The landscape of professional communication has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, with online meetings becoming an integral part of daily business operations. While Zoom rapidly gained popularity during the global pandemic, many users and organizations are now seeking zoom alternatives that offer greater flexibility, enhanced privacy, and more cost-effective solutions.
Open source video conferencing platforms have emerged as compelling options, providing transparency, customization, and often improved security features. This article explores 20 open source alternatives to Zoom, helping you find the best fit for your personal or professional needs.
Why consider Open Source alternatives to Zoom?
Open-source software represents a paradigm of transparency, collaboration, and user empowerment in the digital world; by making source code freely available for use, modification, and distribution, open-source projects foster innovation, security, and customization across various domains, including video conferencing solutions.
- Cost-effectiveness: Many open-source solutions offer free or significantly lower-cost options compared to Zoom's paid plans. This can result in substantial savings, especially for small businesses, educational institutions, and non-profit organizations. With open-source alternatives, organizations can often access advanced features without the premium price tag associated with commercial solutions.
- Customization and Flexibility: Open source platforms provide unparalleled flexibility, allowing organizations to tailor the software to their specific needs. This customization extends beyond simple branding to include feature modifications, integration with existing systems, and adaptation to unique workflows. For businesses with specialized requirements, this level of customization can be invaluable.
- Enhanced Privacy and Security: With access to the source code, users and independent security experts can verify and enhance security measures. This transparency allows for quicker identification and resolution of potential vulnerabilities. Many open-source alternatives prioritize end-to-end encryption and data privacy, giving users greater control over their sensitive information.
- Community-driven Development and Support: Open source projects benefit from a global community of developers and users who contribute to regular updates, bug fixes, and new features. This collaborative approach often results in rapid innovation and problem-solving. Additionally, community forums and resources can provide valuable support and knowledge sharing.
- Avoiding Vendor Lock-in: Open source solutions typically adhere to open standards, promoting interoperability and reducing dependence on a single provider. This flexibility allows organizations to switch between different tools or integrate multiple solutions more easily. It also provides a safety net against sudden changes in vendor policies or pricing.
- Scalability and Performance: Many open-source alternatives are designed with scalability in mind, allowing organizations to handle growing user bases without significant additional costs. Some solutions can be optimized for specific hardware or network conditions, potentially offering better performance than one-size-fits-all commercial products.
- Educational and Training Opportunities: Using open-source software provides opportunities for IT staff and interested users to learn about the underlying technologies. This can be particularly valuable for educational institutions or organizations looking to build internal expertise.
- Ethical and Philosophical Alignment: For some organizations, using open-source software aligns with their values of transparency, collaboration, and community contribution. It can be seen as supporting a more open and accessible technological ecosystem.
- Compliance and Data Sovereignty: Open source solutions can be hosted on-premises or in specific geographic locations, helping organizations meet data residency requirements and maintain full control over their communication data.
- Long-term Sustainability: With open-source software, organizations are not dependent on the commercial success or decisions of a single company. Even if the original creators cease development, the community can continue to maintain and improve the software.
By considering these factors, organizations can make informed decisions about whether an open-source alternative to Zoom might better suit their needs, values, and long-term strategic goals.
Features to look for in an Open Source Zoom Alternative
Open-source video conferencing tools offer a wide range of features to meet diverse communication needs. When evaluating these alternatives, it's crucial to consider the following key features that can enhance your virtual collaboration experience:
- Video and audio quality: Look for tools that offer high-definition video and clear audio, with adaptive quality based on an internet connection. Some solutions provide noise cancellation and echo reduction for improved audio clarity.
- Screen sharing and collaboration tools: Ensure the platform supports easy screen sharing, along with collaborative features like virtual whiteboards, real-time document editing, and annotation tools to enhance team productivity.
- End-to-end encryption: Prioritize platforms that offer robust security measures, including end-to-end encryption for all communications, to protect sensitive discussions and data privacy.
- User-friendly interface: Choose a tool with an intuitive, easy-to-navigate interface that requires minimal training for users. Look for features like one-click meeting joins and straightforward meeting creation processes.
- Cross-platform compatibility: Ensure the solution works seamlessly across various devices and operating systems, including desktop computers, smartphones, and tablets, to accommodate diverse user preferences.
- Integration capabilities: Look for platforms that can integrate with other tools in your workflow, such as calendar applications, project management software, or learning management systems for educational settings.
- Scalability: Choose a solution that can grow with your needs, supporting an increasing number of concurrent users without significant performance degradation or additional costs.
