8 Best Conference Call Services of April 2024
Updated March 29, 2024 at 11:27 am
For businesses that rely on remote or hybrid teams, the ability to connect and communicate with employees wherever they are is essential. Whether you work on a small or large team, a conference call service can help you conduct virtual audio and video meetings with people located around the world.
Conference calling platforms facilitate virtual calls and meetings so participants don’t have to go through a lengthy or complex process to figure out how to call in and join the conversation. If you’re looking for the best conference call app to use for your team, there are several options depending on your company’s size, needs and budget.
Our Methodology Our research is designed to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of personal finance services and products that best suit your needs. To help you in the decision-making process, our expert contributors compare common preferences and potential pain points, such as affordability, accessibility, and credibility.
Our Picks - Best Overall: RingCentral
- Best for Reliability: Nextiva
- Best for Collaboration: Zoom
- Best for Small Businesses: Grasshopper
- Best for Remote Teams: GoToMeeting
- Best Free Service: FreeConferenceCall.com
- Best AI Conference Calling App: Dialpad
- Best for Large Conferences: Vast Conference
Best Conference Call Applications of 2024
Best Overall
RingCentral
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
RingCentral is an all-in-one business communications platform that tops the list of conference calling solutions. The platform hosts up to 1,000 participants per audio conference. For video calls, the top-tier plan hosts up to 200 participants, but an add-on purchase brings that number up to 500. Additionally, RingCentral offers a webinar add-on option that can host up to 10,000 attendees. The conference calling service also uses AI to generate call transcripts and meeting notes and conduct sentiment analysis to streamline efficiency across your organization.
Key Features
- Unlimited domestic calls in the U.S. and Canada
- Can host up to 1,000 participants per audio conference
- AI-powered transcripts, meeting notes, sentiment analysis and more
- Unlimited video recording
Pros
- Used by over 400,000 companies
- Over 300 third-party app integrations
- 46 countries supported
Cons
- Video conferencing capped at 200 participants without an add-on purchase
- Lowest-tier plan offers limited features
- Limited customer support
Best for Reliability
Nextiva
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
Nextiva is a cloud-based and feature-rich Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone service. Offering both audio and video conferencing, Nextiva is lauded for its call reliability thanks to its 99.99% uptime. The conference calling service also uses HD technology to produce high-quality call sound.
Key Features
- Unlimited audio and video meetings
- Dedicated conference bridge
- Calling features include auto attendant, on-hold music and call forwarding
- HD voice technology produces high-quality calls
Pros
- 99.999% uptime
- TLS & SRTP encryption
- 24/7 customer support
- Can host unlimited conference call participants with add-on
Cons
- Customer support wait times
- Lowest tier has limited features
- 45-minute time limit on conference calls without add-on
Best for Collaboration
Zoom
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
Zoom offers a range of features ideal for remote teams who want to take advantage of both audio and video conferencing. Collaborative features include interactive elements, screen sharing, co-annotation tools and breakout rooms. Zoom offers a free basic plan to get started, but if you want to use the platform for audio conferencing with a large group, the paid plans are ideal.
Key Features
- Can host up to 1,000 participants on a video conference with Enterprise Plus plan or Large Meetings add-on
- Advanced background noise suppression
- Dedicated dial-in number to join a meeting without an ID number
Pros
- HD audio and video
- Interactive video features including reactions, polls and filters
- Dial-in for over 55 countries
Cons
- Audio conferencing only included in paid plans
- Toll-based dial-in
- No free trial
Best for Small Businesses
Grasshopper
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
Grasshopper is a professional business phone and calling service, but it can work as a conference calling service for small groups. If you already use Grasshopper for your business phone or are in the market for a business number, you can use Grasshopper for conference calling at no additional cost. While the service is audio-only, up to 10 participants (including the host) can join a conference call.
Key Features
- Conferencing included in Grasshopper VoIP services
- Business number options include local, toll-free and vanity numbers
- Unlimited texting
- Unlimited users with higher-tier plans
Pros
- 24/7 support
- Affordable price
- No additional phones or equipment needed
Cons
- No video conferencing capabilities
- Limited to 10 participants
- Must add participants one at a time
Best for Remote Teams
GoTo Meeting
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
GoTo Meeting is a feature-rich virtual conferencing platform with a simple interface. Teams of all sizes can easily host and join conferences on the go, wherever they are in the world. GoTo Meeting also ensures everyone is on time by automatically calling attendees so they can join simply by answering the call.
