Online meeting apps are a must for working from remote locations. These apps help people from different countries to communicate and collaborate at any time of the day. The two famous apps are Zoom and Skype.
Key Takeaways
- Zoom and Skype are video conferencing platforms allowing users to communicate in real time over the internet.
- Zoom is known for its easy-to-use interface and high-quality video and audio, while Skype is popular for its instant messaging and screen-sharing features.
- Zoom is more suitable for large-scale webinars, while Skype is better for one-on-one conversations and smaller group meetings.
Zoom vs Skype
The difference between Zoom and Skype is the number of participants it allows. The Zoom basic plan (free) allows a video conferencing of 100 participants simultaneously, while Skype’s basic program allows only 50 participants. Zoom and Skype have been the leading platforms that will enable attractive conferencing services and tools.
Comparison Table
| Parameter of Comparison | Zoom | Skype |
|---|---|---|
| Basic free plan participant limit | Zoom allows 100 participants (up to 49 visible at one time) per free subscription for a session of 40 minutes. | Skype allows 50 participants per session; it offers 250 participants for a business plan membership. |
| Platform Support | Zoom supports a variety of platforms and devices such as Windows, Mac OS, IOS, iPhone/ iPad, Android, Linux, Web-based | Skype supports platforms and devices such as Windows, Mac OS, IOS, iPhone/ iPad, Android, Web-based |
| Web Features | Real-time and private chats, Recording & playback, screen sharing, and presentation tools, 1GB cloud storage | Real-time and private chats, file sharing, video messages, 50GB mailbox, 1TB cloud storage |
| Support | Online support | On-demand support |
| Supported Integration | Google Drive, Pardot, Dropbox, Eloqua, HubSpot, Infusionsoft | Agile CRM, Slack, Microsoft Systems, Grasshopper |
| Language | English | English |
| Popular customers | Delta, Match.com, Sonos, Pandora, Slack, GoDaddy | VerbalizeIt, Advansys, AIRDEX, Diverse Learners |
| Recordings | Zoom provides 1 GB of cloud space for recordings | Skype stores Recordings for up to 30 days |
| Special features | Custom virtual background, end-to-end encryption. | Blur my background, React emojis. |
What is Zoom?
Zoom is a cloud-based video conferencing tool that provides various features depending on the type of plan.
With Zoom, one can host meetings and arrange split-viewer sessions for clients or employees, all with full control of the host’s panel.
Zoom also comes with innovative options that allow the viewers to interact with the host or fellow participants via the RAISE HAND feature or drop a message in the chatbox for the host to answer later, allowing less distraction during meetings.
The video conferences/meetings can be recorded, shared, and played back later for future reference. A potent and useful tool for small/mid-scale businesses, it allows more features like prolonged meeting time and participant space with paid plans.
Employers looking for 1-1 direct meetings with their employees will be satisfied as they can have unlimited sessions with Zoom.
What is Skype?
Skype is an innovative tool for video conferencing, file sharing, IM, online presentations, voice calls, and more.
Skype offers advanced features varying from free to paid plans depending on the user’s needs. We use these plans to add participant limits, share host privileges, and control meetings.
Skype has been on the air for a long time, giving it an air of trustworthiness and popularity.
As the only video conferencing provider before other soft-wares, Skype has led its customers and competitors. Skype has been up for a long to, so most users already know how to use it.
Main Differences Between Zoom and Skype
- Skype is considered more secure than Zoom, as there have been reports of so-called Zoom bombings where a breach of a meeting occurred via an invite link.
- Skype is considered more user-friendly as it has been in the market for a long time, and the developers are trying daily to make it more comfortable for users.
- Zoom offers interactive paid packages at low prices, whereas to use premium services from Skype, the amount varies from requirement to requirement.
- Zoom offers innovative tools ranging from screen sharing to presentation tools, techniques, and tutorials.
- Zoom provides Online support, whereas Skype uses on-demand support.
- Skype provides more cloud storage and mailbox space than Zoom, which gives Skype a hassle-free and comprehensive file-sharing service.
- Skype’s free plan is widely prevalent among freelancers.
