Top 5 Video Conferencing APIs for Your Video App

Especially after the global COVID-19 pandemic, video call or video conference has become a part of everyday life. Work meetings, virtual doctor’s visits, catching up with long-distance friends, online classes, are just some ways we use video conferencing, and the list goes on.

Chances are, if you are building a website or an app, you’ll want to include video features either now or somewhere in the future. Yet, building video functionalities from scratch can be a major headache in practice. 

That’s where video conferencing APIs come to the rescue.

Think of a video conferencing API as your shortcut for adding video chat to your websites or apps. It saves you from having to tackle all the nitty-gritty technical details – handling cameras and microphones, figuring out how to send video over the internet, keeping everything secure, all these can get complicated rapidly. The API handles those tricky parts for you.

Using a video conferencing API offers the following benefits:

• Saves time: No need to build the video features yourself, so you can launch your app faster.
• Get the quality you need: Established providers know how to make video calls run smoothly.
• Reliable quality: Established providers have the technical know-how and can ensure smooth video calls.

In this article, we'll break down 5 of the best video conferencing APIs out there. We'll look at their unique strengths, any potential downsides, and the things you should consider when making your decision. Get ready to find the perfect API to give your next project awesome video capabilities.

Top 5 Video Conferencing APIs in 2025

With so many excellent video conferencing APIs available, picking the best one for your app can feel overwhelming. Each one offers a unique blend of features, strengths, and potential limitations. To help you narrow down your choices, we've put together a detailed comparison of the top 5 video conferencing APIs in 2025. 

1. Iotum

Iotum positions itself as a company dedicated to building reliable, customizable communication solutions for businesses and organizations. Their video conferencing API is a powerful solution for integrating video and audio features into existing websites and applications.

Key Features

Iotum's API offers a solid range of features designed for flexibility:

• Screen Sharing: Essential for collaboration, presentations, and remote support.
• Recording: Capture meetings or sessions for review or sharing.
• Chat: Text-based communication alongside the video stream.
• Customizable Layouts: Control how video feeds are arranged on-screen.
• Moderation Controls: Manage participants and maintain a productive environment (muting, etc.).
• Virtual Backgrounds: An increasingly popular feature for privacy or a touch of fun (availability may vary).

Ease of Integration

Iotum prioritizes making implementation as smooth as possible for developers. They provide:

• Clear Documentation: Well-written guides to get you up and running.
• Code Samples: Examples in various programming languages to help you get started.
• Customization: Their focus on tailoring video chat for clients implies their API allows some control over the interface and user experience.
• Potential Support: Iotum offers 24/7 dedicated support for assistance.

Supported Platforms

Iotum's API covers the most common development environments:

• Web: Integration with web applications.
• Mobile (iOS and Android): Build video chat directly into your mobile apps.
• Desktop: Potential for video chat features within desktop software.

Pricing

Iotum doesn't have a one-size-fits-all pricing list on their website. This is common for APIs aimed at businesses, as costs can depend on your specific needs. They do stress that their solutions are designed to be budget-friendly. The best way to get an accurate quote is to reach out to Iotum directly for either a demo or to chat with one of their representatives.

Pros of Iotum

• Developer-Focused: Iotum seems to value clear documentation and streamlining the setup process. This is a plus, especially if you're newer to working with video APIs.

• Built to Scale: A good business-oriented API needs to handle growth. Iotum seems to have this in mind.

• Make It Your Own: Customization possibilities mean you can integrate video calls in a way that matches your brand's look and feel.

• Adaptable: Their core feature set seems designed to work across different types of projects, from business meetings to social features in apps.

Potential Considerations

• Unique Requirements: If your project relies heavily on highly specialized video features, checking out niche competitors alongside Iotum is a good call.

• Simplicity vs. Customization: Iotum's focus on customization hints that their API might be a bit more involved than competitors prioritizing extreme ease of use. If your project needs a super-fast, basic video chat implementation, this could pose a problem.

Verdict: Iotum Offers a Compelling All-Around Solution

Iotum stands out as a remarkably well-balanced contender in the world of video conferencing APIs. Here's why it's likely to be an excellent fit for a wide range of developers and projects:

• All-Round Performance: Iotum emphasizes customization, reliability, and affordability (relative to larger competitors). This makes them a compelling option if those are your top priorities.
• Focus on Developer Experience: Iotum clearly understands the importance of clear documentation and ease of use. This translates to faster implementation and fewer headaches for developers.
• Solid Feature Set: While some competitors might offer a few extra bells and whistles, Iotum covers the core bases most apps will need. This keeps things streamlined and efficient.
• Versatility: From telehealth to online education to business collaboration, Iotum's API has proven its ability to adapt to various use cases.

