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Skype vs Universal Media Server

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

Skype icon
Skype
Universal Media Server icon
Universal Media Server

Skype vs Universal Media Server: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

Skype: Skype is a popular communication software that allows free voice and video calls, instant messaging, and file sharing over the internet between users. It works on computers, mobile devices, and smartphones.

Universal Media Server: Universal Media Server is a free open source media server that allows you to stream video, audio and images to devices like smart TVs, gaming consoles, mobile devices and media players. It supports a wide range of media formats and allows transcoding on the fly.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature Skype Universal Media Server
Sugggest Score 30 —
User Rating ⭐ 3.6/5 (36) —
Category Social & Communications Video & Movies
Pricing Freemium Open Source
Ease of Use 3.7/5 —
Features Rating 3.9/5 —
Value for Money 4.6/5 —
Customer Support 2.6/5 —

Product Overview

Skype
Skype

Description: Skype is a popular communication software that allows free voice and video calls, instant messaging, and file sharing over the internet between users. It works on computers, mobile devices, and smartphones.

Type: software

Pricing: Freemium

Universal Media Server
Universal Media Server

Description: Universal Media Server is a free open source media server that allows you to stream video, audio and images to devices like smart TVs, gaming consoles, mobile devices and media players. It supports a wide range of media formats and allows transcoding on the fly.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

Key Features Comparison

Skype
Skype Features
  • Voice calls
  • Video calls
  • Instant messaging
  • File sharing
  • Screen sharing
  • Group video calls
  • Call recording
  • Voicemail
  • Call forwarding
Universal Media Server
Universal Media Server Features
  • Streams video, audio and images to various devices
  • Supports a wide range of media formats
  • Transcodes media on the fly
  • DLNA/UPnP media server
  • Web UI for remote control and configuration
  • Supports subtitles
  • Live TV streaming
  • Chromecast support
  • AirPlay support

Pros & Cons Analysis

Skype
Skype

Pros

  • Free calls
  • End-to-end encryption
  • Cross-platform availability
  • Integration with other apps
  • Call quality
  • Group video calls

Cons

  • Occasional glitches
  • Limited free version
  • Ads in free version
  • No anonymity
Universal Media Server
Universal Media Server

Pros

  • Free and open source
  • Cross-platform (Windows, Mac, Linux)
  • Lightweight and easy to set up
  • Supports many devices and formats
  • Active development and community support

Cons

  • Lacks some advanced configuration options
  • Not all formats work perfectly
  • No mobile apps
  • Some stability issues

Pricing Comparison

Skype
Skype
  • Freemium
Universal Media Server
Universal Media Server
  • Open Source

⭐ User Ratings

Skype
3.6/5

36 reviews

Universal Media Server

No reviews yet

Related Comparisons

Learn More About Each Product

Skype
Skype
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
Universal Media Server
Universal Media Server
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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