In today’s fast-paced world, communication is key. Whether you’re running a business, working on a project, or simply trying to connect with friends and family, conference calls have become an essential part of our lives. But with so many conference call services available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. In this guide, we’ll break down the top 20 conference call services and provide simple, plain English definitions, along with key features and step-by-step guides to help you make the best choice for your needs.
20 Best Conference Call Services: Simplified Definitions, Features, and Guides
- Zoom:
Definition: Zoom is a popular video conferencing tool that allows you to connect with people over the internet using video, audio, and chat features.
Features:
- Screen sharing: Show your screen to others.
- Recording: Record your meetings for later reference.
- Virtual backgrounds: Change your backdrop to a fun image.
- Participant management: Control who can speak and share.
- Easy scheduling: Set up meetings in advance.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Download the Zoom app or visit their website.
- Sign up for an account.
- Schedule a meeting or join an existing one.
- Share the meeting link with participants.
- Start the meeting and enjoy!
- Microsoft Teams:
Definition: Microsoft Teams is a collaboration platform that combines video conferencing, chat, and file sharing, making it easy for teams to work together.
Features:
- Chat: Instant messaging for quick communication.
- File sharing: Share documents, images, and videos.
- Integration with Office 365: Access Word, Excel, and more.
- Video meetings: Host virtual conferences with ease.
- Channel organization: Keep conversations organized.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Sign in to Microsoft Teams with your Microsoft account.
- Create a team or join an existing one.
- Start a chat or schedule a meeting.
- Invite team members to join.
- Collaborate and communicate seamlessly.
- Google Meet:
Definition: Google Meet is a video conferencing tool that integrates with Google Workspace, making it simple to connect with colleagues and friends.
Features:
- Easy access: Join meetings directly from Google Calendar.
- Screen sharing: Present documents or slides.
- Live captions: Enable real-time captions during meetings.
- Recording: Record meetings and share them.
- Integration with Google services: Use Google Drive for file sharing.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Go to Google Meet on your web browser.
- Sign in with your Google account.
- Start a meeting or join one using a link.
- Share the link with participants.
- Enjoy a seamless video conference.
- Cisco Webex:
Definition: Cisco Webex is a comprehensive video conferencing and collaboration platform designed for businesses and professionals.
Features:
- High-definition video: Enjoy crystal-clear video quality.
- Cross-device compatibility: Use it on desktop or mobile.
- Webinars and events: Host large-scale online events.
- Whiteboarding: Collaborate on a virtual whiteboard.
- Secure meetings: Ensure privacy and data protection.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Sign up for a Cisco Webex account.
- Schedule a meeting or join one.
- Invite participants via email or link.
- Collaborate effectively with the various tools provided.
- Keep your meetings secure with password protection.
- GoToMeeting:
Definition: GoToMeeting is a user-friendly video conferencing service that allows you to host or attend meetings from anywhere.
Features:
- Mobile accessibility: Join meetings on your smartphone.
- One-click meetings: Start meetings with ease.
- Recording: Record and share meetings for future reference.
- Screen sharing: Share your screen during presentations.
- In-meeting chat: Communicate with participants.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Sign up for a GoToMeeting account.
- Schedule a meeting or join one.
- Share the meeting link with participants.
- Use the intuitive interface to manage your meetings.
- Collaborate and communicate effortlessly.
- BlueJeans by Verizon:
Definition: BlueJeans is a video conferencing platform that offers a reliable and high-quality virtual meeting experience.
Features:
- Smart meetings: AI-powered meeting insights.
- Integrations: Connect with popular apps like Slack.
- Content sharing: Share presentations and files.
- Recording and playback: Review meetings later.
- Moderator controls: Manage participants effectively.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Create a BlueJeans account.
- Schedule a meeting or join an existing one.
- Invite participants via email or link.
- Utilize AI features for productive meetings.
- Make the most of integrations for seamless collaboration.
- Skype:
Definition: Skype is a widely-used video and voice calling platform that enables you to connect with people all over the world.
