The 7 Best Video Chat Devices for Connecting with Loved Ones

The holiday season will undoubtedly be difficult for many families. Due to the pandemic, some won’t be able to see their grandparents, some won’t be able to see their parents, and some may even be spending the holidays alone. We’ve compiled a list of the best video chat devices that make connecting with loved ones from afar a little easier and a little more special than a traditional phone call. Consider buying one of these gifts for the people in your life you won’t be able to spend time with this holiday season to let them know you care about them and wish you could be together.

Lovebox Messenger

Urban Outfitters, $100

Send notes to your loved ones via smartphone app with this WiFi enabled wood box. Whenever a new message comes in, the heart on the box begins to spin and your loved one will know you’re thinking of them!

Image: Urban Outfitters

Amazon Echo Show

Amazon.com, $149.99

Also an Alexa device with voice capabilities, this rectangular screen allows you to make video calls to anyone with Skype, the Alexa app, an Echo Spot, or an Echo Show. You can call someone by saying “Alexa, call [name]” and you can even “Drop In” on someone—a feature that allows you to video call a loved one without the need to pick up. Don’t worry, both users have to enable this feature for it to work.

Image: Amazon

Facebook Portal

Portal.facebook.com, $129-$149

The Facebook Portal also has Alexa built in, but the exciting part is it allows for “smart video” calling. What’s that, you ask? The Smart Camera pans and zooms automatically to keep up with where you are, so it's like you’re really in the same room! It also comes in a variety of sizes. For example, the Portal TV allows you to do smart video calling on your TV and the Portal+ allows for smart video calling on a 15.6” HD display.

Image: Facebook Portal

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Skylight Frame

Skylightframe.com, $159