Side by side
Rocket.Chat vs Zulip
Both stand on team chat apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan Open source AndroidAPIiPhone+5
Rocket.Chat offers core messaging features on a free plan, with named options describing additional deployment and administrative choices. Check the plan details and request pricing for options beyond Starter.
Visit Rocket.Chat Free plan Open source AndroidAPIiPhone+5
Zulip provides channel-based team chat across common desktop and mobile platforms, with guest access and numerous listed integrations. Compare the cloud and self-hosted plan terms, especially history limits and user minimums, before choosing.
Visit ZulipThe facts
| Rocket.Chat | Zulip | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Yes | Yes |
| Runs on | Android, API, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows | Android, API, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Self-hosted, Web, Windows |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Self-hosted Basic: $3.50 per user a month |
| Plans published | 5 | 7 |
| Maker | Rocket.Chat | Zulip |
| Website | rocket.chat | zulip.com |
| On team chat apps | #1 of 63 | #2 of 63 |
Rocket.Chat: what it does well
- Free Starter plan supports up to 50 users.
- Includes channels, guest access, and unlimited history.
- Integrates with a broad range of listed services.
- Supports self-hosted use and multiple platforms.
What to know first
- Starter is limited to 50 users.
- Other named plans have no listed prices.
- Some deployment options are air-gapped or on-premises.
Zulip: what it does well
- Organizes team conversations in channels.
- Guest access is available.
- Supports web, desktop, and mobile platforms.
- Integrates with GitHub, Jira, Zoom, and others.
What to know first
- Message history is limited.
- Cloud Plus requires at least 10 users.
- Self-hosted Business requires at least 25 users.
Alternatives to Rocket.Chat Alternatives to Zulip The whole list

