Both WhatsApp and FaceTime allow users to make video calls over the internet. With over 1 billion users, WhatsApp is one of the most popular messaging apps worldwide. FaceTime is preinstalled on Apple devices and only works between Apple users. When it comes to video calling, there are some key differences between WhatsApp and FaceTime to consider.
Video Quality
WhatsApp video calls use your device’s front or back camera to capture video. Video quality depends on your device’s camera resolution and internet connection speed. FaceTime also uses your device’s cameras, but is optimized for iOS. In general, FaceTime offers better video quality than WhatsApp if both users have newer iPhone models. FaceTime uses more advanced encoding to provide HD video up to 1080p resolution. WhatsApp’s video bitrate is limited to optimize performance on slower connections, so quality maxes out at 720p HD on strong WiFi.
Winner: FaceTime
Call Reliability
WhatsApp relies on your mobile data or WiFi connection to make voice and video calls. If you have an unstable internet connection, WhatsApp calls may experience lag, pixelation, or dropped calls. FaceTime uses Apple’s private CDN network to route calls more efficiently. This improves call stability and reliability. In most cases, FaceTime calls will have less latency and fewer disruptions than WhatsApp. FaceTime also handles weak connections better by dynamically adapting the video to reduce quality instead of dropping the call.
Winner: FaceTime
Cross-Platform Support
One of WhatsApp’s biggest advantages over FaceTime is cross-platform support. WhatsApp has mobile apps for iOS, Android, and desktop platforms. You can start a WhatsApp video call with anyone using WhatsApp on any device. FaceTime only works on Apple devices like iPhones, iPads, Macs, and Apple Watches. You can’t use FaceTime to call someone who doesn’t have an Apple product.
| Platform | WhatsApp Support | FaceTime Support |
|---|---|---|
| iOS (iPhone/iPad) | Yes | Yes |
| Android | Yes | No |
| Windows PC | Yes (app) | No |
| Mac | Yes (app) | Yes |
Winner: WhatsApp
Group Video Calls
WhatsApp supports group video calls with up to 8 participants at once. This makes it easy to bring multiple people into a call. FaceTime expanded group calling capabilities in iOS 12. On iPhone and iPad, you can now start a FaceTime call with up to 32 people. For large group calls, FaceTime accommodates more participants than WhatsApp.
Winner: FaceTime
Security
WhatsApp uses the Signal protocol to provide end-to-end encryption for messages, voice calls, video calls, and file transfers. This means conversations are secured with lock and key all the way to the recipient. Not even WhatsApp can access call contents or data. FaceTime also uses end-to-end encryption to protect your privacy. All FaceTime calls are encrypted on device so the conversations remain private.
Winner: Tie
Extra Features
FaceTime lacks many of the features that make WhatsApp a versatile communication app. WhatsApp has chat, stories, business profiles, document sharing, and more. You can message friends, make purchases, and share photos without leaving WhatsApp. FaceTime is limited to video and audio calls within the app. While FaceTime may offer a smoother calling experience, WhatsApp is more feature-rich overall.
Winner: WhatsApp
Calling Over Cellular Network
WhatsApp allows you to make voice and video calls over both WiFi and cellular data. This means you can use WhatsApp for calls anywhere, anytime even without an internet connection. Early versions of FaceTime were WiFi-only, restricting usage. The latest versions of FaceTime now work over cellular as well. FaceTime calls will use mobile data minutes, so keep an eye on your usage if not on WiFi.
Winner: Tie
Calling Contacts
To start a WhatsApp call, you need to first add someone as a contact in the app. Both parties must have each other’s mobile numbers added in WhatsApp before voice or video calling. FaceTime is integrated with your device’s contacts and phone app. You can start a FaceTime call directly with anyone in your contacts who has an Apple device. The tight integration with iOS contacts gives FaceTime the advantage here.
Winner: FaceTime
Data Usage
WhatsApp is designed to work on slower 2G connections up to fast LTE or WiFi. By optimizing the video compression and transmission, WhatsApp minimizes mobile data usage on calls. In comparison, FaceTime uses significantly more data per minute since video streams at a much higher bitrate. If you’re on a limited data plan, WhatsApp may be the better choice for avoiding overages.
| App | Data Usage Per Minute |
|---|---|
| 0.5 MB – 1.5 MB | |
| FaceTime | 8 MB – 12 MB |
Winner: WhatsApp
Interface
WhatsApp and FaceTime take different approaches with their call interfaces. WhatsApp has a standalone call tab to initiate or answer calls. There are buttons to toggle between front and rear cameras, mute your mic, or end the call. FaceTime is integrated directly into the Phone app or Contacts. Tapping a contact initiates a FaceTime call immediately. The interface is minimalist – just showing video feeds and an end call button. There are no camera toggles or mute buttons during a call.
Winner: Tie
Conclusions
Both WhatsApp and FaceTime make it easy to do high-quality video calls, but they have key differences to consider.
The advantages of WhatsApp include:
- Cross-platform – works on Android, iOS, desktop
- End-to-end encrypted like FaceTime
- More features like messaging and document sharing
- Lower cellular data usage
The advantages of FaceTime include:
- Higher quality video and audio
- Better call stability and reliability
- Larger group video calls (32 people)
- Integrated with iOS contacts and Phone app
Overall, WhatsApp is better for cross-platform functionality, extra features beyond calling, and optimizing data usage. FaceTime is a better choice if both parties have Apple devices and call quality is the top priority. For large group calls, FaceTime can accommodate more participants. Both apps provide secure end-to-end encrypted communication.