Good communication forms the core of every successful team, especially given the speedy, remote-work style of the contemporary era. Here comes team communication tools to save the day, these apps manage collaboration, have everyone on the same page, and enhance departmental productivity. From developers and designers, marketers, and project managers to customer support teams themselves, these apps are essential to manage tasks, share updates, and hold live discussions.
Here, we evaluate the top 15 team communication apps based on user experience, core features, integrations, scalability, and security. The applications were selected with care to cater to the different requirements of modern teams, such as startups, enterprises, and remote-first teams.
Criteria for Selecting the Best Team Communication Apps
In choosing the most effective team communication apps, several important things should be considered to provide seamless collaboration. First, the app should have real-time messaging, video calls, and document sharing to have the capability to serve various communicative needs. The interface should be accessible and, therefore, simple and user-friendly. Third-party application integration, such as project management software, cloud storage, and calendars is also a key ease of workflow.
Scalability also matters, the teams should scale up without needing to change platforms. Good security features and data protection are also essential, especially for businesses dealing with sensitive information. And lastly, good customer service and a reasonable price plan make an app more valuable in the long run for various team sizes and niches.
List of 15 Best Team Communication Apps
1. Slack
Slack is an all-purpose team chat platform that allows real-time conversation via channels, direct messages, and app integration with Google Drive, Trello, and Zoom. Slack can send files, and voice/video calls, and even possesses an effective search option to record previous messages. Slack can be used by office and remote workers and offers hassle-free collaboration. Its app support for third parties and personalization has ranked it in the list of favorites of developers, enterprises, and startups. Having minimalistic and targeted notifications, it is the go-to for team chats.
Key Features:
- Organized channels for topics or departments
- Integration with 2,000+ apps like Google Drive and Trello
- Threaded conversations
- Video/audio calls with screen sharing
Pros:
- Highly customizable with apps and bots
- Intuitive user interface
Cons:
- Can become cluttered with too many channels
- Limited features in the free plan
Pricing: Free, Paid from ₹245.25/mo
Who Should Use It?
Ideal for remote teams, tech startups, and businesses needing robust integration with third-party tools.
2. Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams is a unified collaboration solution with chat, video calls, file sharing, and Microsoft 365 applications in one place. Best suited for businesses that already use Microsoft platforms, it enhances productivity with box-to-box integration with Word, Excel, and SharePoint. With threaded conversations, private channels, and guest access for outside users, Teams has enterprise-level security that makes it suitable for large businesses, schools, and government institutions. Whether you’re collaborating on a project or hosting webinars, Teams offers an all-in-one solution for internal and external communication.
Key Features:
- Deep integration with Office 365 apps
- Real-time collaboration on files
- Private chat and group chats
- Video conferencing with screen sharing
Pros:
- Excellent for Office 365 users
- Seamless integration with Microsoft tools
Cons:
- Can be complex for new users
- Limited integrations with non-Microsoft apps
Pricing: Free, Paid from ₹115.00/user/mo
Who Should Use It?
Perfect for businesses already using Microsoft products or large enterprises with diverse communication needs.
3. Zoom
Zoom Team Chat combines Zoom video conferencing with evergreen group, team, and project chat rooms. It features text messaging, file sharing, and project collaboration without exiting the application. Seamlessly integrated with Zoom Meetings and Zoom Phone, it provides real-time communication and asynchronous collaboration. With robust search, alert customization, and device syncing across devices, it is perfect for remote workers, enterprises, and schools. Zoom Team Chat is particularly convenient for current users of the Zoom platform who require quick communication.
Key Features:
- HD video/audio calls
- Screen sharing and annotation tools
- Breakout rooms for small group discussions
- Virtual backgrounds
Pros:
- Easy to use with high-quality video
- Offers webinar and recording features
Cons:
- Limited functionality in the free plan
- Security concerns with larger meetings
Pricing: Free plan available; ₹1,147/month/user, billed annually
Who Should Use It?
