[simple_series title=”All posts in the Skype Series”]
Do you wonder what the differences between Skype and FaceTime are? Why should you use Skype over FaceTime?
When I was approached about becoming a Skype ambassador, I thought to myself “why would I want to use Skype regularly instead of FaceTime?”.
Just by asking myself that question, I realized that I had subconciously blocked all of my PC owning family and friends, from my video call list. Most of my family members own PC’s and do not own an iPhone or iPad. Let’s just say they live simple lives. Therefor, I can’t FaceTime with them. I have cousins who have children that my kids would love to video chat with but until it clicked for me that we can all use Skype, I didn’t even consider it. With Skype, my kids can chat with any family member who owns a PC, Android device, iOS device, or Mac.
While I love FaceTime for video chatting with my Dad and Sister who both own an iPhone, iPad, and MacBook, FaceTime does not allow me to chat with my PC loving friends and family.
Skype vs FaceTime Feature Comparison
| Skype | FaceTime | |
| Video chat from PC/Windows | Yes | No |
| Video chat from iPhone/iPad/Mac/iOS | Yes | Yes |
| Video chat from Android | Yes | No |
| Let’s you know who’s available | Yes | No |
| Chat function | Yes | No |
| Group video calling | Yes (Premium feature) | No |
| Send files while you chat | Yes | No |
These comparisons are valid as of May 2012.
Situation when using Skype rocks!
- If you have a child who is graduating school soon, Skype is a great way to help grandparents celebrate with you!
- Include relatives in your child’s birthday celebration
- Your kids can video chat with Mom or Dad when they are traveling
- Read a bedtime story to your child when you are traveling
- Bloggers, catch up with your blogging buddies between events via Skype!
Connect with Skype:
Disclosure: While I am a Skype Ambassador, this post was not required.
I’ve always preferred Skype simply because it allows you to connect to any device. The only real benefit to FaceTime in my opinion is that it’s built into the operating system.
My nephew does prefer FaceTime though because it’s easier to use. My family owns quite a few iOS devices, so it’s alright for him.