You probably don’t spend much time thinking about your choice of video conferencing software. That is until something goes wrong — a call won’t connect, a team member can’t join, audio drops halfway through a sentence, or the video freezes and won’t restart.
Suddenly, a simple meeting turns into frustration.
That’s why the best video conferencing software isn’t necessarily the one with the longest feature list — it’s the one that works when it’s needed.
This blog post looks at the best video conferencing apps based on what they’re meant for, so you can choose the one that works best for you and your team.
Let’s start.
Why trust us?
The apps we talk about are selected, tested, and written about by human reviewers who follow strict review and editorial guidelines. We pick solutions that are practical, purposeful, and can offer real value for the specific use case or business context we’re covering — while also being justified in their pricing. Our methodology is transparent, clear, and available to everyone:
At-a-glance: Comparison of the best video conferencing software
Before we dive into the details of our picks for the best meeting software, here’s some of the most important information about these apps that stood out to me while I was testing them.
Below is a quick overview of the 7 top video conferencing apps — what they’re best for, their standout features, and pricing.
| Video conferencing software | Best for | Standout feature | Pricing | Free plan limitations |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pumble | Internal video conferencing | Audio and video calls built into an all-in-one team communication tool | Free plan available; Paid plans start at $2.49/user/month | One-on-one audio and video calls; unlimited duration Group calls unavailable |
| Zoom | External video conferencing | High-quality video meetings with advanced controls | Free plan available; Paid plans start at $13.33/user/month | Up to 100 participants; group calls limited to 40 minutes |
| Microsoft Teams | Microsoft 365 users | Good quality video meetings within a team communication app | Free plan available; Paid plans start at $4/user/month | Up to 100 participants; group calls limited to 60 minutes |
| Google Meet | Google Workspace users | Fast, browser-based meetings with Google Workspace integration | Free plan available; Paid plans start at $6/user/month | Up to 100 participants; group calls limited to 60 minutes |
| Slack | Quick 1-on-1 discussions with team members | Quick video and audio calls started instantly from chats and channels | Free plan available; Paid plans start at $7.25/user/month | One-on-one huddles; unlimited duration Group huddles unavailable |
| Webex Meetings | Large enterprises | Secure, enterprise-ready video meetings for large organizations | Free plan available; Paid plans start at $14.50/user/month | Up to 100 participants; group calls limited to 40 minutes |
| Jitsi Meet | Uncomplicated video calls | Free, no sign-up video calls with instant setup | Free | Unlimited participants (depends on server capacity); unlimited meeting duration |
Now, let’s get into the details.
Our top pick: Pumble — best overall value for remote/distributed teams
Pumble is an all-in-one video conferencing software that streamlines team communication and helps businesses achieve seamless collaboration.
With its extensive features, Pumble is a perfect fit for distributed teams of all sizes.
Pros of using Pumble:
Pumble is becoming one of the most popular video conferencing tools on the market for one simple reason — it’s easy to use.
As someone who uses Pumble daily to keep in touch with colleagues, I’m happy with the user-friendly interface. Our weekly video meetings are also a breeze — the audio and video don’t lag, so each meeting is pleasant and engaging.
Thanks to Pumble’s comprehensive features, you can do much more than just video chat. It’s a full-fledged team communication and collaboration tool.
For instance, you can problem-solve and exchange ideas through in-chat messages or screen sharing. The option to record meetings and share them in team channels is handy — everyone can stay informed, regardless of whether they could attend a video conference.
Additionally, you get unlimited users and unlimited message history — even in the free plan.
I personally find the guest access feature a real standout. It allows you to invite external collaborators to your workspace with just a few clicks. From there, generate a meeting link, send it via DMs, and that’s it — you’ve invited your guest to a virtual meeting.
Cons of using Pumble:
The platform is packed with excellent features but currently lacks read receipts for messages. That said, this hasn’t diminished the stellar web conferencing experience for me personally.
Pumble has recently rolled out multilingual support, as well as multiple new integrations.
Available for: Web, Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android
Pricing: Free plan available; paid plans from $2.49 per user per month
Video conferencing software market leaders
Now, let’s go over some of the most popular video conferencing platforms, and see if their place as market leaders is justifiable by what they offer. Some of these are focused on meetings only, while others are apps that combine video and chat.
Zoom — best for external video conferencing
Zoom has now established itself as one of the most popular video conferencing software.
Pros of using Zoom:
The first thing I noticed while reviewing Zoom is that the free version has quite a robust set of features and options, including:
- 40-minute meetings with up to 100 attendees,
- Whiteboards, and
- Team chat.
