Collaboration

Slack vs Microsoft Teams

Slack and Microsoft Teams are the leading workplace communication platforms. Both offer messaging, channels, file sharing, and video calls, but they are built for different ecosystems and user bases. Slack grew from the startup and developer community. Teams grew from the Microsoft 365 enterprise suite. This comparison covers the differences that matter for day-to-day use and automation.

Feature Comparison

FeatureSlackMicrosoft Teams
PricingFree tier available. Pro plan from EUR 7.25/mo per userIncluded with Microsoft 365 Business Basic (EUR 6/mo per user). Free tier available
App integrations2,600+ apps in the Slack App Directory1,000+ apps, plus deep integration with Microsoft 365 suite
API and bot frameworkComprehensive API, Bolt SDK for JavaScript/Python, Block Kit UI frameworkBot Framework SDK, Power Automate connectors, Adaptive Cards
File storageFiles stored in Slack. 10 GB per workspace on free tierFiles stored in SharePoint/OneDrive. 1 TB per user on paid plans
Video and audioSlack Huddles for quick audio/video. Screen sharing includedFull-featured meetings with up to 300 participants, recording, breakout rooms
SearchPowerful search across messages, files, and channels. Free tier limited to 90 daysSearch across messages, files, and Microsoft 365 content
Workflow automationWorkflow Builder for no-code automations within SlackPower Automate integration for cross-platform workflows

When to choose Slack

Slack is the better choice for technology companies, startups, and development teams that value a rich integration ecosystem and developer-friendly APIs. Its Bolt SDK makes building custom bots and integrations straightforward, and the 2,600+ app directory covers most SaaS tools. Slack's threading model, channel organization, and search are designed for fast-moving teams that rely on asynchronous communication. It also tends to be the platform of choice in organizations that use diverse, best-of-breed tooling rather than a single vendor's suite.

When to choose Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams is the natural choice for organizations already invested in the Microsoft 365 ecosystem. When you are paying for Microsoft 365, Teams is included at no additional cost, which makes it the default for many enterprises. The deep integration with Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint, and OneDrive means files, meetings, and collaboration happen in one environment. For large organizations that need enterprise meeting capabilities, compliance features, and centralized IT administration, Teams provides a unified platform.

Verdict

Slack excels in developer experience, integration breadth, and communication design. Teams excels in value for Microsoft 365 customers and enterprise meeting features. If your organization already uses Microsoft 365, Teams is the cost-effective default. If you prioritize API flexibility, third-party integrations, and a purpose-built messaging experience, Slack is the stronger platform.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which platform has better automation support?
Slack has a more developer-friendly automation story with its comprehensive API, Bolt SDK, and Workflow Builder. Microsoft Teams benefits from Power Automate, which connects to hundreds of Microsoft and third-party services but is a separate product. Both platforms are well-supported by Make, Zapier, and n8n. For custom bot development, Slack's API documentation and developer tools are more mature.
How does pricing compare for a 50-person team?
For 50 users, Slack Pro costs approximately EUR 362/mo. Microsoft Teams is included with Microsoft 365 Business Basic at EUR 300/mo, but that also includes email, Office apps, and 1 TB of OneDrive storage. If you already pay for Microsoft 365, Teams is effectively free. If you do not use Microsoft's suite, Slack's pricing is competitive and you avoid paying for bundled services you may not need.
Can you use both Slack and Microsoft Teams?
Yes, many organizations use both. It is common to run Teams for company-wide meetings and Microsoft 365 integration while using Slack for day-to-day team communication and developer workflows. Both platforms can be bridged using automation tools. However, running two platforms increases communication fragmentation, so most organizations consolidate on one over time.

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Last updated: March 2026