A growing number of users are searching for Skype alternatives that offer greater privacy, flexibility, and open access. Whether you're coordinating remote teams, hosting virtual classes, or just staying connected with friends, open-source tools give you the freedom to communicate without compromising control. Two of the most compelling choices today are Jitsi Meet and BigBlueButton — each designed with a unique focus but united by their commitment to openness and usability.
Jitsi
Jitsi Meet removes the friction we’ve come to expect from video calls. It’s fast to launch, doesn't need installation, and keeps your privacy intact without asking for an account. Open your browser, name your meeting, share the link — you’re in. It’s that simple.
Even with its ease, it doesn't shy away from capability. Screen sharing, Etherpad integration, virtual backgrounds, and high-quality video all come standard. You can collaborate, moderate, and manage large group calls easily. The audio is crisp, the experience fluid, and everything runs in the browser unless you choose the mobile app.
For developers, Jitsi Meet is a sandbox of possibilities. You can self-host, embed it, or customize every corner thanks to its open SDKs. No freemium gates or locked features — it’s fully open, genuinely free, and incredibly adaptable.
BigBlueButton
If your needs lean more toward education, BigBlueButton steps in with purpose-built features that go far beyond standard video chats. It's more than a meeting room — it’s a teaching environment designed to engage, instruct, and interact. Teachers can present slides, draw on a whiteboard, split learners into breakout rooms, and collect feedback through polls and shared notes. Everything is crafted for the classroom.
From 1-on-1 tutoring to full class sessions, BigBlueButton scales gracefully. The latest release streamlines setup, and the integration of learning analytics gives educators insight into how students are engaging in real time. Sessions can be recorded, group work is encouraged, and AI-enhanced tools support a more connected learning experience.
In the end, both platforms reflect the power of open-source software to meet real-world needs with elegance and efficiency. Whether you're organizing team meetings or building a digital classroom, Jitsi Meet and BigBlueButton offer solid, free alternatives to commercial solutions like Skype — and they’re ready when you are.