Leaving Discord? Here's everything you need
Compare 2 EU alternatives side-by-side. Find the right fit based on migration difficulty, pricing, and privacy features.
Your data may be subject to US surveillance laws
Discord is headquartered in the US. Under the CLOUD Act and FISA Section 702, US authorities can access your data without your knowledge. Switch to an EU alternative to keep your data protected under GDPR.
All EU Alternatives at a Glance
| Alternative | Country | Pricing | Difficulty | Time Estimate | Actions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
StoatRecommended Stoat (formerly Revolt) is an open-source, privacy-focused messaging platform from the United Kingdom. It offers a Discord-like experience with servers, channels, and voice chat, but with full GDPR compliance and EU data hosting. Stoat features customizable servers, role-based permissions, rich media sharing, and end-to-end encryption options. As a self-hostable solution, it gives users complete control over their data. Ideal for communities, teams, and individuals who want a feature-rich chat platform without compromising on privacy. | 🌍GB | Free plan available | Medium | Several weeks, including the wait time for data export | |
Element Element is a Matrix-based end-to-end encrypted messenger and secure collaboration app. It’s decentralised for digital sovereign self-hosting, or through a hosting service such as Element Matrix Services. Element operates on the open Matrix network to provide interoperability and easy connections. | 🌍GB | Free plan available | Medium | Several days to a few weeks, depending on the complexity of your Discord setup |
Our Top Picks
Best for Privacy
Element is a Matrix-based end-to-end encrypted messenger and secure collaboration app. It’s decentralised for digital sovereign self-hosting, or through a hosting service such as Element Matrix Services. Element operates on the open Matrix network to provide interoperability and easy connections.
Certifications:
Best Free Option
Stoat (formerly Revolt) is an open-source, privacy-focused messaging platform from the United Kingdom. It offers a Discord-like experience with servers, channels, and voice chat, but with full GDPR compliance and EU data hosting. Stoat features customizable servers, role-based permissions, rich media sharing, and end-to-end encryption options. As a self-hostable solution, it gives users complete control over their data. Ideal for communities, teams, and individuals who want a feature-rich chat platform without compromising on privacy.
- GDPR compliance ensures EU data protection standards.
- Open source allows for custom modifications and audits.
- Story-driven chats offer unique, engaging interactions.
Migration difficulty data is being enriched for these alternatives.
Detailed Comparison of Each Alternative
Stoat (formerly Revolt) is an open-source, privacy-focused messaging platform from the United Kingdom. It offers a Discord-like experience with servers, channels, and voice chat, but with full GDPR compliance and EU data hosting. Stoat features customizable servers, role-based permissions, rich media sharing, and end-to-end encryption options. As a self-hostable solution, it gives users complete control over their data. Ideal for communities, teams, and individuals who want a feature-rich chat platform without compromising on privacy.
Advantages
- GDPR compliance ensures EU data protection standards.
- Open source allows for custom modifications and audits.
- Story-driven chats offer unique, engaging interactions.
- Self-hostable option provides control over data location.
Trade-offs
- Migration may disrupt existing Discord communities.
- Learning curve for new features like story-driven chats.
- Lacks Discord's integrated game overlay for gamers.
Element is a Matrix-based end-to-end encrypted messenger and secure collaboration app. It’s decentralised for digital sovereign self-hosting, or through a hosting service such as Element Matrix Services. Element operates on the open Matrix network to provide interoperability and easy connections.
Advantages
- End-to-end encryption is enabled by default for all chats.
- Self-hosting allows full control over data and server location.
- GDPR compliance ensures strict data protection for EU users.
- Open-source nature allows community-driven improvements and transparency.
Trade-offs
- Migration from Discord may require manual transfer of chats and files.
- Element lacks integrated game overlay for real-time gaming support.
- Learning curve for new users unfamiliar with Matrix protocol features.
Before You Switch
Export your data from Discord before you start the migration. This ensures you have a backup and makes the transition smoother.
How to Export
Settings (gear) → Privacy & Safety → Request all of my Data
Export Format
JSON
Time Required
Up to 30 days
Import Notes
Data package for records, not migration
Settings Path
User Settings (gear icon)
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best EU alternatives to Discord?
There are 2 European alternatives to Discord. Stoat, Element are among the top-rated options. All are GDPR-compliant and store your data in European data centers.
How long does it take to switch from Discord?
Migration time varies by alternative. Most migrations can be completed in under an hour with our step-by-step guides. We provide detailed migration guides for each alternative.
Can I export my data from Discord?
Yes. Settings (gear) → Privacy & Safety → Request all of my Data The exported data comes in JSON format. Data package for records, not migration
Is switching from Discord to an EU alternative safe?
Yes, switching is safe when done correctly. We recommend: 1) Export your data from Discord first, 2) Set up the new EU service, 3) Import your data, 4) Run both services in parallel for a transition period, 5) Update any linked accounts or integrations, and 6) Cancel your Discord subscription only after verifying everything works.
Why should I switch from Discord to an EU alternative?
EU alternatives provide stronger privacy protection under GDPR, keep your data in European data centers, and are not subject to US surveillance laws like the CLOUD Act or FISA Section 702. By switching, you gain true data sovereignty and support European tech innovation.