Microsoft Teams vs Slack: Superior Video Conferencing, Integration and Security Make the Difference

In today’s workplace, with team members scattered across multiple offices and remote locations, collaboration platforms provide a critical communications hub. Two clear leaders dominate this space, and organizations must look closely to determine the best fit for their needs. In the battle of Microsoft Teams vs Slack, the choice comes down to a few key features.

Both Microsoft Teams and Slack organize communication via channels, or teams. Each allows unlimited messages, as well as the ability to send both public and private messages. Both allow file sharing and unlimited, one-on-one video and audio calls. Users can access each tool via the web, as well as through desktop and mobile apps.

Behind the scenes, the tools offer similar features, as well. Organizations benefit from essential security and compliance features, as well as cloud storage. And they can choose among various pricing tiers.

However, in a few key areas, the two tools differ significantly. These include video conferencing, integrations and advanced options for security and administration.

More Video Conferencing in Microsoft Teams vs Slack

While both Microsoft Teams and Slack handle messaging and one-on-one calls beautifully, Teams pulls ahead easily when it comes to video conferencing. In the free version, Slack offers audio and video calls just one-on-one. Users who upgrade to a paid plan can share screens and host video calls with up to 15 participants.

On the other hand, even with the free version of Microsoft Teams, video conferences can include up to 100 participants. (Note that during the pandemic, Microsoft has temporarily extended that limit to 300.) The free version also includes screen sharing, customized backgrounds and the ability to schedule meetings ahead of time.

Furthermore, organizations that move to a paid plan can host live events with up to 10,000 participants. They also have access to meeting recordings. With this option, users can record meetings and take advantage of the option for automatic transcription. Thus, team members can search meeting content and also watch or share meetings after the fact.

Integration with Leading Productivity Apps

A second key area where Teams and Slack differ involves integration. In this case, choosing the best product will depend on how your organization operates.

For the thousands of organizations that use Microsoft 365, the tight integration between Teams and popular apps such as Word, Excel and PowerPoint boosts productivity exponentially. Teams integration options also include hundreds of third-party apps, and the number grows weekly.

On the other hand, Slack integrates with over 2,000 third-party apps, although it limits users to 10 apps in the free version. For a platform-agnostic organization, this could be useful.

Administrative and Security Tools in Microsoft Teams vs Slack

Both Teams and Slack include essential security tools, such as encryption and basic compliance features. But Microsoft Teams goes above and beyond, employing the state-of-the-art security and administration available through Microsoft 365.

For instance, Teams provides mobile application management. Additionally, organizations can take advantage of administrative options that help ensure compliance with company policies. And, while Slack only offers administrative tools in the upper tier plans, Microsoft Teams includes many administrative options even in the most basic plan.

Furthermore, Slack has been criticized for a 2018 change to its privacy policy, which allows access to chat messages by workspace administrators without consent from users.

eMazzanti with Microsoft Lifts Collaboration to New Heights

Whatever the size and needs of your organization, eMazzanti can help you collaborate seamlessly and securely. As a Microsoft Gold Partner, we know how to fine-tune your configuration to help you get the most power out of Microsoft Teams.

If you need to move to the cloud, we have the tools and expertise to help you achieve a smooth cloud migration. Additionally, we offer 24/7 network management and best-in-class cyber security solutions tailored to your specific environment. Whether you need help with a specific project or a long-term partner to take the pain out of IT, we have you covered.

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