Unfortunately the usability of the available Matrix clients leaves a lot to be desired. When we evaluated Element I think it was in a particularly buggy state.
In contrast, Zulip is fast, simple, and “just works”.
In contrast, Zulip is fast, simple, and “just works”.
I've been running Element flawlessly for two years now, including a Synapse server. Never had it more "just works" before.
Hint: It's not a fun experience.
Personally I use Element every day to keep in touch with the Matrix community, and it works fine for my minimal needs. It’s better now than it was then.