Choosing Video Chat Software

When it comes to the right video chat software, you need to be sure you are choosing the right software so it meets your needs. Even if you simply use it for recreational purposes (talking with your friends), making sure you have the right software can help to prevent problems.

In the past I used software that wasn’t always great, I would occasionally get logged out for no apparent reason, the programme would crash from time to time and it was occasionally so slow you could almost go and do your weekly shop before the message would send. This was back in the day when msn was the only decent chat software programme available to users for free.

These days’ things are a bit different as video chat software has become big business and it’s used by major corporations and smaller businesses all around the world.

Not only do people communicate with their friends and family using this software, but they also speak to business partners and potential customers. In this way, video chat software has help to bring the world closer together and it’s meant deals can be done without anyone having to leave the office.

When it comes to choosing the right video chat software, you should think about your needs:

· What are you going to use it for?

· How often will you use video chat

· Will you only ever use it on your PC or do you need to use it on you tablet or phone?

· Will you need to make use of conference chat options?

· Would you like the chance to edit documents while you chat?

· Will you be willing to pay for your video chat calls?

· Can you get video chat software as part of broadband bundles?

Choosing the Right Software

There are many video chat software programmes available right now, some are widely known while others are still coming into fruition and waiting to be ‘The next big thing’. Right now, there seem to be three major players in the area of the market, and they have been listed below:

Skype

Skype happens to be one of the worlds’ best known chat software programmes, and being relatively easy to use it lets you talk with friends and family, no matter how far apart you are. If you want to use the video chat option, at least one member of the group you’re talking with needs to have bought a premium subscription.

When it comes to using Skype for a group of individuals, there is a set limit of 10 people who can take part in video chat at any one time. This means if a lot of you want to have your say, someone will have to drop out in order for the next person to be allowed on.

When it comes to using Skype while you’re out and about, you’ll be pleased to know this programme can be used on a Windows or Android phone, iPad or iPhone. Users are however limited to speaking during a meeting, even if others are able to use the video function through their PC.

Google Hangouts

Google Hangouts is fast becoming a preferred option between those who are starting to make use of the internet for the first time. First of all, this programme is free to use for up to 10 people. There are no payments to be made, and no-one has to have a subscription. All that is required is a computer and a webcam as well as a Google+ account.

If you need to take a call or chat with someone while you're not in the office or at home, you will be pleased to know that Google Hangouts works on iPhones and Android phones, meaning you have more flexibility. What’s more is if you have a document that needs editing, for whatever reason, you can all do that too.

GoToMeeting

GoToMeeting is specifically tailored to those in the workplace and is considered to be one of the most powerful chat tools that a large number of people can use at any one time. Up to 25 people can attend a meeting via GoToMeeting, without the quality of the programme being affected. There is a charge of $49 (£30 or €37), but with that charge comes the opportunity to hold as many meetings as you like for as long as you like, while remaining in touch with customers and business partners.

This programme can also be used on Mac’s, Android phones and iPads and iPhones, which means you have the chance to take part in a meeting wherever you are. But those aren’t the only options, you can also leave comments, record the meeting and share screens so everyone can see the documents or websites you’re looking at. This programme also comes with an additional feature that allows you to share applications, draw and highlight, chat privately with one participant and limit who receives any document or application you send.

Some video chat software may be reduced in price if you get them through specific broadband bundles, so make sure if you’re signing a new broadband contract, you know what software is available.

A Wide Variety Of Features

As you can see, the above three video chat programmes offer a wide variety of features that make chatting online so much easier. Before you decide to part with your cash and pay for software, make sure you’re aware of all the features that are available, and exactly what you're paying for. If you are unlikely to use every single option, it might be worth your while looking elsewhere as you could save yourself a bit of cash; there’s no point paying for something you don’t need, even if it’s a great feature. One of the best things you can do to ensure you choose the right video chat software for you is to explore all of the options available and compare them with your needs, this way you will clearly be able to decide which is the best software for you. Video chat software gets updated from time to time, and features and functions become more elaborate, offering a huge range of options, making the programme even more of a joy to use, at home or at work.

Phil Turner's neighbour had been boasting about his broadband bundles.  Phil decided to check it out and found on sites like uSwitch that there were better deals available.