Matrix (Synapse) vs Revolt
Self-host pick — both replace Discord (Community / voice chat).
Both Matrix (Synapse) and Revolt self-host as a replacement for Discord (Community / voice chat). Pick Revolt if you want the lighter footprint — 20min docker-compose, $10 vps for a small server — mongo + several rust services. Pick Matrix (Synapse) if you need federated communities that want decentralization + e2e encryption — 30-60min (Synapse + Element web client + reverse proxy) and $10 vps for a small homeserver.
| Matrix (Synapse)open-source | Revoltopen-source | |
|---|---|---|
| License | AGPL-3.0 | AGPL-3.0 |
| Setup time | 30-60min (Synapse + Element web client + reverse proxy) | 20min docker-compose |
| Monthly cost | $10 VPS for a small homeserver. | $10 VPS for a small server — Mongo + several Rust services. |
| GitHub | element-hq/synapse | revoltchat/self-hosted |
| Replaces | Discord + 1 other | Discord |
Good fit for
Matrix (Synapse)
Federated communities that want decentralization + e2e encryption.
Weak at:Setup is the most involved option here; voice via Element Call is newer.
Revolt
Open-source projects and communities that want a Discord-shaped tool with no Trust & Safety surprises.
Weak at:Voice quality is good but the bot ecosystem is tiny.
In a terminal? npx -y github:SolvoHQ/os-alt-cli discord prints Discord's self-host options including both —
how the CLI works →
FAQ
Which is easier to self-host, Matrix (Synapse) or Revolt?
Matrix (Synapse): 30-60min (Synapse + Element web client + reverse proxy). Revolt: 20min docker-compose.
What does each cost to run?
Matrix (Synapse): $10 VPS for a small homeserver.. Revolt: $10 VPS for a small server — Mongo + several Rust services.. Both projects are free and open source.
Do Matrix (Synapse) and Revolt replace the same SaaS?
Yes — both are open-source alternatives to Discord.