Last Reviewed: November 14th, 2024

Best Video Conferencing Platforms Of 2024

What are Video Conferencing Platforms?

Video conferencing platforms, like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet, enable real-time, face-to-face communication over distance. They solve the challenges of physical separation by allowing remote teams to collaborate effectively, conduct virtual meetings, and connect with clients across the globe. These platforms are crucial for businesses seeking to reduce travel costs, improve productivity, and foster a more inclusive work environment. Key functionalities include video and audio conferencing, screen sharing, chat, and recording capabilities. Emerging features like AI-powered transcription, background blur, and virtual backgrounds enhance user experience. Industries such as technology, education, healthcare, and customer service benefit significantly from these platforms. Limitations include potential technical issues, privacy concerns, and bandwidth requirements. In summary, video conferencing platforms have revolutionized communication, empowering businesses to operate efficiently and connect with diverse stakeholders.

What Are The Key Benefits of Video Conferencing Platforms?

  • Reduced travel costs
  • Improved collaboration
  • Increased productivity
  • Enhanced accessibility
  • Improved communication
  • Boosted morale
  • Enhanced customer service
  • Reduced carbon footprint
  • Increased flexibility
  • Real-time problem-solving
Read more
View Ratings by
SelectHub Award Winners - Array

Our Research Analysts evaluated 35 solutions and determined the following solutions are the best Video Conferencing Platforms overall:

Overall

Webex Suite  Award
Analyst Rating
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android

Why We Picked Webex Suite

Is Cisco's Webex Suite truly the "best in show" for collaboration, or does it belong in the "no-go" zone? User reviews from the past year paint a largely positive picture of Webex Suite, praising its user-friendly interface and comprehensive features. Users specifically highlight the platform's reliability and robust security features as key strengths, making it a trustworthy choice for businesses handling sensitive information. The AI-powered features, such as noise cancellation and real-time translation, are also frequently commended for enhancing meeting productivity and inclusivity.

While Webex Suite earns high marks overall, some users point out that its extensive features can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially for smaller teams with simpler needs. A few users have also mentioned that the platform's learning curve can be steep, requiring some initial investment in training and onboarding. Despite these minor drawbacks, Webex Suite's strengths in reliability, security, and advanced features make it a compelling choice for businesses, particularly those with a hybrid or remote workforce. Its ability to streamline communication, enhance collaboration, and integrate seamlessly with existing workflows positions it as a valuable asset in today's dynamic work environment.

Pros & Cons

  • Simplified Collaboration: Webex Suite streamlines teamwork by integrating core tools like video conferencing, messaging, and file sharing into one platform.
  • Enhanced User Experience: Features like AI-powered noise reduction and real-time translation make online meetings more productive and enjoyable for participants.
  • Reliable Communication: Webex Calling provides enterprise-grade telephony with high availability, ensuring business continuity.
  • Cost-Effective Solution: Businesses can achieve significant cost savings by choosing Webex Suite over multiple standalone solutions.
  • Feature Overload: Some users may find the extensive feature set overwhelming, especially smaller businesses or those with simpler collaboration needs.
  • Pricing Complexity: While Webex Suite offers cost savings compared to individual solutions, navigating the various plans and add-ons can be complex for some businesses.

Key Features

  • Video Conferencing: High-definition video meetings with customizable layouts and virtual backgrounds.
  • Screen Sharing: Share your entire screen or specific applications seamlessly during meetings.
  • Webex Assistant: AI-powered virtual assistant that can take notes, highlight action items, and provide real-time transcription.
  • Breakout Rooms: Divide participants into smaller groups for focused discussions and activities.
  • End-to-End Encryption: Robust security measures to ensure that all communications are encrypted and secure.
  • Cloud Recording: Record meetings and store them in the cloud for easy access and sharing.
  • Team Messaging: Persistent chat rooms for ongoing team communication, file sharing, and collaboration.
  • Whiteboarding: Interactive whiteboard feature for brainstorming and visual collaboration.
  • Integrations: Seamless integration with popular tools like Microsoft Office 365, Google Workspace, and Salesforce.
  • Mobile App: Full-featured mobile application for iOS and Android, enabling collaboration on the go.
  • Polling and Q&A: Built-in tools for conducting polls and managing Q&A sessions during meetings.
  • Customizable Meeting Layouts: Options to customize the layout of your meeting interface to suit your preferences.
  • Noise Removal: Advanced noise cancellation technology to minimize background noise and enhance audio clarity.
  • Participant Management: Tools for managing participants, including muting, spotlighting, and removing attendees.
  • Analytics and Reporting: Detailed analytics and reporting features to track meeting performance and usage metrics.
  • Virtual Events: Capabilities to host large-scale virtual events with features like registration, attendee tracking, and post-event analytics.
  • File Sharing: Securely share files and documents within meetings and team spaces.
  • Calendar Integration: Sync with your calendar to schedule and join meetings directly from your calendar application.
  • Personal Meeting Room: A dedicated, always-available meeting space with a unique URL for recurring meetings.
Zoom Meetings  Award
Analyst Rating
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android

Why We Picked Zoom Meetings

Is Zoom Meetings still the real deal for video conferencing, or has it zoomed past its prime? User reviews from the last year indicate that Zoom, while still a strong contender, is facing stiff competition, particularly from Google Meet and Microsoft Teams. Zoom's strengths continue to be its reliability and ease of use. Users consistently praise its intuitive interface, making it simple to schedule and join meetings, and its high-quality audio and video performance, ensuring clear communication. However, Zoom's weaknesses lie in its pricing and integration capabilities. Compared to Google Meet, which is free for basic use and seamlessly integrates with Google Workspace, Zoom's free plan has limitations, and its integrations with other platforms, while available, are not as seamless.

A key differentiating factor for Zoom is its robust feature set, particularly its large meeting capacity, which can accommodate up to 1,000 participants, making it suitable for large webinars and conferences. This is a significant advantage over competitors like Google Meet, which, while offering a large meeting capacity, limits the number of interactive participants. However, for smaller businesses or those heavily reliant on the Google Workspace ecosystem, Google Meet's affordability and seamless integration make it a compelling alternative. Microsoft Teams, with its deep integration with the Microsoft 365 suite, presents a strong value proposition for businesses already invested in the Microsoft ecosystem.

In conclusion, Zoom Meetings remains a solid choice for businesses and individuals prioritizing reliability, ease of use, and large meeting capacity. However, its pricing, particularly for advanced features, and its less seamless integration with non-Zoom platforms, make it less attractive for smaller businesses or those heavily reliant on competing ecosystems like Google Workspace or Microsoft 365. The choice between Zoom and its competitors ultimately boils down to specific needs and budget considerations.

