Empathy is an instant messaging (IM) and voice over IP (VoIP) client which supports text, voice, video, file transfers, and inter-application communication over various IM protocols. Developed by The GNOME Project
License: Open Source
Matrix is an open protocol for real-time communication. It is designed to allow users with accounts at one communications service provider to communicate with users of a different service provider via online chat, Voice over IP, and Videotelephony. Developed by Matrix.org
License: Open Source
Empathy is a user-friendly chat client focused on privacy and remote teamwork, ideal for smaller teams. In contrast, Matrix.org offers a highly customizable and open-source platform with robust messaging features, making it suitable for larger organizations and those who require extensive integrations.