What happens if you try to use Zoom in China
International Zoom cannot connect reliably in China. Meetings fail to join or have severe quality issues.
What works
- Zoom China version (separate app with different features)
What doesn't work
- International Zoom app
- Joining meetings hosted outside China
- Reliable video quality
Best alternatives in China
1
Tencent Meeting
Most popular video meeting app in China, works without issues.
2
DingTalk
Alibaba platform with video meeting features.
Do you need a VPN?
Yes, a VPN helps
A VPN may help with international Zoom meetings, but connection quality can still be poor. Consider Chinese alternatives.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Expecting Zoom meetings to work smoothly without preparation.
- Not having a backup plan for important video calls.
Frequently asked questions
Is there a Chinese version of Zoom?
Yes. Zoom operates a separate China version with different features and data storage. It is not interoperable with international Zoom.
What should I use for video calls in China?
Tencent Meeting is the most reliable option in China. For calls with people outside China, WeChat video calls often work better than Zoom.