In the past few years, virtual meetings have become integral to our daily lives. Zoom, a video conferencing app, has been one of the most popular tools for remote communication, enabling people to connect from different parts of the world. However, Zoom is not the only option available, and there are plenty of alternatives that offer different features and benefits.
Having tested more than 30 video conferencing solutions, we’ve selected the best options that cater to different needs and preferences. In this article, we will explore the 10 best Zoom alternatives that can be used for virtual meetings, webinars, and online collaboration.
Whether you’re looking for better security, screen-sharing options, or an improved user experience, this list has got you covered.
Table Of Contents
1. Demio (Editors Choice)
Demio is a platform that focuses on distraction-free and smooth operation for the best virtual conference. They offer live streaming, live scheduled sessions, and automated webinars.
Demio also offers attendance management, supports all web browsers unlike many virtual event platforms, offers a custom domain with a logo, the opportunity to network, upload videos directly from the platform, and more.
Demio starts at $49 per month and offers a 14-day free trial. Demio is a great platform designed to engage with event attendees and make video conferencing smooth for the best virtual experience. Check out our Demio review for more feature analysis.
Works with any browser- Lots of engagement features
- No attendee limit
Limited email customization options
- Support: 4.6
- Product: 4.6
- Security: 4.5
- Pricing: 4.5
2. Skype
Skype is a free communication software that enables users to make voice and video calls, send instant messages, share files, and screen share.
It was first released in 2003 and has since become one of the most popular video conferencing tools, serving personal and professional purposes. Skype is available for Windows, Mac, and Linux desktop computers and iOS and Android mobile devices.
In my experience, Skype’s most notable feature is its ability to make voice and video calls over the internet, allowing users to connect with others worldwide at no cost.
Skype also provides high-quality video and audio, making it a popular choice for remote work, online education, and staying in touch with loved ones.
In addition to one-on-one calls, Skype also allows users to host group calls with up to 100 participants. Skype’s messaging feature enables users to send instant messages and share files with individuals or groups. It also offers screen sharing, which is helpful for remote collaboration or troubleshooting.
Video conferencing tools like Zoom makes it easy for remote team members to communicate and share information in less time.
– Vartika Kashyap, Chief Marketing Officer at ProofHub
- Free voice and video calls over the internet
- High-quality video and audio
- Messaging and file-sharing features
- Screen sharing for remote collaboration
- Advanced features require a paid subscription.
- Video and audio quality: 5
- User-friendly Interface: 5
- Security and privacy: 5
- Pricing: 4.9
3. GoTo Meeting
GoTo Meeting is considered one of the best Zoom alternatives due to its robust features and user-friendly interface. It offers high-quality video, audio, and remote collaboration screen-sharing capabilities.
It also allows for significant group calls, making it ideal for businesses and organizations. Additionally, GoTo Meeting provides a range of subscription plans to fit various needs and budgets, including a free trial for first-time users.
GoTo Meeting offers a mobile app that allows users to join or host meetings on the go. It also integrates with popular tools and software like Microsoft Office and Google Calendar.
After conducting a GoTo Meeting and Webex comparison, we have found that GoTo Meeting excels in terms of end-to-end encryption for all meetings. It offers additional security features like password protection and virtual waiting rooms, thus ensuring safety and privacy for its users.
- Large group calls
- Screen sharing capabilities
- End-to-end encryption and other security features
- No free plan after the free trial
- Video and audio quality: 5
- User-friendly Interface: 4.9
- Security and privacy: 5
- Pricing: 4.9
4. RingCentral
RingCentral is a cloud-based communication and collaboration platform that offers a wide range of features, including voice and video conferences, team messaging, and online meetings.
It is designed for businesses of all sizes and can be accessed from anywhere, making it ideal for remote work.
In my experience, RingCentral’s video and audio quality is high, making it suitable for virtual meetings with employees, partners, and clients. It also offers screen sharing and virtual whiteboard features, which make it easy for team members to collaborate in real time.
Regarding security, RingCentral offers end-to-end encryption for all communications, ensuring that all data and conversations remain private. It also provides other security features like multi-factor authentication and advanced user management.
RingCentral integrates with various third-party applications, including Microsoft Office, Salesforce, and Google Workspace. It also offers mobile apps for iOS and Android, allowing users to access the platform on the go.
- High-quality video and audio
- Screen sharing and virtual whiteboard features
- End-to-end encryption for all communications
- It can be expensive for small businesses
- Video and audio quality: 5
- User-friendly Interface: 5
- Security and privacy: 4.9
- Pricing: 4.8
5. Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams is a communication and collaboration platform that offers a range of features for remote meetings, video chat, and file sharing.
