What to look for in a Zoom Alternative?

The COVID-19 pandemic drastically altered work and communication patterns, making video conferencing essential. Zoom quickly became the go-to platform due to urgent adoption, often without careful consideration of alternatives.

While Zoom met immediate needs, its rapid implementation left many users without choice. This hasty adoption created a cycle of dependency, making it challenging to switch to potentially better alternatives even as they emerged.

Today, despite improved options and changing circumstances, many remain tied to Zoom out of habit or organizational inertia rather than preference. This situation underscores the importance of reassessing video conferencing needs and exploring alternatives that may better suit current requirements for remote collaboration and virtual meetings.

What is Zoom?

Zoom is an internet-based platform facilitating remote communication, providing services for virtual meetings, online seminars, and collaborative sessions. Established in 2011 by a software engineer previously employed at a major technology firm, Zoom was created to address perceived limitations in existing remote communication tools. The service offers capabilities for audio and visual interactions, content sharing, and various features for remote collaborative efforts.

What are Zoom’s key features?

Zoom offers features for virtual meetings and collaboration:

1. HD video and audio: High-quality video and clear audio for communication.
2. Screen sharing: Allows participants to share their screens for presentations or demonstrations.
3. Virtual backgrounds: Users can choose or upload custom backgrounds to maintain privacy or add visual interest.
4. Breakout rooms: Hosts can split participants into smaller groups for focused discussions or activities.
5. Recording: Meetings can be recorded for later review or sharing with absent team members.
6. Chat: In-meeting chat functionality for sharing links, files, or text-based communication.
7. Whiteboarding: A digital whiteboard for collaborative brainstorming and idea sharing.
8. Polls and Q&A: Tools for gathering feedback and managing audience interactions during webinars.
9. Calendar integrations: Scheduling with some calendar applications.

Learn more about Zoom features in detail.

Also check out different types of Zoom products.

Why to look for a Zoom alternative?

While Zoom's popularity soared during the pandemic, users have encountered several issues that have prompted many to seek alternatives to Zoom:

1. Security concerns: Zoom faced criticism for security vulnerabilities, including "Zoombombing" incidents where uninvited participants disrupted meetings.
2. Privacy issues: Questions arose about data handling practices and the platform's privacy policy.
3. Feature limitations: Some users found Zoom lacking in advanced features needed for specific use cases.
4. Stability and performance: As usage increased, some users experienced connection issues and poor video quality.
5. Zoom fatigue: The overuse of video conferencing led to a phenomenon known as "Zoom fatigue," prompting users to seek more engaging alternatives.
6. Pricing changes: Adjustments to Zoom's pricing structure left some users dissatisfied with the value proposition.
7. Update frequency: Frequent updates and changes to the user interface caused frustration for some users.
8. Compatibility issues: Some users experienced problems with certain devices or operating systems.
9. Customer support: As the user base grew rapidly, some customers reported difficulties in obtaining timely support.
10. Compliance concerns: Certain industries faced challenges in ensuring Zoom met their specific regulatory requirements.

These issues have led many organizations and individuals to explore alternative platforms that might better suit their needs and address their concerns.

Learn more about Zoom limitations.

What to look for in a Zoom alternative?

When evaluating alternatives to Zoom, it's crucial to consider a comprehensive set of features that can enhance your virtual communication experience. Here's a detailed look at what to prioritize:

1. Security and privacy:

• End-to-end encryption for all communications
• Compliance certifications (e.g., GDPR, HIPAA, SOC 2)
• Customizable security settings (e.g., password protection, waiting rooms)
• Transparent data handling and storage policies
• Regular security audits and updates

Learn in detail about Zoom data privacy.

