Apps Like Zoom: Feature-Rich Video Conferencing Solutions Compared

When considering video conferencing solutions, Google Meet stands out like a compelling option, especially for those already embedded in the Google ecosystem.

You'll appreciate its robust free plan, allowing video meetings with up to 100 participants for one hour. With seamless integration with web-based applications you can enjoy features like screen sharing and real-time captions, enhancing collaboration.

Google Meet prioritizes security features, offering encryption and entry control to safeguard your meetings. The user-friendly interface and adaptive framing guarantee smooth navigation and improved video quality.

While the free plan is generous, paid plans start at $6 per user per month, offering perks like larger participant capacity and meeting recording.

Although many platforms vie for attention in the domain of video conferencing, Microsoft Teams distinguishes itself with its seamless integration into the Office 365 suite.

In the role of a versatile video conferencing tool, it offers a robust collaboration space where you can schedule large meetings, work on documents, and keep the conversation going with its persistent chat functionality. Additionally, Microsoft Teams utilizes cutting-edge technologies to enhance the user experience.

Here are three standout features:

1. Free version: Allows up to 100 participants for 60 minutes.
2. Breakout rooms & meeting recording: Enhance engagement and productivity.
3. Customizable backgrounds & live captions: Offer a personalized and inclusive experience.

Microsoft Teams offers multiple pricing tiers, making it accessible for different users:

• Free Plan: Up to 100 participants, 60-minute meetings, limited cloud storage.
• Microsoft Teams Essentials ($4/user/month): Extended meeting duration, 10GB storage, and additional collaboration tools.
• Microsoft 365 Business Basic ($6/user/month): Includes full Office 365 integration, meeting recordings, and security features.
• Microsoft 365 Business Standard ($12.50/user/month): Advanced collaboration, webinar hosting, and full Office suite access.

Microsoft Teams is a fantastic alternative to Zoom, particularly for businesses already embedded in the Office 365 ecosystem. While Zoom might edge it out in pure video conferencing simplicity, Teams excels in offering a complete collaboration environment, making it ideal for workplace communication. The integration with Office apps is a huge plus, but casual users might find it more complex than necessary. 

For businesses looking to integrate Microsoft Teams into custom software solutions, AMLA specializes in developing tailored collaboration tools.

Cisco Webex stands out in the crowded field of video conferencing tools with its exceptional security features, (including end-to-end encryption) making it a top choice for businesses that prioritize privacy and data protection.

The free version allows meetings with up to 100 participants for 50 minutes, perfect for quick collaboration sessions. Webex integrates with over 100 third-party applications, enhancing its functionality and making collaboration seamless.

With features like screen sharing and virtual backgrounds, it's designed for professional meetings.

Its user-friendly interface guarantees smooth navigation, catering to organizations of all sizes. It exemplifies the importance of user-centric design in enhancing user satisfaction and engagement.

Cisco Webex offers flexible pricing options catering to different user needs:

• Free Plan: Host meetings for up to 100 participants with a 50-minute time limit.
• Webex Meet Plan: Starts at $14.50/month per user, offering extended meeting durations and cloud recording.
• Business Plan: Priced at $25/month per user, including advanced security, analytics, and custom branding.
• Enterprise Solutions: Custom pricing for large organizations needing full-scale collaboration tools and administrative controls.

Webex's pricing structure makes it a strong contender for businesses prioritizing security and reliability while providing scalable options for growing teams.

When exploring alternatives to Zoom, Skype offers a user-friendly interface with features like screen sharing and chat functionality.

Its group video call feature supports up to 50 participants, guaranteeing everyone stays connected. File sharing is a breeze with Skype's drag-and-drop functionality, allowing you to send documents seamlessly during calls.

Here are some standout features:

1. Microsoft Outlook Integration: Schedule calls directly from your calendar, enhancing productivity.
2. Live Captions: Improve communication clarity with real-time captions, ideal for accessibility.
3. Intuitive Navigation: Quickly access chat, video, and screen sharing features with just a few clicks.

Pricing:

• Free: Unlimited one-on-one calls, group calls up to 50 participants, and messaging.
• Skype to Phone: Starts at $2.99/month for international calling to landlines and mobiles.
• Skype for Business (Now Microsoft Teams): Integrated with Office 365 for enhanced enterprise communication.

Skype remains a solid choice for casual users and small businesses who need a reliable, free video conferencing solution. While it lacks some of Zoom’s advanced webinar and large-scale meeting tools, its seamless integration with Microsoft products and affordable international calling make it worthwhile. If you're looking for an alternative that balances simplicity and functionality, Skype is still a strong contender in 2025.

Discord has rapidly transformed into a powerhouse for both gamers and non-gamers alike, boasting over 140 million active monthly users. Discord’s popularity in gaming communities highlights the importance of communication features in gaming apps.

Unlike traditional video conferencing platforms, it offers a unique blend of communication and collaboration through its free video, voice, and text channels. You can host meetings effortlessly, allowing participants to join via organized channels that enhance discussion focus.

With high-quality audio and video, it's perfect for video calls and group chats. The free version provides robust features, though some advanced functionalities require a paid upgrade.

Beyond functionality, Discord guarantees a secure communication experience by not logging deleted messages, safeguarding your privacy.

