The short answer
Use the desktop app if you can. It is hidden when you share your screen, it hears every app on your computer (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, Webex, in the app or in the browser), and it’s the fastest version.
Use the Chrome extension for a quick start in a browser meeting when you won’t share your screen, or on Linux. You don’t need both.
Side by side
| Desktop app | Chrome extension | |
|---|---|---|
| Hidden on screen share | Yes | No, it’s part of the page you share |
| Works with | Any call app, in the app or the browser | Meetings opened in a Chrome tab |
| Hears | Your microphone and all computer sound | Your microphone and the meeting tab |
| Analyze (coding, quizzes) | Any screen, up to 10 screenshots | The current tab |
| Keyboard shortcuts | Yes, customizable | No |
| Phone Mode | Yes | Yes |
| Free minutes | 20 to start | 20, topped up every 24 hours |
| Runs on | Windows 10/11, macOS 13+ | Desktop Chrome 116+ on Windows, Mac or Linux |
Get either one on the download page.