Compare software

Synology Chat vs Element: catalog facts
Synology ChatElement
Free

License-free, but it requires a Synology NAS to host the server.

Freemium

The client is free and open source under the AGPL 3.0. Element Matrix Services sells…

Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Web, Self-hosted Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS, Web, Self-hosted
  • Messages stay on your own NAS
  • Optional end-to-end encryption for conversations or channels
  • End-to-end encryption with cross-signed device verification
  • Federated, so you can run your own server and still reach everyone
  • Only runs on Synology NAS hardware
  • Closed source
  • Encryption key management confuses people the first time they log in on a new device
  • Heavy on memory for a chat app, and slow with many large rooms
Downloadable app, Web application, Self-hosted Downloadable app
Closed source Open source
License not stated License: AGPL-3.0
Account needed Account needed
Not stated if it works offline Works offline

Checked October 1, 2026

Checked September 21, 2026

Catalog facts only. Anything “not stated” is unconfirmed. Check full listings for details.