Top 20 Licensed Zoom alternatives

Remote work has transformed how we do business, making video calls an essential part of our daily work lives. While Zoom became a household name, many are now realizing it's not the only option out there. This guide introduces you to 20 top Zoom alternatives you can subscribe to, helping you find the perfect fit for your team.

As technology evolves, new platforms are constantly emerging, each with unique features that could be just what your organization needs. By exploring these alternatives, you might discover a tool that not only boosts your team's productivity and improves collaboration but also integrates seamlessly with your existing software. Whether you're looking for better security, more advanced features, or simply a fresh approach to virtual meetings, this guide will help you navigate the world of video conferencing beyond Zoom.

Why do businesses prefer licensed alternatives to Zoom?

The rapid adoption of video conferencing has transformed how we communicate in both professional and personal contexts. While Zoom has gained widespread recognition, there are compelling reasons why users seek paid alternatives:

• Advanced Feature Sets: Paid alternatives often offer more sophisticated functionalities that cater to specific business needs. These may include advanced collaboration tools, enhanced security features, or specialized capabilities for particular industries that Zoom's free or basic paid plans may not provide.
• Cost-Effective Premium Features: Although Zoom's premium plans can be costly, some paid alternatives offer advanced features at more competitive prices. This is particularly beneficial for small businesses or individual professionals requiring high-end capabilities without the premium price tag.
• Robust Privacy and Security: In an era of increasing digital privacy concerns, many paid alternatives prioritize stringent privacy controls and offer end-to-end encryption as standard, even in their basic paid plans. This level of security may come at an additional cost with Zoom.
• Superior User Experience: Paid alternatives often invest heavily in user interface design and usability. They may offer a more intuitive experience for both team members and clients, potentially increasing productivity and reducing the learning curve.
• Seamless Integration: Depending on a company's existing tech stack, certain paid alternatives may offer better integration with current tools. This can streamline workflows more effectively than Zoom, justifying the cost through improved efficiency.
• Scalability and Flexibility: As organizations grow, paid alternatives often provide more flexible scaling options. They may offer better support for expanding teams or larger events without the steep price increases sometimes associated with Zoom's higher-tier plans.
• Industry-Specific Solutions: Some paid alternatives are tailored for specific sectors such as healthcare, education, or creative industries. These specialized platforms may offer better value than a general-purpose solution like Zoom.
• Dedicated Customer Support: Paid alternatives often provide superior customer support compared to free services. This can include faster response times, dedicated account managers, and more comprehensive technical assistance.
• Compliance and Regulatory Adherence: Certain industries require strict adherence to regulatory standards. Paid alternatives may offer more robust compliance features out-of-the-box, saving on additional costs for add-ons or higher-tier Zoom plans.
• Customization and Branding: Paid alternatives frequently offer more options for customization and branding, allowing businesses to create a more professional and consistent experience for their clients and team members.
• Innovative Features: The competitive landscape of paid video conferencing solutions drives continuous innovation. Alternative platforms may introduce cutting-edge features faster than Zoom, providing early adopters with a technological edge.

By considering these factors, businesses can make an informed decision about investing in a paid alternative to Zoom. The goal is to find a solution that not only meets current needs but also provides value for the investment, enhancing communication, productivity and potentially offering a competitive advantage. While Zoom is a common choice, exploring paid alternatives ensures that organizations select the most suitable tool for their specific requirements and budget constraints.

Criteria for selecting licensed alternatives to Zoom

When evaluating video conferencing alternatives, it's essential to consider several key factors:

Security and Privacy

In the digital age, robust security measures and privacy protections are crucial for video conferencing tools. This is particularly important given the sensitive nature of many business communications and the increasing prevalence of cyber threats. Look for the following features: 

• End-to-end encryption: This ensures that only meeting participants can access the content of your calls.
• Secure file sharing: The ability to safely share documents during meetings without risking data breaches.
• Compliance with data protection regulations: Adherence to standards such as GDPR, HIPAA, or other industry-specific requirements.
• Two-factor authentication: An additional layer of security for user accounts.
• Meeting access controls: Features like waiting rooms, password protection, and host controls to manage participant access.

