Video conferencing software is a digital communication tool that enables individuals and teams to connect in real time using video, audio, and chat over the internet. Designed to support both small meetings and large-scale virtual events, this software allows for seamless interaction between participants regardless of their location.
With today’s distributed teams and remote-first environments, video conferencing tools have evolved into powerful collaboration hubs—offering more than just face-to-face communication. From sharing screens to virtual whiteboards and breakout rooms, these platforms now serve as essential infrastructure for modern business communication.
10 Key Features of Video Conferencing Software
Whether you’re hosting a client call or managing a virtual classroom, the right video conferencing software enhances both productivity and engagement. Here are 10 must-have features found in most leading platforms:
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High-Quality Video & Audio Calls
Real-time video and voice communication with crisp resolution and minimal lag. -
Screen Sharing
Allows users to present slides, documents, or their entire screen for collaborative viewing. -
Meeting Recording
Capture full audio and video sessions for later review, documentation, or sharing. -
In-Meeting Chat
Enables participants to send private or group messages without disrupting the call flow. -
Virtual Backgrounds
Replace your real environment with professional or fun visuals to match the meeting tone. -
Breakout Rooms
Split larger groups into smaller sessions for focused discussions or team activities. -
Hand-Raising
Participants can virtually raise their hands to ask questions or indicate they’d like to speak. -
Live Captions
Real-time subtitles to support accessibility and improve understanding across languages. -
Whiteboarding Tools
A collaborative digital canvas for drawing, brainstorming, and visual note-taking. -
App Integrations
Seamless connections with calendar tools, CRMs, and project management apps to streamline workflows.
10 Best Video conferencing software
Many video conferencing software options are available, but the 10 best video conferencing software are listed below in no particular order, along with their key features and pricing options.
1. Zoom
Zoom is a popular video conferencing software that allows users to host and join video meetings, webinars, and virtual events with up to 1,000 participants. Key features include screen sharing, recording, virtual backgrounds, breakout rooms, and hand-raising. Zoom offers a free version and paid plans starting at $14.99 per host per month.
2. Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams is a communication and collaboration platform that offers video conferencing features. It allows users to host and join video meetings with up to 10,000 participants. Key features include screen sharing, recording, live captions, background blur, and virtual backgrounds. Microsoft Teams has included with Microsoft Office 365 plans, starting at $5 per monthly user.
3. Skype
Skype is a popular video conferencing software that allows users to make free video and voice calls, send instant messages, and share files. Key features include screen sharing, call recording, subtitles, and the ability to send files and photos. Skype offers a free version and paid plans starting at $2.99 per user per month.
4. Google Meet
Google Meet is a video conferencing tool offered by Google that allows users to host and join video meetings with up to 250 participants. Key features include screen sharing, live captions, noise cancellation, and virtual backgrounds. Google Meet is included with Google Workspace plans, starting at $6 per monthly user.
5. GoToMeeting
GoToMeeting is a web-based video conferencing tool that allows users to host and join meetings with up to 250 participants. Key features include screen sharing, recording, drawing tools, and switching presenters. GoToMeeting offers a free trial as well as paid plans starting at $12 per organizer per month.
6. Cisco Webex
Cisco Webex is a video conferencing software that allows users to host and join video meetings, webinars, and virtual events with up to 100,000 participants. Key features include screen sharing, recording, virtual backgrounds, and joining meetings without a download. Cisco Webex offers a free version and paid plans starting at $13.50 per host per month.
7. BlueJeans
BlueJeans is a cloud-based video conferencing software that allows users to host and join video meetings with up to 150 participants. Key features include screen sharing, recording, virtual backgrounds, and scheduling meetings through the calendar. BlueJeans offers a free trial and paid plans starting at $9.99 per monthly host.
8. Jitsi
Jitsi is an open-source video conferencing software that allows users to host and join video meetings with up to 75 participants. Key features include screen sharing, recording, virtual backgrounds, and sharing YouTube videos during a meeting. Jitsi is free and open source and can be self-hosted.
9. RingCentral
RingCentral is a video conferencing software that allows users to host and join video meetings with up to 500 participants. Key features include screen sharing, recording, virtual backgrounds, and switching presenters. RingCentral offers a free trial and paid plans starting at $19.99 per monthly user.
10. Zoho Meeting
Zoho Meeting is a video conferencing software that allows users to host and join video meetings with up to 250 participants. Key features include screen sharing, recording, virtual backgrounds, and scheduling meetings through the calendar. Zoho Meeting offers a free version.
Final Thoughts
In today’s hybrid work environment, video conferencing software is no longer a luxury, it’s a business essential. Whether you’re onboarding new hires, hosting global webinars, or just catching up with teammates, the right tool helps you communicate clearly, collaborate effectively, and build stronger relationships across borders.
Pick a platform that aligns with your current needs while remaining flexible enough to grow with your team. The future of work is remote-first—make sure your video conferencing solution is ready for it.
