Remote working is more common than ever in the post-pandemic world, which is why business leaders are looking for the best video conferencing software (VCS) to promote online collaboration. However, depending on the situation, all conferencing software has its pros and cons. Read on to discover reviews of the 5 best video conferencing software options to help you choose the one that fits you best.
You may have heard of most of the platforms in my list, but do you know how many participants they supports, which of them offers a free version, or which of its features meet your business needs?
Here, we’ll address frequently asked questions and doubts about the best video conferencing softwares on the market, so that you can choose the one suits you best.
1. Zoom
Zoom has gained popularity during the pandemic because of its powerful features besides its video conference:
- Screen sharing
- Zoom Webinars
- Zoom Chat
- Changeable meeting background
- A whiteboard and drawing tools
Zoom has also become increasingly competitive due to its affordable prices and user-friendly on-screen display. You can expect to pay between $14.99/month per host to $19.99/month per host for a Zoom Meetings plan, with different pricing bands providing varying maximum numbers of meeting participants.
However, judging by its price, Zoom Meetings tends to be more suitable for small businesses and individual users. Although its free version comes with a host of features, the meetings are limited to a maximum of 40 minutes.
2. Google Meet
Google Meet is Google’s video conferencing software for business. Google Meet supports up to 250 meeting participants with its enterprise level plan, and it offers standard video conferencing with basic features:
- Screen sharing
- Multiple screen layouts
- Meeting host controls
- Realtime captions and noise cancellation
However, Google Meet cannot be purchased as a standalone solution. As Google Meet comes as part of Google Workspace, the tool is better suited for existing users of Google Workspace. Google Workspace pricing ranges from $6/month per user for the Business Starter plan to $18/month per user for the Business Plus plan. The free version of Google Meet includes support for up to 100 meeting participants and has a 60-minute limit, which is slightly longer than Zoom .
3. Skype
Skype, bought by Microsoft in 2011, is one of the most common video conferencing apps on the market. All individuals and small businesses can use its completely free version despite the limited maximum of 50 participants.
For a free tool, Skype has rich features. Its best features include:
- Live subtitles (11 languages supported)
- Drawing tools and whiteboard
- Screen sharing
- Instant messaging
- “Meet now” (users can start a chat or video conference without having an account)
Skype only charges for its “premium” features: voicemail, SMS texts, or calls to a landline, cell phone, or outside of Skype.
4. 6Connex
6Connex is a bit different from former ones. 6Connex provides one of the best immersive event experience for virtual platforms. 6Connex also has full-service support and customized design and features. It is the perfect choice for enterprises which focus on internal and external events and have enough budget to support them. You can have a look at its price lists.
- Standard 12-month license: $1,600
- Upgraded 12-month license: $ 40,000
- Custom options: Contact the company for a quote
5. Webex Meetings
Webex Meetings, a Cisco product, is a good choice for every business size because of its reasonable pricing bands and powerful features. The tool offers a host of features including:
- Whiteboard
- Meeting recording
- Polling options
- Meeting transcription
- Personal meeting room
Webex Meetings’ free version provides support for up to 100 meeting participants, and more importantly, no duration restrictions, and unlimited meetings. For paid users, Webex Meeting provides 3 pricing bands, :
- $13.5/ month per host: <=50 participants
- $26.95/ month per host: <=200 participants
- Custom pricing plans: <=1,000 participants
Notice: All of the VSCs above can be installed on our NearHub Board. We hope this article helps you have efficient and pleasant video conferences. If you encounter any issues while using these applications on the NearHub Board, feel free to contact us, and we will offer help as quickly as possible.
sales@nearhub.us