Best for remote teams, education, and businesses needing scalable video conferencing and webinars.
4. Asana
Asana also has an in-built team communication feature in the shape of “Messages” that attempts to keep all the communications within teams and projects. It enables one to post news, attach files, and comment on it without ever leaving the task management process. Messages can even be sent to teams or tagged with a particular project, so the message is relevant and to the point. Asana provides support for integration with standard applications such as Slack, Zoom, and Microsoft Teams. It is best for teams that desire structured work management and well-organized communication. Ideal for project managers, marketing teams, and cross-functional teams that need clarity and productivity.
Key Features:
- Task and project tracking with deadlines
- File sharing and comment features
- Customizable dashboards
- Project templates
Pros:
- Easy to use and visually organized
- Strong task management features
Cons:
- Lacks advanced reporting in the free plan
- It can be overwhelming for small teams
Pricing: Free plan available; Paid plans start at $10.99/user/month
Who Should Use It?
Ideal for teams of all sizes focused on project management and task tracking.
5. Discord
Originally gaming-centric, Discord is today a purpose-built team and community communication platform. It has voice, video, and text chat in structured channels with role and permission-based customizations. With low-latency audio and strong integrations through bots, it’s perfect for tech communities, creative teams, and relaxed workspaces. Screen sharing, streaming, and file sharing are a breeze. Its free version has strong features, so it is a very cost-effective solution for small groups. Discord’s flexibility and ease of use make it an excellent choice for non-conventional workplaces.
Key Features:
- Voice, video, and real-time text chat channels
- Customizable roles and permissions
- Screen sharing and live streaming
- Bots and integrations for task automation and moderation
Pros:
- Great voice and video quality with minimal lag
- Highly customizable server setup and permissions
Cons:
- Not built specifically for business or enterprise use
- Notification overload can occur without proper channel management
Pricing: Free Plan, paid plans available
Who Should Use It?
Discord is ideal for developers, gaming communities, startups, and creative teams that prioritize informal, fast, and voice-first communication.
6. Google Chat
Google Chat is part of Google Workspace and offers end-to-end messaging, group chat, and threaded team rooms for collaboration. It increases efficiency in Google apps and has tight integration with Gmail, Google Meet, and Google Drive. It’s perfect for teams who use Google Calendar, Sheets, and Docs. With smart replies, assignment of tasks, and @mentions, it makes the workflow easier for small, medium, or large teams. It is web and mobile to enable it to make it accessible in real-time. For distant teams, schools, and startups that need simple, cloud-native communication, Google Chat is ideal.
Key Features:
- High-quality video/audio calls
- Direct integration with Google Calendar
- Live captions and screen sharing
- Secure and encrypted meetings
Pros:
- Easy to use with Google Workspace
- No software download required for users
Cons:
- Limited features in the free version
- Requires Google Workspace for advanced features
Pricing: Free plan available; Paid plans start at $6/user/month
Who Should Use It?
Ideal for businesses already using Google Workspace and those needing simple, secure video conferencing.
7. Skype
Skype is a general messaging, voice call, and video call communications app for groups and individuals. Even though it isn’t specifically a collaboration platform such as Slack or Microsoft Teams, Skype also finds its amount of usage with instant messaging as well as even virtual conferences. Users can send files and screens, in addition to group chat, so it’s convenient for smaller groups as well as single individuals. Skype is made available at no cost for general use, and premium versions can be accessed for international calls. It is specifically suited for small businesses, consultants, and teams requiring basic but effective communication with minimal project management capabilities.
Key Features:
- High-quality voice and video calling
- Instant messaging
- Screen sharing
- Integration with Microsoft services
Pros:
- Easy to use and widely adopted globally
- Free to use for most communication features
Cons:
- lacks sophisticated project management and team collaboration tools
- Can experience performance issues during large group calls
Pricing: Free for calls, chat, and video between Skype users, paid options for international phone calls (from $2.99/month depending on region)
8. ClickUp
ClickUp is more of a productivity platform, yet its native chat function enables team chats within the app. There is real-time messaging within tasks, docs, or project spaces, and thus, teams can work together where the work happens. It has rich-text formatting, file sharing, and @mentions. As a project management application, ClickUp combines task tracking with communication to reduce context-switching. It is appropriate for product managers, designers, and the agile project management team. ClickUp is specifically well-suited to remote teams looking for an end-to-end workplace center with built-in chat to enable seamless collaboration.