- Customization options: Seek platforms that allow for branding and feature customization to align with your organization's specific requirements and visual identity.
- Recording and transcription: Consider tools that offer built-in recording capabilities and automatic transcription services to enhance post-meeting productivity and accessibility.
- Breakout rooms: Look for the ability to create smaller discussion groups within larger meetings, which is particularly useful for workshops, training sessions, or team-building activities.
- Host controls: Ensure the platform provides robust host management features, such as the ability to mute participants, control screen sharing permissions, and remove disruptive attendees.
- Accessibility features: Choose tools that offer features like closed captioning, keyboard navigation, and screen reader compatibility to ensure inclusivity for all users.
- Mobile support: Look for platforms with full-featured mobile apps that allow participants to join and actively contribute to meetings from their smartphones or tablets.
- Low-bandwidth modes: Consider solutions that offer optimized performance for users with limited internet connectivity, ensuring broader participation capabilities.
- Virtual backgrounds and video filters: These features can add a professional touch to home-based meetings and help maintain privacy in various environments.
By carefully evaluating these features, you can select an open-source video conferencing tool that best meets your organization's specific needs and enhances your virtual collaboration experience.
Top 20 Open Source alternatives to Zoom
These are the best Top 20 Open Source alternatives to Zoom: Jitsi Meet, BigBlueButton, Apache OpenMeetings, Jami, Nextcloud Talk, Spreed, Hubzilla, Element (formerly Riot.im), Kopano Meet, Linphone, Wire, Rocket.Chat, Jangouts, Galene, MediaSoup, OpenVidu, LiveKit, Kurento, FreeSWITCH, and MiroTalk.
- Jitsi Meet
- BigBlueButton
- Apache OpenMeetings
- Jami
- Nextcloud Talk
- Spreed
- Hubzilla
- Element (formerly Riot.im)
- Kopano Meet
- Linphone
- Wire
- Rocket.Chat
- Jangouts
- Galene
- MediaSoup
- OpenVidu
- LiveKit
- Kurento
- FreeSWITCH
- MiroTalk
Let’s explore each alternative one by one.
Jitsi Meet
Jitsi Meet is an open-source, browser-based video conferencing platform emphasizing ease of use and security.
Features:
- High-quality video and audio calls
- Screen sharing and chat functionality
- Up to 100 participants per meeting
- Customizable meeting URLs
- Built-in security features
Limitations:
- Performance degrades in meetings with many participants
- Some features are inconsistent across different browsers
- Lacks advanced scheduling and management tools
Pricing
Free and open-source. Self-hosting options are available.
BigBlueButton
BigBlueButton is an open-source web conferencing system designed primarily for online learning but adaptable to business needs.
Features:
- Multi-user whiteboard functionality
- Breakout room support
- Shared notes and polling tools
- Screen sharing capabilities
- Integration with Learning Management Systems
Limitations:
- Interface is outdated compared to modern alternatives
- Resource-intensive, affecting performance on less powerful systems
- Initial setup requires significant technical knowledge
Pricing
Free to use and modify. Users must factor in hosting and maintenance costs if self-hosting.
Apache OpenMeetings
Apache OpenMeetings is a versatile open-source web conferencing tool suitable for various environments.
Features:
- Audio and video conferencing
- Instant messaging and whiteboard tools
- Calendar integration
- Screen sharing and document conversion
Limitations:
- Setup process is complex for non-technical users
- User interface is less intuitive than commercial alternatives
- Requires additional plugins for full functionality in some browsers
Pricing
Free under the Apache License(which is also free). Users must consider hosting and maintenance costs if self-hosting.
Jami
Jami is a privacy-focused, decentralized communication platform offering video conferencing capabilities.
Features:
- End-to-end encrypted communication
- File and screen sharing
- Multi-platform support
- Decentralized architecture for enhanced privacy
Limitations:
- Decentralized nature leads to inconsistent connection quality
- Has fewer integration options compared to centralized platforms
- Requires more user effort to maintain contact lists and connections
Pricing
Free and open-source, with no centralized services to pay for.
Nextcloud Talk
Nextcloud Talk is a self-hosted video conferencing solution integrated within the Nextcloud ecosystem.
Features:
- One-on-one and group video calls
- Screen sharing and mobile support
- Text chat functionality
- Deep integration with other Nextcloud services
Limitations:
- Video quality varies depending on self-hosted server capabilities
- Features are limited compared to dedicated video conferencing tools
- Requires Nextcloud infrastructure, unsuitable for all users
Pricing
Free as part of the Nextcloud platform. Users must consider hosting costs and optional paid support.
