Discord → Matrix: What's Different?
If you've used Discord, you already know 90% of how Matrix works. Here's where they diverge.
Terminology
| Discord | Matrix | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Server | Space | A container for rooms, like a Discord server is a container for channels |
| Channel | Room | Where conversations happen — functionally identical |
| DM | Direct Message | Same concept, but end-to-end encrypted by default |
| Username#1234 | @user:server.tld | Your Matrix ID includes the homeserver — like an email address |
| Nitro | — | No premium tier. Custom emoji, large uploads, etc. are free |
| Bot | Bot / Bridge | Bots exist, plus "bridges" can connect Matrix rooms to other platforms |
| Server invite link | matrix.to link | Shareable links look like https://matrix.to/#/#room:server |
| Category | Sub-Space | A space inside a space — used to group rooms like Discord categories |
| Role | Power Level | A number (0–100) instead of named roles. 0 = default, 50 = mod, 100 = admin |
| AutoMod | Draupnir | Community moderation bot — ban lists, anti-spam, room protection |
| Webhook | Hookshot | Integration bot for GitHub, RSS, generic webhooks, and more |
Key Differences
⬟ Discord
- Centralized — Discord Inc. owns everything
- Your data lives on their servers
- One official client
- No encryption in group chats
- Can't self-host
- Account tied to Discord's platform
- Bots need Discord API access
◆ Matrix
- Federated — anyone can run a server
- Your data lives where you choose
- Dozens of clients to pick from
- End-to-end encryption everywhere
- Fully self-hostable (that's what I do)
- Account works across the whole network
- Bots, bridges, and integrations are open
What You'll Miss (Honestly)
Matrix is great, but it's not a 1:1 clone. Here's what's different:
- Voice/Video: Matrix supports it via Element Call, but it's less polished than Discord's voice channels. It's improving fast.
- Streaming/Screen Share: Works in calls, but don't expect Go Live-quality streaming yet.
- Rich embeds: URL previews exist but are simpler than Discord's. No fancy Spotify/YouTube players.
- Stickers/GIF picker: Available in some clients (Element has both), but varies by app.
- Server discovery: There's no big "Explore" tab like Discord. You find communities via links, directories, or word of mouth.
The trade-off: You lose some polish but gain privacy, freedom, and ownership of your data. For most people, it's worth it.
Recommended Clients
| Client | Platform | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Cinny ⭐ | Web, Desktop | Looks and feels like Discord — great space/sub-space navigation, our top pick |
| Element | Web, Desktop, iOS, Android | Most features, biggest community, available everywhere |
| SchildiChat | Desktop, Android | Element fork with a more traditional chat layout |
| FluffyChat | Linux, Android, iOS, Web | Clean and lightweight, great on mobile |
| Nheko | Desktop (Linux/macOS/Windows) | Native desktop app, fast and lightweight |
Setting Up Your Account
- Download your chosen client — Cinny for desktop, Element for mobile (or use Element Web / Cinny Web to try it in your browser)
- Click "Create Account"
- Change the homeserver to
zeroprocess.de - Pick a username — this becomes
@yourname:zeroprocess.deand cannot be changed later - Enter the registration token (you'll find it by reading the rules — yes, really)
- Set up cross-signing / key backup when prompted — do this! It protects your encrypted messages
Important: Back up your encryption keys! If you lose them and get logged out, you'll lose access to old encrypted messages permanently. Element will prompt you — don't skip it.
Joining the Community
Once logged in, join the main space — it's like joining a Discord server:
Inside the space you'll find all public rooms. You can join whichever ones interest you — no need to be in all of them.
Running a Discord server? If you're looking to migrate your whole community, check the For Server Owners page — it covers space setup, permissions, bots, and a step-by-step migration plan.