You can refer to this detailed version on Zoom data privacy.

Features

The feature set of a video conferencing tool can significantly impact its usefulness for your organization. Consider both essential and advanced features:

Essential features:

• HD video and audio quality
• Screen sharing capabilities
• Chat functionality
• Recording options
• Mobile compatibility

Advanced features:

• AI-powered transcription and note-taking
• Virtual backgrounds and noise cancellation
• Breakout rooms for group discussions
• Polling and Q&A tools
• Integration with other productivity tools (e.g., calendar apps, project management software)
• Webinar and large event hosting capabilities
• Real-time translation services

Learn more about Zoom features.

Pricing

To compare subscription models, consider factors like:

• The number of participants allowed in meetings
• Meeting duration limits
• Storage for recorded meetings
• Additional features included at each tier
• Flexibility to scale up or down based on usage
• Any hidden costs or add-ons required for full functionality

Zoom pricing discusses of all the plans Zoom offers.

User Experience

A tool's usability can significantly impact adoption rates and overall productivity. Evaluate:

• Interface design: Is it intuitive and easy to navigate?
• Ease of use: How quickly can new users get up to speed?
• Customer support options: Are there multiple channels for getting help when needed?
• Customization options: Can the tool be tailored to fit your organization's branding or workflow?
• Accessibility features: Does it cater to users with different abilities?

That's what you said entails the experience Zoom users had and posted it on platforms like - G2, Reddit, X(Twitter), etc.

Reliability and Performance

Consider the platform's track record for:

• Uptime and service reliability
• Performance during peak usage times
• Quality of video and audio across different network conditions and geographies
• Ability to handle large numbers of participants without degradation

Integration Capabilities

Look for platforms that can seamlessly integrate with your existing tools:

• Calendar applications for easy scheduling
• Project management tools for task assignment and tracking
• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) systems
• Learning Management Systems (LMS) for educational settings
• Enterprise resource planning (ERP) software

By carefully considering these criteria, you can more effectively evaluate the various alternatives to Zoom and find the best fit for your organization's unique needs.

Top 20 licensed/subscription-based Zoom alternatives

These are the top 20 licensed/subscription-based Zoom alternatives: Video Calling App, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, Cisco Webex, GoToMeeting, Lifesize, Slack Video Calls, RingCentral Video, Whereby, Highfive, Skype for Business, GlobalMeet (formerly PGi iMeet), Zoho Meeting, Intermedia AnyMeeting, StarLeaf, Dialpad UberConference, Amazon Chime, 8x8 Meet, 3CX Webmeeting and Livestorm.

1. Video Calling App
2. Microsoft Teams
3. Google Meet
4. Cisco Webex
5. GoToMeeting
6. Lifesize
7. Slack Video Calls
8. RingCentral Video
9. Whereby
10. Highfive
11. Skype for Business
12. GlobalMeet (formerly PGi iMeet)
13. Zoho Meeting
14. Intermedia AnyMeeting
15. StarLeaf
16. Dialpad UberConference
17. Amazon Chime
18. 8x8 Meet
19. 3CX Webmeeting
20. Livestorm

Now, let us explore all the alternatives one by one.

Video Calling App

Video Calling App (VCA) is reshaping virtual collaboration by offering a comprehensive platform that extends beyond basic video conferencing. This solution streamlines the entire meeting process, from scheduling to follow-up, by automating tasks such as minute-taking, project management tool updates, and knowledge base creation. By managing these peripheral activities, VCA allows teams to focus on essential discussions and decision-making.

Features:

• AI-powered meeting summaries for improved team coordination
• Live translation and transcription services to support global collaboration
• Built-in calendar,agenda, task management capablities for efficient meeting organization
• Smooth integration with common workplace applications
• Interactive tools like digital whiteboards to enhance engagement during sessions

Video Calling App strives to enhance the overall meeting experience, preserve important context, and significantly boost team efficiency and goal attainment. Here’s a very neutral comparison between Zoom vs. Video Calling App.

