Guide: Zoom vs Skype: The best Work from Home App for you
Working from home can be both a blessing and a curse, but video calling tools like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Skype, FaceTime and Google Duo are making it easier. These services offer group video calls and other features that create an office-like atmosphere. With Zoom’s surge in popularity, many may be wondering if it’s better than Skype.
Skype and Zoom, both popular services for professional use, have seen a surge in usage during the COVID-19 pandemic. Skype has been around for over 15 years, while Zoom is gaining traction in the corporate world. Both companies have reported significant growth in key regions due to the lockdown.
Skype and Zoom are two popular video-calling services that compete in key areas such as video calls, chat, and group conversations. This post compares the two services based on factors like cross-platform availability, user interface, video call features, ease of use, price, and chat.
Cross platform availability
Skype is a widely accessible communication platform, available on a variety of devices and operating systems, including iOS, Android, Windows 10, Mac, Linux, web, Xbox and Microsoft Outlook web.
Zoom is available on a variety of platforms, including iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, Chromium-based browsers and Firefox. Additionally, it can be used as an add-in for Microsoft Outlook.
Zoom and Skype are two popular video conferencing services, but how do they compare when used on a desktop? This article looks at the features of both services to help you decide which one is best for your needs.
User environment
Skype and Zoom offer distinct experiences: Skype is focused on chat, while Zoom encourages users to join meetings and stay up-to-date on events.
Skype offers a familiar messaging interface, with chat threads on the left and conversations on the right. To start group chats, users can either create a Meet Now group or initiate one from the chat screen.
Zoom offers a straightforward user interface, making it easy for new users to join and switch between meetings, chats, and contacts.
Make and participate in video calls
Zoom’s user-friendly setup has made it a go-to for many, as no account is needed to join a meeting - just copy the ID and open it in a browser.
Zoombombing, a disruption caused by anyone with the meeting ID being able to join conversations, has led Zoom to quickly add security and privacy measures. To protect against this, users can set a meeting password when creating meetings and enable advanced options such as recording. Additionally, they can add meeting time and date and choose from multiple calendars.
Skype has made it easier for users to connect with one another without the hassle of signing up for a Microsoft account or downloading software. The company’s new Meet Now feature allows users to set up meetings directly from the web, streamlining the process and making it simpler for even inexperienced users.
Tap the Meet Now button to quickly start a conference call with no need to create an account. Give the meeting a relevant name and add people to the group or share the invite link with others. You can also schedule a call in the group for future use.
Users can create groups and initiate video or voice calls by tapping the call icon at the top.
Video calling Features
Skype offers free group video calls for up to 50 people, plus group screen sharing for an enhanced conversation.
Skype’s background blurring feature helps you hide any mess in your room, while its translator tool can convert conversations into 10 languages, including English, Spanish, Arabic and Russian.
Zoom has hit the mark with its free plan, allowing up to 100 participants to connect. For larger groups, paid plans can accommodate up to 1,000 users. Additionally, Zoom offers screen sharing capabilities for administrators to better explain topics during conversations.
Zoom has introduced a new feature that allows users to customize their virtual backgrounds during video meetings. Instead of blurring the background, participants can now choose from a built-in image or upload one from their own gallery for a more personalized touch. Additionally, they can use the built-in screen recording to view meeting details.
Other functions
Skype has integrated Microsoft services such as OneDrive and Office apps, while also utilizing industry-standard end-to-end encryption to ensure secure conversations.
Creating polls to collect everyone’s opinion is made easy with the poll feature, though it may not be as powerful as dedicated poll apps.
Zoom has acknowledged that user data was routed to Chinese servers, prompting the company to develop new features and prioritize security.
Zoom’s waiting room feature allows employees to stay in line for interviews, while its integration with hundreds of apps, including Slack, Microsoft Teams, Gmail and Google Drive, makes it a powerful tool for businesses.
Pricing
Skype is a cost-effective way to make calls, with most services free of charge. However, if you wish to call non-Skype or landline numbers, you will need to pay for the service. Those with an Office 365 subscription can take advantage of 60 minutes of free Skype credit.
Zoom offers a free basic plan, allowing up to 100 participants to join an appointment for 40 minutes. For more features, the Pro plans start at $15 per month per host.
Create digital meetings on the go
Both Zoom and Skype offer great options for digital meetings. Skype is well-known and has a strong chat feature, as well as video calling capabilities. Zoom stands out with its creative features, such as virtual backgrounds, user-friendly interface and screen recording.
Don’t settle for Zoom – explore these seven alternatives to find the perfect fit for your needs.
Zoom vs Skype: The best Work from Home App for you: benefits
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Final note
Share this guide to help your friends decide which work from home app is best for them: Zoom or Skype? If you have any questions, let us know.
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