrypted messages. Verify a second device before removing the first one.

Privacy

Encrypted spaces protect message content, but the home server also processes account and connection data. Bridges to other networks can change that protection.

Good to know

Server functions, storage and bridges vary by provider. The desktop release follows the joint Element Web/desktop line.

Please note

Save your recovery data and check new devices. Without proper keys, older encrypted history can remain unreadable.

Advantages

  • Matrix Server Choice Group rooms and encrypted calls Open ecosystem

Things to consider

  • Key recovery requires attention Server choice affects management Bridges have their own limitations

Download Element

The download page opens in a new tab.

Official download page

Provider’s website · element.io

Download Element (opens in a new tab)

Version history

1.12.28 Security

You will get a clearer room list, improvements for images and a security correction. Check for Linux to see if your system is still supported.

  • The room list is given separate parts for invitations and persons. Sections collapse when you drag a room.
  • An image you have just uploaded will be displayed without downloading it again.
  • With public rooms you get a warning that people from outside your organisation can also participate. Problems with reporting settings are reported more clearly.
  • The desktop release no longer supports older Linux systems such as Debian 11 and Ubuntu before 22.04. Update your system before installing this release.
1.12.27

You get enhanced link examples, space list settings and status control.

Version 1.12.27 renews link preview parts and adds settings for unread activity in the space list. You can change your status directly via the menu. An error has also been repaired which could cause a manually set status to be lost.
Report a new version

Is there a newer version of Element? Send the version number and a link to the official announcement. Our editors will check it. No login is required.

Our verdict

Element is especially interesting if you do not want the app and one central account provider to be inextricably linked. Matrix gives you space to choose or manage a server yourself. For groups this can be a clear advantage, provided someone takes responsibility for the environment.

The extra freedom makes the first establishment a little more complicated. Check how to recover on a new device and explain which spaces are encrypted. For a group that especially wants to start without explanation, this requires preparation. When server choice and open exchange are important, Element provides an appropriate basis for long-term use.

Ratings

No ratings yet. Share your experience.

Log in to rate this software.

Comments

Share your experience. Comments appear after approval.

No comments yet.