As far as video conferencing software goes, Zoom is quite easy to navigate. All you need to do is to click the meeting link, and the video conference can begin.
Due to its free plan, I felt that Zoom could be a good option if your business is just starting out.
Security measures like waiting rooms and meeting passwords let hosts manage access, while end-to-end encryption protects data, including chat messages, during video conferences. Overall, these proactive measures should do a good job of safeguarding sensitive discussions.
Cons of using Zoom:
One of the biggest drawbacks of the free version is the 40-minute cut-off. Imagine trying to close a deal or finish your presentation, only for the meeting to end unexpectedly — not ideal.
Also, the lack of other communication features means you’ll need other platforms to successfully communicate with your team.
More advanced features are available in Zoom’s paid plans, but Zoom is on the pricier side of video conferencing apps.
Some businesses may be ready to foot the bill, but several more affordable Zoom alternatives are available.
Hold effective meetings for $2.49
What’s new in Zoom:
Zoom has introduced a new and improved AI assistant to the Zoom Workplace app, which should help users generate content and find information more efficiently.
Available for: Web, Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android
Pricing: Free plan available; paid plans start at $13.33 per host/month.
💡 Pumble Pro Tip
To see how Zoom stacks up against Pumble, check out our detailed blog post:
Microsoft Teams — best for Microsoft 365 users
Microsoft Teams is a video conferencing software integrated into the Microsoft Office 365 suite of applications. As such, it’s become the go-to online conferencing platform for Microsoft users.
Pros of using Microsoft Teams:
Teams offers a free version under the “Home Plans” section and 4 paid enterprise plans.
I was initially skeptical whether the no-cost version could support startups or small businesses, but its features proved me wrong. I quickly got the hang of the unlimited chat messaging and was happy I could share files (up to 2 GB per user) through the chat.
I also got 5 GB of cloud storage via OneDrive, which takes the hassle out of storing and sharing information. Had I wanted to collaborate in real time, I could have used other Microsoft products that come preinstalled within Teams, such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Video conferencing went smoothly — the audio and video quality was up to par, and I had no trouble sharing my screen. And, I simply blurred the background when I wanted to add a dash of professionalism to my setup.
In Teams, you can also:
- Record meetings,
- Invite external guests, and
- Use Microsoft Whiteboard to drive creative meetings.
Additionally, Microsoft’s AI assistant can automatically capture notes, action items, and meetings summaries.
Cons of using Microsoft Teams:
Although I’ve used other Microsoft apps extensively, I had limited experience with Teams. Consequently, it took some time before I got used to all of its functionality.
Another disappointment was that video calls in Microsoft Teams’ free plan were limited to 60 minutes.
What’s new in Microsoft Teams:
Microsoft Teams is continuously developing its AI assistant — it can generate messages, and get insights from chats, history and calendar content.
Available for: Web, Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
Pricing: Free plan available; paid plans from $4 per user per month.
💡 Pumble Pro Tip
Microsoft Teams is one of the most popular team communication tools. But, is it the best? Check out how it compares to Pumble:
Google Meet — best for Google Workspace users
Google Meet is a widely used online conferencing platform that integrates well with other Google apps.
Thus, it’s a good choice for teams already using Google Workspace.
Pros of using Google Meet:
Anyone with a Google account can use Google Meet as a free video conferencing app. Simply create and share the meeting ID or link with up to 100 attendees, and meet for up to 60 minutes at no cost.
The features I liked in the free plan include:
- Screen sharing,
- Chat boxes, and
- Breakout rooms.
Sharing files is simple, too — if you store files on Google Drive, you can find and send them through the chat box without leaving the call. This highlights how seamlessly Google products work together.
As a web-based app, there’s no need to install software, which keeps your PC running smoothly. However, the performance of web-based apps depends on your network connection.
When I experienced connection issues, switching off my camera improved the audio quality, though this might not work for everyone.
Cons of using Google Meet:
If you join a meeting late, you won’t see messages sent before your arrival. Additionally, Google Meet deletes all chat messages at the meeting’s end, so chat history isn’t available.
What’s new in Google Meet:
New AI features allow for AI-powered summaries, “Companion mode” for working alongside meetings, and AI noise cancellation.
Available for: Web, iOS, Android
Pricing: Free plan available; paid plans from $6 per user per month.
Slack — best for quick one-on-one discussions
Slack is primarily a text-based team communication app, but it does offer built-in video and audio calls for quick check-ins or informal discussions. These calls are called huddles in Slack.