Pricing

Video Calling App is offering an exclusive early access program with limited spots available. This initiative allows a select group of users to experience VCA's cutting-edge collaboration tools at no cost. Interested teams are invited to submit an application for this easly-access. To try  the Video Calling App, you just have to fill in this online form.

Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams is a collaboration platform with integrated video conferencing features.

Features:

• Integration with Microsoft 365 suite
• Third-party app integrations
• Security features, including end-to-end encryption
• Live transcription and translation tools

Limitations:

• The interface is complex for users seeking basic video conferencing
• Performance issues arise in complex Microsoft ecosystems
• The mobile app offers limited functionality compared to the desktop version
• Full feature utilization requires significant IT support

Pricing:

• Microsoft 365 Business Basic: $4 per user/month
• Microsoft 365 Business Standard: $12.50 per user/month
• Microsoft 365 Business Premium: $22 per user/month
• Enterprise plans available with custom pricing

We also have a detailed article on top alternatives for Microsoft Teams, you can check it out. 

We also have a very honest and unbiased comparison of Microsoft Teams vs. Video Calling App.

See how Microsoft Teams compares to Google Meet in Google Meet vs. Microsoft Teams.

Zoom vs. Microsoft Teams, is an honest comparison between the two.

Google Meet

Google Meet is a web-based video conferencing tool within the Google Workspace ecosystem.

Features:

• Integration with Google Calendar and services
• Live captions and noise cancellation capabilities
• Browser-based access without software downloads
• Support for up to 250 participants in a single call

Limitations:

• Advanced features are not accessible in the free version
• The platform lacks robust capabilities for large webinars or events
• Customization options are restricted compared to enterprise solutions
• Full functionality requires a Google account

Pricing

• Free version available
• Google Workspace Individual: $7.99 per month
• Google Workspace Business Starter: $6 per user/month
• Google Workspace Business Standard: $12 per user/month
• Google Workspace Business Plus: $18 per user/month
• Enterprise plans available with custom pricing

Curious about other platforms? Read more about the best Google Meet alternatives.

Want to know how Video Calling App compares to Google Meet, check out - Google Meet vs. Video Calling App.

Zoom vs. Google Meet, entails how these two platform compare to each other.

Cisco Webex

Cisco Webex is an enterprise-grade video conferencing and collaboration platform.

Features:

• Security measures like end-to-end encryption
• AI-powered meeting assistance
• Virtual whiteboarding and brainstorming tools
• Support for up to 100,000 participants in webinar mode

Limitations:

• New users encounter a steep learning curve due to the complex interface
• Audio quality issues occur under certain network conditions
• Higher-tier plans are expensive for small businesses
• Optimal deployment requires dedicated IT resources

Pricing:

• Free plan available
• Meet Plan: $14.50 per license/month
• Call Plan: $17.95 per license/month
• Meet + Call Plan: $25 per license/month
• Enterprise plans available with custom pricing

Not satisfied with Webex? Learn about top Webex alternatives.

Delve deeper into how Video Calling App compares to Cisco Webex in our honest - Webex vs. Video Calling App.

Check out, Zoom vs. Webex.

GoToMeeting

GoToMeeting is a video conferencing solution designed for businesses of various sizes.

Features:

• One-click meeting access
• Mobile-friendly interface
• Meeting transcriptions and cloud recording
• Integrations with calendar and productivity tools

Limitations:

• Lower-tier plans have restricted participant capacity
• Users experience connection stability issues in areas with weak internet
• Webinar functionality requires a separate product purchase
• The platform offers limited customization options for branding and user interface

Pricing:

• Professional Plan: $12 per organizer/month (up to 150 participants)
• Business Plan: $16 per organizer/month (up to 250 participants)
• Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing (up to 3,000 participants)

Discover the best options for your team in our article on GoToMeeting alternatives.

Zoom vs. GoToMeeting showcases how these two app compares to each other.

Lifesize

Lifesize provides both cloud-based and on-premises video conferencing solutions.

