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3 Ways to Read Slack Messages with Claude Code

How to read Slack messages with Claude Code?

3 MCP servers featured

Slack is where team communication happens, and connecting Claude to Slack enables message search, summarization, and automated responses. MCP servers provide secure access to your workspace. Here are the best options for Slack integration.

Recommended MCP Servers

Slack MCP (Anthropic)

anthropics/mcp-server-slack

>2k

Official Slack integration for reading channels, searching messages, and posting updates.

Key Features

  • Read channel messages
  • Search across workspace
  • Post messages and replies
  • Official Anthropic support

Installation

npx @modelcontextprotocol/server-slack

The official Slack MCP from Anthropic provides comprehensive workspace access. Read messages, search history, and post updates. The reliable choice for teams wanting Claude to participate in Slack workflows.

Best for: Complete Slack integration View on GitHub

MCP Slack Server

modelcontextprotocol/server-slack

>500

Community Slack server with channel listing, message reading, and search capabilities.

Key Features

  • List channels and users
  • Read message history
  • Search messages
  • Thread support

Installation

Configure with Slack Bot Token

A straightforward Slack integration for reading messages and searching history. If you only need Claude to consume Slack content without posting, this provides focused functionality with simpler permissions.

Best for: Read-only Slack access View on GitHub

Slack MCP (Community)

vitaliy-art/slack-mcp

>200

Community-built Slack integration with message reading and channel management.

Key Features

  • Channel message access
  • User information lookup
  • Message search
  • Lightweight setup

Installation

npm install slack-mcp

This community Slack MCP is a good foundation if you want to build custom Slack integrations. The codebase is approachable and easy to extend for specific workflow needs.

Best for: Custom Slack integrations View on GitHub

Quick Comparison

MCPStarsBest ForProsCons
Slack MCP (Official)>2kFull integrationRead and writeMore permissions needed
MCP Slack Server>500Read-only accessSimple setupLimited features
Slack MCP (Community)>200Custom needsExtensibleCommunity maintained

Getting Started

To read Slack messages with Claude Code:

  1. Create a Slack App in your workspace with appropriate permissions.

  2. Get your Bot Token from Slack app settings.

  3. Install the Slack MCP:

    npx @modelcontextprotocol/server-slack
    
  4. Configure with your token and start accessing messages.

Example prompt: "Search my Slack workspace for messages about the product launch and summarize the key decisions."

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