Overall, Iotum is a top recommendation for most developers seeking a reliable, user-friendly way to integrate video conferencing. It provides the foundation to build impressive communication features into your apps.

1. Whereby

Whereby aims to make video meetings as effortless as possible for both developers and end-users. Their API emphasizes a clean design and minimal setup, making it an attractive option for projects where a quick, no-fuss video solution is the main goal.

Key Features

• Screen Sharing: A must-have for collaboration and presentations.
• Recording: The ability to capture meetings for later reference or repurposing content (availability may depend on the pricing tier).
• Chat: Text messaging integrated alongside the video feeds.
• Custom Branding: Options to customize the look and feel of the video interface to match your app or website.
• Virtual Backgrounds: For privacy and personalization.

Ease of Integration

Whereby prides itself on a straightforward developer experience. You can expect:

• Simplified Setup: Their API is designed to get video calls working with minimal code on your end.
• Documentation: Clear guides and examples are provided.
• Community and Support: You may have access to a developer community and help resources depending on your plan.

Supported Platforms

• Web-Centric: Whereby's primary focus is on integrating video conferencing into web applications. They do support embedded video for some use cases within mobile apps.

Pricing

• Free Tier: Whereby does offer a free plan with limited participants and room customization.
• Paid Tiers: Paid plans (start from $8.99/month) increase participant limits, unlock additional features (like recording), and often include more robust support options. 

Benefits of Using Whereby

• User-Friendly: Whereby's focus on simplicity makes it excellent for non-technical users.
• Fast Integration: Get video features up and running quickly.
• Customization: Branding options allow for a seamless integration into your platform.
• Potential for Scalability: Paid plans are designed to grow along with your project's needs.

Where Whereby Might Not Be the Ideal Choice

• Advanced Feature Needs: Other APIs may offer more fine-grained control over layouts, moderation tools, or call analytics.
• Non-Web Applications: If mobile apps are a top priority, Whereby might pose some limitations.

Verdict: Whereby Excels in Streamlined Video Integration

If you need to add reliable video conferencing to a web project with a strong emphasis on ease of use, Whereby is a compelling choice. Its straightforward integration and user-friendly interface make it ideal for scenarios where minimizing technical hurdles is paramount.

Overall, Whereby is a top contender for developers seeking a quick, intuitive way to incorporate video into their web applications.

1. Twilio

Twilio is a big name in the world of cloud communication. Think of them as offering a giant toolbox for developers. It's not just about video chat – they provide solutions for SMS messaging, voice calls, and lots more. Their video conferencing tools are particularly powerful, giving you tons of control over how your video features look and work.

Key Features

• Screen Sharing: Essential for collaboration and tech support scenarios.
• Recording: Capture meetings and create video resources.
• Chat: Text-based communication within the video stream.
• Extensive Customization: Twilio gives you granular control over the video experience's look and features.
• Robust Analytics: Get detailed insights into call quality and usage patterns (often in paid tiers).
• Integrations: Twilio's API can easily be connected to other services in their ecosystem.

Ease of Integration

Twilio's focus is on power and flexibility, which sometimes comes with a slightly steeper learning curve. Expect:

• More Complex Setup: Getting a fully customized video experience with Twilio may require more coding than simpler competitors.
• Good Documentation: Twilio provides extensive guides and resources.
• Developer Community: A large community can offer support and expertise.

Supported Platforms

• Web: Build video experiences into web applications.
• Mobile (iOS and Android): Integrate video conferencing into native mobile apps.
• Potential for More: Twilio's vast suite of APIs can support unique video solutions across various platforms.

Pricing

• Pay-as-You-Go Model: You pay per minute of video used (starting from free), rather than a set monthly subscription. This can be cost-effective for variable usage.
• Scaling Costs: Pricing may become less predictable with very high usage or advanced feature requirements. Be sure to calculate projected costs carefully.

Benefits of Using Twilio

• Highly Customizable: Tailor the video conferencing experience to your exact needs.
• Reliable Infrastructure: Twilio is known for its reliable network.
• Scalability: Handles large-scale projects with ease.
• Robust Set of Features: Access advanced tools and potential integrations.

Where Twilio Might Not Be the Ideal Choice

• Budget-Focused Projects: If minimizing cost is the top priority, the pay-as-you-go model might not be the best fit.
• Need for Extreme Simplicity: Twilio's power comes with a bit more complexity than some of its competitors.

