Jitsi vs Jitsi Meet: What are the differences?

Introduction

Jitsi and Jitsi Meet are two communication platforms that offer video conferencing and collaboration features. While they share many similarities, there are key differences between the two that set them apart.

1. Installation Process: One major difference between Jitsi and Jitsi Meet is the installation process. Jitsi requires manual installation and configuration, which may require technical expertise and time. On the other hand, Jitsi Meet is a web-based application that can be accessed directly through a web browser without the need for any installation or setup.

2. Scalability: Jitsi Meet is designed to be highly scalable, allowing it to accommodate a large number of participants in a conference. It utilizes the Jitsi Videobridge and Jitsi Gateway to distribute the load across multiple servers, ensuring smooth performance even with a high number of participants. Jitsi, on the other hand, may have limitations in terms of scalability and may not be suitable for large conferences.

3. User Interface: Jitsi Meet has a user-friendly and intuitive interface that makes it easy for participants to join a conference, mute/unmute themselves, and access other features. Jitsi, while providing similar functionality, may have a less polished and user-friendly user interface.

4. Integrations and Plugins: Jitsi Meet offers various integrations and plugins that enhance its functionality and allow users to extend its features. These integrations include features like screen sharing, chat, and the ability to embed conferences into other applications. Jitsi, on the other hand, may have limited integrations and plugins available.

5. Mobile Support: Jitsi Meet has dedicated mobile apps for both iOS and Android platforms, allowing participants to join conferences from their mobile devices. Jitsi, while it can be used on mobile devices through a web browser, may not have the same level of native mobile support and functionality.

6. Privacy and Security: Jitsi Meet prioritizes privacy and security by offering end-to-end encryption for video conferences. It also allows users to set passwords for conferences, enabling them to control access to their meetings. Jitsi, while it also provides security features, may not have the same level of encryption and privacy options as Jitsi Meet.

In summary, Jitsi is a more customizable and manual installation-based communication platform that may have limitations in terms of scalability and user interface. On the other hand, Jitsi Meet is a web-based application with a user-friendly interface, scalability features, mobile support, and a focus on privacy and security.