Follow these steps, and you'll be in Matrix in no time:

1) Download a Matrix client:

There are many matrix clients to choose from, across desktop, mobile, web, and even command line. Here are some popular ones, choose one and download it:

• Element is the most popular client and a good place to start. It doesn't have custom emoji support, but otherwise is very featureful.
• Cinny might be a good choice if you are looking for a discord-like UI with custom emoji support.
• You may prefer Fluffy Chat if you're looking for something a bit easier to use and supports custom emojis, though it doesn't have a windows desktop build.
• Nheko is another good option with custom emoji support.
• (I don't recommend Element "X" edition as some people have reported bugs with it)

2) Choose homeserver:

When you launch your client, it will ask you to choose a "homeserver". That just means where your chat account is stored. You can put it anywhere you want. There are a lot to choose from, here are some top picks:

• Most people just choose "Matrix.org". It's stable, if a bit slow, and based in UK.
• Anime fans might enjoy the Catgirl homeserver -- located in Germany, with open registration.
• Transformation fans might be interested in the Transformation chat homeserver, based in US.
• Furries might be interested in one of the Furry homeservers.
• You can host your own homeserver if you want!

But ultimately, it doesn't usually matter what server your account is on -- the great thing about Matrix's federated design is your account can join rooms located on other servers! (Think of it like e-mail, where you can contact people on other servers.) If in doubt, the default matrix.org is a fine choice.

3) Join chats

Use the links below to join spaces interesting to you and once inside, add each channel.