As a Zoom alternative, Microsoft Teams allows users to host meetings with up to 10,000 participants, making it a viable option for larger organizations or events.
Teams also offer the ability to share screens and collaborate on documents in real time, as well as features such as virtual backgrounds, noise suppression, and live captions.
Teams integrate with other Microsoft apps such as Outlook, OneDrive, and SharePoint, making it easy to access and share files across platforms.
In my experience, Microsoft Teams allows users to schedule and join meetings directly from within the Microsoft Teams app, making it a seamless experience.
Teams also offer a range of pricing options, including a free version with limited features, making it accessible for businesses of all sizes.
- Can host meetings with up to 10,000 participants
- Real-time collaboration on documents and screen sharing
- Integrates with other Microsoft apps for easy file access and sharing
- It can be overwhelming for new users
- Video and audio quality: 5
- User-friendly Interface: 4.9
- Security and privacy: 4.9
- Pricing: 4.9
6. Discord
Discord is a communication platform initially designed for gamers but has recently gained popularity as a free video-conferencing solution. It allows users to create and join servers where they can communicate through voice, video chats, and text chats.
In my experience, one of the standout features of Discord is its customizable settings which allow users to create custom channels for specific topics or groups and control who can access each channel.
Discord offers screen sharing and live streaming capabilities, making it an excellent tool for hosting virtual meetings, webinars, and presentations
Discord also offers a range of bots and integrations to enhance its functionality, including automated notifications, polls, and music players.
In addition to its free version, Discord offers a paid Nitro subscription with features such as higher-quality screen sharing and larger file upload sizes.
- Customizable channels and settings
- Screen sharing and live streaming capabilities
- Range of bots and integrations available
- Not designed specifically for business or professional settings
- Video and audio quality: 4.9
- User-friendly Interface: 4.9
- Security and privacy: 4.9
- Pricing: 4.9
7. TeamViewer
TeamViewer is a remote desktop software that allows users to access and control computers and devices from anywhere in the world.
It provides a secure and convenient way to remotely access and control computers for various purposes, such as online meetings, technical support, and file sharing.
This tool helps you solve problems or do tasks on the devices of your teammates worldwide, making the communication process a lot easier.
TeamViewer offers many features, including remote control, file transfer, remote printing, and VPN alternative. It also supports cross-platform access, meaning users can connect and control devices on different operating systems.
In my experience, TeamViewer is user-friendly and can be easily set up and configured. Its security measures include end-to-end encryption, two-factor authentication, and access control. The scalable software can be used for personal, business, and enterprise needs.
When you’re picking a video conferencing service, one of the first things to look at, of course, is the features and functionalities of each, and more importantly, the extent to which they’ll support your workflow.
– Jennifer Bui, Senior Product Marketing Manager at Video Meetings
- Easy to use for remote access and control of devices
- Offers cross-platform compatibility for various operating systems
- Supports unattended access to devices for efficient remote support
- It can be costly for business and enterprise-level plans
- Video and audio quality: 4.9
- User-friendly Interface: 4.8
- Security and privacy: 4.9
- Pricing: 4.8
8. Blue Jeans
Blue Jeans is a cloud-based video conferencing platform offering a range of remote meetings and collaboration features. Its easy-to-use interface allows users to schedule and join meetings from any device, including desktops, laptops, smartphones, and tablets.
Blue Jeans supports large meetings and webinars, with up to 150 participants able to join a single call. The platform also offers high-definition video and audio quality, ideal for virtual presentations or discussions.
In my experience, other notable features of Blue Jeans include screen sharing, virtual backgrounds, and real-time transcription and translation capabilities. The platform also offers integrations with popular business tools like Slack, Trello, and Salesforce.
- High-quality video and audio conferencing
- User-friendly interface
- Mobile app available
- Limited customization options
- Video and audio quality: 4.8
- User-friendly Interface: 4.8
- Security and privacy: 4.8
- Pricing: 4.8
9. Cisco Webex
Cisco Webex is a cloud-based video conferencing tool businesses of all sizes use to collaborate and communicate with team members, clients, and partners.
One of the key features of Webex is its ability to host webinars and virtual events for up to 10,000 attendees. It also offers advanced security features such as end-to-end encryption and multi-factor authentication.
In addition, Webex allows for screen sharing, file sharing, and virtual whiteboarding. It also has a virtual background feature that can help to reduce background noise and distractions during meetings.
During my Zoom and Webex comparison, I found that Webex stands out due to its user-friendly interface, which greatly simplifies the process of scheduling and joining meetings from any device.