Pros of using Slack:
Slack works best when video calls are an extension of an ongoing conversation. Being able to jump on a call directly from a channel or direct message feels natural and easier than having to schedule meetings on a different platform.
In Slack video calls, you can:
- Start one-on-one or group audio or video calls,
- Share your screen,
- Take meeting notes, and
- Switch between chat and video without leaving the app.
After finishing the call, the related notes and messages will be available in the same thread, which makes it easy to reference it later.
Cons of using Slack:
Although Slack offers audio and video calls, they’re not Slack’s main features.
Video quality and meeting controls are fairly basic, and larger calls feel limited compared to dedicated conferencing tools.
As such, Slack isn’t ideal for formal meetings, webinars, or large group calls. Features such as advanced recording options, breakout rooms, and meeting analytics are missing.
Additionally, in Slack’s free plan, your message history is limited to 90 days.
Get free message history in Pumble
What’s new in Slack:
Slack has been focused on improving and expanding its AI capabilities — Slack’s AI assistant can now give you better search results as well as summarize missed messages.
Available for: Web, Windows, macOS, iOS, Android
Pricing: Free plan available; paid plans start at $7.25 per user per month.
💡 Pumble Pro Tip
Slack and Pumble offer similar features and capabilities. However, how do they actually compare in the things that matter? Check it out in our comparison post:
Video conferencing software alternatives for enterprises
If you need a tool for larger meetings and with enterprise-grade capabilities, here are a few options of best meeting software.
Webex Meetings — best for organizations that need enterprise-level features
Webex Meeting is a video conferencing tool that provides high-definition video and audio quality topped with strong security features.
Pros of using Webex Meetings:
Some video conferencing software fails to deliver stable calls. Fortunately, that’s not a problem I faced with Webex. The audio and video quality was great, and not once did my connection waver.
This video conferencing app didn’t skimp on collaboration features, either. In the free version, I could:
- Share my screen,
- Use whiteboards, and
- Enjoy end-to-end encryption.
I work from home, so I was eager to test the noise-cancellation feature. Although some background noise remained, it removed most interferences, optimizing my video conferencing experience.
Cons of using Webex Meetings:
Like Zoom, Webex limits video calls in the no-cost version to 40 minutes. Not to mention, the paid plans have a steeper price.
Advanced features like closed captions, live polling, and unlimited meetings may justify the higher cost for large organizations, but small businesses might prefer a more budget-friendly option.
What’s new in Webex Meetings:
Most recent updates were stability and maintenance fixes.
Available for: Web, Windows, Mac, iOS, Android
Pricing: Free plan available; paid plans from $14.50 per month per license.
💡 Pumble Pro Tip
Screen sharing is an essential feature for video conferencing tools. Here are our top picks when it comes to screen sharing software:
Jitsi Meet — best for unlimited video calls
Jitsi Meet is an encrypted open-source video conferencing software you can use without downloading heavy-weight programs.
Pros of using Jitsi Meet:
In addition to being completely free, Jitsi Meet is pretty straightforward, with features such as:
- Screen sharing for multiple users,
- Meeting recording,
- Whiteboards, and
- Chat and polls.
As far as first impressions go, I thought that the interface was streamlined and intuitive — no downloads required. A few clicks to make my account, and done — I could join a meeting from my browser.
To invite people, you can share a generated link or send an invitation via email.
The video quality is satisfactory, although not great, as is usually the case with web-based apps. Only the meeting moderator is required to have a Jitsi account, and they can take advantage of the polling and screen-sharing capabilities.
Besides being lightweight, Jitsi is also open-sourced, which means you can run it on a separate server. This is a nice bonus for organizations concerned about privacy and security.
Cons of using Jitsi Meet:
Unfortunately, the quality of video meetings is inconsistent, and it depends on the strength of your network connection. The participant limit is also dependent on current server capacity.
Another minus for Jitsi is the limited customization options.
What’s new in Jitsi Meet:
The online meeting platform recently introduced a new video codec, which should sharpen a user’s video feed while consuming less data.
Available for: Web, iOS, Android
Pricing: Free
Choose a hub, not just a meeting room — try Pumble
Video conferencing works best when it doesn’t feel like a separate task. For internal teams, the most effective meetings are often the ones that happen naturally, right where work is already happening.
That’s where Pumble stands out — video calls are built into everyday communication. You can:
- Start calls directly from the app,
- Share meeting links and notes in group chats, and
- Save time by not switching between different tools for different communication needs.
If your team is looking for a simple and affordable way to handle internal video calls without adding yet another platform, try Pumble as an all-in-one communication solution.
