iChat AV vs. Skype: A Comparison
Posted by Aaron Freedman | Tuesday, June 20, 2006 4:23 PM PT
Many of us use audio and/or video chatting instead of normal text IMs to communicate. The two most popular programs for this on Macs are iChat AV and S
kKype. Here’s a brief comparison of their features:
Ummm, just as a quick niggle to the comparison grid - doesn't iChat need a .Mac account??? Isn't that tethered to an annual subscription cost? Does that not possibly compromise the 'free' element???
Personally, I like what Gizmo is doing on the Mac. Open system, compatible with GoogleTalk, all the same features as Skype.
"doesn't iChat need a .Mac account???"
No, any AIM address, previous iTools or .Mac address, or free .Mac/iChat address will work.
It states that iChat doenst have IM history but this is incorrect as it does have it. you just set it up in the preferences to save chat transcripts.
You can also set iChat to log your IM's - but only text not video or audio chats
iChat clearly has IM history. Go to Preferences > Messages and click the "Automatically save chat transcripts" option.
And what is it with this myth about Skype sound quality? iChat is comparable with Skype for audio and knocks it socks off for video. The filters Skype applies to its audio, most likely for noise cancellation, leave the audio with a tinny sound at best. At least that is my experience.
Nope, you can use iChat as an AIM client, like Trillian or Adium. The .Mac stuff is just bonus for .Mac subscribers.
One thing I didn't see in this comparison chart, is that (in my experience at least) Skype sounds about 10 times better than iChat.
iChat sounds like a "good" chat client, or phone. Skype sounds like the person is in the room with me.