Top 10 WebRTC Alternatives in (2023)

Are you looking for a seamless alternative to WebRTC that effortlessly integrates real-time video into your application? Look no further! Before using a video calling API, The main confusion in a developer’s mind is: Should I build or buy it?

Stay tuned to uncover what you might have missed, mainly if you already use WebRTC.

Need for a WebRTC Alternative

Finding an alternative to WebRTC may be necessary for reasons such as needing performance improvement, bugs in broadcast features, scalability, and many more. In order to build, A company must invest a significant amount of money as it involves substantial development costs, including UI/UX design, database management, cloud services, scaling, security, and more. Additionally, there are expenses related to infrastructure, hosting, maintenance, salaries for personnel, and other factors that contribute to an increase in the overall budget.

Top 10 WebRTC Alternatives for 2023

• Video SDK
• Twilio Video
• MirrorFly
• Agora
• Jitsi
• Vonage
• AWS Chime SDK
• Enablex
• Whereby
• SignalWire

1. Video SDK

Immerse yourself in the amazing capabilities of Video SDK, an API designed to seamlessly integrate robust audio and video features into your applications. With minimal effort, you can enhance your app by providing live audio and video experiences across different platforms. Elevate your user experience and take your application to the next level with Video SDK's powerful features.

Key points about Video SDK

• Experience the seamless integration of Video SDK, where simplicity and speed come together to let you focus on developing innovative features that enhance user retention.
• With Video SDK, you gain exceptional scalability, adaptive bitrate technology for optimal video quality, extensive customization options to tailor the user experience, high-quality recording capabilities, comprehensive analytics for valuable insights, cross-platform streaming for broader reach, effortless scalability for growing needs, and robust support across various platforms.
• Whether you're developing for mobile (Flutter, Android, iOS), web (JavaScript Core SDK + UI Kit), or desktop (Flutter Desktop), Video SDK empowers you to effortlessly create immersive and engaging video experiences.

Video SDK pricing

• Discover the extraordinary value of Video SDK! Embrace their generous offer of 10,000 free monthly minutes and experience the flexibility of their pricing options for video and audio calls.
• With Video SDK, indulge in video calls starting at an incredible rate of only $0.003 per participant per minute, ensuring seamless connections without straining your budget.
• Additionally, their audio calls are available at a minimal cost of just $0.0006 per minute, making communication affordable and accessible.
• For enhanced experiences, they provide cloud recordings at an affordable rate of $0.015 per minute, preserving important moments for future reference.
• For those seeking RTMP output, they offer competitive pricing at $0.030 per minute, ensuring smooth and uninterrupted streaming capabilities.
• Rest assured, their dedicated support team is available 24/7, offering prompt and reliable customer assistance whenever you require it.

2. Twilio Video

Twilio stands as a leading SDK solution, empowering businesses to smoothly integrate live video into their mobile and web applications. Its key strength lies in its versatility, providing the flexibility to build apps from scratch or enhance existing solutions with robust communication features. Whether you're starting anew or expanding your app's capabilities, Twilio offers a dependable and all-encompassing solution for seamlessly integrating live video into your applications.

Key points about Twilio

• Twilio offers web, iOS, and Android SDKs, providing developers with versatile tools to seamlessly integrate live video into their applications and enhance user experiences.
• However, using Twilio may require manual configuration and additional code for utilizing multiple audio and video inputs, leading to increased development complexity.
• Twilio's call insights feature allows error tracking and analysis, but integrating it requires additional code implementation.
• As usage grows, pricing may become a concern, as Twilio lacks a built-in tiering system in the dashboard to effectively handle scaling needs.
• Twilio supports up to 50 hosts and participants, which should be sufficient for many use cases.
• Notably, Twilio doesn't offer plugins for easy product development, demanding additional time and effort from developers.
• Lastly, Twilio provides customization options, but the level of customization offered by the Twilio Video SDK may not meet all developers' specific requirements, potentially necessitating further code development.

Pricing for Twilio

• Twilio provides pricing that begins at $4 per 1,000 minutes for their video services.
• For recordings, they charge $0.004 per participant minute, and recording compositions cost $0.01 per composed minute. Storage is priced at $0.00167 per gigabyte per day after the initial 10 gigabytes.

