To set up a conference call on Skype, you can create a free meeting link online or set one up using the Skype app on your desktop or mobile device. You can also share your screen, upload files, use real-time translation in Skype as you would with Zoom, and record Skype calls on your Windows, Mac, iPhone or Android device. The app offers free Skype-to-Skype calls, free video conferencing for up to 50 participants, and other features such as SMS texting, HD video and audio and landline phone calls. Skype is among the earliest apps to offer video chat and VoIP services since 2003. See our guide on the best Microsoft Teams tips and tricks to help you be more productive using the app. One of the unique features you’ll find with Teams is the Together Mode, which allows you to meet other participants in a virtual space of your choosing whether it’s an office or coffee shop.

Zoom, on the other hand, allows you to host a conference call with multiple attendees using its free version. With Teams, the free plan only lets you host one-on-one video calls so you can’t host a conference call with multiple participants. If you’re wondering whether to go with Microsoft Teams or Zoom to do a conference call, it’ll depend on whether you’re using the free or paid plans. With Teams, you can share your screen, create surveys and polls, work on a digital whiteboard, share files, and host meetings from a desktop or mobile app. The app offers lots of features and collaboration tools including chat, video calls, as well as access to Office programs such as Word, PowerPoint and Excel.

Microsoft Teams is not only a conference calling app but also a group collaboration software designed for teams to work together remotely. If you’re on ChromeOS, turn to our guide on how to use Zoom on Chromebook. The app is available for Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices so you can start or join a meeting from your smartphone or desktop. You can also raise your hand to ask a question without interrupting the rest of the participants, and designate someone else as host if you need to leave the call. Other valuable features you’ll find in Zoom include meeting recording, group messaging, breakout rooms, whiteboard and screen sharing, active speaker views, and integration with Outlook and Chrome.

How to host a conference call on zoom