Yes, you can use WhatsApp on your computer to make video calls. WhatsApp has desktop apps available for Windows and Mac that allow you to use all the features of WhatsApp, including video calling, on your computer.
How to make WhatsApp video calls on your computer
To make WhatsApp video calls on your computer, you first need to download the desktop app:
- For Windows, go to https://www.whatsapp.com/download and click on “Download for Windows”. This will download the WhatsApp desktop app for Windows.
- For Mac, go to the same link and click on “Download for Mac”. This will download the WhatsApp desktop app for Mac.
Once you have the desktop app installed, open it on your computer. You’ll need to link the app to your WhatsApp account on your phone:
- On your phone, open WhatsApp and go to Settings > Linked Devices.
- Tap on “Link a Device” and point your phone’s camera at the QR code displayed on the desktop app.
- Your WhatsApp on desktop will now be linked to your account.
Now you can use WhatsApp on your computer to message and video call your WhatsApp contacts just like you would on your phone. To make a video call:
- Open a chat with the contact you want to video call.
- Click on the video call icon in the top right.
- Your contact will receive an incoming video call notification on their device.
- When they answer, the video call will start with your camera enabled so they can see you.
The process is the same whether you are video calling another WhatsApp desktop user or someone using the mobile app. WhatsApp’s video calling is fully synchronized across platforms.
Features and capabilities of WhatsApp video calls on desktop
WhatsApp video calls on desktop have most of the same features available as the mobile experience:
- HD video and audio – WhatsApp uses your computer’s camera and microphone for crisp, high-quality video up to 720p HD resolution and clear audio.
- Group video calls – You can start or join group video chats with up to 8 participants.
- Screen sharing – Share your computer screen with one or multiple participants during a video call.
- Chat during calls – Open the chat window to continue your text conversation during the video call.
- Call controls – Pause video, mute your mic, or end the call right from the call interface.
One limitation compared to mobile is that WhatsApp desktop does not support calling phones or landlines – it can only video call other WhatsApp users. But for WhatsApp-to-WhatsApp video calls, you get a fully-featured experience on desktop.
Why make WhatsApp video calls on your computer?
There are a few key reasons why you might want to use the desktop app for WhatsApp video calls:
- Larger screen – The desktop screen gives you a larger video call viewing area compared to a smartphone screen.
- More comfortable – For longer conversations, it may be more comfortable to sit at your computer than hold your phone.
- Multi-tasking – You can easily multi-task and access other apps/programs on your computer during the call.
- Use computer camera & microphone – Your computer likely has a better quality webcam and mic than your phone, resulting in better video call quality.
If you frequently make WhatsApp video calls, especially for business meetings, work collaborations, or keeping in touch with family, using the desktop app makes the experience even better.
Tips for the best WhatsApp video calling experience on desktop
To get the highest quality and most reliable video calls using WhatsApp desktop, follow these tips:
- Make sure you have a stable, high-speed internet connection on your computer.
- For camera quality, make sure you have sufficient lighting and an HD webcam.
- Reduce background noise by using a headset with built-in mic for best audio clarity.
- Close other apps running in the background to allocate maximum internet bandwidth to WhatsApp.
- If experiencing quality issues, turn off video and use audio-only call instead.
- Update to the latest version of WhatsApp desktop when available for any bug fixes.
Testing your setup beforehand with a friend can help troubleshoot any issues early on. With proper setup and good network conditions, the desktop provides an excellent WhatsApp calling experience.
Conclusion
The WhatsApp desktop app allows you to seamlessly make video calls on your Windows or Mac computer. It provides the core features you need for both one-on-one and group calls in a comfortable desktop interface. With a few setup steps to link your desktop and mobile apps, you can quickly transform your computer into a WhatsApp calling powerhouse.