3. MirrorFly

MirrorFly is an exceptional in-app communication suite tailor-made for enterprises. It boasts an extensive array of powerful APIs and SDKs that provide unparalleled chat and calling experiences. With over 150 remarkable features for chat, voice, and video calling, this cloud-based solution seamlessly integrates to form a robust communication platform.

Key points about MirrorFly

• MirrorFly may have limited customization options, which can restrict the ability to tailor the platform according to specific branding or user experience requirements. This may limit the uniqueness and personalization of the communication features.
• MirrorFly may face difficulties in scaling for larger applications or handling a high volume of users. The platform may struggle to maintain performance and stability when dealing with significant traffic or complex use cases.
• Users have reported mixed experiences with MirrorFly's technical support. Some have found it lacking in responsiveness, leading to delays or difficulties in resolving issues or addressing concerns.
• MirrorFly's pricing structure may not be suitable for all budgets or use cases. Depending on the desired features and scalability requirements, the costs associated with using MirrorFly may be higher compared to alternative communication platforms.
• Integrating MirrorFly into existing applications or workflows may require significant effort and technical expertise. The platform might lack comprehensive documentation or robust developer resources, making the integration process challenging or time-consuming.

MirrorFly pricing

• MirrorFly's pricing starts at $299 per month, positioning it as a higher-cost option to take into account.

4. Agora

Agora's video calling SDK offers a wide range of features, including embedded voice and video chat, real-time recording, live streaming, and instant messaging. These features provide developers with the tools they need to create captivating and immersive live experiences within their applications.

Key points about Agora

• Agora's video SDK provides embedded voice and video chat, real-time recording, live streaming, and instant messaging. Additionally, users can opt for additional add-ons like AR facial masks, sound effects, and whiteboards at an extra cost.
• With Agora's SD-RTN (Software Defined Real-Time Network), users can enjoy extensive global coverage and benefit from ultra-low latency streaming capabilities.
• However, the pricing structure may be complex and might not be suitable for businesses with limited budgets. Users seeking hands-on support from Agora's team may experience delays, as the support team may require additional time to provide assistance.

Agora pricing

• Agora offers two pricing options, Premium and Standard, for their services. The pricing is based on the duration of audio and video calls, calculated monthly.
• It is categorized into four types, depending on the video resolution, providing users with flexibility and cost-effectiveness.
• The pricing structure includes Audio calls at $0.99 per 1,000 participant minutes, HD Video calls at $3.99 per 1,000 participant minutes, and Full HD Video calls at $8.99 per 1,000 participant minutes. Users can choose the option that best suits their needs and budget.

5. Jitsi

Jitsi is a collection of several open-source projects designed to facilitate video conferencing. Being an open-source platform, it offers the flexibility to customize and utilize it based on specific needs and requirements. The core components of Jitsi consist of Jitsi Meet, Jitsi Videobridge, Jibri, and Jigsai, each fulfilling a distinct role within the Jitsi ecosystem.

Key points about Jitsi

• Jitsi is an open-source and free platform that allows users to utilize it according to their preferences and requirements.
• One of its prominent projects, Jitsi Meet, provides various features such as text sharing via Etherpad, room locking, text chatting (web only), raising hands, YouTube video access during calls, audio-only calls, and integrations with third-party apps.
• However, Jitsi Meet alone lacks essential collaborative features like screen sharing, recording, or telephone dial-in to a conference. To access these features, additional setup of projects like Jibri and Jigsai is necessary, which can involve more time, resources, and coding efforts. This additional setup may make Jitsi less suitable for users seeking a low-code option.
• While Jitsi ensures end-to-end encryption for video calls, it does not cover chat or polls, so users prioritizing robust security may need to consider additional measures.
• It's worth noting that Jitsi can consume a significant amount of bandwidth due to the functioning of Jitsi Videobridge.
• For large organizations requiring an SDK for frequent long video sessions with a substantial number of participants, Jitsi might not meet their specific needs and could feel less satisfactory in comparison.

