Usage limits for free workspaces

If you’re using a free workspace, there are specific usage limits to be aware of. Keep reading to learn more about message, file, data retention, and app installation limits.  

Tip: Upgrading to a paid plan will remove message, file, and app limits, plus provide more data retention options.


Usage limits

  • Message and file visibility limit
    You can view and search messages and files from the last 90 days. Files include things like clips, PDFs, documents, images, screenshots, and audio and video files. When your workspace reaches the visibility limit, Slack will start hiding messages and files older than 90 days to make room for new ones.
  • High-volume message limit
    The free version of Slack restricts use for storage and spam, and you may be prevented from sending too many messages or files in a short period of time. If you’re having trouble sending new messages, we recommend that you review your apps, bots, and other systems that may be sending a high volume of messages.
  • Data retention
    Workspace Owners can use basic data retention settings: either keep all messages and files, or delete them after 90 days. If you choose to delete messages and files after 90 days, this will automatically delete any that become hidden by the message and file limit.
  • App installation limit
    You can add up to 10 third-party or custom apps. If your workspace reaches the app and integration limit, you can uninstall apps to make space for new ones.


Downgrading to a free workspace 

If you downgrade from a paid plan to a free workspace (or cancel a trial), you’ll lose access to certain paid features. Here’s what to expect:

Messages, files, and apps Usage limits will be reapplied to your workspace.
Slack Connect Slack Connect channels will disconnect. Each organization will retain a copy of the channel.
Workflow Builder Any workflows created with Workflow Builder will remain active and count towards the 10-app limit. You won't be able to create new workflows, but you can remove existing ones.
Slack canvas Any standalone canvases will become read-only. 
Custom sections Conversations that were organized into custom sections will revert back to their default sections. Any starred conversations will remain starred.
Guest accounts Guest accounts will be deactivated (but you can reactivate guests as full members if you’d like).
Channel email addresses You can continue using existing channel email addresses, but you won't be able to create any new ones.