Slack vs Element: Which Protects Your Conversations Best?
Discover how Element's UK-based privacy focus compares to Slack's US approach. Ensure your messages stay confidential.
Should You Switch to Element?
Gain privacy, self-hosting, and full GDPR compliance
Lack of integrated project management and AI features
Switch if privacy is key; stay with Slack for advanced features
At a Glance
US data laws
GDPR protected
Slack
Contact
Element
freemium
Privacy & Compliance Comparison
Critical data sovereignty factors at a glance
| Criteria | Slack | Element |
|---|---|---|
Server Location | US (AWS), EU (optional) | EU |
GDPR Compliance | Partial (SCCs) | Full |
Open Source | ||
E2E Encryption | Enterprise only | Optional |
Data Portability | Full export | Full export |
CLOUD Act Notice
Slack is a US company and must comply with CLOUD Act data requests, even for data stored in EU data centers. Element is not subject to US jurisdiction.
Slack
🇺🇸Salesforce
Element
🌍Element
US Data Storage
Data subject to US CLOUD Act and may be accessed by US authorities
EU Data Protection
Data protected under GDPR with EU-only data residency
Certifications & Compliance
No certifications listed
Reasons to Switch
- ✓Matrix protocol allows interoperability with other systems.
- ✓End-to-end encryption is enabled by default for all chats.
- ✓Self-hosting ensures data control and privacy compliance.
- ✓GDPR compliance with EU-hosted servers for data protection.
Things to Consider
- !Migration from Slack may require significant time and effort.
- !Element lacks integrated project management tools.
- !Learning curve for users unfamiliar with Matrix protocol.
Migration Overview
Depends on data size and complexity
Quick Steps
Create Element account and configure settings
Export and prepare data from Slack
Import data, test integrations, and migrate users
Other alternatives to Slack
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Ready to make the switch?
Start using Element today and take control of your data privacy.