Video conferencing has become essential for remote work, client meetings, and team collaboration. This guide compares the leading platforms to help you find the best fit for your needs.
Best Video Conferencing 2025
- Best Overall: Zoom ($0-20/mo) - Most reliable, feature-rich
- Best for Microsoft Users: Teams (included with M365) - Deep Office integration
- Best Free Option: Google Meet (free with Gmail) - Simple, no download
- Best for Webinars: Zoom Webinars or Webex Events
- Best for Enterprise: Webex ($14.50/mo) - Security-focused
Top Video Conferencing Platforms
| Platform | Free Plan | Paid Starting | Max Participants | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zoom | 40 min limit | $15.99/mo | 1,000 | |
| Microsoft Teams | 60 min limit | $4/user/mo | 1,000 | |
| Google Meet | 60 min limit | $6/user/mo | 500 | |
| Webex | 40 min limit | $14.50/mo | 1,000 | |
| GoTo Meeting | No | $12/mo | 250 |
Platform Deep Dives
TOP PICK
Zoom
- Free tier: 100 participants, 40-minute limit
- Paid plans: Pro $15.99, Business $21.99, Enterprise custom
- Pros: Best quality, most features, virtual backgrounds, breakout rooms
- Cons: Security concerns (improved), 40-min free limit
- Best for: Businesses, webinars, large meetings
MICROSOFT
Microsoft Teams
- Free tier: 100 participants, 60-minute limit
- Paid plans: Included with Microsoft 365 ($4-12.50/user/mo)
- Pros: Deep Office integration, chat + meetings, enterprise security
- Cons: Resource heavy, complex interface
- Best for: Microsoft 365 users, enterprises
GOOGLE
Google Meet
- Free tier: 100 participants, 60-minute limit
- Paid plans: Included with Google Workspace ($6-18/user/mo)
- Pros: Browser-based (no download), Calendar integration, simple
- Cons: Fewer features, limited customization
- Best for: Google Workspace users, quick meetings
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Zoom | Teams | Google Meet | Webex |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virtual Backgrounds | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Screen Sharing | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Breakout Rooms | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Recording | Pro+ | Paid | Paid | Paid |
| Live Transcription | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Whiteboard | Yes | Yes | Jamboard | Yes |
| Waiting Room | Yes | Lobby | Yes | Yes |
Security Features
- End-to-end encryption: Zoom (E2EE), Teams, Meet, Webex all offer
- Waiting rooms/lobbies: Control who enters meetings
- Meeting passwords: Required access codes
- Host controls: Mute, remove, lock participants
- Compliance: HIPAA, SOC 2, GDPR certifications
Best for Specific Uses
Large Webinars
- Zoom Webinars: Up to 50,000 attendees
- Webex Events: Enterprise-grade
- Teams Live Events: Up to 10,000 viewers
Client Meetings
- Zoom: Professional, familiar to most
- Google Meet: Easy join via browser
Team Collaboration
- Microsoft Teams: Chat + meetings + files
- Slack + Huddles: Quick team calls
Pricing Comparison
Annual Cost (10 Users)
- Zoom Pro: $1,919/year
- Microsoft Teams Essentials: $480/year
- Google Workspace Starter: $720/year
- Webex Starter: $1,740/year
- Free tiers: $0 (with limitations)
Hardware Recommendations
- Webcam: Logitech C920/C922 ($70-100)
- Microphone: Blue Yeti or USB headset ($50-130)
- Lighting: Ring light ($25-50)
- Internet: 3+ Mbps upload for HD video
- Conference rooms: Poly, Logitech Rally systems
How to Choose
- Check existing tools: Already have Microsoft 365 or Google Workspace?
- Consider meeting size: How many typical participants?
- Evaluate features: Recording, breakout rooms, webinars?
- Test quality: Try free versions first
- Review security: Compliance requirements?