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Skype vs. GizmoProject

I've been using Skype for quite some time -- I have used Skype on a low bandwidth connection (128kbps) and a high band-width connection (6mbps), have had conference calls with multiple skype users, have had numerous video calls. And, so far I've been a fan on Skype's voice quality/clarity.

A couple of my friends have been using GizmoPrject for a while. So, I decided to compare/contrast these two services. Here are my initial thoughts...

  • Openness: GizmoProject runs on an open standard/protocol. So, this service is interoperable with other SIP phone services. Hardware that you may purchase for use with GizmoProject could be used with other SIP services (if needed). Skype is based on a clsoed/propietary protocol
  • Voice Quality: GizmoProject's voice-quality is acceptable, but not great. There are (minor) delays, echoes, and the voice is sometimes broken. Skype's quality is way better. This was true even when I compared GizmoProject on the PC with Skype on the hardware-phone (either NetGear or Philips). Skype sounds better even on a 128kbps connection, compared to GizmoProject running on a 6mbps broadband connection.
  • Cost/calling plans: "Basic" calling is free with both of them. Premium calling-plans & prices with GizmoProject seem to be cheaper than Skype. You can get free voicemail & incoming calls with GizmoProject; connection fees are almost nil; Skype's calling plans are dependent on the the caller's location & is somewhat confusing.
  • Hardware devices: With GizmoProject, you have a vriety of hardware devices/adapters to choose from, and they are cheaper as well. With Skype, the choice of hardware devices is fewer (and more expensive).
  • The name Skype sounds so much cooler than GizmoProject :-)
Fnow, I'm going to stick with Skype.
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