Jitsi pricing

• Jitsi is available for free, which means you can use its components without any payment.
• However, it's important to note that dedicated technical support is not provided by the platform. In case you encounter any issues or require assistance, you can seek help from the active community of contributors who participate in the Jitsi project.

6. Vonage

Even after being acquired by Vonage and renamed as "Vonage API," TokBox is still widely known by its original name. TokBox's SDKs provide developers with the capability to establish dependable point-to-point communication, making it an excellent choice for creating proof of concepts during hackathons or meeting investor deadlines. With Vonage's SDKs, developers have all the essential tools to build secure and seamless communication experiences within their applications.

Key points about Vonage

• The TokBox SDK empowers developers to create customized audio/video streams with various effects, filters, and AR/VR capabilities on mobile devices.
• It provides support for diverse use cases, including 1:1 video calls, group video chat, and large-scale broadcast sessions.
• During a call, participants can easily share screens, exchange messages through chat, and send data in real-time.
• However, TokBox does pose some challenges. As the user base grows, scaling costs can become a concern since the price per stream per minute increases.
• Users should be aware of additional costs for features like recording and interactive broadcast when considering the platform.
• Moreover, once the number of connections reaches 2,000, the platform switches to CDN delivery, which may lead to higher latency.
• Real-time streaming at scale can be challenging, as accommodating over 3,000 viewers requires switching to HLS, resulting in significant latency.

Vonage pricing

• Vonage adopts a usage-based pricing model for video sessions.
• The cost is determined by the number of participants and calculated dynamically every minute.
• Pricing plans start at $9.99 per month and include a free allowance of 2,000 minutes per month for all plans.
• Once the free allowance is used up, users are billed at a rate of $0.00395 per participant per minute for additional usage.
• Recording services are available at a starting rate of $0.010 per minute.
• HLS streaming is priced at $0.003 per minute.
• These additional services come with their respective costs to enhance the video experience.

7. AWS Chime SDK

The Amazon Chime SDK serves as the core technology behind Amazon Chime, functioning independently without its user interface or outer shell. It provides the essential components for integrating real-time audio and video communication into applications, empowering developers to create customized communication experiences tailored to their specific needs.

Key points about AWS Chime SDK

• The Amazon Chime SDK allows video meetings with a maximum of 25 participants (50 for mobile users), facilitating effective collaboration among users.
• It ensures consistent video quality across different devices and networks through the integration of simulcast technology.
• To prioritize security, the Amazon Chime SDK encrypts all calls, videos, and chats, providing a secure communication environment for users.
• However, some features like polling, auto-sync with Google Calendar, and background blur effects are not available in the Amazon Chime SDK, which might be a limitation for users seeking these specific functionalities.
• Additionally, there are compatibility issues reported in Linux environments, and participants using the Safari browser may encounter challenges while using the SDK, which can affect the overall user experience.
• Moreover, customer support experiences with the Amazon Chime SDK may vary, as the query resolution times can be inconsistent and depend on the specific support agent assigned to the case.

AWS Chime pricing

• Amazon Chime offers a free basic plan that allows users to engage in one-on-one audio/video calls and group chats without any cost.
• For users who require additional features and functionalities, there is a Plus plan available at a price of $2.50 per month per user. This plan includes valuable additions such as screen sharing, remote desktop control, 1 GB of message history per user, and Active Directory integration.
• For more extensive collaboration needs, there is the Pro plan available at a cost of $15 per user per month. This comprehensive plan encompasses all the features of the Plus plan and allows for meetings with three or more participants, making it suitable for larger group discussions and presentations.

8. EnableX

The EnableX SDK provides video and audio calling, along with collaborative features like whiteboard, screen sharing, recording, and more. It offers a video builder tool for custom solutions, allowing personalized user interfaces and hosting options.

Key points about EnableX

• EnableX provides a self-service portal with reporting and live analytics, allowing users to track communication quality and handle online payments.
• The SDK supports JavaScript, PHP, and Python, making integration seamless for developers. Users can stream live content from their app or website and reach a larger audience through platforms like YouTube and Facebook.
• However, the support team's response time may take up to 72 hours, which could be a concern for users needing timely assistance.