Features:
- Video and voice calls: Stay in touch with loved ones.
- Group video calls: Host virtual get-togethers.
- Messaging: Send instant messages and files.
- Screen sharing: Share your screen during calls.
- International calling: Reach out globally.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Download Skype or use the web version.
- Sign in with your Microsoft or Skype account.
- Add contacts or search for users.
- Start a call or chat with friends and family.
- Enjoy the convenience of Skype for communication.
- RingCentral Video:
Definition: RingCentral Video is a video conferencing and messaging platform designed for businesses of all sizes.
Features:
- Unlimited video meetings: Host as many as you need.
- Team messaging: Collaborate with colleagues.
- Integrations: Connect with productivity apps.
- Screen sharing: Present documents and ideas.
- Call management: Handle calls within the platform.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Sign up for a RingCentral Video account.
- Create or join a meeting.
- Invite team members to join.
- Utilize messaging and screen sharing features.
- Manage your calls efficiently.
- Zoho Meeting:
Definition: Zoho Meeting is an online meeting and webinar solution that simplifies collaboration for businesses and teams.
Features:
- Browser-based meetings: No downloads required.
- Webinars: Host interactive webinars with ease.
- Remote support: Assist clients and team members.
- Integration with Zoho apps: Seamless workflow.
- Recording: Record meetings and webinars.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Sign in to Zoho Meeting with your Zoho account.
- Schedule a meeting or webinar.
- Share the link with participants or attendees.
- Explore the various features for productive sessions.
- Leverage integrations for a seamless experience.
- Join.me:
Definition: Join.me is a user-friendly video conferencing and online meeting platform designed for simplicity.
Features:
- Instant meetings: Start meetings in seconds.
- Screen sharing: Share your screen with others.
- Mobile access: Join meetings on the go.
- Personalized links: Create custom meeting links.
- Meeting recording: Record and share meetings.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Sign up for a Join.me account.
- Start an instant meeting or schedule one.
- Share your meeting link with participants.
- Utilize screen sharing and other tools.
- Enjoy the straightforward meeting experience.
- Slack:
Definition: Slack is a messaging and collaboration platform that offers chat, file sharing, and integrations for teams.
Features:
- Channels: Organize conversations by topic.
- Direct messages: Communicate one-on-one or in groups.
- File sharing: Share documents, images, and more.
- Integrations: Connect with popular apps.
- Voice and video calls: Host meetings within Slack.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Create a Slack workspace or join an existing one.
- Join channels related to your team or project.
- Communicate with team members through messages.
- Share files and integrate with other tools.
- Initiate voice and video calls when needed.
- FreeConferenceCall.com:
Definition: FreeConferenceCall.com is a no-cost conference call and online meeting platform for individuals and businesses.
Features:
- Free conference calling: Host meetings at no charge.
- Screen sharing: Share presentations and documents.
- Recording: Record meetings for future reference.
- Mobile apps: Join meetings on your smartphone.
- Customized meeting links: Personalize your invites.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Visit the FreeConferenceCall.com website.
- Sign up for an account.
- Schedule a conference call or meeting.
- Share the access information with participants.
- Enjoy free conference calling with ease.
- UberConference:
Definition: UberConference is a simple yet powerful conferencing tool that offers audio and video meetings along with collaboration features.
Features:
- Visual conferencing: See who’s on the call.
- Call recording: Capture important discussions.
- Document sharing: Collaborate with shared files.
- Custom hold music: Personalize the waiting experience.
- No PINs required: Easy access for participants.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Sign up for an UberConference account.
- Schedule a meeting or start an instant one.
- Share the access link with participants.
- Utilize visual conferencing and collaboration features.
- Enjoy hassle-free conference calls.
- Lifesize:
Definition: Lifesize is a video conferencing solution designed for businesses, offering high-quality video and audio communication.
Features:
- 4K video quality: Crystal-clear visuals.
- Integrations: Connect with productivity tools.
- Live streaming: Broadcast meetings to a wider audience.
- Calendar integration: Schedule meetings seamlessly.
