Dimdim (browser based) versus Skype(client based) - A Look at 2 Free Web Conferencing Options
vs. 
I'm a fan of Skype and we used it for one online course last summer. It wasn't hiccup free, but for small groups the price certainly was right (free).
This new product sounds like it could be really useful to libraries and non-profits and has some extra features. I'm tot totally sure about their choice of product name, Dimdim, but on the plus side the name is short and it sticks with you ironically.
Dimdim is a free web conferencing service where you can share your desktop, show slides, collaborate, chat, talk and broadcast via webcam with absolutely no download required for attendees.
The free version is supported by ads but you can host meetings for up to 20 people which without any cost which is wonderful.
The Pro version pricing for small organizations also looks reasonable:
- 20 people/room $99/yr
- 40 people/room $198/yr
- 60 people/room $297/yr
- 80 people/room $396/yr
- 100 people/room $495/yr
How does this option stack up against Skype? With Skype you can have text chat, video and voice call with up to 10 people for free. You can include people on a conference call who are not online. Skype doesn't offer desktop sharing that I know about. Oops .. there's Yugma that integrates with Skype.
Users of public access computers in libraries would be able to use Dimdim without downloading client software, assuming that they can plug in mikes, used headphones and/or use web cams.
With Skype 3.6 version for Windows you can host up to 25 people on a call and it appears that you pay for connect time.
I hope to give Dimdim a whirl this week and see how good the quality is. Thanks to Eszter for sharing the link.
Drop me a note if you want to test it out too or leave a comment if you've tried it out about how well it works.
Update: The LibrarianInBlack has vetted these two tools and more. Check out her list.
Tags: conference call | free internet phone call | Dimdim | Skype | video conference | VoIP | free web conferencing
