This feature costs a flat monthly fee for local calls – $9.02 per month – but there are discounts if you sign up for multiple months. Skype users can also call you via the app.

If you don't have access to the internet, you can join active Skype conversations by dialling in (voice only), either locally or internationally. Probably Skype's biggest strength is its phone call support. It looks fine on a phone or tablet, but can be pixellated on a large computer monitor or TV. Video quality is advertised as high definition (HD) by Microsoft, but isn't specifically defined as 720p or higher. The participant limit of 50 is generous, and there are no time restrictions on calls. Skype is also available via web browsers and is one of the only video chat apps for Xbox (though you'll need an Xbox camera such as a Kinect). Macs can download an app, as can phones and tablets. Microsoft's Skype is a well-established video conferencing app that's available on a wide range of devices and comes pre-installed on Windows 10 PCs. Works on: Windows, Mac, Linux, Web, iOS, Android, Xbox One.If you don't have access to the internet, you can join active Skype conversations by dialling in from your phone. Best of the rest: Houseparty, Discord and more.So if you have a limited data plan or you're using mobile internet (3G or 4G), keep an eye on your data use. Keep in mind, video chat can use a lot of data. A connected device with a camera – built-in or attached.An internet connection, preferably 10 megabits per second or more.We've put together a list of the features and limitations of the big names in free video conferencing.

Extra features such as screen sharing or automatic captions can help you communicate better during video conferencesįree video conferencing apps such as Zoom, Houseparty and Google Hangouts boomed in 2020, and with many people continuing to work from home, they look like they're set to remain popular.

Some have device limitations so check which you’ll be able to use with your available tech.

Video conferencing apps limit the number of participants, although the numbers vary from app to app.

Skype video conferencing for mac