Our verdict
Chatwork's features are unremarkable, but its penetration in Japanese business is decisive: when dealing with a Japanese client, they will often send nothing but a Chatwork link. Task lists, read receipts and file management cover daily needs. The interface has not moved in a decade, and that is its clearest weakness.
Pros
- The default tool for communicating with Japanese clients
- Read receipts and task management are practical
- The free plan can be used long term
Cons
- Dated interface, slow mobile app
- Far fewer integrations than Slack
- Weak on large files and search
Overview
What is Chatwork?
The default business chat tool for Japanese SMBs.
What is Chatwork used for?
Who it suits
Companies working with Japanese clients and outsourced teams
- Teams doing business with Japanese companies
- Japanese SMBs themselves
- Companies that need secure communication with outside partners
Key features
Groups per project with tasks and files attached to the conversation
Turn a message into a to-do and assign it in one click
Read receipts and honourific templates fit local norms
Start a call from inside a group
Use cases
- #1
Dealing with Japanese clients and suppliers
- #2
Bringing external partners into one communication channel
- #3
Assigning and tracking tasks inside a project group
How to get started
Sign up with email or Google on Web. The free tier starts right away — no card needed.
Skip the full import at first. Build one minimal example to check the model fits how you work.
Use it for a week, then see where the limit bites: seats, quotas, or permissions your workflow needs.
Pricing
| Plan | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Free | Companies working with Japanese clients and outsourced teams | Free for 5 users |
| Team | Teams and permissions | ¥550/user/mo |
| Enterprise | SSO, audit log, priority support | Contact sales |
Compared with alternatives
| Tool | Score | Free tier | From | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ChatworkThis | 4.1 | Yes | ¥550/user/mo | Companies working with J… |
| Miro | 4.4 | Yes | $8/user/mo | Product and consulting t… |
| ClickUp | 4.3 | Yes | $7/user/mo+ | Teams willing to invest … |
| Airtable | 4.3 | Yes | $20/user/mo | Ops teams that want to b… |
Alternatives
FAQ
Is there a free plan?
Is it reachable from mainland China?
Are the UI and docs in Chinese?
Which platforms does Chatwork support?
What are the best Chatwork alternatives?
Can I export my data?
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Updates & sourcing
Method: editors use a real account for at least two weeks; scores weigh hands-on tests, public pricing and user ratings. Vendors neither score nor buy placement.