Key Features:
- Task and project management
- Time tracking and Gantt charts
- Docs and wikis for collaboration
- Customizable views
Pros:
- Feature-rich platform with various tools
- Highly customizable for team needs
Cons:
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Can get expensive for large teams
Pricing: Free plan available; Paid plans start at $5/user/month
Who Should Use It?
Excellent for companies that need a single platform to manage tasks and projects.
9. Trello
Trello is an online collaboration and project management visual tool that is also used for team communication by way of comments, mentions, file sharing, and integrations. Although fundamentally employed for structuring tasks by way of boards, lists, and cards, Trello can enable team members to communicate regarding projects on work task cards themselves, keeping any conversation contextually related to the work. Trello integrates into tools such as Slack and Google Drive, enriching its communication features. Trello is ideal for teams who like to have tidy, visual task tracking with integrated messaging for updates and collaboration. It’s highly sought after by remote teams, designers, and project managers.
Key Features:
- Drag-and-drop task management
- Customizable boards and lists
- Power-ups for added features
- Collaboration with team members
Pros:
- Simple and intuitive interface
- Customizable with various integrations
Cons:
- Limited functionality in the free version
- Not ideal for complex project management
Pricing: Free plan available; Paid plans start at $10/user/month
Who Should Use It?
Ideal for small to medium-sized groups seeking a straightforward, graphical work management solution.
10. Flock
Team chat, video calls, to-do lists, polling, and file sharing are all features offered by the collaboration and productivity software program Flock. Flock is used quite widely due to the simplicity and ease of getting started. Integrations can be used by teams to bring in integrations, voice notes can be used to capture notes, and tasks can be assigned in Flock, all from one place. Additionally, Flock integrates seamlessly with other programs such as Trello, Asana, and Google Drive. Flock is most suitable for small and medium enterprises that need an economical, single, one-stop communication platform with enterprise-grade features. Startups and freelancers have embraced Flock since it is very easy to use, and productivity features are built in.
Key Features:
- Direct and group messaging
- Video/audio calls with screen sharing
- File sharing and integrations
- Task management and to-do lists
Pros:
- Simple and clean interface
- Affordable pricing
Cons:
- Limited integrations compared to Slack
- Lacks some advanced features
Pricing: Free plan available; paid plans starting at ₹199 /user/month
Who Should Use It?
Best for small to medium-sized teams seeking a cost-effective communication and collaboration platform.
11. Troop Messenger
Troop Messenger is an extremely secure group collaboration software with a file share facility, chat, voice, and video calls, and screen share. With the remote desktop control and self-destructing chats (burnout mode), it will be ideal for those organizations that focus a lot on the security of their data as well as collaboration. It can integrate with various tools like Jira, Google Drive, and Dropbox. Troop Messenger supports on-premise and SaaS deployments and is appropriate for defense, government, and IT organizations. It is appropriate for organizations that need a scalable, secure, and customizable group communication solution.
Key Features:
- Real-time messaging, audio/video calling, and screen sharing
- Burnout and self-destruct chat modes
- Group chat, file sharing, and remote desktop control
- On-premise, SaaS, and chat APIs
Pros:
- Highly secure with enterprise-grade features and deployment flexibility
- Offers advanced admin controls and productivity tools
Cons:
- Slight learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Premium features can be expensive for small teams
Pricing: Starts at ₹199/user/mo. Higher plans for enterprise needs.
Who Should Use It?
Ideal for defense, government, and enterprise teams that require high security, advanced controls, and customized deployment options.