Pros & Cons

  • Easy to Use: Zoom is recognized for its intuitive design, making it simple for both hosts and participants to use, even those who are less tech-savvy.
  • High-Quality Audio and Video: Users consistently praise Zoom for its reliable audio and video quality, ensuring clear communication during meetings.
  • Versatile Features: Zoom offers a wide array of features, including screen sharing, virtual backgrounds, and breakout rooms, to enhance collaboration and engagement during meetings.
  • Scalability: Zoom caters to various meeting sizes, from small team discussions to large webinars with thousands of attendees, making it adaptable for different business needs.
  • Scheduler Interface Issues: Some users have encountered difficulties with the new scheduler interface, finding it less intuitive than previous versions.
  • Occasional Data Loss: While generally reliable, there have been isolated reports of meeting data loss, which can be disruptive, especially for crucial business discussions.

Key Features

  • HD Video and Audio: Provides high-definition video and audio quality for a seamless meeting experience.
  • Screen Sharing: Allows participants to share their screens, making it easy to present documents, slides, and other content.
  • Virtual Backgrounds: Enables users to change their background to a virtual image or video, enhancing privacy and professionalism.
  • Breakout Rooms: Facilitates smaller group discussions within a larger meeting by dividing participants into separate sessions.
  • Meeting Recording: Offers the ability to record meetings locally or to the cloud for future reference and sharing.
  • Waiting Room: Provides a virtual holding area for participants before they are admitted to the meeting, enhancing security and control.
  • Chat Functionality: Includes in-meeting chat for participants to communicate via text, share files, and send links.
  • Polling: Allows hosts to create polls for real-time feedback and engagement during meetings.
  • Integration with Calendar Systems: Seamlessly integrates with popular calendar systems like Google Calendar and Microsoft Outlook for easy scheduling.
  • Host Controls: Gives hosts the ability to mute/unmute participants, lock meetings, and manage other settings to ensure smooth operation.
  • Security Features: Includes encryption, password protection, and other security measures to safeguard meetings.
  • Mobile Accessibility: Provides fully functional mobile apps for iOS and Android, allowing users to join meetings from anywhere.
  • Webinar Capabilities: Supports hosting webinars with features like Q&A, attendee registration, and reporting.
  • Whiteboard: Offers a digital whiteboard for collaborative brainstorming and note-taking during meetings.
  • Transcription Services: Provides automatic transcription of recorded meetings for easy review and documentation.
  • Third-Party Integrations: Integrates with various third-party applications such as Slack, Salesforce, and Dropbox to enhance functionality.
  • Customizable Meeting Settings: Allows users to customize settings such as video layout, audio preferences, and participant permissions.
  • Live Streaming: Supports live streaming of meetings to platforms like Facebook Live and YouTube.
  • Multi-Language Support: Offers support for multiple languages, making it accessible to a global audience.
Microsoft Teams  Award
Analyst Rating
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android

Why We Picked Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams is a chat-based platform that offers online meetings, document sharing, screen recording and chat and allows businesses to communicate effectively.

According to users who have tried this product, their alerts and notifications lack consistency. Slow speed and performance is another con witnessed by users. Most users appreciate user-friendliness. Screen sharing is another worthy function. In short, businesses scouting for a communication tool that is easy to learn can give it a try.

Pros & Cons

  • User-Friendly: The interface is easy to use and there is not much training required to navigate through the system, according to 84% of users.
  • Chat: According to 70% of users who reviewed this pro, the chat functionality is simple, it’s possible to view all chats simultaneously and the history remains forever.
  • Screen Sharing: About 79% of users who mentioned this pro said screen sharing functionality is quick to set up and works without lags.
  • File Sharing: Regarding this feature, approximately 75% of users said that it’s easy to share files during calls and various document sharing options are available.
  • Alerts/Notifications: Lack of reminders for meetings and inconsistent notifications, according to 70% of users who mentioned this aspect.
  • Speed And Performance: According to 69% of users who reviewed this con, the start time and overall speed is slow, there are sudden crashes, and the computer performance suffers.

Key Features

  • Secure Virtual Meetings: Send an invite to video chat with anyone, at any time simply by sending a link to an active email address, member or not. Collaborate in real time with up to 250 people in a single meeting space. 
  • Screen Recording: Record meetings in the cloud and share them with members later. 
  • Messenger: Send chats before, after and during meetings directly to one person or create group chats to keep multiple people in the loop. Send gifs, emojis and stickers to personalize messages. 
  • File Sharing: Access, share, edit, and co-author files and folders in real time securely from SharePoint, OneDrive and computers. Decide who has access to which files by granting permissions to specific groups, channels or individuals. 
  • Interactive Webinars: Connect with customers by hosting live events and webinars. Simply create a new marketing event, fill out details of the meeting and select attendees who will receive a link to the event. Use customer journey features to track attendees, utilizing the available information and continue to track customer interactions. 
  • Custom Backgrounds: Eliminate the need to hide background distractions by choosing from a myriad of screens to project while on a video call. 
Telesystem Video Conferencing  Award
Analyst Rating
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android

Why We Picked Telesystem Video Conferencing

Is Telesystem Video Conferencing the bee's knees when it comes to virtual meetings, or does it need to dial it back a notch? Users consistently praise Telesystem Video Conferencing for its user-friendly interface, highlighting its intuitive design that even the least tech-savvy individuals find easy to navigate. This simplicity extends to its integration with existing systems, making it a breeze to incorporate into existing workflows. Users particularly appreciate the seamless compatibility with Microsoft Outlook, enabling them to schedule and launch meetings directly from their calendars. This integration streamlines the meeting process and reduces the likelihood of scheduling conflicts.

However, some users have reported occasional lag during screen sharing, especially when dealing with large files or bandwidth-intensive applications. While this doesn't appear to be a widespread issue, it's worth noting for teams that heavily rely on real-time screen sharing for collaborative work.

Overall, Telesystem Video Conferencing is best suited for small to medium-sized businesses or teams prioritizing ease of use, seamless integration, and reliable performance. Its intuitive interface and robust feature set make it an excellent choice for businesses looking to enhance communication and collaboration without the headache of complex setups or steep learning curves.

Pros & Cons

  • Easy to Use: Telesystem emphasizes ease of use, allowing users to join meetings with a single click and offering features like screen sharing and whiteboarding to enhance collaboration.
  • Feature-Rich: Telesystem provides a comprehensive suite of features, including video and audio conferencing, chat, screen sharing, application sharing, and whiteboarding, eliminating the need for multiple communication tools.
  • Integration: Telesystem seamlessly integrates with existing systems like Outlook, simplifying meeting scheduling and streamlining workflows.
  • Cloud-Based: As a cloud-based solution, Telesystem eliminates the need for businesses to manage hardware or software, simplifying IT management and reducing overhead.
  • Feature Limitations: While the software offers core features like screen sharing and chat, it might lack advanced features found in competitors, such as virtual backgrounds or breakout rooms.
  • Pricing: Telesystem's pricing, while not mentioned, could be a potential drawback if it's less competitive than similar solutions in the market.

