Discord vs Hangouts: What are the differences?

Introduction

In this article, we will explore and compare the key differences between Discord and Hangouts, two popular communication platforms.

1. Pricing Model: Discord offers a freemium pricing model, allowing users to access most features for free, with additional premium features offered through a subscription called Discord Nitro. On the other hand, Hangouts is part of Google Workspace (formerly G Suite) and requires a paid subscription for businesses to access advanced features such as meeting recordings and larger participant limits.

2. Target Audience: Discord primarily caters to the gaming community, providing features specifically designed for gamers, including voice channels, screen sharing, and overlay support. Hangouts, on the other hand, is more versatile, serving as a general communication and collaboration platform for both personal and professional use.

3. Integration with Other Apps: Discord offers a wide range of integrations with various gaming platforms, allowing users to connect their accounts and display their in-game status. It also provides an API for developers to create customized bots and applications. Hangouts integrates seamlessly with other Google services, such as Google Drive, Calendar, and Gmail, making it convenient for users already in the Google ecosystem.

4. Video Call Features: Discord focuses on voice communication and places more emphasis on audio quality. While it does support video calls, the maximum participant limit is capped at 25. Hangouts, on the other hand, supports larger video conferences with up to 100 participants, making it a better choice for larger teams or groups.

5. Moderation and Security: Discord provides extensive moderation and security features, allowing server owners to have control over user permissions, automated moderation bots, server verification, and the ability to report and block users. Hangouts, being part of Google Workspace, benefits from Google's robust security measures and compliance standards, ensuring data privacy and protection.

6. Accessibility and Cross-Platform Support: Discord is available on multiple platforms, including Windows, Mac, Linux, iOS, and Android, offering a consistent experience across devices. It also provides accessibility features, such as text-to-speech and screen reader support, making it more inclusive. Hangouts is also available on various platforms, including web browsers, mobile devices, and integrates seamlessly with other Google services, making it easily accessible within the Google ecosystem.

In summary, Discord is geared towards the gaming community, offers extensive customization options, and focuses on voice communication, while Hangouts provides a versatile communication platform for both personal and professional use, integrates seamlessly with other Google services, and supports larger video conferences.