Key Features
- Mobile conferencing through the GoTo mobile app
- Call Me feature automatically calls participants at meeting start
- Free version offers video conferencing for up to four participants
Pros
- Toll-free calls available for over 50 countries
- Call recordings stored in the cloud for higher-tier plans
- Integrations with common apps like Salesforce, Slack and Office 365
Cons
- User interface can be confusing
- End-to-end encryption option is limited
- Relies on strong internet connection
Best Free Conference Calling
FreeConferenceCall.com
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
FreeConferenceCall.com offers exactly what the name implies: a free alternative to conference calling services. The platform relies on a “pay what you can” pricing model, so you can choose to pay a small monthly fee if you wish. Additionally, the tool uses sponsorships to run its free service, so expect to see ads while you use it. If you’re a small business with a limited budget, this free conference calling service offers everything you need to conduct audio and video business calls without increasing your spending.
Key Features
- Mobile and desktop apps available
- International conference calling included
- Breakout rooms for small groups
- Call recording and transcriptions available
Pros
- Audio and video calls for up to 1,000 participants
- Available in over 76 countries
- Muting and attendance management included
Cons
- Must use phone keypad commands to manage the call
- Ad-based
- Connection can be slow
Best AI Conference Calling App
Dialpad
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
Dialpad is an AI-powered, accessible way to connect over a conference call. The conference call app offers one-click video conferencing with AI-generated transcriptions as well as audio conferencing that can be accessed by dialing in with a phone.
Key Features
- Unlimited video meetings
- Live transcription and call summaries powered by AI
- Collaborative features include screen sharing and whiteboard
- One-click meetings that don’t require PINs or downloads
Pros
- Free plan available
- HD video and audio
- Background noise reducer
Cons
- Free plan limited to 10 participants
- International access numbers limited to paid account
- Customer service is hard to contact
Best for Large Conferences
Vast Conference
Vault Verified
Why We Chose It
Vast Conference is cloud-based conferencing software designed specifically for virtual events and conferences. While Vast is not a VoIP or business communications solution, it can be a useful platform if you’re focused solely on large-scale conferences since it can host up to 1,000 participants on audio or video.
Key Features
- Participants can join without a PIN via a one-click mobile app
- Dedicated conference call number
- Clever conference call interface to manage participants in real time
- Offers operator-assisted conference calls
Pros
- Quick and easy set-up
- Call service available in up to 70 countries
- Easy-to-use interface
Cons
- Limited meeting features
- Essentials plan limited to 10 participants
- Not a full-service communications solution
Vault’s Viewpoint: Compare Best Conference Call Service of 2024
| Product | Price | Free Trial | Audio | Video | Participants |
| RingCentral | Starts at $20 per user, per month | 14-day | ✔ | ✔ | 1,000 |
| Nextiva | Starts at $18.95 per user, per month | 14-day | ✔ | ✔ | 200 |
| Zoom | Free, with paid versions starting at $13.33 per user, per month | None | ✔ | ✔ | 1,000 with add-on or Enterprise Plus plan |
| Grasshopper | Starts at $14 per month for one user | 7-day | ✔ | 10 | |
| GoTo Meeting | Starts at $12 per organizer per month | 14-day | ✔ | ✔ | 250 |
| FreeConferenceCall.com | Free | None | ✔ | ✔ | 1,000 |
| Dialpad | Free, with paid version starting at $15 per user, per month | None | ✔ | ✔ | 150 |
| Vast Conference | Starts at $13.19 per month | 14-day | ✔ | ✔ | 1,000 |
Conference Calling Service Introduction
Before you can choose a conference calling service for your business, it’s important to understand how conference calls work and who benefits from them most.
What Is a Conference Call Service?
A conference call is a type of call where multiple people join at once via audio, video or web, typically by accessing a link or calling a phone number. A conference call service or app helps facilitate these calls by connecting participants over a web conferencing solution or through dial-in.
How Does a Conference Calling App Work?
A conference calling app allows hosts to set up a dial-in number for participants to call from wherever they are in the world. Conference calling apps can also provide a meeting URL that attendees can join over the web or with a mobile device, and these calls can be set up as audio or video.
Conference calling apps are designed to automate this process so that you, as the host, don’t have to manually call everyone and can quickly and seamlessly connect with your remote team. Conference calling services also make it easy for attendees to call in with just a few clicks. Some services automate the process even further by allowing you to set up automatic calls and schedule recurring meetings.
Who Is a Conference Call Service Best For?
Conference call services are best for remote or hybrid teams who want to conduct meetings and communicate regardless of location. Small and large teams can connect over a conference call to enhance communication, interact face-to-face over video or host large-scale virtual events.
Types of Conference Call Services
- Audio: Audio-only conference calls involve calling in through a mobile device, landline or web-based solution. Audio calls do not include video. However, you can call into a video conference using only audio.
- Video: A video conference call involves face-to-face participation. Attendees can see each other on the same screen and interact over video and audio.
- Web: A web-based conference call is a video or audio meeting that involves interactive elements including screen sharing, presentations or hand-raising.
How to Choose a Conference Call App
In order to find the best conference call app, you have to know what features you’re looking for. Here are the features to consider when selecting a conference call service.