Features:

• 4K video technology for high-definition meetings
• Compatibility with other video conferencing systems
• Hardware options for conference rooms
• Encrypted communications

Limitations:

• The platform has a higher cost compared to some competitors, particularly for hardware
• Third-party integrations are limited
• On-premises solutions require a complex setup process
• Certain features are only accessible with specific Lifesize hardware

Pricing:

• Standard Plan: $12.95 per host/month
• Plus Plan: $14.95 per host/month
• Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing
• Additional costs for room systems and hardware

Slack Video Calls

Slack Video Calls integrates video conferencing functionality into the Slack messaging platform.

Features:

• Transition from chat to video within Slack
• Integration with Slack workflows and channels
• Quick, ad-hoc video meetings
• Support for up to 15 participants in video calls

Limitations:

• Participant capacity is limited compared to dedicated video platforms
• The platform lacks advanced video conferencing features found in standalone solutions
• Access requires a Slack subscription
• The system is not suitable for large-scale webinars or external meetings

Pricing:

• Pro Plan: $6.67 per user/month
• Business+ Plan: $12.50 per user/month
• Enterprise Grid: Custom pricing

RingCentral Video

RingCentral Video is a component of RingCentral's unified communications platform.

Features:

• HD video and audio quality
• Team messaging integration
• Analytics and reporting tools
• Integration with business applications

Limitations:

• Call recording storage is limited to 100GB per account by default
• The mobile app offers fewer features than the desktop version
• Users new to unified communications platforms face a learning curve
• Some users encounter occasional audio sync issues

Pricing:

• Essentials Plan: $19.99 per user/month
• Standard Plan: $27.99 per user/month
• Premium Plan: $34.99 per user/month
• Ultimate Plan: $49.99 per user/month

Whereby

Whereby is a browser-based video conferencing tool known for its simplicity.

Features:

• No software downloads are required for participants
• Customizable meeting rooms with branding options
• Screen sharing and recording capabilities
• Integrations with productivity tools

Limitations:

• Lower-tier plans have limited participant capacity
• The platform offers fewer advanced features compared to enterprise-focused solutions
• Users encounter occasional browser compatibility issues
• Performance heavily depends on internet connection quality

Pricing:

• Free Plan: Limited features, up to 100 participants
• Pro Plan: $9.99 per month, up to 100 participants
• Business Plan: $59.99 per month, up to 200 participants
• Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing

Highfive

Highfive is a cloud-based video conferencing platform designed for ease of use and seamless integration with meeting rooms.

Features:

• HD video and audio quality
• Wireless screen-sharing capabilities
• Integration with existing meeting room hardware
• No PIN or download is required for guests to join

Limitations:

• The platform has a smaller user base compared to major competitors
• Advanced analytics features are only available in higher-tier plans
• Some users report occasional audio sync issues in larger meetings
• Custom branding options are limited

Pricing:

• Starter Plan: $9.99 per user/month
• Advanced Plan: $14.99 per user/month
• Premier Plan: $24.99 per user/month
• Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing

Skype for Business

Skype for Business is Microsoft's enterprise-focused version of the Skype platform.

Features:

• Integration with Microsoft Office suite
• Large group video calls and webinars
• Instant messaging and presence indicators
• Screen sharing and remote desktop control
• Meeting recording and playback

Limitations:

• Microsoft is phasing out the platform in favor of Microsoft Teams
• Updates and new feature development are limited
• Large organizations face complex setup and management processes
• Some features require additional Microsoft services

Pricing:

• Included in certain Microsoft 365 plans
• Standalone plans are no longer available for new customers

Check out top Skype alternatives, if you are looking for alternatives.

Skype vs. Video Calling App, depicts in an honest way how VCA leads.

GlobalMeet (formerly PGi iMeet)

GlobalMeet is a comprehensive unified communications platform offering video conferencing, webinars, and virtual events.

Features:

• High-definition video and crystal-clear audio
• Screen sharing and remote desktop control
• Customizable virtual backgrounds
• Security features like meeting locks and waiting rooms

Limitations:

• The platform has less market presence compared to major competitors
• Some users find the interface less intuitive than other solutions
• Mobile app functionality is more limited compared to the desktop version
• Customer support response times can be slow for lower-tier plans

Pricing:

• Standard Plan: $12 per user/month
• Premium Plan: $24 per user/month
• Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing
• Additional costs for webinar and large event features

Zoho Meeting

Zoho Meeting is a web conferencing tool part of the Zoho suite of business applications.

