Software Alternatives, Accelerators & Startups

OpenMeetings VS WebEx

Compare OpenMeetings VS WebEx and see what are their differences

OpenMeetings logo OpenMeetings

Openmeetings provides video conferencing, instant messaging, white board, collaborative document...

WebEx logo WebEx

Cisco WebEx Web Conferencing, Online Meetings, Desktop Sharing, Video Conferencing
  • OpenMeetings Landing page
    Landing page //
    2022-06-13
  • WebEx Landing page
    Landing page //
    2023-10-05

OpenMeetings features and specs

  • Open Source
    OpenMeetings is an open-source platform, meaning that it's free to use and can be customized to meet specific user needs. Users have access to the source code and can modify it according to their requirements.
  • Rich Feature Set
    Includes a variety of features such as video conferencing, collaborative whiteboard, screen sharing, recording, and chat, making it suitable for different types of meetings and webinars.
  • Integration
    Can easily integrate with other systems like Learning Management Systems (LMS) and Content Management Systems (CMS), enhancing its functionality and enabling seamless workflow.
  • Multi-device Support
    Can be accessed from multiple devices including desktops, tablets, and smartphones, providing flexibility for users to join meetings from various platforms.
  • User Management
    Includes features for user and permission management, allowing administrators to control who has access to meetings and various functionalities.

Possible disadvantages of OpenMeetings

  • Complex Setup
    Installation and setup can be complex, especially for users who are not technically proficient. It requires a server to host the application, which can be a barrier for some users.
  • Limited Support
    Being an open-source project, it does not provide dedicated customer support. Users may need to rely on community support, forums, or third-party consultants for troubleshooting.
  • Performance Issues
    Performance can be a concern if the server is not properly configured or if there are insufficient resources, leading to lag, audio issues, or dropped connections.
  • User Interface
    The user interface might not be as polished or intuitive as some commercial alternatives, which can affect user experience and ease of use.
  • Security
    Open-source projects can sometimes be more vulnerable to security issues if not properly maintained and updated. Regular updates and proper configuration are necessary to ensure security.

WebEx features and specs

  • Comprehensive Features
    WebEx offers a wide range of features such as screen sharing, video conferencing, virtual whiteboards, and integration with other productivity tools.
  • Scalability
    WebEx is suitable for both small meetings and large webinars, accommodating a significant number of participants with ease.
  • Cross-Platform Support
    The platform supports various operating systems, including Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS, making it accessible from different devices.
  • High Security
    WebEx provides robust security measures, including end-to-end encryption and compliance with various industry standards.
  • Good Audio and Video Quality
    The service generally delivers high-quality audio and video, which enhances the overall user experience.

Possible disadvantages of WebEx

  • Complex User Interface
    The multitude of features can make the interface appear cluttered and may be overwhelming for new users.
  • High Cost
    The pricing plans for WebEx can be costly, especially for small businesses on a tight budget.
  • Performance Issues
    Occasional lags and connectivity issues have been reported, particularly when dealing with large groups.
  • Steep Learning Curve
    Due to its advanced features, WebEx has a steep learning curve which might require additional training for effective use.
  • Limited Free Version
    The free version of WebEx offers limited functionality compared to the paid plans, which may not suffice for all users.

Analysis of OpenMeetings

Overall verdict

  • OpenMeetings can be considered a good solution if you are looking for a free, customizable, and feature-rich conferencing tool. It is especially appealing to those who prefer open-source software or require a platform that can be tailored to specific needs.

Why this product is good

  • OpenMeetings is a versatile, open-source web conferencing platform that offers a range of features for online meetings, collaboration, and communication. It includes functionalities such as audio/video conferencing, screen sharing, whiteboard tools, and chat, making it useful for educational, business, and personal purposes. Being open-source, it also allows for customization and integration with other tools and systems.

Recommended for

  • Educational institutions looking for a free tool for hosting virtual classes.
  • Small to medium businesses seeking a cost-effective conferencing solution.
  • Open-source enthusiasts who appreciate customizable and flexible software.
  • Technical users interested in integrating conferencing capabilities with existing systems or applications.

