20 Best Enterprise Instant Messaging Platform (2024)
September 26, 2024
September 26, 2024
12 min
There is a whole bunch of messaging platforms available for business communication. But have you figured out the best messaging platforms? With over 3 billion people using messaging apps globally, enterprise instant messaging platforms are indispensable for both personal and business communication.
For enterprises, choosing the best platforms by analyzing their requirements ensures smooth communication, collaboration, and productivity. However, messaging platforms nowadays offer various features that differ from one another making it difficult to choose the suitable platform.
So, let’s explore the best enterprise instant messaging platforms to help your business select the ideal tool for its communication needs.
What to Look for in an Enterprise Messaging Platform?
Selecting the right instant messaging platform for your business is more than just finding a tool for communication. Modern platforms are designed to enhance team collaboration, improve workflows, and ensure secure data exchange.
When choosing an enterprise messaging platform, consider the following factors:
With these key factors in mind, it’s easier to evaluate the most suitable platforms for your business needs. Below, we’ve listed the 20 best enterprise instant messaging platforms to help you find the right fit.
To further help you in making an informed decision, here’s a comparison of the top 20 enterprise instant messaging platforms based on their features and suitability for different needs.
| App Name | Best For | Pros | Cons |
| Google Chat | Google Workspace users and external users | Seamless integration with Google tools. | Lacks advanced features found in other platforms. |
| Slack | Large teams, custom integrations | Highly flexible, integrates with many apps, and supports external collaboration. | Can be expensive for large teams, and notification overload. |
| Twist | Teams needing asynchronous communication | Reduces noise, and distractions, and is suitable for external users. | Not ideal for real-time, urgent communication. |
| Facebook Messenger | Small businesses, client communication | Simple, familiar, free, and accessible to anyone with a Facebook account. | Lacks enterprise-level security and admin controls. |
| Zoho Cliq | Zoho product users, SMBs, and large businesses | Strong Zoho integration, external access, and scalable for larger teams. | Limited third-party integrations outside Zoho. |
| TeamViewer Meeting | Teams needing virtual meetings and support | Excellent for remote support and secure meetings. | Lacks robust day-to-day messaging features. |
| Quick, informal communication | Secure, easy to use, globally accessible, and supports business accounts. | Lacks admin controls and advanced collaboration features. | |
| Chatwork | Project-focused teams | Combines messaging with task management, and external collaboration. | Outdated interface, limited global adoption. |
| Microsoft Teams | Office 365 users, large enterprises | Deep Office 365 integration, strong collaboration, and support for external guests. | The interface can feel cluttered and overwhelming. |
| Amazon Chime | AWS users, scalable infrastructure | Scalable, secure; integrates with AWS services. | Lacks ease of use and integrations of other platforms. |
| MirrorFly | Large enterprises needing customization | Highly customizable; supports external users. | Requires technical expertise for setup and maintenance. |
| Telegram | Privacy-conscious users | Strong encryption, supports large groups; external access. | Lacks enterprise-level admin controls. |
| Brosix | Security-conscious teams | End-to-end encryption, secure private networks, external users. | Limited third-party integrations. |
| Ryver | Teams combining communication and tasks | Integrates messaging with task management and external collaboration. | The interface can get cluttered with complex projects. |
| Flock | Small businesses, startups | Affordable, easy to use, and external collaboration. | Lacks advanced features and scalability. |
| Troop Messenger | Government, military, high-security sectors | Highly secure with end-to-end encryption and external access. | Less user-friendly for non-technical users. |
| Chanty | Small to large-sized teams | Simple, effective task management and external collaboration. | Lacks customization and scalability for larger enterprises. |
| Rocket.Chat | Enterprises requiring open-source solutions | Highly customizable and secure, and external users. | Requires technical expertise for implementation. |
| Element | Privacy-focused, decentralized teams | Decentralized, strong encryption, and external access. | Complex setup for non-technical users. |
| Discord | Creative, community-based teams | Great for voice communication and community management. | Lacks enterprise integrations and security controls. |
1. Google Chat
Google Chat is a versatile tool aimed at improving team communication within the Google Workspace ecosystem. Its integration with other Google tools makes it a natural fit for teams already using Google’s productivity apps, streamlining workflows and enabling seamless collaboration across departments and remote teams.
Key Features
Threaded messaging for structured conversations, Google Drive integration for file sharing, and integration with Google Meet for video calls. It also supports automation through bots and APIs.