Features:

• Screen sharing and remote control capabilities
• Meeting recording and cloud storage
• Integration with Zoho apps and other tools
• Embedded meeting option for websites
• RSVP and email reminders for scheduled meetings

Limitations:

• Lower-tier plans have limited participant capacity
• The platform offers fewer advanced features compared to some competitors
• The system is primarily designed for Zoho ecosystem users
• Mobile app functionality is more limited than the desktop version

Pricing:

• Meeting Plan:
  - Basic: $2.50 per host/month (10 participants)

        - Professional: $5 per host/month (100 participants)

• Webinar Plan:

        - Basic: $15 per host/month (25 attendees)

        - Professional: $23 per host/month (250 attendees)

Intermedia AnyMeeting

Intermedia AnyMeeting offers a range of video conferencing and collaboration tools.

Features:

• AI-powered meeting transcripts
• Custom branding options for meeting rooms
• Webinar and virtual event capabilities
• Meeting analytics and reporting

Limitations:

• The platform has less name recognition compared to major competitors
• Some users report occasional audio quality issues
• Third-party integrations are limited compared to larger platforms
• Advanced features are only available in higher-tier plans

Pricing:

• Lite Plan: $9.99 per user/month
• Pro Plan: $12.99 per user/month
• Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing

StarLeaf

StarLeaf offers messaging, meeting, and calling services for businesses

Features:

• ISO/IEC 27001 certified for security
• Persistent team messaging
• Interoperability with other video systems
• Custom API for integration with business processes

Limitations:

• The platform is less widely used, potentially affecting external collaboration
• Costs are higher compared to some competitors
• Small business users may find the feature set overwhelming
• The free trial period is limited

Pricing:

• Custom pricing based on specific business needs
• Contact StarLeaf sales for detailed pricing information

Dialpad UberConference

Dialpad UberConference is a cloud-based video conferencing and screen-sharing platform.

Features:

• AI-powered Voice Intelligence for transcriptions and action items
• Custom-hold music options
• PIN-free meeting access
• Integration with Google Workspace and Office 365

Limitations:

• Video conferencing features are less robust than audio capabilities
• Meeting room customization options are limited
• Higher-tier plans are required for some advanced features
• The mobile app offers fewer features than the desktop version

Pricing:

• Free Plan: Limited features, up to 10 participants
• Business Plan: $15 per user/month
• Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing

Amazon Chime

Amazon Chime is Amazon's video conferencing solution, integrated with AWS.

Features:

• Pay-per-use pricing option
• AWS service integrations for developers
• Noise suppression and echo cancellation
• Switching between devices

Limitations:

• Users unfamiliar with the AWS ecosystem find the platform less intuitive
• Third-party integrations are fewer compared to major competitors
• The free tier is limited compared to other platforms
• Full feature utilization requires AWS knowledge

Pricing:

• Pay-per-use: $3 per user/day
• Amazon Chime Pro: $15 per user/month
• Enterprise plans available with custom pricing

8x8 Meet

8x8 Meet is part of 8x8's unified communications platform, offering video conferencing solutions. It is built on Jitsi Meet.

Features:

• One-click meeting access
• AI-powered noise reduction and virtual backgrounds
• Integration with 8x8 Voice for Business communications
• End-to-end encryption for all meetings

Limitations:

• Full feature access requires an 8x8 platform subscription
• The platform has less name recognition compared to major video-conferencing brands
• Higher-tier plans are necessary for some advanced features
• Users face a learning curve associated with the full unified communications platform

Pricing:

• 8x8 Express: $12 per user/month
• X2: $24 per user/month
• X4: $44 per user/month
• Contact 8x8 for detailed pricing on higher-tier plans

3CX WebMeeting

3CX WebMeeting is a fully licensed, paid video conferencing solution that's part of the broader 3CX communications system.