Spreed
Spreed is a WebRTC-based open-source video conferencing solution focusing on simplicity.
Features:
- High-quality video and audio calls
- Screen sharing and text chat
- Room-based meeting structure
- Customizable platform
Limitations:
- Lacks advanced features required by larger organizations
- User interface is too minimalistic for some users
- Has limited options for meeting recording and playback
Pricing
Free and open-source. Users must consider hosting and potential development costs.
Hubzilla
Hubzilla is a decentralized platform offering video conferencing alongside social networking features.
Features:
- Video calling functionality
- Strong privacy controls
- Content sharing capabilities
- Cross-platform compatibility
Limitations:
- Video conferencing capabilities are limited as it's not the primary focus
- Decentralized nature complicates user discovery and connections
- Interface is overwhelming due to multiple functionalities
Pricing
Free and open-source. Users can self-host or join existing hubs.
Element (formerly Riot.im)
Element is a decentralized communication tool built on the Matrix protocol, offering video conferencing capabilities.
Features:
- End-to-end encrypted messaging and video calls
- File sharing functionality
- Cross-platform support
- Interoperable with other Matrix-based services
Limitations:
- Video features are less robust compared to dedicated conferencing tools
- Decentralized nature makes initial setup more complex
- User experience varies depending on the chosen server
Pricing
Free and open-source. Users must consider self-hosting or managed hosting costs.
Kopano Meet
Kopano Meet is part of the broader Kopano collaboration suite, offering video conferencing capabilities.
Features:
- High-quality video and audio calls
- Screen sharing functionality
- Text chat integration
- Seamless integration with other Kopano tools
Limitations:
- Functionality is limited when used as a standalone
- Smaller user base results in slower feature development
- Requires familiarity with the Kopano ecosystem for optimal use
Pricing
Free and open-source, typically used within the Kopano suite which may have associated costs.
Linphone
Linphone is an open-source VoIP and video conferencing software utilizing the SIP protocol.
Features:
- Voice and video calling capabilities
- Messaging and file transfer functions
- Multi-platform support
- End-to-end encryption
Limitations:
- SIP protocol focus is unfamiliar to general users
- Interface appears less modern compared to newer alternatives
- Advanced features require additional SIP server setup
Pricing
Free and open-source. Potential costs for SIP services if required.
Wire
Wire is an end-to-end encrypted messaging and video conferencing platform with open-source components.
Features:
- Encrypted calls and messaging
- Screen and file sharing capabilities
- Self-destructing messages option
- Guest room access for external participants
Limitations:
- Video quality degrades in larger group calls
- Advanced features are reserved for paid plans
- Has limited third-party integrations compared to larger platforms
Pricing
Free personal version available. Business plans start from €4/user/month.
Rocket.Chat
Rocket.Chat is a team communication platform that includes video conferencing capabilities.
Features:
- One-on-one video calls
- Screen sharing functionality
- File sharing and channel-based communication
- Extensive third-party integrations
Limitations:
- Group video calling features are less advanced than dedicated solutions
- Initial setup and administration is complex
- Requires high server resources for optimal performance
Pricing
Free Community Edition available. Paid plans start from $3/user/month.
Jangouts
Jangouts is a simple, WebRTC-based video conferencing solution.
Features:
- Multi-party video conferencing
- Screen sharing capabilities
- Text chat functionality
- Room-based meetings
Limitations:
- Lacks advanced features such as virtual backgrounds and breakout rooms
- User interface is overly simplistic for complex collaborations
- Experiences stability issues in meetings with many participants
Pricing
Free and open-source. Users need to consider hosting costs.
Galene
Galene is a lightweight video conferencing server focusing on simplicity and efficiency.
Features:
- Group video calls
- Screen sharing functionality
- Text chat support
- WebRTC compatibility
- Meeting moderation tools
Limitations:
- Lacks advanced features found in more comprehensive solutions
- Requires technical expertise for setup and maintenance
- Has a less polished user interface compared to commercial options
Pricing
Free and open-source. Users must consider hosting and maintenance costs.
MediaSoup
MediaSoup is a WebRTC media server and SDK for building custom video conferencing applications.
Features:
- Scalable multi-party applications
- Simulcast and SVC support
- Stream recording capabilities
- Highly customizable
Limitations:
- Requires significant development effort to implement
- Has a steep learning curve for developers
- Lacks a ready-to-use interface, requiring custom frontend development
Pricing
Free and open-source. Users must consider development and hosting costs.
OpenVidu
OpenVidu is a platform simplifying the development of video conferencing applications.
