Consumers can still access Hangouts (aka Hangouts Chat) through their phone or computer-or the web browser, and that’s arguably where Hangouts is at its best. It’s confusing, because this change is primarily impacting business users, where the enterprise version of Hangouts has slowly been evolving into what is now known as Google Meet. If you’re a longtime Hangouts user at work, you’ve probably noticed the various warnings about the tool being discontinued. Do mind the recent discussion about privacy and security on the platform and protect yourself against zoombombers. You can use Zoom via an app or directly on the web, though web users won’t get access to Zoom’s most beloved feature: virtual backgrounds. Multiple users can even share their screen simultaneously, a unique feature to Zoom. Its most popular feature seems to be that, in general, it works pretty well, with few dropouts and high-quality video that seamlessly shifts to show whoever’s speaking. Zoom has a small learning curve, but most seem to master it quickly-in part because they’ve been forced to by their bosses. The $15/month plan gets you longer meetings, recording features, and more, with two additional plans running $20/month. Designed with business meetings in mind, tools like breakout rooms, private back-channel chatter, and screen sharing are all built in. Nonpaying users can get up to 100 participants on a call, though meetings can last only 40 minutes before you have to start over if you have more than one guest (though this restriction has temporarily been limited this spring).

Best for: Just about everyone, though the time limit is a buzzkill.Ībruptly, the 800-pound gorilla in this space, Zoom, has become the default videoconference tool for industry-and individuals who master it at work are following suit at home.

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