Best Video Apps to Stay Connected in Self-isolation

Already a hit with businesses, Zoom has hit the mainstream during the pandemic. “Fancy a Zoom drink tonight?” is a phrase we never thought we’d hear, but is now common parlance. (Anyone else wish they had had the foresight to buy some shares!?)

The benefit of Zoom is that it is super easy to use. Simply download the app and get a meeting link to send to those you want to chat with.

The free version can host up to 100 people on one call. Because of its large user capacity, Zoom is a good option for larger community groups, choirs or committees that want to meet virtually.

If everyone you want to chat with uses Apple, FaceTime is a good option for video calls. No need to download any new apps, FaceTime is built into all iPhones. It allows up to 32 people to join a video call.

Video calling with kids? Apple allows you to create a cute Memoji (an animated avatar that looks like you) to use on your FaceTime video calls.

Not an Apple fan? Google Hangouts offers a video app alternative which can be used across both Android and Apple devices.

Up to 10 people can join a video call at one time. We’re not sure that Google Hangouts is quite as intuitive as other platforms, however. For simplicity, Zoom has our vote.

Skype is a video conferencing app we’re probably all familiar with. It’s been around for years and is now owned by Microsoft.

Skype is simple and easy to use, allowing you to chat with up to 50 other people. The downside is that you need a Microsoft account to use it, which not everyone has. In contrast, with Zoom, all you need is a link.

WhatsApp is a popular messaging app that you’re bound to already use. It also offers video calls which are an easy option if you don’t want to download anything new.

The downside is that video calls are limited to four people. Somewhat restrictive if you have a wide circle of friends and family.