Video Calling on Chromebooks
Updated on by Jim Mendenhall
Chromebooks have become excellent devices for video calling, whether you need to connect with family, attend work meetings, or join online classes. With support for multiple video conferencing apps and increasingly powerful webcams on newer models, making video calls on Chrome OS has never been easier. If you’re coming from Skype, which Microsoft retired in May 2025, you’ll find that alternatives like Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, and Zoom offer even better features and reliability on Chromebooks.
1. Google Meet (Built-in)
Google Meet comes pre-installed on every Chromebook, making it the most convenient option for video calling. You can start or join meetings directly from the launcher, and Meet integrates seamlessly with Google Calendar, Gmail, and other Google Workspace apps. For users with a Chromebook Plus model, you’ll also get enhanced AI features including studio-quality noise cancellation, automatic camera framing that keeps you centered in frame, and the ability to generate custom AI backgrounds for your video calls.
The web-based nature of Google Meet means it works consistently across all Chromebooks, with no installation required. You can host meetings with up to 100 participants on the free tier, and the interface is clean and straightforward for both personal and professional use.
2. Microsoft Teams
If your workplace or school uses Microsoft 365, Teams is your go-to option for video calls on a Chromebook. Microsoft transitioned all Skype users to Teams in May 2025, so if you had a Skype account, your contacts and chat history have already moved over automatically.
You have two ways to use Teams on a Chromebook. The recommended approach is the web app at teams.microsoft.com, which you can install as a shortcut that opens in its own window for a desktop-like experience. Alternatively, you can download the Teams Android app from the Google Play Store, though the web version generally offers a smoother experience on non-touchscreen devices. Keep in mind that some advanced features like creating breakout rooms aren’t available on the Chromebook versions of Teams.
3. Zoom
Zoom remains one of the most popular video conferencing platforms, and it works well on Chromebooks through the Progressive Web App available in the Google Play Store. Google partnered with Zoom to optimize the app for Chrome OS, delivering faster performance, reduced storage usage, and access to features like breakout rooms, live transcription, and background masking for privacy. The free tier supports meetings with up to 100 participants, making it a solid choice for everything from one-on-one calls to larger group meetings.
4. WhatsApp
For personal video calls with friends and family, WhatsApp is a simple and reliable option. Download the Android app from the Google Play Store and sign in with your phone number. While WhatsApp doesn’t have the advanced meeting features of dedicated video conferencing apps, it’s perfect for quick video chats with individuals or small groups who already use WhatsApp for messaging.
Recommended Chromebooks for Video Calling
For the best video calling experience, look for a Chromebook with a 1080p webcam and quality speakers. All Chromebook Plus models are required to have 1080p webcams, making them excellent choices for video calls.
The Acer Chromebook Plus 515 stands out with its 1080p webcam featuring AI-powered enhancements for better lighting correction and noise cancellation, plus upward-firing DTS speakers that deliver clear audio. For those who want a stunning display, the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook Plus 15 combines a 1080p webcam with a gorgeous AMOLED screen, all in an impressively thin 2.58-pound package.
If you prefer a 2-in-1 convertible design, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 5i Chromebook Plus offers a 1080p webcam, stylus support, and a 16:10 display that’s great for both video calls and productivity. For a more budget-friendly option that still delivers quality video calling, the ASUS Chromebook Plus CX34 features a 1080p webcam and solid overall performance at a lower price point.
Find more Chromebooks with your preferred features using our Chromebook Comparison app.
Which Video App Works Best for You?
What has your experience been like with video calling on your Chromebook? Do you prefer Google Meet for its simplicity, Teams for work collaboration, or Zoom for its feature set? Share your experience in the comments below.
