Learning CenterDifferences at a glance
Now that you’ve switched from Microsoft® Skype® for Business to G Suite, here are some tips on beginning to use Google Hangouts to manage your video meetings. You’ll find many similar features—and additional benefits—when you use Hangouts.
Feature
In Skype for Business
In Hangouts
Feature
Ways to access
In Skype for Business
With:
- Desktop
- Mobile device
From:
- Microsoft® Outlook® calendar event
- Email (such as Gmail, Outlook)
- URL access
In Hangouts
With:
- Desktop
- Mobile device
From:
- Google Calendar
- Email (such as Gmail, Outlook)
- Chrome browser extension
Feature
Phone call cost
In Skype for Business
Charged
In Hangouts
Free*
*Most calls to U.S. and Canada. Calls to other countries have low rates.
Feature
Number of video call participants
In Skype for Business
Up to 250
In Hangouts
Up to 25
Feature
Schedule video calls
In Skype for Business
- Schedule a Skype for Business video call from Outlook
- Start an impromptu Skype for Business video call
In Hangouts
- Schedule a Hangouts video call from Outlook and Calendar
- Start a video meeting on the go
Feature
Settings for who can join your video calls
In Skype for Business
- Your contacts
- Anyone
In Hangouts
- Only people in your domain
- External guests (by invitation)
Feature
Who can start a video meeting
In Skype for Business
Anyone within the host’s domain.
In Hangouts
Anyone within the host’s domain, or anyone with a Google account.
Feature
Joining a video meeting via dial-in
In Skype for Business
Dial-in numbers (if enabled) are available via a separate listing page.
In Hangouts
Dial out phone invite for external participants.
Feature
Requirements to participate in a video meeting
In Skype for Business
- Download application on desktop to present content and fully interact.
- Download application on mobile to participate in a meeting.
In Hangouts
- Present content and participate fully from within Chrome browser.
- Download application on mobile to present content and participate fully.
Work with Hangouts
There are many ways to start a group conversation in Hangouts. To learn how to set up and start these video calls, see Get started with Hangouts.
Do more with Hangouts