12. Zoho Cliq
Zoho Cliq comes pre-installed within the Zoho suite and brings the convenience of group messaging, voice and video calls, and project task management. It provides the presence of enterprise automation with bots and commands, along with threaded chat. Its native third-party app integrations make it best suited for businesses already running on Zoho CRM, Projects, or Desk. It’s a multi-panel interface, leaving chat, call, and notify at your fingertips. For growing teams and SMBs who need enterprise-grade security and scalability in business communication, Zoho Cliq is perfect. It’s simple, quick, and extremely flexible.
Key Features:
- Team messaging and channels
- Audio/video calls
- Integrates with Zoho and third-party apps
- File sharing and task management
Pros:
- Seamless integration with Zoho suite
- Affordable pricing
Cons:
- Limited integrations with non-Zoho tools
- The user interface could be more intuitive
Pricing: Free plan available; Paid plans start at ₹90/user/month
Who Should Use It?
Best for teams already using Zoho’s ecosystem or those in need of an affordable communication platform.
13. Chanty
Chanty is an AI-based, lightweight team messaging system capable of generating collaboration and productivity with minimal effort. File sharing, task management, and communications are all combined into a single system. It also offers Teambook, voice calls, and in-line task creation from messages. It simplifies the workflow. It is ideal for non-technical users due to its sophisticated and user-friendly interface. It also includes unlimited message history even in its most fundamental plan, and this is not typical. Chanty is ideal for remote teams, startups, and small businesses who need a simple, affordable communication solution.
Key Features:
- Real-time messaging and video calls
- Task and to-do list management
- File sharing with unlimited history
- Integrations with various apps
Pros:
- Simple interface with unlimited message history
- Affordable pricing
Cons:
- Limited advanced features
- Some integrations could be improved
Pricing: Free plan available; Paid plans start at $3/user/month
Who Should Use It?
Ideal for small teams and startups looking for an affordable, simple communication tool.
14. Rocket.Chat
Rocket. Chat is an open-source collaboration tool with chat, video, and file sharing, and full data control. It can be cloud-deployed or self-hosted, perfect for privacy-concerned teams. With real-time translation power, heavy integrations, and customization, it’s perfect for global teams, businesses, and developers. Rocket. Chat can integrate with top DevOps and CRM platforms, perfect for productivity boosts. The open-source nature makes it attractive to IT teams and highly regulated companies. For people who are worried about data control and security, it’s a strong Slack substitute.
Key Features:
- Real-time messaging
- Video/audio calls and screen sharing
- File sharing and direct messaging
- Open-source and customizable
Pros:
- Free and open-source
- Highly customizable with API support
Cons:
- Requires technical knowledge for self-hosting
- Lacks some advanced features in the free version
Pricing: Free plan available; Paid plans start at $4/user/month
Who Should Use It?
Perfect for groups looking for a flexible, open-source team communication solution
15. Twist
Twist is asynchronous team communication to enable distributed and remote teams to focus. Unlike real-time messaging apps, it threads and is organized by subject, without distraction and noise. It is best for teams divided by time zones or irregular work schedules. Deep work and thoughtful cooperation are made possible by Twist without requiring quick responses. Since it plays nicely with platforms such as GitHub and Google Drive, Twist integrates with workflow. It is best for cooperative, distributed-first teams that prioritize slow, reflective communication over speed.
Key Features:
- Threaded conversations for clarity
- Direct messaging and file sharing
- Task management tools
- Integrates with a wide range of apps
Pros:
- Helps reduce distractions with organized threads
- Designed for deep, focused collaboration
Cons:
- May feel slow compared to faster chat-based platforms
- Lacks some advanced features like voice/video calls
Pricing: Free plan available; Paid plans start at $5/user/month
Who Should Use It?
Best suited for teams that prioritize organized communication and need a less overwhelming environment for collaboration.