Key Features

  • High-Definition Video: Experience crystal-clear video quality with resolutions up to 1080p, ensuring every detail is visible.
  • Screen Sharing: Share your entire screen or specific applications with participants, facilitating more effective presentations and collaborations.
  • Virtual Backgrounds: Customize your meeting environment with virtual backgrounds, allowing you to maintain privacy or add a professional touch.
  • End-to-End Encryption: Secure your communications with robust encryption protocols, ensuring that your data remains confidential and protected.
  • Meeting Recording: Record meetings with a single click and store them in the cloud for easy access and review later.
  • Breakout Rooms: Divide participants into smaller groups for focused discussions or activities, then bring everyone back together seamlessly.
  • Integrated Chat: Use the built-in chat feature to send messages, links, and files to participants during the meeting without interrupting the flow.
  • Calendar Integration: Sync with popular calendar applications like Google Calendar and Microsoft Outlook to schedule and join meetings effortlessly.
  • Mobile Compatibility: Join and host meetings from your smartphone or tablet with fully-featured mobile apps for iOS and Android.
  • Participant Management: Easily manage participants with features like mute/unmute, remove, and assign co-host roles to ensure smooth meeting operations.
  • Customizable Meeting Layouts: Adjust the layout of your meeting interface to prioritize speaker view, gallery view, or content sharing based on your needs.
  • Polling and Q&A: Engage participants with live polls and Q&A sessions, gathering real-time feedback and fostering interactive discussions.
  • Whiteboard Collaboration: Use the digital whiteboard to brainstorm ideas, draw diagrams, and collaborate visually with participants in real-time.
  • Third-Party Integrations: Enhance your meetings with integrations to popular tools like Slack, Trello, and Microsoft Teams, streamlining your workflow.
  • Custom Branding: Personalize your meeting experience with custom logos and branding elements to maintain a consistent corporate identity.
Analyst Rating
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android

Why We Picked GoToMeeting

GoToMeeting is a chat and video conferencing tool with screen sharing, recording and collaboration options. About 78% of the users who review its features say it enables team collaboration via screen-sharing and chat options. Almost 76% of the users who review its user-friendliness say it’s intuitive and easy-to-use, though a few feel its interface is clunky and needs to be updated.
On the flip side, around 79% of the users who mention pricing say the software’s subscription plans can be costly for smaller organizations. Quite a few users say a meeting limit of 3 users and 40 minutes provided with the basic version is too restrictive. Around 75% of the users who mention the software’s performance say it’s resource-intensive.
To sum up, GoToMeeting enables enterprise teams to connect and work together virtually. But, its free version is pretty lightweight, and organizations should check out the subscription plans before deciding if it’s a good fit.

Pros & Cons

  • Functionality: Around 78% of the users who review the tool’s features say it has rich capabilities for effective collaboration and discussion through meetings and video conferencing.
  • Ease of Use: Citing its easy-to-navigate layout, almost 76% of the users say the platform is user-friendly.
  • Pricing: Almost 79% of the users who mention pricing say it’s expensive, especially for small organizations.
  • Performance: Reviewing the software’s resource usage and speed, around 75% of users say meeting audio and video lags on low internet bandwidth.

Key Features

  • Host Meetings: Create, host and schedule meetups in personal meeting rooms through integration with Google and Microsoft calendars. Add and remove participants and manage attendee access, including live screen sharing with presenter switching through a Control Panel. 
  • HD Video Conferencing: Host high-definition online video meetings with automatic bandwidth optimization. Highlight presentation elements while screen-sharing through tools that include a laser pointer, a highlighter and a spotlight. 
  • Mobile Apps: Engage with customers through audio and video conference calls on any device when out of the office, thanks to its Android and iOS mobile apps. 
  • Integrations: Integrates with Chrome, Zapier, Zoho, Salesforce, Hubspot and many more platforms, as well as other conference room systems. Works seamlessly with Microsoft Teams to help businesses host large team and client meetings online, with up to 250 attendees. 
  • Identity Management: Manage employee access and authentication while IT retains total access control through its integration with LastPass. Enables single sign-on, password management and multi-factor authentication in one, dedicated solution. 
  • Meeting Recording: Record meetings and share recording links within and outside the organization. Its Smart Meeting Assistant provides speech-to-text meeting transcription with easy text search. The host receives the transcription via email and can download and review it before sharing it with others. 
  • Conference Room Hardware: Connect remote and in-room attendees for a seamless user experience through GoToRoom, its hardware plus software bundle. 
  • Meeting Analytics: Build attendee, engagement and Q&A reports, and more, to get meeting metrics for participation insights. Get personalized statistics for participant attentiveness, webcam usage and talk time for product analytics. 
Analyst Rating
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android

Why We Picked AnyMeeting

Can you meet expectations and provide a concise summary of AnyMeeting's recent user feedback? AnyMeeting, the web conferencing solution by Intermedia.net, Inc., garners largely favorable reviews from users. They applaud its user-friendly design, making it a breeze to navigate even for the least tech-savvy individuals.

A key strength highlighted by users is the platform's comprehensive feature set, including AI transcription, advanced whiteboard capabilities, and high-quality video. These features contribute to a richer and more productive meeting experience. However, some users express disappointment with the limited customization options, particularly regarding branding and interface flexibility. This lack of personalization could be a drawback for businesses seeking a more tailored solution. Additionally, performance heavily relies on network quality, which could pose challenges for users with unreliable internet connections.

Overall, AnyMeeting proves to be a reliable and practical choice for businesses of all sizes, especially those prioritizing a user-friendly interface and a robust set of features. Its ease of use and comprehensive features make it well-suited for businesses looking to streamline their communication and collaboration processes without grappling with a steep learning curve.

Pros & Cons

  • User-Friendly Design: AnyMeeting earns praise for its intuitive interface, making it easy for both hosts and participants to navigate the platform with minimal training.
  • High-Quality Video and Audio: Users consistently highlight the platform's clear audio and video capabilities, ensuring professional and productive online meetings.
  • Robust Feature Set: From screen sharing and digital whiteboards to meeting recordings and AI-generated transcriptions, AnyMeeting comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of tools to facilitate engaging and efficient online collaboration.
  • Flexible Deployment: AnyMeeting caters to diverse business needs by offering flexible deployment options, including cloud-based, on-premise, and hybrid solutions.
  • Limited Branding: Businesses looking to maintain a consistent brand identity might find AnyMeeting's customization options lacking, especially when compared to competitors that offer more control over the meeting interface.
  • Mobile Feature Gap: While the desktop version boasts a robust feature set, users relying heavily on mobile devices, particularly Android, might experience limitations in functionality during meetings.

