Comparison: Google Meet vs Around
Verdict
Both Google Meet and Around are excellent choices with identical 4.4/5 ratings. Google Meet excels at quick team meetings, while Around is better for pair programming sessions. Choose based on your team's specific workflow and existing tool stack.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Google Meet | Around |
|---|---|---|
| Free Plan | ✓ Yes | ✓ Yes |
| Starting Price | Free + $7/user/mo | Free + $10/user/mo |
| Rating | 4.4/5 | 4.4/5 |
| Reviews | 2,134 | 312 |
| Best For | Quick team meetings | Pair programming sessions |
| Key Feature | Browser-based, no download required | Floating video bubbles |
Overview
Google Meet and Around are both popular tools in the Video Conferencing space. Google Meet Google Meet is the video conferencing solution built into Google Workspace, offering seamless integration with Gmail, Google Calendar, and other Google apps. Around Around reimagines video meetings for the way remote teams actually work.
This comparison will help you decide which tool is right for your team based on features, pricing, and use cases.
Pricing Comparison
Google Meet pricing starts at $7/user/mo with a free tier available. Around pricing starts at $10/user/mo with a free tier available.
Both tools offer free plans, making it easy to test before committing. Google Meet's free tier includes 100 participants, 60-minute group meetings. Around's free tier includes Unlimited meetings, 8 participants max.
Key Features
Google Meet key features include: Browser-based, no download required, Google Calendar integration, Live captions in multiple languages, AI noise cancellation.
Around key features include: Floating video bubbles, Auto-mute and noise cancellation, Echo Prevention technology, Deep Focus mode.
Both tools offer strong feature sets, but they excel in different areas. Google Meet has slightly better overall ratings from users.
Pros and Cons
Google Meet pros: No software installation needed, Seamless Google integration, Generous free tier (60 min).
Google Meet cons: Fewer features than Zoom, Requires Google account for hosting, Limited webinar capabilities.
Around pros: Unique floating interface, Very lightweight on system resources, Great for pairing and collaboration.
Around cons: Smaller user base, Not ideal for formal presentations, Limited webinar features.
Who Should Use Each Tool?
Choose Google Meet if: Quick team meetings, Calendar-integrated calls, or if your team values no software installation needed.
Choose Around if: Pair programming sessions, Design reviews, or if your team needs unique floating interface.
Both tools integrate well with popular remote work tools and support teams of various sizes.
Final Thoughts
Full Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better: Google Meet or Around?
Google Meet is rated slightly higher (4.4/5) by users. However, the best choice depends on your specific needs. Google Meet excels at quick team meetings, while Around is better for pair programming sessions.
Is Google Meet free?
Yes, Google Meet offers a free tier with 100 participants. Paid plans start at $7/user/mo.
Is Around free?
Yes, Around offers a free tier with unlimited meetings. Paid plans start at $10/user/mo.
Can I use both Google Meet and Around together?
Yes, many teams use both tools together. Google Meet and Around can complement each other—Google Meet for quick team meetings and Around for pair programming sessions. Check each tool's integrations to ensure they work with your existing stack.