- With Zoom, you only need to join in with an email id, and guests need not create an account. With Skype, an account is a must to use.
- Skype is better for teams looking for holistic business solutions, and Zoom is better for frequent video conferencing and meetings.
- Skype provides better video and audio quality than Zoom, but Skype has some hiccups. The sessions are reported to freeze up sometimes. With Zoom, you will have to increase the video quality rate manually. It doesn’t do it alone, whereas Skype adjusts the video quality independently.
- Zoom can break out rooms and allow you to see more than four people simultaneously.
- Zoom is an attractive feature added to Outlook that allows you to add meeting schedules to your calendars.
- Unlimited 1-1 meetings can be hosted on Zoom.
- Skype has launched Skype Meet for users to eliminate the need to download an app, and users can now attend a Skype meeting by clicking on a link and logging in as a guest.
- https://books.google.com/books?hl=en&lr=&id=9NvBDwAAQBAJ&oi=fnd&pg=PT136&dq=Zoom+and+Skype&ots=TrXTHWdB7j&sig=f2N9hCrSJWuht5fA-seQgZstkYo
- https://dl.acm.org/doi/abs/10.1145/2398776.2398816
Last Updated : 11 June, 2023
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Sandeep Bhandari holds a Bachelor of Engineering in Computers from Thapar University (2006). He has 20 years of experience in the technology field. He has a keen interest in various technical fields, including database systems, computer networks, and programming. You can read more about him on his bio page.
The detailed analysis of Zoom and Skype highlighted the crucial nuances between the platforms, making it easier for professionals to make informed decisions.
The article successfully navigated the complexities of Zoom and Skype, facilitating an enhanced comprehension of their functionalities. A well-structured piece of content.
I share your appreciation, Griffiths Craig. The article provided a comprehensive understanding of the capabilities and limitations of both platforms.
The feature comparison presented in the article was highly informative. It provided a comprehensive overview of the functionalities offered by Zoom and Skype, aiding in decision-making for businesses.
I couldn’t agree more, Peter01. This detailed feature analysis is invaluable for professionals exploring remote communication options.
The comparison table was particularly beneficial in assessing the capabilities of Zoom and Skype. It presented a clear distinction between the two platforms.
The article’s emphasis on the unique features of Zoom and Skype provided an insightful perspective, shedding light on the distinct offerings of each platform.
Absolutely, Mstevens. The delineation of key features is fundamental for professionals in choosing the most suitable platform for their communication needs.
This article fails to acknowledge the potential technical glitches experienced by users of Zoom and Skype. A more balanced view would have been advantageous.
I share your sentiment, Ross Sean. A comprehensive review should encompass both the positive and negative aspects of these platforms to provide a holistic perspective.
The lack of discussion on the real-world applications and use cases of Zoom and Skype is a notable oversight in this article. A more practical approach would have been beneficial.
A thorough examination of real-world scenarios would have added considerable value to the comparative analysis of Zoom and Skype.
I agree, Muhammad23. Understanding the practical implications of these platforms in professional environments is essential for users seeking to leverage remote communication effectively.
The insightful comparison between Zoom and Skype’s features really helped me decide which platform to use for my business meetings. I appreciate the detailed information provided.
I completely agree, Leanne36. This article gave me a clear understanding of the differences and benefits of each platform. The comparison table was particularly useful.
I wish this article also discussed security concerns associated with Zoom and Skype in more detail, as this is a crucial aspect when deciding which platform to use for professional communication.
I echo your sentiments, Uphillips. Security is a paramount concern in today’s digital landscape, especially for professionals working remotely.
The lack of detailed security analysis is a notable gap in this article. It would have been beneficial to understand the potential risks associated with each platform.
The article succinctly delineates the distinctive advantages of Zoom and Skype, empowering users to make informed decisions based on their unique requirements.
I concur, Jack Ellis. The comparison aided in identifying the most suitable platform for specific business needs.
Well said, Jack Ellis. Understanding the nuanced differences between the platforms is crucial for making optimal choices in professional settings.
I appreciate the thorough comparison of Zoom and Skype, which illuminated their respective strengths and weaknesses. An enlightening read indeed.