Key Features

  • HD Video Conferencing: Provides high-definition video quality for clear and professional virtual meetings.
  • Screen Sharing: Allows presenters to share their entire screen or specific applications with attendees for more interactive sessions.
  • Webinar Hosting: Supports hosting webinars with up to 1,000 participants, making it suitable for large-scale presentations.
  • Custom Branding: Enables customization of meeting rooms with company logos and colors to maintain brand consistency.
  • Recording and Playback: Offers the ability to record meetings and webinars for later viewing, ensuring no information is missed.
  • Integrated Polls and Surveys: Facilitates real-time audience engagement through built-in polling and survey tools.
  • Meeting Notes: Provides a feature for taking and sharing notes during meetings, helping to keep track of important points and action items.
  • Chat Functionality: Includes a chat feature for participants to communicate via text during meetings, enhancing interaction without interrupting the speaker.
  • Mobile Access: Offers mobile apps for iOS and Android, allowing users to join meetings from their smartphones or tablets.
  • Calendar Integration: Integrates with popular calendar applications like Google Calendar and Outlook for seamless scheduling and reminders.
  • Virtual Backgrounds: Provides options for virtual backgrounds to maintain privacy and professionalism during video calls.
  • Breakout Rooms: Supports dividing participants into smaller groups for focused discussions and activities within the same meeting.
  • File Sharing: Allows sharing of documents and files directly within the meeting interface for easy access and collaboration.
  • Security Features: Includes password protection, waiting rooms, and encryption to ensure secure and private meetings.
  • Analytics and Reporting: Offers detailed reports and analytics on meeting attendance and engagement, helping to measure the effectiveness of sessions.
Analyst Rating
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android

Why We Picked Google Meet

Google Meet seems to be a crowd-pleaser, especially for folks already plugged into the Google ecosystem. Users rave about its seamless integration with other Google Workspace tools like Docs, Sheets, and Calendar, making it a breeze to schedule meetings, share documents, and collaborate in real-time. The interface is clean and intuitive, even for non-techies, which is a major plus. Google Meet also gets kudos for its top-notch video and audio quality, ensuring smooth and clear communication. Plus, it doesn't hurt that it's included with Google Workspace, making it a cost-effective option for businesses.

However, no software is perfect. Some users find Google Meet's feature set a bit basic compared to rivals like Zoom or Microsoft Teams. For instance, it lacks some advanced features like breakout rooms and virtual backgrounds, which can be bummers for larger meetings or those who want to spice things up. Additionally, while Google Meet's security is generally solid, some users have raised concerns about data privacy, especially in light of Google's data collection practices. So, if you're super privacy-conscious, you might want to think twice.

All in all, Google Meet is a reliable and user-friendly video conferencing tool that's perfect for businesses and individuals who value simplicity and integration with Google Workspace. It's a solid choice for everyday meetings, but if you need bells and whistles or have strict privacy concerns, you might want to explore other options. Just remember, the tech landscape changes quickly, so it's always a good idea to check for the latest updates and features before making a decision.

Pros & Cons

  • Seamless Integration with Google Workspace: Google Meet is tightly integrated with Google Calendar and Gmail, making scheduling and joining meetings effortless. This integration streamlines workflows and enhances productivity for businesses that rely on Google Workspace.
  • High-Quality Video and Audio: Google Meet delivers reliable video and audio quality, ensuring clear and uninterrupted communication during virtual meetings. This is crucial for maintaining professionalism and engagement in business settings.
  • Robust Security Features: Google Meet prioritizes security with features like data encryption and meeting access controls. These measures protect sensitive business information and ensure the privacy of virtual meetings.
  • Limited Functionality for Phone Calls: Google Meet's primary function is video conferencing, so its features for phone calls are limited. Users have expressed frustration with the lack of call recording, voicemail transcription, and other essential phone features.
  • Integrations and Compatibility: Integrating Google Meet with non-Google applications and CRMs can be challenging, limiting its compatibility with existing business workflows. This can hinder productivity and create additional steps for users.
  • Call Quality Issues: Users have reported experiencing dropped calls, audio lag, and poor video quality, particularly in areas with unstable internet connections. These issues can disrupt important business conversations and create a negative impression.

Key Features

  • Safety First: Safely communicate amongst peers and colleagues without fear of data breaches or hijacking. Meets IETF security requirements for Datagram Transport Layer Security (DTLS) and Secure Real-time Transport Protocol (SRTP). Includes anti-abuse capabilities and multiple two-step authentication options. 
  • Unlimited Meetings: Host and join free audio and video conferencing meetings anytime, anywhere for an unlimited amount of times. Available for free for up to 100 participants in a single meeting. 
  • Accessibility: Access from any device including browsers, iOS and Android with no download required. Easily invite participants to meetings via link or email address. 
  • Live Captioning: Follow along in real time with captioning generated by Google’s speech recognition technology. Meeting attendees can translate captions into their preferred languages. 
  • Screen Sharing: Collaborate on documents, share presentations and give step-by-step instructions to meeting participants using screen share, which allows anyone to present their entire screen or application window. 
  • Preview Screen: View video, adjust audio and see a list of who has already joined a meeting before entering. 
  • User Controls: Meeting hosts can mute, pin, remove participants and more using the advanced controls for meetings. 
  • Messaging: Chat with other participants through live messaging during meetings. Send files and links, as well as text. 
  • Integrations: Join meetings directly from Google Calendar or Gmail. Integrates with Microsoft Outlook, Slack and more for additional accessibility. 
  • Plan Options: Choose between a free plan, Google Workspace Essentials, and Google Workspace Enterprise. Paid plans increase the maximum number of participants allowed in a single meeting space, the amount of time allowed for a meeting and more. 
  • Google Workspace Suites: Comes as part of Google Workplace suites for education, healthcare and nonprofit organizations. Increase productivity, communication and collaboration with email, chat and video conferencing in an easily accessible workspace. 
Start Price
$8.75
Monthly
Analyst Rating
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android

Why We Picked Dialpad Ai Meetings

Is Dialpad Ai Meetings all talk and no action, or does it truly deliver? Dialpad Ai Meetings is generally well-regarded for its intuitive user interface, high-quality audio and video, and helpful AI features like real-time transcription and voice recognition. Users find it easy to set up and use, making it suitable for organizations of various sizes. The platform's robust feature set includes HD video conferencing, screen sharing, and document management. However, some users have pointed out areas for improvement. For instance, the AI transcription is currently limited to the English language, which could be a drawback for international teams. Additionally, occasional glitches with the mobile app and call drops have been reported. Some users have also commented that the platform's complexity might be overwhelming for very small businesses.

A notable strength of Dialpad Ai Meetings is its crystal-clear audio and video quality, ensuring that online meetings are free from frustrating interruptions. This is particularly important for maintaining engagement and productivity during virtual discussions. The platform's seamless integration of AI features like real-time transcription and voice recognition significantly enhances the meeting experience. For example, the accurate transcription feature can be invaluable for creating meeting minutes or providing captions for participants with hearing impairments.

