Around vs Twist: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Around and Twist 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Around
Video calls for in-the-moment collaboration and pair work
Best for you if:
- • You need video conferencing features specifically
- • Floating bubble interface
- • Less fatiguing calls
Twist
Async communication for remote teams
Best for you if:
- • You need communication features specifically
- • Twist is a team communication app focused on async conversations
- • It organizes discussions in threads for calmer, focused work
| At a Glance |  Around |  Twist |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Video Conferencing | Communication |
Rating | - | 4.1/5 |
Free plan | Yes | Yes |
Choose Around or Twist?
Choose Around if
Video calls for in-the-moment collaboration and pair work
- Lightweight video meeting solution
- Unique floating video bubbles design
- Minimal screen real estate usage
- Your work is video conferencing-shaped, not communication-shaped
Choose Twist if
Async communication for remote teams
- Async-first design
- Organized threads
- Less notification noise
- Your work is communication-shaped, not video conferencing-shaped
| Feature | Around | Twist |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | No ratings yet | ★4.1/5 37 reviews |
| Categories | Video ConferencingCommunication | CommunicationProductivity |
In-Depth Analysis
Around
Video calls for in-the-moment collaboration and pair work
Strengths
- +Lightweight video meeting solution
- +Unique floating video bubbles design
- +Minimal screen real estate usage
- +Good for remote collaboration
- +Clean and distraction-free interface
Weaknesses
- -Acquired/discontinued service
- -Limited feature set compared to competitors
- -Smaller user base and ecosystem
- -May lack enterprise-grade features
- -Integration options are limited
Key features
Twist
Async communication for remote teams
Strengths
- +Async-first design
- +Organized threads
- +Less notification noise
Weaknesses
- -Smaller ecosystem
- -Different from Slack
Key features
Pricing: Around vs Twist
| Plan | Around | Twist |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | 0 Free | Free Free |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $6 Unlimited |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Around pricing and Twist pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Around
Want the highest-rated option?
Twist is rated 4.1/5. Around has no ratings yet.
Go with: Twist
Value user reviews?
Around: no ratings yet. Twist: 37 reviews (4.1/5).
Go with: Twist
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are freemium. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Around is a video conferencing tool. Twist is in communication. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Twist is rated 4.1/5; Around has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
Around
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Twist
- Better fit for communication
The Bottom Line
Around is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Around or Twist better?
Around is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Around and Twist used for?
Around: Video calls for in-the-moment collaboration and pair work. Twist: Async communication for remote teams.
What does Around cost vs Twist?
Around is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Twist is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.