Dial-In Conferencing
Dial-in conferencing is essential if you want to ensure people can call into your meeting from wherever they are. Dial-in conferencing allows participants to call a number using their mobile device, which can be helpful if they’re on the road or don’t have access to an internet connection.
Video Conferencing
If you want to meet face-to-face, look for a conference call app that includes video conferencing. Not every conference call supports video, and some have a cap on video attendees, so keep this in mind when selecting the best app for your organization.
Recurring Meetings
If you want to meet with team members on a regular basis—let’s say for a weekly status update or quarterly meeting—look for a conference call app with scheduling capabilities. You’ll need this feature to set up recurring meetings that automatically sync with participants’ calendars.
Software Integrations
Third-party software integrations are essential if you’re looking for a comprehensive communications solution. Look for a conference calling service that includes integrations with the apps your organization uses, such as Salesforce, Office 365, Slack and more.
Accessibility Features
To ensure everyone on your team has equal access to conference calls, accessibility features are critical. Accessibility features can include closed captioning, screen reader support and language translation.
Screen Sharing
If you plan on using video conferencing, screen sharing is a helpful feature to have. Screen sharing allows hosts and participants to share their screens with attendees for a presentation, demo or training.
Transcriptions
Transcriptions are important when recording calls. Not only are these accessible to everyone, but they help attendees keep track of everything that was said. Some conference call apps include AI-powered transcriptions, which cuts down on time spent taking meeting notes.
Cloud Recordings
If you want to record your meetings, look for a conference calling app with recording capabilities—especially if they are saved to the cloud. Cloud-based recordings allow anyone on the team to access the meeting at a later date and time.
Breakout Rooms
Breakout rooms are smaller call groups that have stemmed from a larger conference call. These can be helpful if you’re on a large call and want to further collaborate with smaller, more focused groups.
The Ability to Mute Participants
If you plan on hosting large conference calls—with anywhere from 50 to 1,000 participants—then you need the ability to mute participants. This feature allows the host to mute everyone except themselves and to choose who can speak and when.
Waiting Rooms
When hosting a large conference, you should be expected that some people will arrive at the call earlier than the scheduled time. In this case, you’ll need a waiting room. Some conference calling services offer waiting room features such as music or interactive elements.
End-to-End Encryption
If you need the most secure conference calling service, look for one with end-to-end encryption. End-to-end encryption ensures your data won’t be compromised by a third-party platform.
The Ability to Remove a Participant
Similar to muting a participant, it can be helpful for your conference call app to offer the ability for the host to remove a participant. Look for a conference calling service that provides call management features for the host.
Other Conference Call Service Alternatives
Webex
Webex is a cloud-based communication suite of products that offers audio and video calls as part of its web conferencing software. Webex offers a free plan that includes up to 40 minutes of meeting time for up to 100 attendees. Paid plans start at $14.50 per license, per month.
Skype
Skype is part of Microsoft’s business ecosystem. But the platform also makes it easy to set up video calls with anyone who doesn’t use Microsoft because there’s no sign-up required for participants. You can make free video calls up to 24 hours long and with up to 99 participants with Skype’s app or web-based service. If you want to host a large conference call with people who aren’t part of your organization, Skype is a good option since it doesn’t require users to have an account to join.
Aircall
The cloud-based phone system Aircall is designed specifically for sales and support teams. Its conference calling features include a simple interface that makes it easy to connect to your team members in seconds. However, conference calls on Aircall are limited to five members, making this tool best for small teams. Pricing starts at $30 per license, per month.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Much Do Conference Call Services Cost?
The cost for conference call services can range widely depending on the size of your organization and what features you’re looking for. For example, some services offer free plans that could meet the needs of small businesses, while many services require a monthly base fee plus an additional fee per user.
Is There a Free Conference Call App?
FreeConferenceCall.com is a free conference call app that can host up to 1,000 participants. The app offers high-quality audio and video calling using an ads-based structure and a “pay what you can” pricing model. Zoom and Dialpad also have free options.
Does Zoom Do Conference Calls?
Yes, Zoom offers conference calls for up to 1,000 participants on its Enterprise Plus plan. The lower-tier plans can host between 100 and 300 participants for audio and video conference calls.
What Is the Best Way To Set Up a Conference Call?
The best way to set up a conference call is by using a conference calling service. The more participants you have, the more important it is to have a conference call app, since they can handle the bandwidth over landline or web-based solutions.
Are There Audio-Only Conference Call Services?
There are several conference call services that offer audio in addition to video and some that offer audio-only. Grasshopper is an audio-only conference call app and business phone service.
Editorial Note: Opinions expressed here are author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post. We may earn a commission from partner links on Newsweek, but commissions do not affect our editors’ opinions or evaluations.