Overall, Dialpad Ai Meetings receives positive feedback for its user-friendly design and comprehensive features, making it a strong contender in the video conferencing market. It is particularly well-suited for medium to large organizations that prioritize high-quality audio and video, ease of use, and AI-powered enhancements. However, smaller teams or businesses with limited budgets might find the platform's complexity and pricing less appealing. They might consider exploring alternative solutions specifically designed for smaller operations.

Pros & Cons

  • Effortless Meetings: Dialpad Ai Meetings makes it easy to schedule, join, and manage meetings, eliminating technical hurdles so you can focus on the content.
  • Crystal-Clear Communication: High-definition video and audio quality ensure everyone can see and hear each other clearly, replicating an in-person meeting experience.
  • Intuitive Design: The platform boasts a clean and user-friendly interface that is easy to navigate, even for non-technical users.
  • AI-Powered Productivity: Features like AI-powered transcription (available in English) automatically transcribe meetings, saving you time and effort on note-taking.
  • Seamless Integration: Connect Dialpad Ai Meetings with popular tools like Google Drive to streamline workflows and improve collaboration.
  • Occasional Glitches: Users have reported experiencing occasional technical hiccups, particularly on the mobile app, which can disrupt the flow of meetings.
  • Call Connection Delays: Some users have noted slight delays when connecting calls, which can be a minor inconvenience, especially for time-sensitive meetings.
  • Limited AI Transcription: The AI-powered transcription feature is currently limited to English, posing a challenge for multilingual teams and international business communications.

Key Features

  • Real-Time Transcriptions: Automatically transcribes meetings in real-time, allowing participants to follow along and review key points instantly.
  • Voice Intelligence: Utilizes AI to provide insights and action items from conversations, enhancing productivity and follow-up efficiency.
  • Seamless Integrations: Integrates with popular tools like Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, and Slack, ensuring a smooth workflow across platforms.
  • HD Video and Audio: Offers high-definition video and audio quality, ensuring clear and professional communication during meetings.
  • Custom Meeting URLs: Allows users to create personalized meeting links, making it easy to share and join meetings.
  • Screen Sharing: Facilitates the sharing of screens during meetings, enabling effective presentations and collaboration.
  • Meeting Recording: Provides the option to record meetings, allowing participants to revisit discussions and decisions at their convenience.
  • Virtual Backgrounds: Offers customizable virtual backgrounds to maintain a professional appearance regardless of the physical environment.
  • Meeting Analytics: Delivers detailed analytics on meeting performance and participant engagement, helping to optimize future meetings.
  • Mobile Accessibility: Ensures full functionality on mobile devices, allowing users to join and participate in meetings from anywhere.
  • Security Features: Includes robust security measures such as encryption and password protection to safeguard meeting data.
  • Participant Management: Provides tools for managing participants, including muting, removing, and assigning roles during meetings.
  • Interactive Chat: Features an in-meeting chat function for real-time text communication, facilitating side conversations and quick exchanges.
  • Calendar Integration: Syncs with calendar applications to streamline scheduling and ensure meetings are easily accessible.
  • Customizable Meeting Layouts: Allows users to adjust the meeting interface to suit their preferences and needs, enhancing the user experience.
Start Price
$0
Free
Analyst Rating
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android

Why We Picked Sangoma Meet

Can you have a seamless video conferencing experience, or will it be a Sangoma Mess? User reviews of Sangoma Meet over the last year have been mixed. While many appreciate its robust security features, like end-to-end encryption for one-on-one calls and high encryption for multi-party calls, and its cross-platform compatibility, allowing users to connect from various devices and operating systems, some have pointed out shortcomings. For example, a user noted that the Android app fails to bypass the Do Not Disturb setting, making it inconvenient for after-hours calls. Another user highlighted the absence of texting and visual voicemail features in the Sangoma Talk app, which are considered standard in many unified communications solutions today. These limitations impact its practicality and user experience, especially for businesses that rely heavily on mobile communication.

Despite these drawbacks, Sangoma Meet shines in its ease of use. Users can initiate a video conference directly from the website with a single click, and inviting participants is as simple as sharing a meeting link. This straightforward approach makes it particularly suitable for businesses looking for a no-frills, easy-to-set-up video conferencing solution. However, the lack of advanced features like virtual backgrounds and breakout rooms might not meet the needs of larger organizations or those requiring more sophisticated functionalities.

Pros & Cons

  • High-Quality Video and Audio: Sangoma Meet uses a direct audio and video transmission method, unlike other services that compress data first, resulting in a higher quality experience for users.
  • Enhanced Security: Sangoma Meet offers password-protected meetings and end-to-end encryption, ensuring that only invited participants can join and that conversations remain private.
  • Moderator Controls: For team meetings, moderators have access to features that allow them to mute/unmute participants, send private messages, remove participants from the call, and even invite audio-only participants.
  • Versatile Screen Sharing: Sangoma Meet allows users to share their screens instantly and choose what content they want to show, facilitating collaboration on projects and presentations.
  • Simple Invitation Process: Inviting participants to a Sangoma Meet is as easy as copying the meeting link and sending it to them. Upon clicking the link, they will join the conference immediately.
  • Mobile App Shortcomings: Users have reported that the mobile app experience could be smoother and more feature-rich.
  • Call Recording Limitations: Some users have expressed that the call recording functionality could be improved for more robust and flexible recording options.

Key Features

  • High-Definition Video: Offers crystal-clear video quality for a more engaging and professional meeting experience.
  • Screen Sharing: Allows participants to share their screens in real-time, facilitating presentations and collaborative work.
  • End-to-End Encryption: Ensures that all communications are secure and private, protecting sensitive information.
  • Custom Meeting URLs: Provides personalized meeting links, making it easier to remember and share meeting details.
  • Virtual Backgrounds: Enables users to change their background, adding a layer of privacy and professionalism.
  • Meeting Recording: Allows users to record meetings for future reference or for those who could not attend.
  • Chat Functionality: Includes a built-in chat feature for text communication during meetings, enhancing interaction.
  • Breakout Rooms: Facilitates smaller group discussions within a larger meeting, ideal for workshops and brainstorming sessions.
  • Participant Management: Provides hosts with tools to manage participants, including muting, removing, and assigning roles.
  • Integration with Calendar Apps: Seamlessly integrates with popular calendar applications like Google Calendar and Outlook for easy scheduling.
  • Mobile Compatibility: Fully functional on mobile devices, allowing users to join meetings from anywhere.
  • Whiteboard Feature: Offers a digital whiteboard for real-time drawing and note-taking, enhancing collaborative efforts.
  • Polling and Q&A: Includes tools for conducting polls and managing Q&A sessions, making meetings more interactive.
  • Custom Branding: Allows organizations to customize the meeting interface with their own branding, maintaining a consistent corporate identity.
  • Low Latency: Ensures minimal delay in audio and video transmission, providing a smoother meeting experience.
  • Multi-Language Support: Supports multiple languages, making it accessible to a global audience.
  • File Sharing: Enables participants to share files directly within the meeting, streamlining the collaboration process.
  • Live Streaming: Offers the capability to live stream meetings to a broader audience, useful for webinars and large events.
  • AI-Powered Transcriptions: Provides real-time transcriptions of meetings, aiding in accessibility and record-keeping.
  • Customizable Layouts: Allows users to choose from various layout options to suit their meeting needs and preferences.
Start Price
$0
Usage-Based
Analyst Rating
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android

Why We Picked Amazon Chime

Is Amazon Chime music to your ears, or does it fall flat? User reviews from the past year reveal a mixed bag. While many appreciate its simplicity and reliability for everyday communication, some find its lack of advanced features a deal-breaker.

