Jitsi Meet vs Zoom
Self-host swap-in for Zoom. · Self-host Zoom · Jitsi Meet on os-alt
Jitsi Meet is one of the open-source self-host replacements for Zoom — license Apache-2.0, 15-30min (Debian package + nginx) to stand up, and $10-20 vps depending on concurrent meeting size; cpu-bound during calls. Compare against Zoom's $13.32/user/mo on Pro tier below.
| Jitsi Meetopen-source | Zoompaid SaaS | |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Video conferencing | Video conferencing |
| License / pricing | Apache-2.0 | $13.32/user/mo on Pro tier |
| Starting price | $0 self-host | $13.32/user/mo |
| GitHub | jitsi/jitsi-meet | closed source |
| Setup time | 15-30min (Debian package + nginx) | SaaS — sign up + bill |
| Monthly cost | $10-20 VPS depending on concurrent meeting size; CPU-bound during calls. | from $13.32/user/mo ($13.32/user/mo on Pro tier) |
Switching from Zoom to Jitsi Meet
No data migration — Zoom recordings stay in Zoom (download as MP4 if needed). For new meetings, replace Zoom links in your calendar with Jitsi room URLs. Calendar plugins exist for Google/Outlook.
- Good fit for
- Teams that want spontaneous + scheduled meetings with no install (browser-based).
- Weak at
- Quality at >25 participants needs careful tuning (jvb scaling).
Other open-source self-host alternatives to Zoom
In a terminal? npx os-alt zoom prints Zoom's self-host options —
how the CLI works →
FAQ
Is Jitsi Meet a free alternative to Zoom?
Yes — Jitsi Meet is open source under Apache-2.0. Self-host cost: $10-20 VPS depending on concurrent meeting size; CPU-bound during calls.. Zoom starts at $13.32/user/mo ($13.32/user/mo on Pro tier).
How long does Jitsi Meet take to set up vs Zoom?
Self-hosting Jitsi Meet: 15-30min (Debian package + nginx). Zoom is a hosted SaaS — sign up and you're in.
What is Jitsi Meet good at, and what is it weak at?
Good fit for: Teams that want spontaneous + scheduled meetings with no install (browser-based).. Weak at: Quality at >25 participants needs careful tuning (jvb scaling)..