On October 8, Discord was blocked in Russia. That move pushed many users toward alternatives that address different needs—privacy, gaming, cross‑platform access, and reliability. The following list highlights noteworthy options.
Element
Discord’s block in Russia on October 8 pushed many users toward strong alternatives. Element has already become a leading choice for those who want a mix of chat, voice, and collaboration across platforms. It can be launched from a browser or downloaded as an application for any major operating system, including mobile devices and tablets. Element runs on the Matrix open protocol, which emphasizes security and interoperability. It offers end-to-end encryption and a flexible set of privacy controls, making it a preferred option for users who value data protection and transparency. It also supports a wide range of integrations with other tools and services, helping teams connect tools they already rely on.
Revolt
Revolt is presented as a near‑perfect clone of Discord, with most of its familiar features intact. In addition to standard voice and video chats, Revolt supports bots that can stream music, post updates, or fetch news. The interface mirrors Discord closely, so users transitioning from Discord often experience a minimal learning curve. The project emphasizes user sovereignty and privacy, and its active community continuously refines the experience for everyday chats or large communities alike. For those who want a Discord‑like feel without relying on the same ecosystem, Revolt is a natural fit.
Mumble
Mumble focuses on high‑quality voice communication with precise audio positioning, which can be crucial for shooters and strategy games. The software can be used while gaming without pulling attention away from the action, thanks to its low latency and clear audio. It runs on multiple platforms and can be deployed on local networks or over the internet. Mumble is a strong choice for teams that need reliable, low‑latency voice chat and enjoy spatial audio for in‑game coordination.
TeamSpeak
TeamSpeak has remained a steady workhorse since its debut in 1999, offering a robust and scalable way to host voice channels for large groups. It can be installed on nearly any device and run alongside games without draining resources. After Discord’s block, TeamSpeak saw a surge of users seeking stable, server‑based chat. The platform supports a broad plugin ecosystem and numerous customizations, enabling organizations and gaming groups to tailor the experience to their exact needs.
Cindy
Cindy is a minimalist Matrix client that prioritizes clean design and simplicity. It strikes a balance between Telegram, Slack, and Discord, delivering essential messaging and collaboration features without a heavy configuration burden. For individuals who want a straightforward chat experience that remains capable of handling teams and projects, Cindy delivers reliable performance with a friendly, intuitive interface.
Tox
Safety is a core feature of the Tox Protocol. It provides text, voice, and video communications with no central server. Interlocutors discover each other through a distributed hash table, and all messages and calls are encrypted. This model reduces exposure to centralized data collection but can require a bit more setup and user familiarity. For communities that value privacy and direct device‑to‑device communication, Tox offers a compelling option.
Gilded
Guilded is positioned as an analogue of Discord with a gamer‑first focus and an integration mindset. Although it requires registration, Guilded provides core Discord‑like features such as voice and video chats, text channels, and bot support, plus extra capabilities for tournaments, schedules, and in‑game integrations. The platform aims to streamline coordinated play and team management for groups that run organized events or competitive leagues.
Telegram
Telegram remains a flexible option, especially for those who already rely on its ecosystem. It offers video chats with group communication and robust channels and groups for broadcast‑style discussions. If a user already has Telegram installed, this can be a convenient alternative to avoid installing a new app. The service emphasizes speed, reliability, and broad cross‑platform support, making it a practical choice for casual and semi‑professional communities alike.
Steam chat
Steam chat is built into the Steam client and delivers a solid set of messaging features. It supports group chats, voice messages, and video calls, all tightly integrated with a user’s game library. For gamers, Steam chat simplifies organizing sessions, sharing clips, and coordinating strategies in real time. The audio and video quality remains dependable, and its seamless connection to games offers a convenient, reliable way to stay in touch with friends during playtime.
Go to Steam chat