A Slack alternative for small teams
Slack is the most widespread work chat, but it is priced per user, it deleted the free plan’s old history and it keeps data in the EU only on its pricier plans. FloQ is a team chat with channels, threads and permissions, with shared mail and 2FA codes built in.
In short
- The same channels, threads, mentions and roles, in the same app as your mail.
- Servers in the European Union and a separate encryption key for each team, even in free early access.
- A separate encryption key for each team, not only on the pricier plans.
FloQ and Slack, side by side
| FloQ | Slack | |
|---|---|---|
| Channels, threads and direct messages | Yes, with permissions by role and by person | Yes |
| Shared mail in the same app | Yes: Microsoft 365, Gmail and IMAP | No |
| Shared 2FA codes | Yes, generated on the server, with a log of every copy | No |
| A mail inside the chat | Yes: “Discuss with the team” puts it in a channel or a direct chat | Through integrations |
| Message history | No time limit stated | Free plan: messages older than a year are deleted (since 2024) |
| Data in the European Union | On every team | Only on Business+ and Enterprise |
| Price | Free during early access | Pro €6.75 and Business+ €15 per user per month, billed yearly (25 September 2026) |
| Quick calls (huddles) | No | Yes |
| Apps and integrations | Discord-format webhooks and AI assistants through MCP | Thousands of apps and Workflow Builder |
Figures from public pages, 25 September 2026: check the vendors’ sites for current prices.
Where FloQ is different
- The chat sits next to the mail: with “Discuss with the team” a message becomes a card in the channel and you decide together how to answer.
- The verification codes of shared services stop travelling over WhatsApp or chat: they are generated on the server and only who is allowed sees them.
- One app and one account instead of three separate subscriptions.
Where Slack is stronger
- Ecosystem: thousands of apps and automations, Workflow Builder and Slack Connect to talk to other companies.
- Quick audio calls (huddles) and built-in AI on the higher plans.
- A huge user base: your customers and suppliers are often there already.
When FloQ fits
If you are a few people, you live on shared mail (info@, orders@) and want a simple chat with no stated history expiry, FloQ saves you paying for and juggling several tools. If your work revolves around integrations, calls or channels shared with other companies, Slack is still the more complete choice.
Frequently asked questions
Does FloQ have calls like Slack?
No. FloQ has no voice or video calls: use the meeting tools you already have.
Can I bring my channels over from Slack?
There is no automatic import yet: create the channels in FloQ and invite your colleagues.
How much does FloQ cost?
It is free during early access. Any paid plan is announced at least 30 days in advance and applies only to those who accept it.
Other comparisons
Sources: slack.com/intl/en-gb/pricing · forbes.com/sites/jaymcgregor/2024/08/19/slack-delete-files-and-messages-august-26-free-account-premium · slack.com/blog/news/introducing-data-residency-for-slack
Try FloQ with your team
FloQ is free during early access. Download it, create your team and connect your first mailbox in a couple of minutes.