EnableX pricing

• EnableX offers pricing plans starting at $0.004 per minute per participant for rooms with up to 50 people. For larger meetings or events, custom pricing options are available through their sales team.
• Recording services are provided at a rate of $0.010 per minute per participant, allowing you to capture and preserve video sessions for future reference.
• Transcoding video into different formats is available at a rate of $0.010 per minute, enabling you to convert content as needed.
• Additional storage can be obtained at $0.05 per gigabyte (GB) per month, accommodating your growing video content.
• RTMP (Real-Time Messaging Protocol) streaming is offered at a rate of $0.10 per minute, facilitating real-time delivery to various platforms and devices.
• Please be aware that pricing may vary based on specific needs, and it is advisable to contact EnableX directly for accurate and personalized pricing details.

9. Whereby

Whereby is a user-friendly video conferencing platform tailored for small to medium-sized meetings. It provides a straightforward and intuitive experience for users. However, it might not be the most suitable option for larger businesses or those seeking advanced features that cater to their specific needs.

Key points about Whereby

• Basic customization options for the video interface are available, but they are limited and do not offer a fully customized experience.
• Video calls can be embedded directly into websites, mobile apps, and web products, eliminating the need for external links or additional apps.
• While Whereby offers a seamless video conferencing experience, it may lack some advanced features found in other tools.
• The maximum capacity for meetings on Whereby is 50 participants, which may be sufficient for many use cases.
• Screen sharing for mobile users and customization options for the host interface may have some limitations.
• Whereby does not support virtual backgrounds, and some users have reported issues with the mobile app, which could affect the overall user experience.

Whereby pricing

• Whereby's pricing starts at $9.99 per month.
• The basic plan includes an allocation of up to 2,000 user minutes per month, which is renewed monthly.
• If users exceed the allocated minutes, additional usage is charged at a rate of $0.004 per minute.
• Cloud recording and live streaming options are available at a rate of $0.01 per minute.
• Email and chat support are provided free of charge to all users, ensuring accessible assistance.
• Paid support plans offer additional features such as technical onboarding and customer success management.
• HIPAA compliance is also available as part of the paid support plans, catering to specific security and privacy requirements.

10. SignalWire

SignalWire is a platform that utilizes APIs to enable developers to effortlessly integrate live and on-demand video experiences into their applications. The main objective of SignalWire is to simplify the processes of video encoding, delivery, and renditions, ensuring a seamless and uninterrupted video streaming experience for users.

Overview of SignalWire

• SignalWire offers an SDK that allows developers to integrate real-time video and live streams into web, iOS, and Android applications. The SDK enables video calls with up to 100 participants in a real-time webRTC environment.
• However, it's essential to mention that the SDK does not provide built-in support for managing disruptions or user publish-subscribe logic, which developers will need to implement separately.

SignalWire pricing

• SignalWire utilizes a pricing model based on per-minute usage. For HD video calls, the pricing is $0.0060 per minute, while for Full HD video calls, it is $0.012 per minute. The actual cost may vary depending on the desired video quality for your application.
• Additionally, SignalWire offers additional features such as recording, which is available at a rate of $0.0045 per minute. This allows you to capture and store video content for future use.
• The platform also provides streaming capabilities priced at $0.10 per minute, enabling you to broadcast your video content in real-time.

Certainly!

Video SDK stands out as an SDK that prioritizes fast and seamless integration. With a low-code solution, developers can quickly build live video experiences in their applications, deploying custom video conferencing solutions in under 10 minutes. Unlike other SDKs, Video SDK offers a streamlined process with easy creation and embedding of live video experiences, enabling real-time connections, communication, and collaboration.

Still Skeptical?

Dive into the possibilities of Video SDK by exploring its comprehensive Quickstart guide. Discover its potential with the powerful sample app exclusively designed for Video SDK. Sign up now and embark on your integration journey, and don't miss the chance to claim your complimentary 10,000 minutes to unlock the full potential of Video SDK. Our dedicated team is always ready to assist you whenever you need support. Get ready to showcase your creativity and build remarkable experiences with Video SDK. Let the world see what you can create!