Verdict: Twilio Offers Unmatched Flexibility for Ambitious Projects

If you're building a video conferencing solution with complex requirements, need extensive customization, or anticipate very high usage, Twilio is a strong contender. Their robust infrastructure and powerful feature set offer the building blocks for sophisticated video experiences.

Overall, Twilio is an excellent choice for developers tackling large-scale or unique video projects who are comfortable with a slightly more in-depth implementation process.

1. Zoom

Zoom is a household name in video conferencing, but they also offer a robust API for developers. This lets you build video features directly into your own apps, going beyond the standard Zoom meeting experience.

Key Features

• Screen Sharing: A cornerstone of collaborative video calls.
• Recording: Capture meetings or create reusable video content.
• Chat: Text-based communication alongside video.
• Breakout Rooms: Divide a large call into smaller groups.
• Virtual Backgrounds: For privacy or a bit of personalization.
• Whiteboarding: A simple, built-in collaboration tool (may not be available on all plans)

Ease of Integration

Zoom's API is relatively developer-friendly, particularly if you're already familiar with web development concepts. Expect:

• Decent Documentation: Guides and resources are available, although some competitors may offer more clarity.
• SDKs: Pre-built components for integrating Zoom into various platforms.
• Potential Complexity: Extensive features can also make setup slightly more complex for tailored use cases.

Supported Platforms

• Web: Integrate video experiences into web applications.
• Mobile (iOS and Android): Build video features into native mobile apps.
• Potentially Desktop: Zoom's API may allow for certain video integrations within desktop software.

Pricing

• Free Tier: Zoom offers a limited free plan to trial their API.
• Paid Tiers: Paid plans unlock higher usage limits, advanced features (like cloud recording), and may include more robust support options.
• Variable Costs: Some features might have specific usage-based pricing.

Benefits of Using Zoom

• Name Recognition: Zoom's widespread use creates familiarity for your end-users.
• Feature-Rich: Access a wide range of tools beyond core video conferencing.
• Reliability: Zoom's infrastructure is built to handle high volume.
• Potential Integrations: Might connect smoothly with other business tools using Zoom's ecosystem.

Where Zoom Might Not Be the Ideal Choice

• Cost-Sensitive Projects: While Zoom does have a free tier, paid plans can be pricier than some competitors.
• Customization Needs: Zoom offers less granular control over the video interface compared to some more developer-centric APIs.

Verdict: Zoom Blends Familiarity with Powerful Features

Zoom is a solid choice for developers seeking a well-known platform and access to tools like breakout rooms and whiteboarding. If your project prioritizes a user-friendly experience and benefits from Zoom's brand recognition, their API is worth serious consideration.

Overall, Zoom is an excellent option for integrating reliable video conferencing, especially when ease of adoption for your end-users is a key factor.

1. Vonage Video API 

The Vonage Video API is a powerful solution from a major player in communications technology. It stands out for its flexibility and focus on delivering high-quality video experiences.

Key Features

• Screen Sharing: Essential for remote collaboration and presentations.
• Recording & Archiving: Capture calls and store them securely (check plan limits).
• Chat: Text messaging integrated with video.
• Extensive Layout Control: Precisely arrange video feeds for unique applications.
• Advanced Audio Controls: Tools for noise cancellation and fine-tuning audio settings.
• Broadcast Capabilities: Stream video to large audiences in real-time.

Ease of Integration

Vonage's API places a slight emphasis on developer experience. Expect:

• Well-Structured Documentation: Clear guides and resources help you get started.
• SDKs: Pre-made tools streamline integration into different platforms.
• Potential for Complexity: Extensive customization features can also introduce complexity compared to more streamlined APIs.

Supported Platforms

• Web: Integrate video experiences into web applications.
• Mobile (iOS and Android): Build video features into native mobile apps.
• Others: Vonage's focus on flexibility may allow for video on unique platforms (desktops, etc.)

Pricing

• Pay-As-You-Go Model: Cost is based on minutes used and the specific features you enable. Vonage video API’s prices start from 0.0040/minute.
• Potential for Customization: Pricing plans can be tailored to a degree, depending on your needs.
• Enterprise Focus: Some features might be geared towards larger-scale projects, affecting costs.

Benefits of Using Vonage Video API

• Superb Video Quality: Tools for ensuring clear, smooth video.
• Highly Customizable: Build video experiences that match your project's exact needs.
• Broadcast-Ready: Reach large audiences with live video streaming.
• Reliable Provider: Vonage has a strong track record in communications.

