Both Zoom and WhatsApp offer video calling capabilities, allowing users to connect face-to-face through their devices. However, there are some key differences between using Zoom for video calls versus using WhatsApp’s group calling feature.
In the opening paragraphs, we’ll provide a quick overview comparing Zoom and WhatsApp group calls. Then, we’ll go into more detail on the differences between the two platforms.
Quick Comparison
- Zoom is designed specifically for video calls, while WhatsApp’s video calling is an add-on feature
- Zoom allows for larger group calls of up to 100 participants, compared to WhatsApp’s 8 participant limit
- Zoom requires users to download the app or access the web client, WhatsApp video calling uses the existing WhatsApp app
- Zoom offers more robust features tailored to video conferencing, like screen sharing and virtual backgrounds
- WhatsApp video calling is more convenient for quick personal calls with friends and family
Meeting Size
One major difference between Zoom and WhatsApp video calling is the number of participants allowed on a call.
Zoom allows up to 100 participants to join a meeting or call. This makes it suitable for larger video conferences with coworkers, lectures with students, or webinars with big audiences.
WhatsApp has a limit of 8 participants on a group video or voice call. This smaller cap makes WhatsApp better suited for more intimate calls with family and friends. Trying to coordinate a large gathering on WhatsApp would be cumbersome and likely not possible.
For perspective, here is a comparison of the group size limits:
| Platform | Group Call Limit |
| Zoom | 100 participants |
| 8 participants |
As this overview shows, if you need to host a meeting with upwards of 50+ people, Zoom is likely the better option. But for a quick catch-up with a handful of friends or family members, WhatsApp is more suitable.
App Design and Calling Features
Zoom and WhatsApp also differ significantly when it comes to their designs and features specifically for video calling.
Zoom is built expressly for video conferencing while WhatsApp integrates video calling as an add-on to its messaging app functionalities.
On Zoom, users can control audio and visual settings during a call, mute and unmute easily, share their screens, use virtual backgrounds, chat with individuals or the group, record the call, and access other advanced teleconferencing features.
Comparatively, WhatsApp has relatively basic video call capabilities directly within the WhatsApp app. Users can switch between front and rear phone cameras, mute themselves, and access in-call text chatting. However, there are limited controls for audio or visual settings, no screen sharing, and fewer features like virtual backgrounds.
Additionally, Zoom allows call hosts to manage settings like requiring passwords, enabling waiting rooms, and controlling screen sharing access. WhatsApp’s group calling does not offer customizable admin controls.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Zoom | |
| Screen sharing | Yes | No |
| Virtual backgrounds | Yes | No |
| Call recording | Yes | No |
| In-call text chat | Yes (individual or group) | Yes (group only) |
| Customizable meeting controls and security | Yes | No |
Based on video call features alone, Zoom is the more robust and versatile platform. But WhatsApp still provides a simple video calling experience focused on personal connections.
Ease of Use
In terms of ease of use, WhatsApp may have a slight edge over Zoom for quick personal calls.
Since WhatsApp is already installed as a messaging app on many smartphones, starting a video call with your connections is straightforward. Tapping the video or voice call icons next to a chat opens up a call with no extra steps needed.
Zoom requires users to either download the app or sign up for an account and join via web browser. There are more steps involved before you can start or join a meeting.
However, for business calls, Zoom has strengths in ease of use too. Inviting people to a meeting just requires sending a URL link or meeting ID and password. Participants can click to join without an account or downloading software. WHATSAPP group calls don’t have this straightforward invite process.
Overall, WhatsApp makes it easier for individual consumers to spontaneously jump on a personal video call. But Zoom simplifies the meeting process when coordinating video conferences in a business or educational context.
Cost and Device Compatibility
Zoom and WhatsApp also have differences when it comes to cost and device compatibility.
WhatsApp is a free messaging platform, so individual and group video calls have no cost. However, Zoom offers both free and paid plans:
- Zoom Basic – Free version with unlimited 1-on-1 meetings, 40 minute limit on group meetings for 3+ people
- Zoom Pro – $14.99/month per host for meetings up to 24 hours with 100 participants
- Zoom Business – $19.99/month per host with same features as Pro plus management tools
- Custom and enterprise plans also available
For individual consumers, WhatsApp’s free pricing may give it an advantage. But Zoom’s paid plans offer more for businesses and teams collaborating.
In terms of devices, Zoom and WhatsApp are both available as iOS and Android apps. WhatsApp can only be used on smartphones, while Zoom also offers apps for tablets, laptops, and desktops. Both platforms work across operating systems.
One compatibility advantage for WhatsApp is that it can work on limited or slow internet connections. Zoom performs best with consistent high-speed internet.
Security
Security and privacy features are paramount for any video conferencing software. Overall, Zoom and WhatsApp both implement security protections like end-to-end encryption. However, Zoom has faced more scrutiny for security lapses.
WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption means calls are secured between all participants. Zoom uses its own end-to-end encryption standard that has faced questions from security researchers.
Zoom also left meeting links vulnerable to being accessed by outside parties through having easily guessable IDs. However, the platform has since boosted its security protections. Meeting passwords and waiting rooms are now default settings.
WhatsApp has maintainted a stronger reputation for security, especially for personal calls. But for business use, Zoom has made strides in toughening its protections to address past weaknesses. This included acquiring security companies, implementing bug bounty programs to encourage finding vulnerabilities, and improving its overall encryption processes.
Conclusion
To recap the key differences:
- Zoom facilitates larger video calls for business or academic purposes, while WhatsApp is better suited for smaller personal calls with family and friends.
- Zoom has more extensive features built specifically for video conferencing needs, compared to WhatsApp’s relatively basic integrated calling capabilities.
- WhatsApp provides free encrypted video calls, but Zoom offers paid plans with more functionality for professionals.
- WhatsApp is simpler to use for quick calls between individuals, while Zoom requires more setup but allows easier coordination of scheduled meetings.
- Both platforms ultimately work across devices and operating systems.
In summary:
- Use WhatsApp for personal calls with your close contacts
- Use Zoom when coordinating meetings with coworkers, students, clients, or larger groups
The choice between Zoom vs WhatsApp video calling depends largely on the purpose of your call and number of participants involved. But both platforms help facilitate convenient face-to-face connections through the screens of our smartphones, tablets, and computers.