Amazon Chime shines in its ease of use for basic tasks. Users highlight its seamless integration with calendars and the ability to effortlessly transition from chat to calls, making it ideal for quick team huddles. The platform's solid audio and video quality further enhance its appeal for straightforward communication. However, the pay-per-use pricing model, while offering flexibility, can become a financial strain for frequent users.

Amazon Chime's simplicity comes at a cost, with users citing a lack of advanced features compared to rivals like Zoom or Microsoft Teams. The absence of robust functionalities, such as sophisticated webinar tools or advanced meeting controls, makes it less suitable for larger enterprises or those requiring specialized features. Ultimately, Amazon Chime is a reliable workhorse for small to medium-sized teams seeking a no-frills communication tool. However, those needing a powerhouse of features might find themselves singing a different tune.

Pros & Cons

  • Easy to Get Started: Amazon Chime is known for its quick and straightforward setup process, allowing users to initiate meetings and calls without complicated configurations.
  • Clear Audio and Video: The platform utilizes noise suppression and high-definition video capabilities to ensure clear and easily discernible communication during meetings.
  • Cost-Effective Pricing: Amazon Chime's pay-as-you-go pricing model allows businesses to only pay for the features they use, making it a budget-friendly choice, especially for occasional users.
  • Unified Communication: Users can seamlessly transition between chat, audio calls, and video conferences within a single application, streamlining communication and eliminating the need to switch between different platforms.
  • Usability Issues: While generally easy to use, some users find the interface less intuitive compared to alternatives like Zoom, particularly when navigating advanced features.
  • Feature Limitations: Amazon Chime may not be suitable for businesses requiring advanced features like virtual backgrounds or breakout rooms, which are often found in competing platforms.
  • Connectivity Dependence: Users have reported experiencing connection issues, particularly with slower internet speeds, which can disrupt meetings and reduce productivity.

Key Features

  • High-Quality Video Conferencing: Supports HD video calls with up to 250 participants, ensuring clear and reliable communication.
  • Screen Sharing: Allows users to share their screens in real-time, facilitating effective presentations and collaborative work sessions.
  • Meeting Recording: Provides the ability to record meetings for future reference or for those who couldn't attend live.
  • Integrated Chat: Features a built-in chat function for instant messaging, enabling quick communication without leaving the app.
  • File Sharing: Users can share files directly within the chat or meeting interface, streamlining the collaboration process.
  • Scheduling and Calendar Integration: Seamlessly integrates with Microsoft Outlook and Google Calendar for easy meeting scheduling and reminders.
  • Voice Calling: Offers VoIP and PSTN calling options, allowing users to make and receive calls from anywhere.
  • Customizable Meeting URLs: Provides personalized meeting URLs for easy access and branding consistency.
  • Security and Compliance: Ensures data protection with end-to-end encryption and compliance with industry standards such as GDPR and HIPAA.
  • Mobile and Desktop Apps: Available on iOS, Android, Windows, and macOS, allowing users to join meetings from any device.
  • Meeting Roster: Displays a list of all participants, making it easy to see who is present and who is speaking.
  • Mute Controls: Hosts can mute participants to minimize background noise and maintain meeting order.
  • Amazon Chime SDK: Developers can integrate Chime's communication capabilities into their own applications using the Software Development Kit.
  • Dial-In Numbers: Provides local dial-in numbers for over 80 countries, making it accessible for international participants.
  • Meeting Analytics: Offers detailed reports and analytics on meeting attendance and participation, helping organizations track engagement.

COMPARE THE BEST Video Conferencing Platforms

Select up to 5 Products from the list below to compare

 
Product
Score
Start Price
Free Trial
Company Size
Deployment
Platform
Logo
83
$11.95
Per Employee, Monthly
Yes
Small Medium Large
Cloud On-Premise
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
80
$13.32
Per User, Monthly
Yes
Small Medium Large
Cloud On-Premise
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
80
$4
Per User, Monthly
Yes
Small Medium Large
Cloud On-Premise
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
79
Undisclosed
Yes
Small Medium Large
Cloud On-Premise
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
79
$10.80
Per Organizer, Monthly
Yes
Small Medium Large
Cloud On-Premise
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
79
$9.99
Per User, Monthly
Yes
Small Medium Large
Cloud On-Premise
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
78
$6
Per User, Monthly
Yes
Small Medium Large
Cloud On-Premise
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
77
$8.75
Monthly
No
Small Medium Large
Cloud On-Premise
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
76
$0
Free
Yes
Small Medium Large
Cloud On-Premise
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android
75
$0
Usage-Based
Yes
Small Medium Large
Cloud On-Premise
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android

All Video Conferencing Platforms (35 found)

Narrow down your solution options easily





X  Clear Filter

Slack

by Slack Technologies
Slack
Slack is a versatile software designed to enhance productivity management by facilitating seamless communication and collaboration within teams. It offers a centralized platform where users can create channels for different projects, departments, or topics, enabling organized and focused discussions. Slack is particularly well-suited for businesses and organizations that require efficient coordination and real-time communication, making it ideal for remote teams and fast-paced work environments. Key benefits of Slack include its ability to integrate with numerous third-party applications, providing a cohesive workflow. Popular features include direct messaging, file sharing, video calls, and searchable message archives, which help streamline project management and reduce email clutter. Users appreciate its intuitive interface and the flexibility it offers in customizing notifications and channel settings. Compared to similar products, Slack is often praised for its user-friendly design and robust integration capabilities. Pricing varies based on the number of users and selected plan, with options for monthly or annual payments. For specific pricing details, it is recommended to contact SelectHub for a tailored quote based on individual needs.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: excellent
Cost Breakdown
$10 or less
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android

