Zoom vs Microsoft Teams: Which is Best for Video Conferences?

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Are you contemplating Zoom or Microsoft teams? Which one is better for use by small businesses?

Using video apps to connect with team members and clients rapidly became the only option for holding meetings for most of us during the COVID shutdowns. Working from home highlighted the need for cloud-based collaboration technology, so that we could continue to connect with colleagues and maintain much needed human connection. A couple of years ago Skype and Go to Meeting were the most popular choices for video meetings, but as the shutdowns extended and technology evolved quickly to meet the massive demand, these were soon overtaken by Microsoft Teams and Zoom.

We’ve researched the pros and cons of Zoom – the video conferencing tool and Microsoft Teams which combines video conferencing with team chat and other features.

Here is our rundown on Zoom vs Microsoft Teams.

Does everyone in my team need an account?

Anyone in the business can access video calls through Zoom or Microsoft Teams by simply accessing a unique link generated and sent out by meeting organisers. By using the link to enter video calls, participants aren’t required to sign up for their own accounts and can still access the calls and features.

Is there a difference in video quality?

Relay important information or keeping your team engaged in an online meeting is challenging if the video quality is poor. Thankfully both Zoom and Microsoft Teams operate with 1080p resolution, the industry standard in 2022. Often referred to as ‘full HD’, 1080p resolution delivers a crisp digital video and is supported by nearly every video and social media platform for uploads, and remains the most popular format for viewing digital media.

It’s important to note that 1080p is only available through Zoom through the Business and Enterprise plans, or under certain circumstances such as large-format broadcasts events. Another consideration is that either application is only as good as the hardware and data connection it’s being accessed on.

Microsoft Teams requires a 2.5Mbps upload and 4Mbps download connection to support video calls at 1080p.

Zoom requires 3.8Mbps upload and 3Mbps for download. Most internet connections in Australia far surpass developer recommendations.

How many participants can I have in video calls?

Participant number limitations will impact your decision on which system to use, depending on your event or meeting requirements. Both Zoom and Microsoft offer a free plan that allows up to 100 participants, and this should suit the needs of most small businesses. With the paid plans, both apps support up to 300 participants, with Zoom topping out at 1,000 and Microsoft 365 members accessing Microsoft Teams can support up to 10,000 view-only participants.

Will I need to upgrade for compatibility?

Compatibility is one area you shouldn’t have to worry about. Both apps can be used on devices with Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, or iOS, and in web browsers. If you have employees out in the field, they can even call into meetings using their mobile phones or tablets

How secure is data shared during video conferencing?

Before the pandemic confidential discussions were typically held in enclosed meeting rooms, so the thought of conducting these meetings in a video conference may be of concern. For most small businesses, both apps include satisfactory data encryption.

Zoom did experience some data breaches in 2020 which prompted the company to ramp up security. They implemented end-to-end encryption, meaning data is encrypted in your device before being sent, and only deciphered once it reaches its destination. This is more secure than Microsoft Teams in-transit and at-rest encryption and has not proven to be a security risk.

Is there a difference in price and features?

Both apps have a large range of Plans and features. To use Microsoft Teams, you will need a Microsoft 365 account. Zoom is stand alone.

We hope you find this information useful for deciding which video conferencing app is the most suitable for your business needs. If you would like more information or assistance setting up video conferencing software, please contact us for IT Support for small businesses.