Slack vs Google Chat (2026 comparison)
Slack and Google Chat are both team chat apps. Slack is best for channel-based messaging with deep integrations (free plan; paid from about $7.25 per user per month billed annually). Google Chat is best for chat tied to Google Workspace (free with a Google account; more via Google Workspace).
Pricing and features verified against each vendor's published information on 2026-09-03. Sources linked below.
At a glance
| Feature | Slack | Google Chat |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Pricing from | Free plan; paid from about $7.25 per user per month billed annually | Free with a Google account; more via Google Workspace |
| Best for | channel-based messaging with deep integrations | chat tied to Google Workspace |
| Founded | 2013 | 2017 |
| Platforms | Web, iOS, Android, Mac, Windows, Linux | Web, iOS, Android |
Quick verdict
Choose Slack for channel-based messaging with deep integrations. Choose Google Chat for chat tied to Google Workspace. Both are compared on published information only, so confirm current pricing at each source below.
More options
Sources
FAQ
- Is Slack or Google Chat cheaper?
- As published, Slack starts at Free plan; paid from about $7.25 per user per month billed annually and Google Chat starts at Free with a Google account; more via Google Workspace. Verify current pricing at each vendor.
- Does Slack have a free plan?
- Yes, Slack has a free plan as of 2026-09-03.