Features:
- Easy integration with existing applications
- Screen sharing and recording capabilities
- Broadcasting functionality
- Multi-language SDKs available
Limitations:
- Requires development work to create a full application
- Documentation is overwhelming for beginners
- Customization requires deep WebRTC knowledge
Pricing
Free Community Edition available. Pro Edition is priced based on usage.
LiveKit
LiveKit is an open-source, WebRTC-based platform for building real-time audio and video applications.
Features:
- Scalable, cloud-native architecture
- Low-latency audio and video streaming
- Built-in support for selective forwarding unit (SFU)
- SDK support for multiple platforms (Web, iOS, Android)
Limitations:
- Requires technical expertise to set up and deploy
- Limited out-of-the-box UI components
- May need additional development for advanced features
Pricing
Free and open-source. Users need to consider hosting and potential development costs.
Kurento
Kurento is a WebRTC media server and set of client APIs for advanced video applications.
Features:
- Media processing capabilities
- Recording and playback of media streams
- Support for group communications
- Transcoding and mixing functionalities
Limitations:
- Requires substantial development effort to create a complete solution
- Has a steep learning curve, even for experienced developers
- Documentation is complex and can be difficult to navigate
Pricing
Free and open-source. Users must factor in development and hosting costs.
FreeSWITCH
FreeSWITCH is a scalable open-source, cross-platform telephony platform with video communication support.
Features:
- Support for multiple communication protocols
- Advanced call routing capabilities
- Voicemail and conferencing functionalities
- Highly extensible architecture
Limitations:
- Setup and configuration process is complex
- Primary focus is on VoIP, with video as a secondary feature
- Requires significant technical expertise to deploy and maintain
Pricing
Free and open-source. Users need to consider hosting and development costs.
MiroTalk
MiroTalk is a free, open-source WebRTC-based video conferencing solution that prioritizes simplicity and privacy.
Features:
- Peer-to-peer video calls with no account required
- Screen-sharing and file sharing capabilities
- Room password protection
- Customizable user interface
- Mobile device compatibility
Limitations:
- Supports fewer simultaneous participants than larger platforms
- Lacks advanced features like virtual backgrounds or breakout rooms
- Call quality is heavily dependent on participants' connection speeds
Pricing
MiroTalk is completely free and open-source. Users can self-host the platform, with associated hosting costs being the only expense.
Comparison of Zoom open source alternatives
Alternative |
Jitsi Meet | High-quality video/audio calls, screen sharing, up to 100 participants, customizable URLs | Performance degrades with many participants, inconsistent features across browsers, lacks advanced tools | Active community, GitHub repository, mailing lists, and community forums |
BigBlueButton | Multi-user whiteboard, breakout rooms, shared notes, screen sharing, LMS integration | Outdated interface, resource-intensive, requires technical setup
| Strong community, mailing lists, GitHub, and extensive documentation
|
Apache OpenMeetings | Audio/video conferencing, instant messaging, whiteboard, calendar integration, screen sharing | Complex setup for non-technical users, less intuitive interface, requires plugins for full functionality
| Active Apache community, mailing lists, forums, and comprehensive documentation
|
Jami | End-to-end encryption, file/screen sharing, multi-platform support, decentralized architecture | Inconsistent connection quality, fewer integration options, requires user effort to maintain connections
| Active community, GitHub repository, and forums
|
Nextcloud Talk | One-on-one/group calls, screen sharing, mobile support, chat, integration with Nextcloud services | Video quality depends on server capabilities, limited features compared to dedicated tools, needs Nextcloud
| Large and active community, forums, GitHub repository, and extensive documentation
|
Spreed | High-quality calls, screen sharing, text chat, room-based meetings | Lacks advanced features, minimalistic UI, limited recording/playback options
| Active community, GitHub repository, and forums
|
Hubzilla | Video calling, strong privacy controls, content sharing, cross-platform compatibility | Limited video conferencing features, complicated user discovery, overwhelming interface
| Strong community support, forums, GitHub, and extensive documentation
|
Element | Encrypted messaging/calls, file sharing, cross-platform support, Matrix protocol | Less robust video features, complex setup, user experience varies by server
| Active community, Matrix.org community, forums, GitHub repository
|
Kopano Meet | High-quality calls, screen sharing, text chat, integration with Kopano tools | Limited standalone functionality, smaller user base, needs Kopano ecosystem
| Community forums, GitHub repository, and professional support available
|
Linphone | Voice/video calling, messaging, file transfer, multi-platform, end-to-end encryption | SIP protocol focus, less modern interface, advanced features need SIP server setup
| Active community, forums, mailing lists, and GitHub repository
|