Comparison Between Best Team Communication Apps
Here’s a comparison table for the 15 best team communication apps, evaluated based on key features, ideal use cases, integrations, and pricing:
| Team App | Key Features | Pricing (Starting) | Ideal For | Website |
| Slack | Channels, integrations, file sharing, voice/video calls | Free, Paid from ₹245.25/mo | Tech teams, startups, and remote teams | slack.com |
| Microsoft Teams | File storage, video conferencing, chat, and connection with Microsoft 365 | Free, Paid from ₹115.00/user/mo | Enterprises using the Microsoft ecosystem | microsoft.com/microsoft-teams |
| Zoom Team Chat | Team messaging, file sharing, and meeting integration | Free, Paid from ₹1,147/month/user, billed annually | Remote collaboration and video-centric teams | zoom.us |
| Asana (Messages) | Task-linked messaging, project comments, and team conversations | Free, Paid from $10.99/user/mo | Project-driven teams need chat + tasks | asana.com |
| Discord | Voice/video chat, channels, roles/permissions, bots | Free, paid plans available | Communities, dev teams, creative groups | discord.com |
| Google Chat | Chatrooms, threads, integrated with Gmail & Google Workspace | Free with Workspace plans | Google Workspace users, remote teams | workspace.google.com |
| Skype | Video/audio calls, screen sharing, basic chat | Free | Individuals, small teams, and casual users | skype.com |
| ClickUp Chat | Task-based messaging, mentions, and real-time comments | Free, Paid from $7/user/mo | Teams using ClickUp for project management | clickup.com |
| Trello (Comments) | Card comments, mentions, attachments, power-ups | Free, Paid from $5/user/mo | Teams managing tasks visually | trello.com |
| Flock | Channels, video/audio calling, to-do lists, notes | Free, Paid from ₹199 /user/month | SMBs and remote teams need simplicity | flock.com |
| Troop Messenger | Chat, calls, secure modes (burnout, self-destruct), deployment options | Paid from ₹199/user/mo | Government, defense, and enterprise security teams | troopmessenger.com |
| Zoho Cliq | Chat channels, bots, workflows, Zoho CRM integration | Free, Paid from ₹90/user/month | Zoho users, startups, and budget-conscious teams | zoho.com/cliq |
| Chanty | Team chat, task management, searchable history | Free, Paid from $3/user/mo | Small teams needing chat + simple tasks | chanty.com |
| Rocket.Chat | Open-source messaging, customizable, high security | Free, Paid from $4/user/mo | Developers, enterprises with custom needs | rocket.chat |
| Twist | Threaded discussions, async-first, clutter-free inbox | Free, Paid from $6/user/mo | Remote, async teams focused on deep work | twist.com |
Conclusion
Generally speaking, the ideal team communication apps have several features for different organizations with different needs. Slack is one of the initial go-tos for high-speed, integration-focused collaboration, but Microsoft Teams would be perfect for firms heavily invested in Microsoft 365 infrastructure. Zoom and Google Chat are ideal for those requiring a lot of video and cloud-based engagement.
For small and medium-sized groups, Chanty and Flock are perfect to provide simplicity at a reasonable cost. Technologists and developer groups use open-source solutions like Mattermost or RocketChat. No matter if you are a startup, enterprise, or distributed team, your collaboration culture, security requirements, and workflow needs decide the best tool.
FAQs
1. What is a team communication application?
A team communication application is a software through which team members can communicate in real-time through messaging, voice/video calling, file sharing, and task management.
2. Which team communication application is most suitable for remote teams?
Most utilized by remote teams are Slack, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom because they have rich collaboration features, integrations, and video conferencing.
3. Are these applications safe for business communication?
Yes, all the top team communication apps support end-to-end encryption, user authentication, and admin control for safe communication.
4. Will small businesses pay for these apps?
They mostly offer a free plan or a very cheap plan for small teams and startups like Chanty, Flock, and Zoho Cliq.
5. How do I choose the best app for my team?
Consider your budget, user count, the nature of integration you need, ease of use, and if you need file storage, task management, or video conferencing.
