Web conferencing and video conferencing are often considered the same thing. The truth is that they are probably more like two sides of the same coin. However, before we talk about and point out the differences, there is one significant similarity between the two — both are an upgrade from the traditional audio-only calls. Both video conferencing and web conferencing take the concept of traditional voice calls and add an extra dimension to it – visuals, to better engage the senses and the attention of the audience.
Another similarity is that both of them manage to cut the cost of traveling to meetings.
Yet, there are quite a few differences between the two, some of which are listed below --
The primary difference between web conferencing for free and video conferencing is that video conferences are usually two-way, with both parties connected via webcams; web conferences are usually one-way, with the speaker using a webcam to reach out to a large audience.
A two-person video conference requires each participant to have a webcam and access to internet that is capable of providing enough bandwidth for video. Web conferencing, on the other hand requires the audience to have to a computer/laptop, all of which should have a common free web conferencing service.
As far as costs are concerned, webinars usually tend to be the more cost effective of the two. Not only does it require less equipment, but the need for booking a room or a hall for a seminar is rendered redundant, as the audience can simply log in from their computer. Video conferences require more equipment, as each member needs to have a webcam; if high quality video is needed, the costs are even higher.
Another important difference is that in a video conference, the members involved can see each other, make eye contact, and read body language. They can see each other in the (virtual) flesh. Web conferencing is useful when a product/service has to be promoted and marketed, or when something has to be taught to a large group of people.
Webinars are usually used for sharing content, such as announcing the launch of a new product/service, and they are often used as training tools for the introduction of policies and procedures. There are a host of free web conferencing service platforms that you can find online that allow you to perform the aforementioned tasks. Video conferencing on the other hand is like a virtual meeting where all members are given a face and a seat, and can dial in and converse using an audio bridge.
The lines between these differences though is blurring. Web conferencing software are adding two-way communication facilities and video conferences are including the ability to share content that can be presented in unison with video/visuals. A single tool that can cater to both needs is in great demand today.
Another similarity is that both of them manage to cut the cost of traveling to meetings.
Yet, there are quite a few differences between the two, some of which are listed below --
The primary difference between web conferencing for free and video conferencing is that video conferences are usually two-way, with both parties connected via webcams; web conferences are usually one-way, with the speaker using a webcam to reach out to a large audience.
A two-person video conference requires each participant to have a webcam and access to internet that is capable of providing enough bandwidth for video. Web conferencing, on the other hand requires the audience to have to a computer/laptop, all of which should have a common free web conferencing service.
As far as costs are concerned, webinars usually tend to be the more cost effective of the two. Not only does it require less equipment, but the need for booking a room or a hall for a seminar is rendered redundant, as the audience can simply log in from their computer. Video conferences require more equipment, as each member needs to have a webcam; if high quality video is needed, the costs are even higher.
Another important difference is that in a video conference, the members involved can see each other, make eye contact, and read body language. They can see each other in the (virtual) flesh. Web conferencing is useful when a product/service has to be promoted and marketed, or when something has to be taught to a large group of people.
Webinars are usually used for sharing content, such as announcing the launch of a new product/service, and they are often used as training tools for the introduction of policies and procedures. There are a host of free web conferencing service platforms that you can find online that allow you to perform the aforementioned tasks. Video conferencing on the other hand is like a virtual meeting where all members are given a face and a seat, and can dial in and converse using an audio bridge.
The lines between these differences though is blurring. Web conferencing software are adding two-way communication facilities and video conferences are including the ability to share content that can be presented in unison with video/visuals. A single tool that can cater to both needs is in great demand today.