Small businesses in the UK need reliable ways to meet online. Whether you’re working with your team or talking to clients, virtual meeting tools make communication easy. The best part? Many tools are free and perfect for small businesses on a budget. This article lists 10 free virtual meeting tools for UK small businesses in 2025, based on research from trusted sources like ClickUp and PCMag. These tools are easy to use, packed with features, and ideal for small teams.
What to Look for in a Virtual Meeting Tool
Before diving into the list, let’s consider what makes a good virtual meeting tool. Here are key features to look for:
- Video and Audio Quality: Clear sound and visuals ensure everyone can follow along.
- Screen Sharing: Useful for sharing presentations or documents.
- Recording: Save meetings for later review or for team members who can’t attend.
- Breakout Rooms: Split larger meetings into smaller groups for focused discussions.
- Integration: Works well with tools like calendars or project management software.
- Ease of Use: Simple interfaces help teams get started quickly, even without tech skills.
The 10 Best Free Virtual Meeting Tools
Here are 10 free virtual meeting tools that UK small businesses can use in 2025. Each tool is described with its key features and why it’s great for small teams.
1. ClickUp
ClickUp is a project management platform with powerful meeting features. Its free forever plan includes tools to create agendas, take notes, and record screens during meetings. It integrates with Zoom and Google Calendar, making scheduling easy. Small businesses benefit from its all-in-one approach, combining meetings with task management. Try ClickUp for free at ClickUp.
2. Google Meet
Google Meet, part of Google Workspace, is a popular choice for virtual meetings. The free version supports up to 100 participants and works on any device. Features include virtual hand raising, breakout rooms, and background changes. It’s ideal for businesses already using Google tools like Gmail or Docs, as it integrates smoothly. Access Google Meet at Google Meet.
3. Microsoft Teams
Microsoft Teams offers a free plan for small teams, with video calls, chat, and file sharing. It integrates with Microsoft Office tools like Word and Excel, which is great for businesses using these programs. You can also use whiteboards for brainstorming. Teams is perfect for small businesses needing a complete communication platform. Start with Microsoft Teams at Microsoft Teams.
4. Zoom
Zoom is a well-known tool for virtual meetings. Its free plan allows unlimited meetings with up to 100 participants, but each meeting is capped at 40 minutes. Features include screen sharing, recording, and virtual backgrounds. It’s user-friendly and reliable, making it a top choice for small businesses. Get started with Zoom at Zoom.
5. Skype
Skype is a classic tool for video and audio calls, with a free plan supporting up to 100 participants. It offers screen sharing and reactions during calls. Skype is simple to use and requires no special setup, making it great for small businesses with basic needs. Use Skype at Skype.
6. Slack
Slack is primarily a communication tool, but its “Huddles” feature allows quick video or audio calls. The free plan is great for small teams who need informal meetings alongside messaging. Slack is easy to use and perfect for businesses focused on team chats. Try Slack at Slack.
7. Cisco WebEx
Cisco WebEx provides a free plan for video meetings with up to 100 participants. It includes advanced features like real-time translation in over 100 languages and noise removal. Its user-friendly interface makes it a solid choice for small businesses needing reliable meetings. Start with WebEx at WebEx.
8. Zoho Meeting
Zoho Meeting, part of the Zoho suite, offers a free plan for up to 100 participants. It includes screen sharing, whiteboards, and file sharing, plus the ability to livestream on YouTube. It’s a great fit for businesses using other Zoho tools. Check out Zoho Meeting at Zoho Meeting.
9. RingCentral Video
RingCentral Video has a robust free tier with collaboration tools and live transcription. Attendees can join without downloading software, which is convenient for clients or guests. It’s a simple and effective solution for small businesses. Try RingCentral Video at RingCentral.
10. ClickMeeting
ClickMeeting is designed for larger meetings and webinars, but its free plan supports up to 100 attendees. It offers AI transcription and other features to manage big meetings. Small businesses hosting training or client presentations will find it useful. Start with ClickMeeting at ClickMeeting.
How to Choose the Right Tool for Your Business
With so many options, picking the best tool can feel overwhelming. Here are tips to help you decide:
- Team Size: Most free plans support small teams, but check participant limits for larger meetings.
- Features: Decide if you need recording, breakout rooms, or specific integrations.
- Ease of Use: Choose a tool your team can use without much training.
- Existing Tools: If you use Google Workspace or Microsoft 365, their meeting tools may integrate better.
Consider testing a few tools to see which one feels right for your team. Since they’re free, there’s no risk in trying them out.
Conclusion
Virtual meeting tools are vital for UK small businesses in 2025, especially with remote work still common. From all-in-one platforms like ClickUp and Microsoft Teams to specialized tools like Zoom and Cisco WebEx, these 10 free options offer something for every small business. Each tool has unique features, so you can find one that matches your needs. Try a few to discover the best fit for your team.
