What Video Chat Software Can Do For You

Video chat software can take you anywhere you want to go. Above and beyond the standard instant messaging software, these programs can let you talk face-to-face with friends and loved ones using your PC and webcam. Need a more professional use? How about video conferencing or sharing files with drag and drop? No dialing in; no hassle.

But that's not all. Most video chat programs support voice chat, text messaging, instant messaging and more. You can host your own chat room or join someone else's. Pc-to-pc calling lets you call anyone's computer and talk to them like you would talk on the phone. The latest programs have pc-to-phone calling allowing you to call any phone anywhere from your computer screen.

Many programs are customizable so you can express yourself with text effects, emoticons, and more. Share all your favorite files with file sharing features and maintain an organized list of your online contacts. Some chat software includes extra entertainment like radio, games and so on.

Whether you seek entertainment or a better way to communicate professionally, video chat can take you there. Chat programs differ greatly in their capabilities so be sure to do your homework by reading our reviews and get the program that is right for you.

In this site, you'll find articles related to video chat, as well as comprehensive reviews and a side-by-side comparison to help you make an informed decision on which chat program is right for you. At TopTenREVIEWS We Do the Research So You Don't Have To.™

What to Look for in Video Chat Software

There are several factors to consider when looking for video chat software. You need to know what your needs and preferences are in order to get the right program. Many programs offer streaming video which has to be recorded in segments and then sent. This can take some time. Other programs offer live video chat in real time that enable you to have virtual video conferences and face-to-face conversations.

Other features include customizing options for your messenger that unleash your creative powers and make the program your own. Some programs are also capable of text messaging, pc-to-pc phone calls, pc-to-phone calls, chat rooms, entertainment and more.

Whether you're interested in chat software for yourself or your professional life, examine your needs before deciding which chat software is right for you.

Below are the criteria TopTenREVIEWS used to evaluate video chat software:

Ease of Use
Video chat software should be easy to use since it is meant for everyone. You should be able to navigate through messenger windows without difficulty. Some chat programs have better interface designs than others, so check them out before you buy.

Features
Features include everything that the chat software program can do. The list includes video chat, voice chat, text messaging, instant messaging, pc-to-pc calling, pc-to-phone calling, chat rooms, and more. Emoticons, text effects and other features allow you to personalize your communication for complete self-expression. Each program differs in the types of contacts available to you. For instance, some programs only allow you to communicate with users of the same program. Others let you add your AOL, Yahoo! and MSN contacts for more expansive chatting possibilities.

Video Features
Video Chat can be one of two kinds. Streaming video means you have to first record your video and then send it. Sometimes uploading and sending the videos takes a lot of time. Live video lets you speak and act as if you were in the same room with the person to whom you are talking. Other features include the ability to adjust the video window to fit your needs.

Help/Support
Manufacturers of video chat should provide plenty of help/support through documentation and other mediums. Look for tutorials and FAQs online. You should also be able to receive one-on-one help through email and telephone support.

Check out the best video chat software that we could find, Windows Live Messenger.