Zimbra

by Synacor, Inc.
Zimbra
Zimbra is a comprehensive software solution designed to manage email and collaboration tasks efficiently. It offers a robust suite of tools including email, calendar, contacts, tasks, and document management, making it ideal for businesses and organizations that require seamless communication and collaboration. Zimbra is particularly well-suited for industries such as education, government, and healthcare, where secure and reliable communication is paramount. One of the standout benefits of Zimbra is its flexibility and scalability, allowing it to cater to both small businesses and large enterprises. Its powerful features include advanced search capabilities, integrated chat, and video conferencing, as well as mobile synchronization, ensuring users can stay connected on the go. Additionally, Zimbra's open-source nature allows for extensive customization and integration with other applications, providing a tailored experience for diverse business needs. Compared to similar products, users often highlight Zimbra's user-friendly interface and robust security features. Pricing details can vary based on the specific requirements and scale of deployment, so it is recommended to contact SelectHub for a personalized pricing quote. Overall, Zimbra stands out for its comprehensive feature set and adaptability, making it a valuable tool for enhancing organizational communication and collaboration.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: great
Cost Breakdown
$10 - $100
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android

Zoho Meeting

by Zoho Corporation
Zoho Meeting
Zoho Meeting is a comprehensive software solution designed to facilitate online meetings and webinars. It offers a range of features including screen sharing, video conferencing, and webinar hosting, making it ideal for businesses of all sizes. The platform is particularly well-suited for remote teams and organizations that require seamless virtual collaboration. Users benefit from its intuitive interface, robust security measures, and integration capabilities with other productivity tools. Key advantages of Zoho Meeting include its ease of use, reliability, and the ability to host large-scale webinars with interactive features like polls and Q&A sessions. Popular features encompass HD video quality, recording options, and customizable registration forms for webinars. Compared to similar products, users often highlight Zoho Meeting's affordability and the seamless integration with other Zoho applications as significant advantages. Pricing for Zoho Meeting varies based on the number of participants and the specific features required. It typically operates on a subscription model with monthly or annual payment options. For precise pricing details tailored to individual needs, it is recommended to contact SelectHub for a personalized quote.
User Sentiment User satisfaction level icon: excellent
Cost Breakdown
$10 or less
Company Size
Small Medium Large
Deployment
Cloud On-Premise
Platform
Mac Windows Linux Chromebook Android

Buyer's Guide

Video Conferencing Software Is All About Connecting People Across the Globe and Enhancing Communication

Video Conferencing Software BG Intro Header

Good communication is paramount to the success and growth of any organization. But, at times, it's challenging to achieve it. Video conferencing technology helps overcome roadblocks related to internal and external communication in businesses while maximizing efficiency, collaboration and productivity.

Video conferencing platforms make it possible to hold face-to-face virtual meetings between participants located anywhere across the globe for little or no cost. Modern day companies use them for meetings, presentations, webinars, training sessions, workshops, events and more.

Are you looking for a way to streamline and expand your company's communications? Video conferencing platforms might be right for you. In this buyer’s guide, we’ll go over what a video conferencing platform is, how it could help your business and how to pick the best solution.

Executive Summary

  • Video conferencing platforms are an effective communications tool that can supplement your business phone system.
  • Key features include screen sharing, chat, remote control, HD video and more.
  • Some industry trends include artificial intelligence, 5G and cloud-based communication.
  • Be sure to ask potential vendors any questions you have about the software before committing to a purchase.
What This Guide Covers:

What Are Video Conferencing Platforms?

Video conferencing platforms are programs that allow users in different locations to communicate face-to-face over the internet. These communication tools allow you to make informed decisions on the go, increase productivity, be prepared for meetings within a few minutes and enhance collaboration with colleagues or clients spread across the globe.

The face-to-face element in video conferencing provides a more natural experience than emails and audio calls, helping staff in remote and hybrid workplaces feel more connected. The best part about video conferencing platforms is that most of them work with all your devices, including your personal computer, mobile phone and tablet.

While setting up the software for your organization, the components depend on the office setup. However, you won’t need a dedicated space to carry out meetings or presentations as video conferencing does not require additional equipment other than a webcam and a microphone. Look out for some crucial aspects such as reliability, security, affordability and video and audio quality while selecting appropriate software.

Deployment Methods

When you compare on-premise solutions with cloud-based solutions, the latter scores better. If you choose an on-premise deployment method for your video conferencing software, you may have more direct control over the platform and more data security, but you can’t avoid expenses related to hardware, workforce and annual maintenance fees.

Opposite to cloud-based solutions, on-premise solutions require more work from IT departments, and you may also need some dedicated resources to manage it. With cloud-based deployment, services are managed by experts in the field. Cloud-based video conferencing keeps up with evolving features and functionalities at a better pace.

In a nutshell, a cloud-based option provides better flexibility and security. It also eliminates hassles related to constantly updating the systems. This way, you can save on time and money and channel them better.

Primary Benefits

Let’s have a look at how the software is advantageous for your company.

Primary Benefits of Video Conferencing Software

Better Engagement

When we interact with clients via audio calls, the level of engagement generally drops due to the lack of eye contact and face-to-face interaction. Video conferencing helps strengthen the relationships between colleagues while also improving efficiency and attention as they’re more involved in the conversation.

Less Overhead

Many companies are leaning towards the hybrid work model — not only because it’s preferred among staff, but also because it cuts down on the costs of running an office. Video conferencing platforms make it possible to hold meetings with clients all over the globe from anywhere, cutting down costs associated with travel, like flights and accommodations.

In general, office setups are pretty expensive and not feasible for startups and small-sized organizations. Video conferencing software eliminates some of the need for physical office space, and helps your core staff save time and money on their commutes.

Collaboration

Sometimes it’s easier and quicker to communicate face-to-face when employees need urgent help or clarifications about work-related matters. Using the screen share option also makes it easier for employees to communicate amongst themselves and with clients or stakeholders.

Implementation Goals

Goal 1

More Flexibility

Video conferencing software ensures better employee satisfaction by offering flexibility, leading to easier collaboration, more workplace connections and higher retention rates. Teams can work from any location and stay in touch remotely.

Goal 2

Better Real-time Coordination

At times, business deals, issues or other vital matters require a lot of discussions and speculation. This means a lot of back and forth. Video conferencing platforms eliminate time wasted on long email chains and make it easier for colleagues to coordinate. Employees can contact each other on a face-to-face basis any time.

Goal 3

Expand Recruiting Options

Usually, companies tend to recruit employees in the same city or area where the office is based. Through video conferencing, employers can efficiently recruit from anywhere globally, providing better chances of finding the best-suited person for a particular job.

Goal 4

Improve Company Culture

Ensure employees remain positive and help them feel more connected to one another. Facilitate meaningful relationships between colleagues regardless of location. Allow teams to remain on the same page and improve diversity in the organization.

Basic Features & Functionality

Screen Sharing

Share screens with other users during a call. Display demonstrations, videos, graphs, images or documents to participants in meetings. Team members can collectively brainstorm and contribute to the discussion.

It's also useful for solving IT-related issues and giving online tutorials. Most software offers this service to users for free, allowing up to a certain number of participants.

Chat

Support multiple conversations between participants during a meeting without interrupting the speaker. Members can ask questions, comment and share links or other media using the group chat functionality.

Private chat enables participants to send messages without involving the entire group and disrupting the flow of the discussion.

