Aircall
Free plan available
Cloud-based business phone and VoIP solution for sales and support teams
Try Aircall freeFree plan availableBest Microsoft Teams Alternatives (2026)
Exploring alternatives to Microsoft Teams? We tracked 40 other Communication tools with full pricing breakdowns so you can compare costs before switching.
Data compiled by Arthur Jacquemin, Founder & Lead Analyst
Overview
Microsoft Teams is free for basic features, then bundled into Microsoft 365 ($6-20/month per user). Unlike Slack, Teams comes 'free' with Office if you already pay for Microsoft.
The Teams advantage is integration with Outlook, Office apps, and enterprise security. If your team is in Microsoft 365, Teams is the obvious choice.
The disadvantage is that Teams is part of a bundle. You can't buy Teams standalone (except the free tier). You're committing to Microsoft's entire ecosystem.
Compared to Slack ($7.99+/month per active user), Teams is cheaper if you already subscribe to Microsoft 365. If you don't, Teams is only attractive if you need Microsoft Office.
For enterprises already in Microsoft (Outlook, Office, Windows), Teams is the natural choice. For startups and creative teams, Slack is still the standard.
Top picks
CloudTalk
Free plan available
AI-powered business communication software for sales and support teams with VoIP calling, IVR, and CRM integrations.
Try CloudTalk freeFree plan available
Around
Lightweight video calling designed for remote collaboration
View Around pricing40 Communication Alternatives to Microsoft Teams
Compare with Microsoft Teams
Compare with Microsoft Teams
Compare with Microsoft Teams
Compare with Microsoft Teams
Discord
Voice, video, and text communication platform for communities
Communicationfreemium
From$5/mo
2 tiersCompare with Microsoft Teams
Element (Matrix)
Secure decentralized messaging built on the Matrix protocol
Communicationopen-source
Free
3 tiers
Fathom
Free AI meeting assistant that records and summarizes calls
Communicationfreemium
From$0/mo
3 tiers
Fireflies.ai
AI meeting assistant that records and transcribes meetings
Communicationfreemium
From$0/mo
4 tiers
Compare with Microsoft Teams
Google Meet
Free video conferencing by Google for meetings and calls
Communicationfreemium
From$3/mo
4 tiersCompare with Microsoft Teams
Compare with Microsoft Teams
Compare with Microsoft Teams
Compare with Microsoft Teams
Compare with Microsoft Teams
Compare with Microsoft Teams
Rocket.Chat
Open-source team communication platform you can self-host
Communicationopen-source
Free
3 tiersCompare with Microsoft Teams
Tandem
Virtual office for remote teams with instant collaboration
Communicationfreemium
From$0/mo
4 tiersCompare with Microsoft Teams
Compare with Microsoft Teams
Vidyard
Video hosting and analytics platform for sales and marketing teams
Communicationper-seat
From$0/mo
4 tiersCompare with Microsoft Teams
Compare with Microsoft Teams
Compare with Microsoft Teams
Compare with Microsoft Teams
Track Pricing Changes
Get notified when alternatives update their pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions: Microsoft Teams Alternatives
Is Microsoft Teams free?
The basic tier is free with limited features (no call history retention). Full Teams requires Microsoft 365 subscription ($6-20/month per user).
Should you choose Teams or Slack?
If you use Microsoft 365, Teams is the obvious choice and you're not adding cost. If you don't use Microsoft, Slack is better. The choice is ecosystem, not price.
Can you use Teams without Microsoft 365?
You can use the free tier, but it's limited. For full features, you need a Microsoft 365 subscription. Most teams upgrade.
How many alternatives to Microsoft Teams are there?
As of July 2026, there are 40 alternatives to Microsoft Teams in the Communication category with full pricing data.
What is the cheapest alternative to Microsoft Teams?
CloudTalk is the most affordable alternative at €0.15/mo. However, the best choice depends on your specific feature needs. Compare pricing and feature lists to find the right balance of cost and functionality for your use case.
Are there free alternatives to Microsoft Teams?
Yes, Aircall, CloudTalk, Cal.com, and others offer free plans. Free tiers are a great way to evaluate solutions before upgrading to a paid plan. Keep in mind that free tiers often have feature or usage limitations compared to paid plans.