2. Slack
Slack revolutionized team communication with its channel-based system, giving teams a structured way to organize discussions and work on projects. It quickly became the go-to solution for companies that needed both flexibility and an intuitive interface. Slack’s adaptability makes it suitable for various business environments, from startups to large enterprises.
Key Features
Slack’s core strength lies in its custom channels for team communication, direct messaging, file sharing, and integrations with apps like Google Drive, Salesforce, and Jira. Slack Connect allows convenient communication across companies.
3. Twist
Twist takes a unique approach to workplace communication by focusing on asynchronous workflows, making it a perfect solution for distributed teams or remote workers. Its design promotes focused work by minimizing interruptions and providing a structured space for instant messaging, helping maintain productivity across time zones.
Key Features
Twist provides thread-based messaging, which reduces interruptions and allows for more focused work. Task management tools are integrated directly into the platform, making it easier to track progress.
4. Facebook Messenger
Small businesses often use Facebook Messenger for its accessibility and simplicity, especially for informal communication with clients. It provides a quick and easy way for businesses to stay in touch without requiring extensive setup or onboarding for users.
Key Features
Messenger supports instant text messaging, voice calls, and video conferencing, and it is widely available on both mobile and desktop platforms.
5. Zoho Cliq
Zoho Cliq offers a tightly integrated communication solution for companies that rely on Zoho’s other business software. As part of the Zoho suite, it complements tools like Zoho CRM and Projects, making it an ideal option for small to mid-sized teams looking for a cohesive business management experience.
Key Features
With Zoho Cliq, teams benefit from integrations with Zoho’s CRM, Projects, and other apps, in addition to features like customizable bots, file sharing, and real-time messaging.
6. TeamViewer Meeting
TeamViewer Meeting is specifically designed for organizations that need remote support and virtual meeting solutions. It builds on the well-known TeamViewer remote access platform to offer secure, high-quality video meetings. This makes it especially useful for IT teams and companies providing technical support services.
Key Features
TeamViewer Meeting allows high-quality video and audio calls, screen sharing, file transfer, and secure remote access.
7. WhatsApp
WhatsApp has become a global standard for personal and business communication, largely due to its simplicity and strong focus on security. While it is most commonly used for quick, informal instant messaging, its robust encryption and wide availability make it a practical choice for small businesses needing reliable communication.
Key Features
WhatsApp offers end-to-end encryption for messages, voice calls, and video calls. It is mobile-first, making it easy to stay connected on the go.
8. Chatwork
Chatwork is designed with task-oriented teams in mind, providing a space where users can communicate and manage projects simultaneously. It is particularly well-suited for businesses that need to streamline communication and task management in a collaborative environment.
Key Features
Chatwork offers task management directly within conversations, real-time messaging, and easy collaboration. Users can create and assign tasks within chat threads.
9. Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams serves as a central hub for teamwork within the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. It’s particularly beneficial for companies that rely on Microsoft Office applications, integrating communication, file sharing, and collaboration features in a single platform. Teams helps organizations maintain seamless workflows and boost productivity.
Key Features
Teams offers secure messaging, document sharing, file storage, and integration with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and SharePoint. It is also known for its robust video conferencing and meeting capabilities.
10. Amazon Chime
Amazon Chime is tailored for businesses already invested in Amazon Web Services (AWS). It offers scalable communication solutions, allowing businesses to integrate messaging, voice, and video into their AWS infrastructure. Chime is a powerful option for organizations that prioritize security and cloud-based scalability in their communications.
Key Features
With Amazon Chime, users can conduct voice, video, and messaging sessions while benefiting from the security and scalability of AWS. Chime also offers pay-per-use pricing for video meetings.
11. MirrorFly
MirrorFly is a customizable communication solution that caters to enterprises requiring a tailored approach to messaging. Unlike out-of-the-box solutions, it offers businesses the flexibility to create messaging systems that fit specific needs. MirrorFly’s enterprise-grade infrastructure is ideal for companies that require extensive control over their communication networks.
Key Features
MirrorFly supports real-time messaging, voice, and video calls, with complete control over the deployment and security of data.
12. Telegram
Telegram is widely recognized for its emphasis on privacy and security, making it a preferred choice for users who value these aspects. Beyond simple messaging, Telegram supports large communities and groups, which has expanded its use beyond personal communication into business environments where data security is a top concern.
Key Features
Telegram offers secret chats with end-to-end encryption, group messaging, and large file sharing. Its API allows developers to create bots and custom integrations.
