Microsoft Teams vs Around: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Microsoft Teams and Around 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.
Bottom line: Microsoft Teams is our overall pick for communication workflows. Pick Around if you need video conferencing.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Microsoft Teams
Unite chat, meetings, and files with Microsoft 365
Best for you if:
- • You need communication features specifically
- • Enterprise communication hub deeply integrated with Microsoft 365
- • Chat, meetings, files, and apps in one platform
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
| At a Glance |  Microsoft Teams |  Around |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Communication | Video Conferencing |
Rating | 4.4/5 | - |
Choose Microsoft Teams or Around?
Choose Microsoft Teams if
Unite chat, meetings, and files with Microsoft 365
- Microsoft 365 integration
- Full collaboration suite
- Free tier
- Your work is communication-shaped, not video conferencing-shaped
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
| Feature | Microsoft Teams | Around |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.4/5 17,741 reviews | No ratings yet |
| Categories | CommunicationTeam Chat | Video ConferencingCommunication |
In-Depth Analysis
Microsoft Teams
Unite chat, meetings, and files with Microsoft 365
Strengths
- +Microsoft 365 integration
- +Full collaboration suite
- +Free tier
Weaknesses
- -Can be overwhelming
- -Requires Microsoft ecosystem
Key features
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
Pricing: Microsoft Teams vs Around
| Plan | Microsoft Teams | Around |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | Free Free | 0 Free |
| Tier 2 | $4 Essentials | N/A |
| Tier 3 | $6 Business Basic | N/A |
| Tier 4 | $12.5 Business Standard | N/A |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Microsoft Teams pricing and Around pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Microsoft Teams
Want the highest-rated option?
Microsoft Teams is rated 4.4/5. Around has no ratings yet.
Go with: Microsoft Teams
Value user reviews?
Microsoft Teams: 17,741 reviews (4.4/5). Around: no ratings yet.
Go with: Microsoft Teams
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?
Microsoft Teams is a communication tool. Around is in video conferencing. Pick the category that matches your needs.
How important are ratings?
Microsoft Teams is rated 4.4/5; Around has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
Microsoft Teams
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Around
- Better fit for video conferencing
The Bottom Line
Microsoft Teams is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Microsoft Teams or Around better?
Microsoft Teams is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Microsoft Teams and Around used for?
Microsoft Teams: Unite chat, meetings, and files with Microsoft 365. Around: Video calls for in-the-moment collaboration and pair work.
What does Microsoft Teams cost vs Around?
Microsoft Teams is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Around is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.