Getting started with Matrix is pretty easy, but first, there’s some stuff you need to know.
Matrix linguo
- A MXID: your Matrix user ID, generally formatted like
@user:server.tldwhich can be different from your username. - A homeserver: the server your account lives on, generally the second part of your MXID.
- A client: a software you use to chat on Matrix.
- E2EE: end-to-end encryption, what makes sure nobody can spy on your direct messages.
- A Space: A collection of chatrooms, just like a Discord guild. Spaces can also contain other spaces.
Clients
Here is a list of recommended clients for Matrix. All of them as of now support E2EE.
Criterias:
- Stickers: allows the definition and use of custom stickers
- Emojis: allows the definition and use of custom emojis
Desktop
| Name | Stickers | Emojis | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Element | Third party | Not native | Flagship client |
| Cinny | Yes | Yes | Made to look like a mixture of Discord/Slack |
| Nheko | Yes | Yes | One of the best hands-on desktop clients. |
| Schildichat | Third party | Not native | Fork of Element with QoL changes. |
Mobile
| Name | Stickers | emojis | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Element | Yes | No | Flagship client. |
| Element X | No | No | Rework of Element with new features such as Sliding Sync. |
| Fluffychat | Yes | Yes | Also supports multi-account. |
| Schildichat | Yes | No | Element fork with QoL changes. |
Getting Started
For a first time user, it is generally recommended to use Element in a web browser as it is the simplest to use.
Before anything else, you need to first choose a homserver on which your account will live, kind of like an e-mail provider. You can find a good list of furry-friendly and furry-run homeservers on the main page, and pick one with open registrations.