- Content sharing: Collaborate with shared documents.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Create a Lifesize account for your business.
- Schedule a meeting or start one.
- Invite team members and participants.
- Make use of advanced features for productive meetings.
- Experience high-quality video conferencing.
- ClickMeeting:
Definition: ClickMeeting is a webinar and video conferencing platform designed for businesses and online events.
Features:
- Webinars: Host interactive online presentations.
- Screen sharing: Share presentations and documents.
- Custom branding: Brand your webinar room.
- Recording: Record and share webinars.
- Engagement tools: Polls, surveys, and Q&A sessions.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Sign up for a ClickMeeting account.
- Schedule a webinar or meeting.
- Customize your webinar room.
- Invite attendees and participants.
- Conduct engaging webinars with ease.
- TeamViewer Meeting:
Definition: TeamViewer Meeting is a secure and reliable video conferencing solution that enables remote collaboration and support.
Features:
- Secure connections: Ensure data protection.
- Remote control: Assist users remotely.
- Screen sharing: Share your screen during meetings.
- Cross-platform support: Works on various devices.
- File transfer: Share documents and files.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Download TeamViewer Meeting or use the web version.
- Sign in to your account.
- Start a meeting or join one.
- Share your screen or assist users remotely.
- Collaborate securely with TeamViewer Meeting.
- Slack Video Calls:
Definition: Slack Video Calls is a feature within the Slack messaging platform that allows users to conduct video meetings.
Features:
- Direct video calls: Initiate video chats with contacts.
- Group video calls: Host meetings with multiple participants.
- Screen sharing: Collaborate with shared screens.
- Messaging integration: Seamlessly transition from chat to call.
- Mobile access: Join video calls on your smartphone.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Open Slack and go to the conversation with the contact.
- Initiate a video call by clicking the video icon.
- Invite more participants if needed.
- Share your screen and collaborate during the call.
- Enjoy video meetings within Slack.
- Whereby:
Definition: Whereby is a user-friendly video conferencing tool that offers easy-to-use video meetings without the need for downloads or installations.
Features:
- Browser-based: Join meetings directly in your browser.
- Personalized links: Create custom meeting links.
- Screen sharing: Share your screen during meetings.
- Mobile access: Join meetings on your smartphone.
- Recording: Record and save meetings.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Visit the Whereby website.
- Sign up for an account.
- Start a meeting and customize the link.
- Share the link with participants.
- Enjoy hassle-free video meetings in your browser.
- Blackboard Collaborate:
Definition: Blackboard Collaborate is an online learning and collaboration platform designed for educators and students.
Features:
- Virtual classrooms: Host online classes with ease.
- Interactive whiteboard: Collaborate on a virtual whiteboard.
- Breakout rooms: Divide students into smaller groups.
- Screen sharing: Share presentations and resources.
- Polls and quizzes: Engage students during sessions.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Access Blackboard Collaborate through your institution.
- Create a virtual classroom or join one.
- Utilize interactive features for effective teaching.
- Share your screen and engage with students.
- Enhance online learning with Blackboard Collaborate.
- Adobe Connect:
Definition: Adobe Connect is a comprehensive web conferencing and webinar platform that offers a range of interactive features.
Features:
- Customizable layouts: Arrange content as needed.
- Collaboration tools: Annotate and share ideas.
- Breakout rooms: Divide participants into groups.
- Recording and playback: Review webinars later.
- Integrations: Connect with other Adobe products.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Sign in to Adobe Connect with your Adobe ID.
- Create a webinar or meeting room.
- Customize layouts and settings.
- Host interactive sessions with participants.
- Make use of Adobe Connect’s powerful features.
Conclusion:
Choosing the right conference call service doesn’t have to be complicated. With this simplified guide, you now have a clear understanding of the top 20 conference call services, their features, and step-by-step instructions on how to use them. Whether you’re looking for a video conferencing tool, a collaboration platform, or a webinar solution, there’s a service on this list to meet your needs. So, go ahead, pick the one that suits you best, and start connecting with your team, friends, or clients today.