Where Vonage Might Not Be the Ideal Choice

• Tight Budgets: If cost is the absolute top priority, simpler APIs with free tiers might be more appealing.
• Need for Extreme Simplicity: Extensive customization capabilities can bring a bit more complexity.

Verdict: Vonage Excels for Projects Demanding Control and Quality

If high-quality video, fine-grained customization, or advanced features like broadcasting are essential, the Vonage Video API is a top contender. Their developer tools and support are designed to help you build robust and unique video solutions.

Overall, the Vonage Video API is a fantastic choice for developers who need to go beyond basic video conferencing and prioritize both flexibility and top-notch video experiences.

Choosing the Right Video Conferencing API: A Comprehensive Guide

Choosing a video conferencing API can be a little daunting – there are so many great options out there, including the five we have reviewed above. But, with a bit of planning, you'll find the one that makes building your project a breeze. Here's how to break down the decision:

1. Get Crystal Clear on Your Needs:

• Must-have Features: List down the must-have features according to your unique needs. – screen sharing, the ability to record calls, and so on.
• Your Audience: Are you building something for your team, students, or a whole network of users?
• Room to Grow: Think about whether you expect your video app to get popular quickly.

2. Think Like a Developer (Even If You're Not One):

• Your Comfort Level: Are you super techy, or is coding not your strong suit?
• The Help Factor: Does the API have clear instructions? Is there a support team if you get stuck?

3. Features and Flexibility:

• The Essentials: Double-check that the API has everything on your list from step one.
• Fun Extras: Breakout rooms, whiteboards, etc. Does the API solution offers any stand-out add-ons?
• Can You Customize? Being able to tweak the look of your video chat to match your brand is a nice bonus.

4. Budget Check:

• Freebies: A lot of APIs let you test their solutions for free, take advantage of this.
• Paid Plans vs. Value: If you'll need to upgrade, compare the features you get vs. the cost. A more affordable or even free solution is not always the best option. Instead, choose the most cost-effective one according to your needs.
• Pay as You Go: Sometimes paying per minute is cheaper long-term – do the math for your project.

5. Security and Reliability Matter:

• Protecting User Data: Does the API have strong security? This is especially important if you're dealing with sensitive info.
• Uptime: You want an API that's reliable and rock-solid. Nobody likes dropped calls.

6. Do Your Homework:

Got it down to a few top choices? Time to dig deeper:

• Try the Docs: Are the instructions easy to follow? This is a good sign the API is developer-friendly.
• Demos: Lots of APIs, like Iotum, let you play around with the basic features. Free demos can give you a great first hand feel.
• The Real World: See if you can find reviews from other developers who've actually used the API.

Wrapping Up

Our exploration of the top video conferencing APIs has revealed a wealth of options for empowering your projects. Let's recap our top contenders:

• Iotum: A fantastic all-around solution, offering a well-rounded performance, developer-friendly setup, and reliable features that adapt to various use cases.
• Whereby: Excels in its focus on simplicity and user experience, ideal for projects where fast integration and minimizing technical hurdles are essential.
• Twilio: A powerhouse for flexibility and customization. If you have ambitious video projects or need extensive control, Twilio's robust API delivers.
• Zoom: Leverages brand recognition and offers a familiar experience for users. A strong choice when a broad set of features and ease of adoption are key.
• Vonage Video API: Shines in its emphasis on video quality and granular customization. Perfect for applications where pristine video and unique configurations are paramount.

Why Video Conferencing APIs Are the Future

Integrating video chat into apps isn't just a trend; it's a response to how we connect. Video conferencing APIs streamline this process. They save you from reinventing the wheel, ensuring smooth calls, and letting you focus on the unique aspects of your application.

Looking Ahead: Trends and the API Advantage

Video conferencing is still evolving. Expect advancements like:

• AI-Powered Enhancements: Noise reduction, virtual backgrounds, and even real-time translation.
• Increased "Metaverse" Integrations: APIs will bridge the gap between video calls and immersive virtual experiences.
• Focus on Specialized Use Cases: Healthcare, education, and more will have tailored video API solutions.

APIs will be the backbone of these innovations, allowing developers to adopt cutting-edge features without building everything from scratch.

Your Video Journey Starts Now

The best way to find your ideal API match is to try it on your own. Explore the demos of Iotum, Whereby, Twilio, Zoom, and Vonage. Test their features, experiment, and discover which one empowers you to build the video communication experiences you envision. The future of connection is waiting to be built – are you ready to answer the call?