Discord vs GameChat

Discord is a communications platform for voice, video, and text, with communities organized into servers and channels. People can create servers for groups to talk and spend time together, and use calls in direct messages, group direct messages, or voice channels. The service supports streaming games to friends, and supported consoles can stream gameplay directly. On desktop and in a browser, the App Directory lets users find apps to add to a server or account. Account Connections can link services such as Spotify, Xbox, and PlayStation to a profile; developers can use the Embedded App SDK to build interactive experiences inside Discord. It runs on the web, Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. The free plan includes voice, video, and text chat, community servers, and browser, desktop, and mobile access. Nitro Basic is $2.99 a month and includes 50 MB file uploads; Nitro is $9.99 a month and includes custom emoji and stickers, HD video streaming, and two Server Boosts. Discord says calls use end-to-end encryption, but messages are not encrypted and remain subject to its content moderation approach.

GameChat is a Nintendo Switch 2 system feature for voice chat, screen sharing and video chat while friends play. A session supports up to 12 people in voice chat. Up to four participants can share game screens simultaneously, including while playing different games, and up to four can join video chat. The console’s built-in microphone filters unwanted sounds, including game audio, and adjusts volume to surrounding conditions. Video chat requires a compatible USB-C camera sold separately; backgrounds can be changed, including to the current game. Players use the C Button on the right Joy-Con 2 controller to start chats, answer invitations or mute themselves. Sessions are limited to approved friends. Setup requires text-message verification through the phone number on a Nintendo Account. Online use requires internet, a Nintendo Account and Nintendo Switch Online membership; availability varies by country. GameChat is available only on Nintendo Switch 2.