- High-quality video and audio
- Excellent screen-sharing and collaboration tools
- Easy to schedule and join meetings
- It can be expensive for larger organizations or those with more advanced needs
- Video and audio quality: 4.8
- User-friendly Interface: 4.6
- Security and privacy: 4.8
- Pricing: 4.7
10. Google Meet
Google Meet is a video conferencing platform developed by Google that enables online meetings, webinars, and team collaborations. It offers screen sharing, live captioning, and virtual backgrounds.
Google Meet integrates with apps like Gmail and Calendar, allowing users to schedule and join meetings seamlessly.
One of its most notable features is its ability to support many participants; up to 250 people can join a single call. It can also be accessed on desktop and mobile devices, making it convenient for remote workers to join meetings on the go.
Google Meet is a free platform for personal users, and businesses can access additional features by purchasing a G Suite subscription.
In my experience, Google Meet offers strong security measures, such as end-to-end encryption for video calls and a two-step verification process for account access.
- Easy integration with other Google apps
- Available on desktop and mobile devices
- Strong security measures
- Some advanced features require a G Suite subscription
- Video and audio quality: 4.8
- User-friendly Interface: 4.7
- Security and privacy: 4.6
- Pricing: 4.7
Video Conferencing Service Buyer’s Guide
When choosing a Zoom alternative, several important factors must be considered before deciding. Here are some key things to keep in mind.
1. Features And Capabilities
The first step is to evaluate the features and capabilities of each video conferencing tool. Determine what features are most important to you and your team, such as screen sharing, recording, virtual backgrounds, and chat options.
Consider the number of participants allowed per call, call duration, and meeting scheduling capabilities.
2. Video And Audio Quality
Choosing a platform that offers high-quality video and audio with minimal lag or interruptions is essential. Look for a service that provides HD video and clear audio and the ability to adjust settings for bandwidth and internet speed.
3. Ease Of Use
Consider how easy it is to use the tool. A user-friendly interface and easy-to-navigate menus will save you time and minimize frustration. Check if the tool has mobile apps and whether the features are the same as the desktop version. Conducting a trial or demo of the tool will allow you to evaluate its usability.
4. Security And Privacy
With the rise of remote work, security, and privacy are more crucial than ever. Look for a video conferencing tool with end-to-end encryption to protect your meetings from unwanted guests.
Check if the tool complies with privacy regulations like GDPR and CCPA. Also, investigate their data retention policies and ensure they align with your company’s privacy policies.
5. Integrations
Integrations with other tools can improve your workflow and productivity. Look for tools that integrate with your team’s favorite tools, like productivity apps, project management tools, or CRMs.
6. Cost
Cost is always an essential factor when choosing a video conferencing tool. While some tools offer free versions, they may have limited features or only allow a limited number of participants per call.
7. Customer Support
Look for a video conferencing tool with excellent customer support. When technical difficulties arise, prompt and efficient customer service can save you valuable time and stress. Check for available support channels like live chat, email, or phone support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There A Better Option Than Zoom?
Yes, there are better options to Zoom, and one of them is Skype, which offers similar features such as video conferencing, screen sharing, and instant messaging.
However, each alternative has advantages and disadvantages, depending on the user’s specific needs and preferences.
Who Is Zoom’s Biggest Competitor?
Zoom’s biggest competitor is Microsoft Teams, which offers similar video conferencing features and is bundled with the popular Microsoft Office suite of applications. Other significant competitors include Cisco Webex, Google Meet, and Skype.
What Google App Is Similar To Zoom?
The Google app similar to Zoom is Google Meet, a video conferencing tool that enables users to host virtual meetings, webinars, and live events. Like Zoom, it supports screen sharing, virtual backgrounds, and recording, among other features. Google Meet is available to all G Suite subscribers as a standalone app for personal accounts.
How Does Zoom Earn Money?
Zoom earns money through its subscription plans, which offer additional features and functionality beyond the free version of the software. They also generate revenue by selling Zoom Rooms hardware for larger meeting spaces.
How Does Zoom Compare With GoTo Webinar?
Zoom excels in user-friendly interface, while GoTo Webinar offers advanced webinar features. Read our article for a detailed Zoom vs GoTo Webinar comparison.
How Does Zoom Compare With GoTo Meeting?
Zoom is user-friendly and popular for its simplicity, while GoToMeeting offers more advanced features for larger meetings and webinars. Read our article for a detailed Zoom vs GoTo Meeting comparison.
What Is The Best Zoom Alternative?
While there are numerous Zoom alternatives on the internet, Demio has turned out to be the easiest video conferencing platform.
It works both for big and small teams, offers unlimited sessions and storage, and great engagement insights. Demio also provides event automation and helps you create outstanding online events while staying on a budget.
If you need budget-friendly but reliable webinar software, I believe you should try Demio and explore its features.
Our #1 Recommendation: demio
Features
Customer support
Pricing
User-friendliness
