Google Hangouts Chat vs Let's Chat: What are the differences?

Introduction

In the realm of chat applications, Google Hangouts Chat and Let's Chat offer unique features and functionality. Understanding the key differences between the two can help users make an informed decision about which platform best suits their needs.

1. Integration with Google Workspace: Google Hangouts Chat seamlessly integrates with Google Workspace, allowing users to collaborate on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations within the chat interface. On the other hand, Let's Chat does not have built-in integration with productivity tools like Google Workspace, making collaboration less seamless.

2. Customization of themes and emojis: Let's Chat provides users with the option to customize themes and emojis, allowing for a more personalized chat experience. In contrast, Google Hangouts Chat has limited customization options in terms of themes and emojis, providing a more standardized user interface.

3. Open source vs proprietary software: Let's Chat is an open-source platform, which means that users have access to the source code and can modify it to suit their specific needs. On the other hand, Google Hangouts Chat is a proprietary software, limiting users' ability to customize the platform beyond what Google offers.

4. Support for external integrations: Let's Chat offers support for a wide range of external integrations with popular tools like GitHub, GitLab, and Jenkins, enhancing its functionality and usability for developers. Google Hangouts Chat, while integrating with Google Workspace, may lack the same level of integration with external platforms commonly used in developer workflows.

5. Security and privacy features: Google Hangouts Chat adheres to strict security and privacy standards, offering encryption of data in transit and at rest to protect user information. Let's Chat, while secure, may require additional configuration to ensure data privacy, particularly when used in sensitive environments.

In Summary, understanding the differences between Google Hangouts Chat and Let's Chat can help users choose the chat platform that best aligns with their collaboration and communication needs.