Wire | Encrypted calls/messaging, screen/file sharing, self-destructing messages, guest access | Video quality degrades in large groups, advanced features are paid, limited third-party integrations
| Community support via forums, GitHub repository, and professional support
|
Rocket.Chat | One-on-one video calls, screen sharing, file sharing, channel-based communication, integrations | Less advanced group video calling, complex setup, high server resource needs
| Active community, forums, GitHub repository, and extensive documentation
|
Jangouts | Multi-party video conferencing, screen sharing, text chat, room-based meetings | Lacks advanced features, simplistic UI, stability issues with many participants
| Community support via GitHub repository and forums
|
Galene | Group video calls, screen sharing, text chat, WebRTC compatibility, moderation tools | Lacks advanced features, requires technical setup, less polished UI
| Active community, GitHub repository, and mailing lists
|
MediaSoup | Scalable multi-party applications, simulcast, stream recording, highly customizable | Significant development effort, steep learning curve, no ready-to-use interface
| Active developer community, GitHub repository, and mailing lists
|
OpenVidu | Easy integration, screen sharing, recording, broadcasting, multi-language SDKs | Requires development, overwhelming documentation, customization needs deep WebRTC knowledge
| Active community, forums, GitHub repository, and detailed documentation
|
LiveKit | Scalable, cloud-native architecture, low-latency audio and video streaming, built-in SFU support, SDK support for multiple platforms (Web, iOS, Android) | Requires technical expertise to set up and deploy, limited out-of-the-box UI components, may need additional development for advanced features
| Active community, GitHub repository, documentation, and Discord channel for support
|
Kurento | Media processing, recording/playback, group communications, transcoding/mixing | Substantial development effort, steep learning curve, complex documentation
| Active community, GitHub repository, mailing lists, and forums
|
FreeSWITCH | Multiple communication protocols, advanced call routing, voicemail, conferencing | Complex setup, primary focus on VoIP with video as secondary, technical expertise required
| Strong community, forums, mailing lists, and GitHub repository
|
MiroTalk | Peer-to-peer calls, screen/file sharing, room password protection, customizable UI, mobile support | Fewer participants, lacks advanced features, call quality dependent on connection speeds
| Active community, GitHub repository, and forums
|
While Zoom remains a common choice for video conferencing, open source alternatives offer unique benefits for specific scenarios. Consider exploring these options if your organization prioritizes customization, data privacy, or cost-effectiveness. From user-friendly platforms like Jitsi Meet to advanced solutions like Kurento, the open source landscape caters to various technical skill levels and specific needs.
Open source alternatives may be particularly valuable if:
- You require full control over your data and infrastructure
- Your budget constraints demand a cost-effective solution
- You need to customize the platform to meet specific organizational requirements
- Transparency in code and security measures is a top priority
- You want to avoid vendor lock-in and prefer interoperable solutions
By carefully evaluating your needs against the features and limitations of open source options, you can make an informed decision on whether to adopt these alternatives or stick with commercial solutions like Zoom. Remember, the best choice depends on your unique circumstances, technical capabilities, and organizational values.
Checkout these fair and honest comparisons between, Zoom vs. Google Meet, Zoom vs. Microsoft Teams, Zoom vs. Webex and Zoom vs. GoToMeeting.
Limitations of Open Source
Open-source video calling platforms have gained popularity as alternatives to proprietary solutions, offering transparency, customization, and often lower costs. However, despite their advantages, these platforms come with their own set of challenges. Here are the common limitations of open-source video calling platforms:
- Technical Complexity: Many require significant technical expertise to set up and maintain.
- Resource Intensity: They often demand substantial server resources, especially for larger meetings.
- Scalability Issues: Performance can degrade with an increasing number of participants.
- Inconsistent User Experience: Features and performance may vary across different browsers and devices.
- Limited Out-of-the-Box Features: Advanced functionalities often require additional development or plugins.
- Documentation Challenges: Documentation can be complex, outdated, or incomplete, making troubleshooting difficult.
- Integration Hurdles: Seamless integration with other tools and services can be challenging.
- Security Concerns: While open-source allows for transparency, it also requires vigilant security management.
- Lack of Professional Support: Users often rely on community support, which may not be as responsive as commercial solutions.
- Compatibility Issues: Keeping up with evolving web standards and protocols can be challenging for community-driven projects.
These limitations highlight the trade-offs organizations must consider when opting for open-source video calling platforms over commercial alternatives.
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