Skype Vs. Zoom: Which Is The Best Video Conferencing Tool?

Skype is a Microsoft telecommunication program that enables real-time remote interaction between several parties. Initially, the software was intended for internet-based voice calls. While that is still its primary function, it has expanded to incorporate video calls and instant messaging. This application is compatible with devices running Windows, Mac OS, Linux, Android, iOS, Xbox, and Amazon Alexa.

Zoom is a video conferencing tool hosted in the cloud. It allows users to host and record meetings, participate in group conversations, and interact as if they were in the same workplace. It was designed with major businesses in mind. The application is compatible with Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS.

As more professionals work from home, the importance of a dependable video conferencing solution increases. You may be considering Zoom versus Skype for your remote communication and team collaboration requirements. There are significant differences between the two apps, even though they share many similarities.

Your optimal solution will depend on your unique business requirements. Security, scalability, usability, the variety of available features, and customer support are all crucial factors. In this review, we contrast Skype and Zoom, highlighting their respective strengths and areas for improvement.

Skype vs. Zoom: Features

While both Skype and Zoom allow you to hold video conferences and record them for later review, their capabilities are vastly different. Skype can accommodate up to 50 users in a single video conference. Zoom supports up to 1,000 video participants and 49 videos on-screen.

Both Zoom and Skype allow non-account holders to join a meeting via a shared link or code, regardless of whether they have an account with either service. But Skype has recently upped the ante with a Meet Now feature that was heavily promoted during the coronavirus shutdown. Hosts can now create and share a free meeting even if they do not have the Skype client installed. The process is accomplished via a Skype web interface and requires only a few clicks.

Beyond videoconferencing, the fundamental feature sets of the two tools are comparable. Both applications support screen sharing, whiteboarding, and the sharing of documents and other files, all of which are essential for conducting business. Zoom, on the other hand, offers business-ready features that Skype lacks, including breakout sessions, the ability to generate meeting transcripts, webinar hosting, and robust meeting analytics and reporting tools.

Comparison of Skype Vs. Zoom

Video Sharing Quality

Video quality is an important consideration when selecting a messenger. It is crucial when organising a business meeting, but important for consumer use. When comparing Zoom vs Skype in terms of streaming quality, you have little to worry about with Zoom.

Both platforms feature 1080p resolution for crisp photos. Yet, there is one distinction that may influence your decision. Every Skype video call is 1080p by default, but Zoom calls are 720p. You will still see a high-quality photograph. If you want a full team to communicate in high definition, however, each user will need to manually alter their settings. Use a Windows PC screen recorder to capture meetings and video calls.

Device compatibility

In video conferencing, compatibility is an essential factor. With any option, you are assured of the highest level of accessibility. You can access desktop video calling through Skype messenger, a mobile application, or the web browser of your choice. Similarly, Zoom is a fantastic cross-platform application for productivity.

In addition to device compatibility for streaming, there is an additional method of connection for both services. You will be given a dial-in number when you choose to host a Skype or Zoom conference call. They can call from a mobile device or a landline to listen to the audio.

Security

Unfortunately, their reputation has been tainted by a major security breach in 2020. Users can create a Zoom online meeting that can be joined by clicking a link. Over 500,000 accounts were stolen in 2020 as a result of a lack of security and the growing popularity of Zoom. The company has taken steps to improve its overall security. To stay safe online, always follow the online safety tips.

Although clickable links are still available, meetings now include embedded IDs and passcodes. Waiting rooms have also been added to Zoom so that hosts can see who is attempting to join before allowing them in. In contrast, no known breaches of Skype video conference software have occurred. End-to-end 256-bit encryption has always been used.

Ease of use

Both Skype and Zoom offer straightforward navigation and user-friendly interfaces. Skype offers a straightforward interface with tabs for contacts, chats, and calls, as well as a search bar and settings menu button. The functions of Skype are placed in a sidebar that can be enlarged or contracted as necessary. Moreover, Skype allows users to modify their profile image, status, and notifications.

Zoom's interface is equally sleek and basic, with a focus on the meeting experience. Zoom's primary interface displays the video of the host and participants, as well as controls for audio, video, and screen sharing. Zoom also features an expandable toolbar with additional capabilities, such as recording, virtual backgrounds, and reactions. Zoom permits users to modify their display name, profile image, and background.

When comparing the user-friendliness of Skype versus Zoom, it is essential to consider the user's experience with the platform and their particular requirements. Some users may find Skype's interface more familiar and pleasant, particularly if they are already accustomed to Microsoft's other applications. Alternatively, some users may prefer Zoom's simplified design, which prioritises the conference experience without interruptions

Pricing

Skype and Zoom both provide free and premium subscriptions, depending on the user's need. Skype's free package permits video calls with up to 50 participants, screen sharing, and instant messaging. 

However, calls are limited to 60 minutes in length and customers must sign in using a Microsoft account. Skype now offers a subscription package called Skype for Business, which is geared toward businesses and offers more advanced features such as recording, scheduling, and Microsoft Office integration. Skype for Business is offered on a per-user, per-month basis, with per-user monthly fees beginning at $5.

In contrast, Zoom's free subscription allows users to make video calls with up to 100 participants, host unlimited one-on-one meetings, and utilise tools such as screen sharing and virtual backgrounds. Yet, group sessions are limited to forty minutes. Paid plans of Zoom offer additional features, including longer meetings, more attendees, and webinar hosting. Paid plans begin at $14.99 per host per month for Pro, $19.99 per host per month for Business, and custom pricing for Enterprise.

While comparing the prices of Skype and Zoom, it is essential to assess which features are most valuable to the user. Skype for Business may be preferable if the user needs to combine video conferencing with Microsoft Office, for instance. If the user needs to host webinars or longer meetings, however, Zoom's premium subscriptions may be preferable.

Conclusion

Zoom delivers significantly more sophisticated business functionality than Skype and is the clear winner in the comparison between Zoom and Skype.

With Zoom, you can host meetings with up to 1,000 attendees, while Skype only allows 100. Zoom provides whiteboards, meeting transcripts, participant polling, breakout sessions, social media streaming, and a multitude of other features. Skype is useful for small teams and personal use, but it pales in comparison to Zoom's vast commercial functionality.

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