OpenMeetings videos

OpenMeetings 1.1 Key Features Mini Demo

WebEx videos

Introducing the New Cisco Webex Meetings Desktop App and UI

More videos:

  • Review - Experience the New Cisco Webex Meetings
  • Tutorial - How To Use Cisco's Webex

Category Popularity

0-100% (relative to OpenMeetings and WebEx)
Communication
15 15%
85% 85
Video Conferencing
17 17%
83% 83
Group Chat & Notifications
Tool
100 100%
0% 0

User comments

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Reviews

These are some of the external sources and on-site user reviews we've used to compare OpenMeetings and WebEx

OpenMeetings Reviews

We have no reviews of OpenMeetings yet.
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WebEx Reviews

Top 10 Webex alternatives in 2024
Webex is a robust, unified collaboration and communication platform developed by Cisco and has advanced conferencing features. Yet, for businesses that have affordability constraints and stringent privacy requirements, Webex has limitations.
Source: www.rocket.chat
Webex Alternatives: 10 Best Tools for Interactive Webinars (2024)
As a trainer, coach, and consultant with years of experience, I’ve witnessed a significant surge in demand for webinar tools. Initially, Webex served as a go-to solution for many professionals. But as the landscape of digital meetings and seminars evolves, it has led many to seek smarter Webex alternatives.
The 8 best Webex alternatives (2024)
Webex is a traditional webinar tool owned by the U.S. tech giant Cisco and was founded in 1995. Webex can be a solid option for hosting webinars - given that your main priority is security, or that you host either large meetings or small webinars. If you are hosting marketing webinars in 2024 - and considering Webex scores only 4.3 in user reviews on G2 - there are more...
Source: univid.io
6 Webex Alternatives You Can Switch to in 2022
Webex comes from Cisco's kitchen. Thanks to years of development, updates, and resources available to the development teams at Cisco, Webex can offer some great perks. For instance, you don't have to worry about scalability as it can support up to 3,000 attendees. It also has great potential when it comes to training employees with screen-sharing features and support for...
Source: www.stork.ai
15 Best Instant Messaging Apps for Business
Cisco WebEx allows you to communicate and collaborate securely with anyone. The platform offers instant messaging, video, audio and integrated web conferencing.
Source: clariti.app

Social recommendations and mentions

Based on our record, WebEx should be more popular than OpenMeetings. It has been mentiond 6 times since March 2021. We are tracking product recommendations and mentions on various public social media platforms and blogs. They can help you identify which product is more popular and what people think of it.

OpenMeetings mentions (1)

  • Ask HN: Any good open source video conferencing options?
    Another option: https://openmeetings.apache.org/. - Source: Hacker News / almost 2 years ago

WebEx mentions (6)

  • webex.com
    Just wondering if anyone else has issues loading webex.com. Both chrome and edge just loop around loading. It's strange however as it works fine if I use a google search and use a direct link like https://www.webex.com/downloads.html. Source: about 2 years ago
  • The Web ex App notification are way too loud
    Go to webex.com and login. On the left side menu, choose Preferences (gear icon) and then choose Audio and Video from the tab menu. Under Audio Connection there is a section for Entry and exit tone. Make sure that is set to Beep. Source: over 2 years ago
  • Cisco SX20 telepresence - use as teams client or webcam?
    Also, at work we seem to have some webex integration, where I get a meeting id with a webex.com address:. Source: almost 3 years ago
  • Did Amazon customer service send me a spyware link?
    Webex.com looks like one of those conferencing apps like ms teams or zoom, so you are probably fine. Source: almost 3 years ago
  • Webex on Iphone initial install does not ask if you want to allow access to contacts.
    I have even logged directly into her webex.com account to see if there is anything different in there to no avail. Source: almost 3 years ago
View more

What are some alternatives?

When comparing OpenMeetings and WebEx, you can also consider the following products

Zoom - Equip your team with tools designed to collaborate, connect, and engage with teammates and customers, no matter where you’re located, all in one platform.

BigBlueButton - Engage Your Online Students. BigBlueButton is a web conferencing system designed for online learning.

GoToMeeting - GoToMeeting is a web conferencing service offering a range of services which are available on Mac, PC, iOS and Android devices.

ClickMeeting - Collaborate with partners and clients using ClickMeeting professional web conferencing software. Try it now, FREE!

Skype - Stay in touch with your family and friends for free on Skype. Download Skype today to chat and call on desktop and mobile.

join.me - Instant screen sharing. Instant Aha!