Features:

• HD video and audio conferencing
• Screen sharing and remote control
• Integrated scheduling with Outlook and Google Calendar
• Webinar mode for large-scale presentations
• end-to-end encryption for secure communications

Limitations:

• Full feature set may require integration with other 3CX products
• Less name recognition compared to major players like Zoom
• User interface may have a learning curve for those used to other platforms
• Some advanced features only available in higher-tier plans

Pricing:

• Standard Edition: Starting at $175 per year for 10 simultaneous participants
• Pro Edition: Starting at $275 per year for 25 simultaneous participants
• Enterprise Edition: Starting at $350 per year for 100 simultaneous participants
• Custom pricing available for larger organizations

Livestorm

Livestorm is a video engagement platform for webinars, meetings, and virtual events.

Features:

• Browser-based access with no downloads required
• Customizable registration pages and email reminders
• Interactive features like polls, Q&As, and chat
• Integration with CRM and marketing tools

Limitations:

• The free plan has significant feature restrictions
• Some users report occasional performance issues with large audiences
• The platform focuses more on webinars than traditional meetings
• Customization options for the user interface are limited

Pricing:

• Basic Plan: Free (up to 10 attendees, 20-minute limit)
• Premium Plan: Starting at $99 per month
• Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing
• Additional cost for webinar add-ons and large events

Zoom licensed alternatives comparison table

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The video conferencing landscape offers a wide array of options beyond Zoom. By carefully considering your specific needs and exploring the alternatives presented in this guide, you can find a solution that enhances your team's collaboration and productivity. We suggest you to explore the Video Calling App and other alternatives to find the best fit for your organization.

FAQs

Is it difficult to switch from Zoom to another video conferencing tool?

The difficulty of switching depends on various factors, including the size of your organization and the complexity of your current setup. Many alternatives offer migration assistance and user-friendly interfaces to ease the transition. You can check out our detailed article on how to cancel Zoom subscription. You can migrate to VCA, we provide 3 month free membership to make the migration process smooth, just fill in this online form.

Can I use multiple video conferencing tools simultaneously?

Yes, many organizations use different tools for various purposes. However, standardizing on one primary platform can help streamline processes and reduce confusion, that’s where VCA stands out - it’s your end-to-end video conferencing tool

How important is end-to-end encryption in video conferencing?

End-to-end encryption is crucial for maintaining the privacy and security of your conversations, especially when discussing sensitive information.

Are free video conferencing tools suitable for business use?

While free tools can be adequate for small teams or occasional use, paid solutions often offer more robust features, better security, and reliable support, which are important for business continuity.

How can I ensure my team adapts well to a new video conferencing tool?

Provide thorough training, create user guides, and designate "champions" within the organization who can assist others during the transition period.

Host Better Meetings with Video Calling App

The shift to remote work has revealed critical flaws in current video conferencing tools. Users grapple with frequent technical issues, disruptive updates, and underwhelming AI capabilities. Constant meetings result in context loss and information overload, while poor integration fragments digital workspaces.

These issues add up, making helpful tech a hindrance. The end result? A frustrating experience that often slows down remote work instead of speeding it up.

Video Calling App is an AI-native solution designed to tackle these challenges modern teams face head-on. It optimizes the entire meeting lifecycle while preserving crucial context, all wrapped in an intuitive, modern interface fit for 2024.

VCA enhances virtual collaboration through AI-driven features, including intelligent summaries, action item tracking, live transcription and translation, auto-tagging, and integrated task management. A searchable knowledge base complements these tools, creating a comprehensive ecosystem that streamlines the meeting process and boosts remote work productivity.

Migrating from Zoom to the Video Calling app

Video Calling App understands the challenges of adopting a new platform and offers a seamless transition process. New users can enjoy up to three months of complimentary service, equivalent to their existing Zoom plan. To take advantage of this offer, simply fill out this online form.

For those curious about how Video Calling App compares to Zoom, we've prepared a comprehensive, unbiased analysis of Zoom vs. Video Calling App.

As the Video Calling App is in its initial phase, it's currently onboarding a early users each day. So if you are interested, fill in this form to get early access and we’ll be in touch super soon.