Due to the coronavirus outbreak, the popularity of video calling apps is exploding. Here we bring a quick comparison between Jitsi Meet, a new open-source free video calling app, and Microsoft’s Skype.
As COVID-19 hits the nation, video conferencing becomes the normal way of communication. Be it businesses, professionals, housewives, friends, everyone is using video calling apps for chatting and staying connected.
Here’s what you need to know about the two of the best video calling apps Jitsi Meet and Skype.
Jitsi VS Skype
| Specifications | Jitsi Meet | Skype |
|---|---|---|
| Audio recording | Yes | Yes |
| Media | Yes | Emoji/audio/video/images |
| Platforms | Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux | iOS, Android, Web, Windows, macOS,iPad |
| Screen Sharing | Yes | Yes |
| Video conferencing | Yes | Yes |
| Cloud sync | NA | Yes |
| VoIP | Yes | Yes |
| End to end encryption | Yes | Yes |
| Groups | Yes | Yes |
| File Size | Differs from device to device | – |
| Hosting Options | Hosted | – |
| In-app purchase | None | None we know about |
| Messaging system | Data | – |
| Multi-device | Yes | Yes |
| Location sharing | Yes | – |
| DIY integrations | No | – |
| Native videoconferencing | Yes | – |
| Android and iOS version | Yes | – |
| Server stored messages | For 30 days | – |
| Service integrations | Paid (monthly plan) | Free open source |
| Video recording | Yes | – |
What is Jitsi Meet?
Jitsi Meet is an easy to use, open-source free video calling app. Using it you can easily arrange secure video conferencing calls. Although this new video calling app is the answer to all the security and privacy concerns raised due to Zoom. Using its end to end encryption you can stay secure and no need to worry about privacy.
Features – Jitsi Meet – video calling app
Ease of Use – The most important and outstanding feature of this best video calling is its ease of use. Without installing the app on your Mac or Windows you can use it. Simply visit https://jitsi.org/jitsi-meet/ give a name to your meeting and you are all set. This link can be shared with anyone and moreover you even set a password. Unlike the Zoom video calling app, Jitsi Meet is secure and keeps chats private. Not only this, but the app also doesn’t share data.
Security – The app offers end to end encryption means all your video and audio chats are secure. Intercepting them is difficult; this means no third parties or companies like Skype or Zoom can use them to record conversations.
Functionality – Like other video calling apps this best video calling app also offers many useful features. Using it you can share your desktop, work via Etherpad.org, you can even share YouTube videos, make video and audio chat and do a lot more. It works just like other video calling apps. The only difference is you don’t need to create an account to use the app. To secure your chat, you can also password protect it. This means even if someone will have the link will not be able to join unless they have the password.
All this and much more make Jitsi Meet an extraordinary video calling app.
What is Skype?
Microsoft’s Skype doesn’t need any introduction. Most of us have already used this video calling app and are still using it. Both professionals and individuals use it to make video and audio calls and do a lot more.
Known as one of the best VoIP solutions this app offers instant messaging, group video conferencing, screen sharing, etc. Using the basic plan, you can initiate calls but to make an international call you will have to pay for the pro plan.
Features – Skype best video conferencing app
Flexible –Due to its pricing, Skype is considered as one of the world’s best and flexible video calling apps. You can use it for free to make video calls while to make an international call you need to pay. It is the most well-known and inexpensive VoIP solution. This means without causing a dent in your pocket you can make actual landline calls using Skype.
Secure – Offered by Microsoft this app is secure and offers end to end encryption. Used by small businesses this video calling app boosts productivity and encourages collaboration. You don’t have to worry about privacy when using Skype. Both Jitsi Meet and Skype are alike in this area.
Functionality – Skype the best video calling app lets you connect with up to 50 people at a time. Installing and using it is quite simple. You just need to download the app > create an account and you are good to go.
This is where Jitsi Meet and Skype differ. To use Jitsi Meet you don’t need to go through a sign-up process.
Overall, both video calling apps are wonderful. Using them will vary from user to user. However, if you think Jitsi Meet will not be able to meet your needs as it is new. You are wrong as you should not judge a book by its cover. Just try using it, you will never turn back.
To make things simple here are the pros and cons of both the video calling apps.