Zoom vs Around: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between Zoom 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.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
Zoom
Connect, communicate, and collaborate with HD video meetings
Best for you if:
- • Video conferencing platform
- • Meetings and webinars
Around
Video calls for in-the-moment collaboration and pair work
Best for you if:
- • Floating bubble interface
- • Less fatiguing calls
| At a Glance |  Around | |
|---|---|---|
Starts at | FreeFree tier available | FreeFree tier available |
Best For | Video Conferencing | Video Conferencing |
Rating | 4.5/5 | - |
Choose Zoom or Around?
Choose Zoom if
Connect, communicate, and collaborate with HD video meetings
- Reliable video quality
- Easy to use
- Good for large meetings
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
| Feature | Zoom | Around |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Freemium |
| User Rating | ★4.5/5 11,000 reviews | No ratings yet |
| Categories | Video ConferencingCommunication | Video ConferencingCommunication |
In-Depth Analysis
Zoom
Connect, communicate, and collaborate with HD video meetings
Strengths
- +Reliable video quality
- +Easy to use
- +Good for large meetings
- +Breakout rooms
Weaknesses
- -Free plan has time limits
- -Security concerns historically
- -Can be resource intensive
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: Zoom vs Around
| Plan | Zoom | Around |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | N/A | 0 Free |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on Zoom pricing and Around pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are freemium. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: Zoom
Want the highest-rated option?
Zoom is rated 4.5/5. Around has no ratings yet.
Go with: Zoom
Value user reviews?
Zoom: 11,000 reviews (4.5/5). Around: no ratings yet.
Go with: Zoom
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?
Both are video conferencing tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
Zoom is rated 4.5/5; Around has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
Zoom
- Free tier available
- Our pick for this comparison
Around
- Choose if you want video calls for in-the-moment collaboration and pair work
The Bottom Line
Zoom is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Zoom or Around better?
Zoom is rated in our evaluation. Both are freemium.
What are Zoom and Around used for?
Zoom: Connect, communicate, and collaborate with HD video meetings. Around: Video calls for in-the-moment collaboration and pair work.
What does Zoom cost vs Around?
Zoom is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Around is freemium (free tier + paid plans). Visit their websites for detailed pricing.