13. Brosix
Brosix is a secure messaging platform created for organizations that prioritize data security. Its focus on encryption and private team networks makes it particularly valuable for industries handling sensitive information, such as finance or healthcare. Brosix ensures that internal communication remains secure while still providing efficient collaboration tools.
Key Features
Brosix provides encrypted messaging, group chat, file sharing, and screen sharing, all within a secure private network.
14. Ryver
Ryver goes beyond typical messaging platforms by combining communication with task management. This integration allows businesses to streamline workflows, making it easier to track project progress directly from chat conversations. Ryver is particularly beneficial for teams managing complex projects that require both collaboration and task oversight.
Key Features
Ryver includes task boards, integrations with popular tools like Dropbox and Google Drive, and real-time messaging. Teams can create tasks directly from messages and organize them using Kanban boards.
15. Flock
Flock is designed for small businesses and startups seeking a simple, cost-effective communication tool. It offers a lightweight alternative to more complex platforms, focusing on core messaging functions while also providing basic productivity tools. Flock’s user-friendly design makes it an attractive option for teams with limited budgets and technical needs.
Key Features
Flock provides chat, video conferencing, to-do lists, reminders, and easy integrations with tools like Google Drive and Asana.
16. Troop Messenger
Troop Messenger is a highly secure communication platform aimed at industries requiring maximum data protection, such as government and defense sectors. Its end-to-end encryption and secure deployment options make it a trusted choice for organizations needing tight control over their communication channels while ensuring user privacy.
Key Features
Troop Messenger includes secure messaging, video calls, and self-hosted deployment for maximum data security.
17. Chanty
Chanty is a straightforward communication tool designed for small to large-sized teams. It combines easy-to-use messaging with task management, making it ideal for businesses looking for a simple, all-in-one solution for internal communication and productivity without the complexity of more robust platforms.
Key Features
Chanty supports text and voice messaging, task management, file sharing, and unlimited searchable history.
18. Rocket.Chat
Rocket.Chat is an open-source platform that gives businesses complete control over their communication environment. Its high level of customizability makes it appealing to organizations with unique security and privacy requirements, especially those that want to self-host their communication infrastructure to ensure maximum data protection.
Key Features
Rocket.Chat offers secure messaging, third-party integrations, and flexible deployment options (cloud or on-premises). It’s also highly customizable.
19. Element
Element is a decentralized communication platform built for teams that prioritize privacy and control. With its focus on end-to-end encryption and the ability to self-host, Element is ideal for organizations requiring secure and private messaging without relying on third-party servers or centralized infrastructure.
Key Features
Element provides end-to-end encryption, decentralized communication, and open-source customization options.
20. Discord
Originally designed for the gaming community, Discord has evolved into a communication platform suitable for creative and community-based teams. Its focus on voice channels and real-time collaboration makes it a good fit for teams that rely on informal discussions, though it lacks the professional tools needed for enterprise-level management.
Key Features
Discord features text chat, voice channels, screen sharing, and community management. Its voice features are highly regarded for their clarity and flexibility.
Fetch the Best for Your Needs
By understanding the strengths of various messaging platforms, you can choose the best tool for your team’s needs. These platforms offer features like voice chat, secure messaging, and more, which can help your team collaborate effectively and achieve goals faster. So, take the time to evaluate your options and select the platform that will transform your business communication.
FAQs on Instant Messaging Platforms
1. What are the two types of instant messaging?
The two types of instant messaging are one-on-one messaging for direct communication and group messaging, which allows multiple users to chat simultaneously, enhancing collaboration and information sharing.
2. What is the difference between messaging and instant messaging?
Messaging refers to any form of text-based communication, while instant messaging is real-time communication, allowing users to send and receive messages instantly, often with additional features like file sharing.
3. Does instant messaging use data?
Yes, instant messaging uses data to transmit messages over the internet. Users require a data connection, either through Wi-Fi or cellular networks, to send and receive messages in real-time.
4. Is instant messaging better than texting?
Instant messaging is generally better for real-time communication, offering features like file sharing, group chats, and video calls. Texting, however, is simpler and more accessible for basic communication.
5. What should you not do while instant messaging?
Avoid sending sensitive information, using informal language in professional settings, or spamming multiple messages. Be concise and mindful of the recipient’s availability before discussing urgent matters.
6. What is business instant messaging?
Business instant messaging facilitates real-time communication, file sharing, and collaboration among teams. It integrates with other business tools, streamlining workflows and enhancing productivity in professional environments.
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