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Detailed Comparison

Zulip vs Element

A comprehensive comparison to help you decide if Element is the right EU alternative to Zulip for your needs.

US-based (CLOUD Act applies)
Zulip logo

Zulip

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธZulip

Zulip is a messaging app designed to streamline communication through its unique threaded conversation feature, ensuring clarity and context in discussions. With the ability to integrate seamlessly with popular tools, Zulip enhances productivity by keeping all your communication in one place. It offers customizable notification settings, allowing users to tailor their experience to suit their needs, and its searchable message history ensures that no information is ever lost. Zulip is ideal for teams and organizations of all sizes who require structured communication and robust user roles and permissions management. Security is a priority, with data encryption in transit and GDPR-compliant data handling, offering peace of mind to users concerned about privacy. Additionally, Zulip supports self-hosting, providing flexibility and control over data sovereignty, particularly beneficial for EU-based organizations. Zulip offers a flexible pricing model, including a free tier and paid plans for additional features, making it accessible to a wide range of users.

EU-based (GDPR Protected)
Element logo

Element

๐ŸŒElement

Element is a Matrix-based end-to-end encrypted messenger and secure collaboration app. Itโ€™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.

freemiumRecommended

Our Verdict

Why choose Element

  • +Element uses Matrix protocol for interoperability with other platforms.
  • +End-to-end encryption is enabled by default for all Element users.
  • +Element supports group chats with up to 1000 members, larger than Zulip.
  • +Element's user interface is highly customizable for improved user experience.

Things to consider

  • -Migration from Zulip may require significant data export and import effort.
  • -Element's learning curve may be steeper due to its diverse features.
  • -Some integrations available in Zulip may not be directly available in Element.

Privacy Winner: Element

Your data stays in the EU and is protected under GDPR, free from US CLOUD Act access.

Feature Comparison

Switching from
Zulip logo

Zulip

๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ

Zulip

VS
Switching to
Element logo

Element

๐ŸŒ

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

Open Source
Self-Hostable
ISO 27001
EU-hosted
GDPR Compliant

Reasons to Switch

  • โœ“Element uses Matrix protocol for interoperability with other platforms.
  • โœ“End-to-end encryption is enabled by default for all Element users.
  • โœ“Element supports group chats with up to 1000 members, larger than Zulip.
  • โœ“Element's user interface is highly customizable for improved user experience.

Things to Consider

  • !Migration from Zulip may require significant data export and import effort.
  • !Element's learning curve may be steeper due to its diverse features.
  • !Some integrations available in Zulip may not be directly available in Element.
Migration difficulty:
Medium
~1-2 hours

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Element a good replacement for Zulip?

Yes, Element is a GDPR-compliant European alternative to Zulip. It offers similar functionality while ensuring your data stays within EU jurisdiction and is protected under strict European privacy laws.

Is Element GDPR compliant?

Yes, Element is a European company that fully complies with GDPR regulations. Your data is stored in EU data centers and is not subject to US surveillance laws like the CLOUD Act.

How much does Element cost?

Element offers freemium pricing. Visit their website for current pricing details and to compare plans based on your specific needs.

Where is my data stored with Element?

Element stores data in EU data centers, ensuring compliance with European data protection regulations and keeping your information within EU jurisdiction.

Other EU alternatives to Zulip

Ready to make the switch to Element?

Take control of your data privacy by switching to an EU-based alternative.