We currently have several platform options that allow us to hold meetings via videoconference. In this artcile, we’ve separated the 8 most used platforms, so you can choose which one best suits your company. Check it out! Read also: Skype is getting a new look and new features!
1. Zoom
To start our list of the best videoconferencing platforms, let’s talk about Zoom, an app that you’ve certainly heard of. It is the big hit of the moment in the world of videoconferencing solutions, because of its practical options included within each plan. This platform has become the favorite choice among millions of people for offering a high quality audio and video system. It is the go-to for a lot of school districts and big companies looking for a light, quick and easy option. It also offers a fast sharing feature that further improves users’ insight into the meeting experience.
Desktop, tables and mobile devices screen sharing Whiteboard HD video and voice Unlimited number of meetings per month SSL (Secure Socket Layer) cryptography Chat and messaging (private or group) Scheduling with Google Chrome extensions Minutes of meeting option Mobile meeting participation Scheduled or immediate meetings Online support Resting rooms The pausing feature allows you to separate your meeting in up to 50 different sessions!
There are those who use the zoom for free, but the features and usability within the platform are limited. An example of this is that meetings with a lot of participants cannot exceed 40 minutes. The number of video conference invitees will depend on the plan you selected. In the free version you can include up to 100 participants, in the paid version you can keep up to 500 participants. Webinars and events at Zoom allow you to engage with an unlimited audience in virtual live events. There is also the availability of the sharing function, which includes the option to remotely control or monitor meetings.
2. Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams was designed to deliver efficiency and collaboration seamlessly, and for that, it has an interactive infrastructure that plugs into Office apps such as Word and SharePoint. Promising user-friendliness, the platform also integrates with Skype for Business, cited down below. Viewed as a comprehensive chat tool for the workplace, its video conferencing option is both attractive and powerful.
Its own web version of Word, Excel and PowerPoint File sharing and storage space Up to 300 simultaneous users Web and phone support 24/7
One of the newest features included in Microsoft Teams allows users to invite people who are not part of their company’s Azure Active Directory. Also, the mobile version of Microsoft Teams provides voicemail support on Android and iOS, which puts it high on the list of best videoconferencing platforms.
3. GoToMeeting
Even though GoToMeeting is not as famous in the video conferencing industry, it stands as one of the best videoconferencing platforms. It has a long list of features that meet the needs of most business environments. Being a user-friendly platform, GoToMeeting has some important advantages over its competitors, including features like voting and “raise your hand”.
Customer support 24 hours per day, 7 days a week HD video Unlimited meetings Desktop, tables and mobile devices screen sharing In-app messaging Web audio – phones are not necessary Safety and security
It lets you try it for 14 days, free of charge, so you can try out the features you’ll get firsthand. Based on the plan you have, GoToMeeting allows you to include 10 to 250 attendees per meeting. The downside of the free version is that it only allows three participants, against up to 100 on other platforms.
4. Skype for Business
The fourth platform on our list of the best videoconferencing platforms is the renowned Skype for Business, which might sound like a familiar name to many users. The business version takes the free features of the standard platform to the next level.
Unlimited meetings Screen sharing Instant messaging at any time Strong security Up to 250 participants in a conference
Being a Microsoft application, Skype for Business can also easily integrate with Microsoft Office programs such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, OneNote and Outlook.
6. ezTalks
Probably the biggest reason for ezTalks‘ high sales numbers is its great strives in technology, which shows a faithful commitment from the platform’s developers. Promising to deliver the best features and next generation videoconferencing protocols, ezTaks comes with compatibility with Android and iOS devices.
Unlimited meetings Scheduled or immediate meetings Join-in through mobile HD video and audio Private and group chat Interactable boards Screen sharing with the ability to write in notes
ezTaks has a relatively simple user interface, even for novice users, which places it among the best videoconferencing platforms on the market.
7. StarLeaf
StarLeaf is equipped with its own API, which makes it possible to customize your videoconference. It offers a wide range of updates and integrations and has a free app for Android, iOS and Windows users. With this exclusive StarLeaf development, you are able to offer connectivity across the entire enterprise.
Phone numbers that allow global dialing Total interoperability with Skype for Business Unlimited invites Integrations with the Outlook and Google calendar
The platform is a perfect alternative for those who don’t want to spend a fortune on on-premise infrastructure (local software framework), which makes it one of the best platforms for videoconferencing.
8. Cisco Webex
To close our list of the best video conferencing platforms, we bring you Cisco Webex, which is excellent video collaboration software for online training, webinars, and remote support. This is also an excellent solution for companies with security concerns. It offers TLS (Transport Layer Security) system, third party accreditations, encryption, firewall compatibility, single sign-on and secure scheduling options. The platform also includes a seamless integration system with Outlook, and it has the ability to use it on different platforms including Mac, Windows and iPads. It allows you to add specialized functionality for training, remote technical support, or webinars.
Screen sharing HD videos Unlimited meetings Recording and cloud storage (limits and value change according to chosen plan) Phone support in business hours for low-cost plans and 24/7 support for the high-cost plans
The free version of Cisco Webex is limited, it only allows two participants in meetings. In paid plans, Webex allows between 50 and 1,000 participants.
Tips to find the ideal videoconference software
You’ve already realized that there are plenty of options out there, and here are some helpful tips to consider when assessing your budget and needs when choosing the perfect videoconferencing platforms for your business.
Paying platforms annually instead of monthly can be cheaper. Try to check this information in details when studying each of them. Some plans will be charged on a per-user basis. Make sure you know how many are allowed per plan and make sure you can add users as needed. Try asking for a demo to see all the points within the platform you are interested in, before committing.
How’d you like this list of the best videoconferencing platforms?
Did you check out any of the platforms mentioned in this guide? Did we forget any platforms you’ve been using lately? Leave us a comment down below and let us know if we missed anything!