2. Reliability and performance:

• Consistent audio and video quality
• Ability to handle large meeting sizes without degradation
• Low-bandwidth modes for users with poor internet connections
• Geographically distributed servers for global performance
• Uptime guarantees and service level agreements (SLAs)

3. User experience:

• Intuitive interface for hosts and participants
• Quick join options (e.g., one-click join, no download required)
• Customizable layouts and views
• Dark mode and other visual comfort features
• Mobile-friendly design for on-the-go participation

4. Advanced meeting features:

• Breakout rooms with customizable settings
• Interactive whiteboarding and annotation tools
• Real-time translation and closed captioning
• Background noise suppression
• Virtual backgrounds and video filters
• Hand-raising and non-verbal feedback options

5. Collaboration tools:

• In-meeting file sharing and collaborative document editing
• Shared notes or meeting minutes functionality
• Task assignment and tracking within the platform
• Integration with project management tools
• Persistent chat rooms for ongoing team communication

6. Customization and branding:

• Custom meeting URLs and landing pages
• Ability to add company logo and colors to the interface
• Personalized email invitations and reminders
• Custom virtual backgrounds for team consistency

7. Integration capabilities:

• Calendar integrations (Google Calendar, Outlook, etc.)
• CRM system connections for sales and customer service teams
• Learning Management System (LMS) integrations for educational use
• API access for custom integrations and workflows
• Single Sign-On (SSO) support

8. Scalability:

• Flexible pricing tiers to accommodate growth
• Ability to easily add or remove users
• Enterprise-grade features for large organizations
• Support for webinars and large-scale events

9. Cross-platform support:

• Web-based option that works across browsers
• Native apps for major desktop and mobile operating systems
• Consistent feature set across all platforms
• Offline mode or local recording options

10. Pricing structure:

• Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
• Flexible plans (monthly, annual, per-user, per-minute)
• Free tier for basic use or trial periods
• Volume discounts for larger organizations

11. Customer support:

• 24/7 availability through multiple channels (chat, phone, email)
• Comprehensive knowledge base and user forums
• Dedicated account managers for enterprise clients
• Regular training sessions and webinars

12. Accessibility features:

• Screen reader compatibility
• Keyboard navigation support
• High contrast modes and text sizing options
• Closed captioning and transcription services

13. Analytics and reporting:

• Detailed meeting analytics (attendance, engagement, etc.)
• Usage reports for administrators
• Quality of service metrics
• Custom report generation

14. Recording and content management:

• Cloud recording with easy sharing options
• Searchable transcripts of recorded meetings
• Ability to edit and trim recordings within the platform
• Integration with content management systems

15. Engagement features:

• Interactive polls and surveys
• Q&A moderation tools
• Attendee engagement scoring
• Gamification elements for training and education

By carefully evaluating these features, you can select a Zoom alternative that not only meets your current needs but also provides room for growth and adaptation to future communication trends.

Top 10 Zoom alternatives

These are the top 10 Zoom Alternatives: Video Calling App, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, Cisco Webex, GoToMeeting, Slack, Jitsi Meet, RingCentral, Lifesize, Whereby.

1. Video Calling App
2. Microsoft Teams
3. Google Meet
4. Cisco Webex
5. GoToMeeting
6. Slack
7. Jitsi Meet
8. RingCentral
9. Lifesize
10. Whereby

Now, let’s explore each alternative one by one.

Video Calling App

Video Calling App (VCA) is an AI-powered video conferencing tool that manages the entire meeting workflow. It handles pre-meeting preparation, the meeting itself, and post-meeting tasks like creating minutes and updating project tools. By maintaining context and building a knowledge base, VCA aims to reduce mental load and improve focus, setting it apart from traditional video conferencing platforms.

Key Features:

• AI-Powered Summaries: Capture essential points and action items for quick review and improved team alignment.
• Real-Time Translation and Transcription: Overcome language barriers and foster inclusivity in global teams.
• Integrated Calendars and Agenda Planners: Simplify scheduling and keep meetings focused and on track.
• Deeper Integrations: Seamlessly integrate with tools like Google Workspace, Linear, Slack, and your video conferencing app, optimizing your workflow.
• Interactive Collaboration Tools: Use digital whiteboards and document viewers for dynamic brainstorming and idea sharing.

With VCA, every meeting becomes a productive step toward achieving your team's goals. You can fill out this online form, if you want a smooth transition from your current plan with Zoom, we provide first three months free of cost.