Meeting Recordings

Record meetings, webinars or presentations especially for further reference and to eliminate the hassle involved in duplicating efforts. Ensures that no one ends up missing crucial information given during the meeting.

Remote Control

Give participants direct control over one another’s devices so they can edit and modify shared documents as required.

HD Video

Allow participants to see one another clearly and get a better look at documents or files in case of screen sharing.

Device Switching

Switch between devices effortlessly. For instance, you can start a video conference on your mobile phone and then switch easily to your laptop, without any breaks.

File Sharing

Send files to participants during meetings without the need for third-party applications.

Advanced Features & Functionality

Analytics

Use analytics, like which parts of presentations engage users most, or how many participants attend, to improve your meetings.

Meeting Notes

Capture action items and important points in real time to keep all employees on the same page. Some systems automatically send these notes to all the participants after the meeting.

Dynamic Presentation Features

Upload any file type, like MP4 videos, PDFs, PPTs and more. By adding rich media, you can keep your audience's attention intact and improve the quality of your presentations.

Current & Upcoming Trends

The pandemic intensified the adoption of video conferencing platforms. Fast forward to 2023, and the need for these systems still exists.

In this section, we'll break down a few trends in video conferencing to show you how the technology is advancing so you can stay on the cutting edge.

Video Conferencing Software Trends

Cloud-based Communication

With an increased number of organizations opting for a cloud-based solution, it looks like it’s here to stay. This is mainly on account of the scalability, flexibility and reliability that cloud-based solutions provide.

Another factor responsible for its popularity is its cost-effectiveness. By eliminating location-based restrictions, it remains light on the budget and reduces the costs involved in setting up office spaces as well.

Artificial intelligence

Organizations are integrating AI, like virtual assistants, to enhance their video conferencing platforms. Artificial intelligence can extract meaningful insights from meetings, manage schedules, take meeting notes and translate conversation transcripts into various languages.

5G

Increase the speed and eliminate the chances of poor video quality, lagging and interruptions. 5G, along with IoT devices, improves the overall video and audio quality of conversations, taking communication one step further.

Software Comparison Strategy

While many video conferencing platforms have similar features, deciding which one is best for your business can get overwhelming.

Start by considering your company's needs and goals. What do you want to get out of the software? It's also important to think about where your current communication falls short and how video conferencing platforms could help fill the gaps.

Also, make sure you don't end up paying for anything you don't need. Many free video conferencing platforms offer the basic features to hold functional work meetings. If you need more sophisticated tools than those offer, you might want to opt for an upgraded version of a free software or a dedicated platform you pay for.

Here are some factors to consider in your software search:

  • Audio and video quality
  • Mobile experience
  • Customer support
  • Features and functionality
  • Number of employees
  • Usability
  • Scalability
  • Integrations with existing software and backend systems
  • Customizations

You’ll also want to look into potential vendors. Check online reviews, read industry guides and ask colleagues for recommendations. Some vendors offer free trials, so you can see how the software works in your company before you commit.

If you need more help, try checking out our Lean Selection methodology, a nine-step guide on how to select software for businesses in any industry.

Cost & Pricing Considerations

The cost of video conferencing software generally depends on its features. Small companies and businesses that don't have strict feature requirements can usually make do with a free video conferencing solution. However, it’s important to note that most free plans restrict the number of attendees and meeting durations and provide only basic features.

Some services charge fees on a per-host basis. If multiple employees need to host meetings or conferences, they all need a user license. Some services charge according to the number of participants or attendees. The higher the limit of attendees, the more the price. This is helpful for those organizations that need to host frequent meetings for hundreds or thousands of employees.

Don’t forget to ask vendors about hidden costs, licenses and contracts. Also, don’t end up paying for features you won’t use. Choose a plan that fits your requirements and budget.

The Most Popular Video Conferencing Platforms

Now that you know what video conferencing platforms can do, how do you decide which product is the best choice for your needs? Our analysts have curated some of the top video conferencing solutions on the market. Check out our picks below!

8x8

8x8 is a cloud contact center platform that facilitates collaboration between employees, agents and clients, irrespective of location. You can use your laptop, mobile phone or other devices to chat, video call, text, call or share files. This platform is helpful for small or mid-sized organizations, mainly because it’s cost-effective and reliable.

8x8

Viewing call recording details on the user dashboard. Source

RingCentral

RingCentral is a UCaaS solution ideal for businesses of all sizes. It offers functionalities like team messaging, unlimited internet fax, call recording, call forwarding, document sharing, visual voicemail and HD voice. The platform easily integrates with Microsoft Dynamics, Zendesk and Oracle CX Sales Cloud.

RingCentral

Viewing essential KPIs on the dashboard. Source

MiCloud Connect

MiCloud Connect is a cloud-based VoIP solution. It offers functionalities like call routing, screen sharing, audio and video conferencing, and chats. The platform integrates with applications like ATS, CRM and ERP. It helps facilitate collaboration between employees whether they’re working from home or in the office.

MiCloud Connect

Viewing and analyzing call details. Source

Nextiva

Nextiva is a cloud communications platform that allows customers to communicate via channels they prefer. It combines communication with business applications and intelligence. Whether your organization has a single office or multiple ones, Nextiva has a solution for every business size.

Nextiva

Viewing weekly analytics on the dashboard. Source

Vonage

A cloud-based communication solution, Vonage is best-suited for small and mid-sized companies. It allows businesses to connect VoIP phone systems to devices with the internet seamlessly. This way, you can easily communicate with employees and clients via text, video and phone.

Vonage

Managing team messaging channels. Source

 

 

Questions To Ask Yourself

To get a better understanding of your company’s needs, ask yourself the following questions:

  • What’s our budget?
  • How many employees will use the software?
  • Will our staff need training to use the software?
  • Which features do we need the most?
  • What problems can the software help us solve?

Video Conferencing Software Questions to Ask

 

 

 

Questions To Ask Vendors

Use these questions as a starting point for conversations with vendors:

About the Software

  • What is the maximum number of participants allowed in meetings?
  • Do I require any additional bandwidth capabilities?
  • Can the software easily integrate with other third-party platforms?
  • To what extent is the software customizable to fit the organization’s needs?
  • Will I receive important analytics and reports?
  • Will this software meet my security requirements?
  • Are there different categories of software packages offered? If yes, what are they?

About the Vendor

  • Do you provide a demo or trial before purchasing the software?
  • Do you provide training and support?
  • How many years of experience do you have with this type of software?
  • According to the working of my organization, is this an ideal software?
  • How many companies of my size are currently using this software?

Next Steps

Video conferencing platforms are an important communication tool for any business, especially in the current era of hybrid work. Picking the right software might feel daunting, but we hope this buyer’s guide has helped narrow down your choices.

If you need further help, check out our comparison report for more information on top software leaders in the industry. Good luck!

Product Comparisons