Around vs Google Chat: Which Should You Choose in 2026?
Choosing between Around and Google Chat comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
By Toolradar Team · Last updated February 28, 2026 · Methodology
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Around
Video calls that don't suck
Best for you if:
- • You want the higher-rated option (8.3/10 vs 7.2/10)
- • You want to try before committing
- • You need team chat features specifically
- • Floating bubble interface
- • Less fatiguing calls
Google Chat
AI-powered chat for teams of all sizes to connect, collaborate, and get more done.
Best for you if:
- • You need task management features specifically
- • AI-powered team messaging with Gemini for summaries, tasks, and translation.
- • Facilitates collaboration with persistent group spaces and integration with Google Workspace.
| At a Glance |  Around |  Google Chat |
|---|---|---|
Price | Free + Paid | Paid |
Best For | Team Chat | Task Management |
Rating | 83/100 | 72/100 |
| Feature | Around | Google Chat |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Paid |
| Editorial Score | 83 | 72 |
| Community Rating | No ratings yet | No ratings yet |
| Total Reviews | 0 | 0 |
| Community Upvotes | 0 | 0 |
| Categories | Team ChatVideo Conferencing | Task ManagementVideo Conferencing |
How Around and Google Chat Compare
Around
Video calls that don't suck
Free tier available · 83/100 score
Google Chat
AI-powered chat for teams of all sizes to connect, collaborate, and get more done.
Paid · 72/100 score
Around is a team chat tool. Google Chat is in task management.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Around has a free tier. Google Chat is paid only.
Go with: Around
Want the highest-rated option?
Around: 83/100. Google Chat: 72/100.
Go with: Around
Value user reviews?
Neither has user reviews yet.
Go with: Around
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Around is freemium. Google Chat is paid. Around lets you start free.
What's your use case?
Around is a team chat tool. Google Chat is in task management. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Around scores higher: 83/100 vs 72/100.
Key Takeaways
Around
- Higher score: 83/100 vs 72
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Google Chat
- Better fit for task management
The Bottom Line
Around (83/100) is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Around or Google Chat better?
Around scores 83/100 in our evaluation. Around is freemium and Google Chat is paid.
What are Around and Google Chat used for?
Around: Video calls that don't suck. Google Chat: AI-powered chat for teams of all sizes to connect, collaborate, and get more done..
What does Around cost vs Google Chat?
Around is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Google Chat is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.