Facetime vs. Skype - the main differences
Skype and FaceTime are both ideal for video telephony. But where are the differences? We clarify it.
FaceTime vs. Skype - the main differences
The first big difference lies in the implementation: Facetime is already integrated in iOS and Mac OS X, Skype must first be installed as a program or app.
- Platforms: FaceTime is only available for Mac OS X and iOS. Skype not only runs on iOS and OS X, but also on Windows, Android, Linux, on Kindle, on Windows Phone, on BlackBerry, on Nokia smartphones and the PlayStation Vita.
- Availability: If you want to call a friend via FaceTime, you only need their phone number or Apple ID. With Skype, you need the Skype username and must first add the contact as a friend.
- Video telephony: FaceTime is only created for video telephony. In contrast to Skype, the program consists of only one function.
- Messenger: Skype's second main function is a messenger, which you can use to chat with your contacts and exchange data such as pictures.
- Quality: Both sound and image quality always depend on the speed of your current internet connection. However, the quality is usually a bit higher in both areas via FaceTime.
- Conclusion: FaceTime is particularly practical in the mobile area. Just call your friend's phone number or Apple ID and you're ready to go. However, numerous useful functions such as a messenger and data exchange are available on your computer or laptop via Skype.
We will present you the best alternatives to Skype and Facetime in the next practical tip.