Google Hangouts vs Google Meet: Which Is the Best Video Conferencing Platform?
As the world changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic, people are embracing video conferencing more than ever. Google is known for constantly updating and upgrading its software to deliver the best tools to its consumers. One of such steps taken by Google is the introduction of Google Meet.
Undoubtedly, Google Hangouts has been a popular choice with remote teams, friends and family members, but Google Meet too has gained widespread attention due to its advanced tools and security features.
So, which one should you choose? Google Hangouts or Google Meet? Let’s compare both platforms to see which is the best
User Interface
Google Hangouts has a simple and straightforward interface. It’s easy to use, especially for first-time users. Google Meet, on the other hand, has a more complex interface that features a wider range of tools such as screen sharing, hand-raising, breakout rooms and virtual backgrounds, although it is still very intuitive.
Winner: Tie, as the choice of the best UIs depends on user preferences.
Capacity
The capacity of a video conferencing platform is essential, especially when hosting team meetings, conferences, and webinars. Google Hangouts can host up to 150 people at once, while Google Meet can handle up to 250 participants without any trouble.
Winner: Google Meet, for its ability to cater to more users at once.
Integration
Google Meet fully integrates with Google's G Suite which includes Google Drive, Google Calendar, and Gmail. Therefore users can easily schedule and join meetings via the calendar or access sessions on Google Drive. Google Hangouts, on the other hand, is not as integrated with these other tools.
Winner: Google Meet, for its seamless integration with G Suite.
Cost
Most of the features of both platforms come free, with some advanced features requiring a paid version. If you opt to use Google Meet, you will have to pay $6 for the lowest-tier plan. However, Google Meet is currently offering a more affordable plan at $5 per month per user. Google Hangouts, on the other hand, is free regardless of the features or tools that you need.
Winner: Google Hangouts, for its flexibility in offering features free of charge.
Security
Both Google Meet and Google Hangouts are secured with end-to-end encryption to secure user-Servers communication. The two platforms also comply with the strict GDPR regulations, ensuring the safe storage and management of user data.
Winner: Tie, as both have secure end-to-end encryption and are GDPR compliant.
Verdict
So, which one is the best between Google Meet and Google Hangouts? It mostly depends on your specific needs. If you require hosting larger sessions frequently and seamless integration with G Suite, it's perhaps worth the investment to opt for Google Meet. But if you are a minimalistic person and security and cost are crucial to you, Google Hangouts is the way to go.
In conclusion, with considering capacity, integration, cost, security, and user interface, Google Meet and Google Hangouts are great video conferencing platforms.
So, have you used Google Meet or Hangouts? Let us know your opinions in the comments below.