Regardless of gaming or professional purposes, Discord offers an efficient and flexible solution for all your communication needs.

Pricing

• Free Plan: Unlimited messaging, voice, and video calls with robust community features.
• Discord Nitro ($9.99/month or $99.99/year): Higher video quality, larger file uploads, and animated avatars.
• Nitro Basic ($2.99/month): Custom emojis, increased upload limit, and better stickers.

While it lacks enterprise-level tools like webinar hosting, Discord shines in seamless voice and text integration, making it ideal for teams and online communities. If you need structured business meetings, Zoom or Webex may be better, but for an interactive, always-on communication hub, Discord stands out.

Joining a video meeting without the hassle of downloads or account setups—Whereby makes this possible with just a click. This user-friendly video conferencing solution is perfect for small teams and casual meetings, offering a seamless way to join meetings.

With its free version, up to 4 participants can connect effortlessly. Here's why Whereby stands out:

1. Customizable Meeting Rooms: Each session has a unique URL, ideal for spontaneous meetings.
2. Noise Suppression Technology: Enhances audio quality, ensuring clearer communication.
3. No Downloads Required: Join meetings directly via a link, simplifying the process.

Whereby offers flexible pricing plans:

• Free: Host up to 4 participants per meeting with basic video conferencing features.
• Pro ($6.99/month): Allows up to 10 participants, screen sharing, and custom branding.
• Business ($9.99/month per host): Supports up to 200 participants, advanced integrations, and priority support.

Whereby is a fantastic option for those who value ease of use and accessibility. Unlike Zoom, which requires downloads and logins, Whereby keeps things simple with instant access through a browser. While it may not be ideal for large-scale corporate meetings, it excels in smaller, fast-paced collaborations. If you need a no-fuss, reliable video conferencing tool, Whereby is well worth considering.

For reliable and versatile video conferencing solutions, GoToMeeting stands out as a powerhouse for businesses of all sizes.

You'll appreciate its free version, which supports meetings with up to 150 participants and includes essential features like screen sharing and drawing tools. Known for clear audio and video quality, GoToMeeting guarantees your virtual gatherings are productive and engaging.

You can also record meetings and share files effortlessly, promoting seamless collaboration. Its user-friendly interface makes scheduling and joining meetings a breeze, without any extensive setup.

GoTo Meeting offers multiple pricing tiers to accommodate different user needs:

• Professional Plan ($12/month per user): Allows up to 150 participants with HD video, screen sharing, and meeting recording.
• Business Plan ($16/month per user): Expands capacity to 250 participants, offers cloud recording, transcription, and drawing tools.
• Enterprise Plan (Custom Pricing): Includes up to 3,000 participants with advanced analytics and dedicated customer support.

GoTo Meeting is a strong alternative to Zoom, especially for businesses that need reliable meeting solutions with minimal downtime. While it doesn’t have the same widespread familiarity as Zoom or Microsoft Teams, its seamless performance and robust meeting management tools make it a solid option for teams prioritizing efficiency and collaboration

When you explore Jitsi Meet, you'll find a tool that combines robust functionality with privacy-focused features. It offers seamless video and audio quality, easy integration for branding, and strong encryption for secure meetings.

With no need for an account or software downloads, Jitsi Meet is both customizable and user-friendly, making it an attractive option for your conferencing needs.

This open-source video conferencing tool guarantees a seamless experience with its high-definition video and audio quality. Privacy and security are prioritized through end-to-end encryption, making your conversations safe.

Key features include:

1. Screen Sharing: Effortlessly share presentations or documents with participants.
2. Recording & Live Streaming: Capture your meetings or stream them directly to YouTube for broader engagement.
3. Personalized Links: Create custom meeting rooms, making access easy for everyone involved.

Jitsi Meet is completely free to use, but for advanced customization and dedicated hosting, businesses can opt for Jitsi as a Service (JaaS), which offers premium support and additional features at flexible pricing based on usage.

For privacy-conscious users, Jitsi Meet is a top-tier alternative. Its open-source nature means you’re not locked into proprietary systems, and the ability to host meetings without an account adds a layer of convenience. While it lacks built-in scheduling and advanced webinar tools found in some competitors, its security, flexibility, and cost-free accessibility make it an excellent option for both casual and professional use.

What makes one video conferencing app better than another? Let's break it down together!

First, consider how many people you need to include—some apps, like Google Meet, can host up to 250 participants (impressive, right?), while Microsoft Teams can accommodate even more in your virtual hangout.

If you're using a free version, you'll want to keep an eye on meeting duration limits. Zoom, for example, gives you 40 minutes before it's time to say goodbye. Who hasn't been caught off guard by that timer, right? Additionally, consider how important scalability is when selecting an app to ensure it can grow with your needs.

Then there's the whole integration thing. You know, how well does the app play with your other tools? Microsoft Teams and Google Meet shine in this area, making your workflow feel like a breeze.

And let's talk security—not the most thrilling topic, but definitely important! Apps like Brave Talk step up their game with end-to-end encryption, putting privacy first.

Lastly, ease of use is key. You want video conferencing software that won't make you feel like you need a tech degree just to log in.

And don't forget about those nifty features, like breakout rooms, that can really spice up your meetings and make collaboration a lot more enjoyable.