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Nowadays, businesses, schools, and organizations are turning to web conferencing software to conduct meetings, classes, and webinars remotely. With so many web conferencing software options available, it can be daunting to choose the right one that suits your needs. Fortunately, we have done the research for you and come up with a list of the top 7 best web conferencing software of 2021.
Video Tutorial:
What is Web Conferencing Software?
Web conferencing software is a powerful tool that allows remote communication and collaboration through video, audio, and data sharing. With web conferencing software, remote participants can attend meetings, classes, or webinars from their computers or mobile devices with an internet connection. Web conferencing software has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, as people have been forced to work and study remotely.
Top Best 7 Web Conferencing Software
1. Zoom
Zoom is the most popular web conferencing software in the world, and for a good reason. It is a full-featured web conferencing tool that hosts meetings, webinars, and virtual events with up to 1000 participants. Zoom also offers a range of interactive tools such as screen sharing, virtual backgrounds, and whiteboarding, making it perfect for remote team collaboration.
Pros:
– Easy to use and intuitive interface
– High-quality video and audio
– Interactive tools for remote collaboration
– Integrates with multiple platforms
– Free tier available
Cons:
– Privacy and security concerns
– Limited meeting duration in the free tier
2. Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams is a collaboration platform that includes video conferencing, chat, file sharing, and app integration. Teams allows users to schedule and attend meetings with up to 250 participants. Many businesses and organizations already use Microsoft Office, so Teams integration is a logical choice for those who need a comprehensive solution.
Pros:
– Integrated with Microsoft Office tools
– Good option for team collaboration
– Excellent for large meetings
– Integrates with third-party apps
– Free tier available
Cons:
– Not as user-friendly as other options
– Can be challenging to set up
3. Cisco Webex
Cisco Webex is a web conferencing tool designed for businesses and organizations of all sizes. It allows users to host and attend meetings, webinars, and events with up to 1000 participants. Cisco Webex also includes interactive tools such as screen sharing, virtual backgrounds, and whiteboarding, making it perfect for remote team collaboration.
Pros:
– Stability and reliability
– A wide range of features
– Includes a technical blogger
– Supports a range of devices and platforms
– Free tier available
Cons:
– Interface can be clunky
– Limited support for the free tier
4. GoToMeeting
GoToMeeting is another web conferencing tool designed for businesses and organizations. It allows users to host and attend meetings with up to 250 participants. GoToMeeting includes interactive tools such as screen sharing, virtual backgrounds, and whiteboarding, making it perfect for remote team collaboration.
Pros:
– High-quality video and audio
– Easy to join meetings
– A wide range of interactive tools
– Includes mobile apps
– 14-day free trial available
Cons:
– Limited to 250 participants
– Limited customizability
5. BlueJeans
BlueJeans is a web conferencing platform that enables users to run recurring webinars, webcasts, and other types of events. It allows participants to join via desktop, mobile devices, or even room systems. BlueJeans also includes interactive tools such as screen sharing, virtual backgrounds, and whiteboarding, making it perfect for remote team collaboration.
Pros:
– Attendees do not need to download the app
– Good for larger events
– Good audio quality
– Includes mobile apps
– Free trial available
Cons:
– Can be difficult to set up
– Some users may find the interface overwhelming
6. Skype
Skype is a web conferencing tool designed for one-on-one video and voice calls, but it can also be used for small group meetings. It allows users to share files, screens, and even send SMS messages. Skype also includes interactive tools such as screen sharing, virtual backgrounds, and whiteboarding.
Pros:
– Free to use
– Good video quality
– Good for one-on-one and small group meetings
– Integrates with Microsoft tools
Cons:
– Can be unreliable
– Limited interactive tools
7. Google Meet
Google Meet is a web conferencing tool designed for businesses and organizations. It allows users to host and attend meetings with up to 250 participants. Google Meet includes interactive tools such as screen sharing, virtual backgrounds, and whiteboarding, making it perfect for remote team collaboration.
Pros:
– Good for G Suite users
– Easy to use
– Good for small meetings
– Integrates with Google tools
Cons:
– Limited interactive tools
– Limited support for non-G Suite users
Comprehensive Comparison of Each Software
Below is a comprehensive comparison of the top 7 web conferencing software:
| Free Trial | Price | Ease of Use | Value for Money | Customer Support | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zoom | Yes | Starting at $149.90/year/license | Easy to use | Excellent | 24/7 live support, FAQs, knowledge base |
| Microsoft Teams | Yes | Starting at $5/user/month | Can be challenging to set up | Good | Microsoft support center, community forums |
| Cisco Webex | Yes | Starting at $13.50/host/month | Interface can be clunky | Good | 24/7 live support, FAQs, community forums |
| GoToMeeting | Yes | Starting at $14/user/month | Easy to use | Good | 24/7 live support, knowledge base, FAQs |
| BlueJeans | Yes | Starting at $9.99/host/month | Can be difficult to set up | Good | 24/7 live support, knowledge base, FAQs |
| Skype | Yes | Free | Easy to use | Good | Community forums |
| Google Meet | Yes | Starting at $6/host/month | Easy to use | Good | 24/7 live support, knowledge base |
Our Thoughts on Web Conferencing Software
Web conferencing software has become essential in today’s work-from-home and remote culture. The software enables remote teams, businesses, and organizations to communicate and collaborate effectively without being physically present in the same space. Zoom is our top recommended web conferencing software because of its ease of use and a wide range of features. However, other options like Microsoft Teams, Cisco Webex, and GoToMeeting also offer excellent features and may be suitable for businesses or organizations with specific requirements.
FAQs About Web Conferencing Software
Q: Can I start a conference call using my mobile or tablet?
A: Yes. Most web conferencing software offers mobile apps for iOS and Android devices.
Q: Can I record a web conference?
A: Yes. Most web conferencing software includes a recording feature that allows you to record the audio, video, and screen-sharing of the session.
Q: How many participants can I invite to a conference call?
A: This varies depending on the web conferencing software. The options on our list vary from 100 to 1000 participants.
Q: Can I share files during a web conference?
A: Yes. Most web conferencing software includes a file-sharing feature that allows users to share files during the session.
Q: Is web conferencing software secure?
A: Not all web conferencing software is created equal. Some have had privacy and security concerns raised. However, many have also made significant improvements to address these concerns.
In Conclusion
Choosing the right web conferencing software for your business or organization can make remote communication and collaboration more efficient and effective. Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Cisco Webex, GoToMeeting, BlueJeans, Skype, and Google Meet are all great options to choose from. Consider the number of participants, required features, ease of use, value for money, and customer support when making your decision.