Here's an honest comparison of Zoom vs. Video Calling App.

Pricing

Video Calling App is running a test program for a few chosen users to try out new teamwork tools. Those who join might get special help to use VCA in their daily work. There aren't many spots available. If you're interested, you can apply to be part of this special group that will test VCA's new features and get personalized advice on how to use them best.

Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams is a video conferencing solution integrated with Microsoft 365. Features include support for up to 1,000 participants, collaboration tools, and centralized work processes. 

Users have reported a steep learning curve and overwhelming interface, especially for those unfamiliar with Microsoft products. Smaller organizations may find the additional licensing costs prohibitive for accessing full functionality. Some users find Teams a bit tricky to learn at first. There are frequent hiccups in video calls, and you can't customize everything to your liking. 

Pricing: Free version available; Microsoft 365 Business Basic plan starts at $5/user/month.

Here's a handy list of top Microsoft Teams alternatives.

We have drafted a very honest comparison of Microsoft Teams vs. Video Calling App.

Zoom vs. Microsoft Teams, showcases how both the applications compare to each other.

See how Zoom's pricing compares to Microsoft Teams' in, Zoom vs. Microsoft Teams pricing.

Google Meet

Google Meet is a video conferencing tool within Google Workspace. It offers easy-to-join meetings, screen sharing, and integration with other Google services. 

While easy to use, it lacks some advanced features found in more complex platforms. Google Meet has several limitations like including restricted grid view options in large meetings and time limits on meeting duration for free accounts. Users often encounter audio and video lags.

Pricing: Free version available but with no recording option; Google Workspace plans start at $6/user/month.

If Google Meet is not satisfying your needs anymore, you should look for top Google Meet alternatives.

Check out this fair comparison of Google Meet vs. Video Calling App.

See how Google Meet compares to Zoom and Microsoft Teams in, Zoom vs. Google Meet and Google Meet vs. Microsoft Teams.

Zoom vs. Google Meet pricing, compares the pricing structure of the two platforms.

Cisco Webex

Cisco Webex is a collaboration suite known for enterprise-grade security. It offers high-quality video, screen sharing, virtual backgrounds, and AI-powered features. 

Some users find the interface less intuitive compared to simpler alternatives, and the robust feature set can be overwhelming for small teams. Cisco Webex also has limitations, which include a maximum of six video streams in both directions, which does not suffice for larger meetings. Users have reported experiencing longer load times after significant platform upgrades.

Pricing: Free plan available; Paid plans start at $13.50/host/month.

Here's a very honest and unbiased comparison on how Video Calling App leads over Webex in Cisco Webex vs. Video Calling App.

We have created a list of top Cisco Webex alternatives.

Also check out Zoom vs. Webex, for a truthful comparison between the two.

GoToMeeting

GoToMeeting focuses on simplicity and mobile-friendly design. Features include drawing tools, mouse sharing, and transcription services. 

While user-friendly, it offers fewer collaboration features compared to some alternatives. Some users have reported audio quality issues. 

Pricing: Professional plan starts at $12/organizer/month; Business plan at $16/organizer/month.

You should check out top GoToMeeting alternatives, if it does not satisfy your needs anymore.

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

Slack Huddles 

Slack huddles are a part of the Slack workspace. The platform allows users to switch between text and video communication. Group video calls are limited to 15 participants.

Users have reported that the video and audio quality can be inconsistent. Slack's video conferencing features are not as robust as those of specialized platforms. Users have reported frequent service outages, which can disrupt workflows and cause frustration. Some find the user interface counterintuitive, potentially impacting productivity. Additionally, concerns have been raised about the platform's overall value proposition.

Pricing: Included in Slack plans, which start at $6.67/user/month for the Standard plan.

Jitsi Meet

Jitsi Meet is a free, open-source platform known for privacy and flexibility. It offers end-to-end encryption and custom branding options. 

While cost-effective, it lacks some advanced features of premium solutions and can be less stable with large groups. Users have reported occasional difficulties with audio synchronization. Jitsi Meet needs really good internet connectivity. It has very less advanced features than other paid platforms, interface complexities for new users, and scaling challenges for large meetings.

Pricing: Free.

RingCentral Video

RingCentral Video is part of a communication suite with AI-powered meeting summaries and advanced analytics. 

However adopting the entire suite may be necessary for full functionality, which can be costly for smaller teams. Some users have reported a complex setup process. 

Pricing: Essentials plan starts at $19.99/user/month.

Lifesize

Lifesize focuses on high-quality video, offering 4K conferencing and interoperability with other systems. It's well-suited for organizations needing dedicated hardware solutions. 

However, higher-end plans can be expensive, and some users find the software interface dated compared to newer platforms. 

Pricing: Standard plan starts at $12.95/host/month.

Whereby

Whereby is a browser-based solution requiring no downloads, offering customizable meeting rooms and an integrated YouTube player. While user-friendly, it's limited to 100 participants, even in its highest tier.

Some users have reported browser compatibility issues. Whereby's limitations include a maximum of 50 participants in a meeting, which may not suit larger teams, and limited advanced features compared to other video conferencing tools, such as breakout rooms and extensive integration options.

Pricing: Free plan available; Pro plan at $6.99/month; Business plan at $9.99/user/month.

Comparison

Zoom User Reviews

Zoom's rapid rise to prominence in the video conferencing world has been accompanied by a range of challenges and criticisms. While the platform has become an essential tool for many, users have identified several areas of concern:

• Security and privacy issues:

  - "Zoombombing" incidents exposing initial security vulnerabilities
 - Questions raised about data handling practices and privacy policies
  - Increased scrutiny leading to policy changes

• Performance challenges:

  - Reports of unstable connections, audio quality problems, and video lags
  - Issues more prevalent in areas with less robust internet infrastructure

• User well-being concerns:

  - "Zoom fatigue" phenomenon recognized, causing user exhaustion
  - Discussions about psychological impact of excessive screen time

• Feature and interface feedback:

  - Mixed reviews on continuous updates and improvements
  - Some users finding frequent changes disruptive to workflows

• Pricing structure debates:

  - Recent changes perceived as decreasing value, especially for small businesses and    educational institutions

• Customer support issues:

  - Difficulties reported in obtaining timely assistance
  - Challenges attributed to rapid scaling to meet increased demand

• Regulatory compliance concerns:

  - Some industries struggling to ensure Zoom meets specific regulatory requirements
  - Search for more compliant alternatives in certain sectors

Check out That's what you said, it's a compilation of the issues Zoom users faced and ended up posting on platforms like - G2, Reddit, X (Twitter), etc.

Also if you want to go Zoom free learn how to cancel Zoom subscription.

Host Better Meetings with Video Calling App

Remote work has made video calls a big part of our daily lives, but many tools we use aren't very smooth. We often face annoying updates, trouble sharing screens, and AI features that don't work well. It's also hard to remember what happened in past meetings, especially when we have many in a row. Plus, these tools often don't work well with our other work apps, making us switch between them a lot.

All these small problems add up, and we end up spending more time dealing with tech issues than actually working. That's why we're creating the Video Calling App. It's a new video call tool that uses AI to make the whole meeting process easier. It helps keep track of what's important from each meeting and works well with other apps. It also looks nice and modern, like you'd expect in 2024. We want to make video calls less frustrating and help people work together better online.

Video Calling app includes features such as precise AI-generated smart summaries, action items, real-time transcripts, translations, auto-tagged discussions, task management, a searchable knowledge library, and more.

Migrating from Zoom to the Video Calling app

Video Calling App understands that changing to a new platform can be tough. To make it easier, we're offering a special deal: you can get up to three months free, matching your current Zoom plan. Just fill out a simple online form to get this offer.

Want to see how the Video Calling App stacks up against Zoom? We have put together a straightforward Zoom vs. Video Calling App comparison for you to check out.

Right now, Video Calling App is in its early stages and is letting in a small number of new users each day. This means you could be one of the first to try out our new features designed to make remote work smoother and more efficient.