What is the Difference Between a Meeting Room and a Conference Room?

Management professionals utilize the expressions ‘meeting room’ and ‘conference room’ any way they please, but their meanings differ. Since the two rooms vary in use, it’s important for businesses to know the difference between a meeting room and a conference room to utilize the area effectively and conduct fruitful discussions. 

No matter the nature of the occasion, whether it is a casual team making out session or an organized corporate address, the correct space has the potential to improve interaction and productivity, here’s the difference between a meeting room vs conference room, so the better you opt.

Objective and Features

Meeting Room

Generally speaking, a meeting room is meant for minor less formal purposes. Such rooms are appropriate for team talk, one-on-one meetings or a little creativity sessions. They are aimed to create a warm engaging environment and in most cases have minimal facilities like whiteboards, pads, and a small table.

Conference Room

A conference room, on the other hand, is more spacious and serious in nature. It is most appropriate for activities like giving presentations, board meetings or discussing with clients where many people are involved. Conference rooms have up-to-date equipment like projectors, teleconferencing systems and more seats.

Dimension and Limitations

When examining a meeting room vs a conference room, size becomes an important distinction.

  • Meeting Room: Accommodates comfortably 4-8 people and is good for small teams.
  • Conference Room: Preparing space for 10 and upwards, arranged in a cabin or classroom style.

Equipment and Amenities

There is a noticeable difference between the equipment found in use in a meeting room and conference room.

  • Meeting Room: Provides the standard most basic amenities such as Wi-Fi, a few tables, and writing materials. These rooms are designed for endurance rather than for styling hence the need for simple furniture so that all that is required is a purposely quick and casual meeting. 
  • Conference Room: Provides cutting-edge equipment such as video conferencing apparatus, sound insulation, large display screens and speakers, intended for more organized and serious functions.

Atmosphere and Layout

  • Meeting Room: Minimalist furniture design creates a warm and inclusive ambiance perfect for social interactions. There is no limit to the imagination when it comes to communication within a confined space. 
  • Conference Room: The low-toned and sombre atmosphere encourages everyone present to take on a serious and formal approach. This is a typical arrangement that is seen in most client meeting rooms or workstations even before the client arrives.

Cost and Accessibility

Generally, meeting rooms are less expensive than conference rooms because they are smaller and fewer in terms of amenities. They are frequently easier to access for spur-of-the-moment meetings. 

Conference rooms, with their high-level setup and huge space, are usually more costly but offer the necessary resources for high-stakes discussions.

Conclusion

In order to reserve a space appropriate to your business objectives, it is important to comprehend the differences between a meeting room and a conference room. Although basic and personal, meeting rooms do exist. On the other hand, a conference room is even more advanced and formal. Each has its advantages based on the size and requirements of the event.

At Jumpstart Coworking, we have more flexible workspace options to cater to your specific work requirements. You can also go for a small meeting room in case you only want a small gathering, or a big conference room if you have more people. Check them out and take your business conversations to the next level at Jumpstart Coworking.

FAQs

1. How to choose between a meeting room and a conference room?

It is the purpose and the size of the gathering that dictates the choice. For example, a meeting room will be satisfactory for smaller, informal discussions or team meetings. However, for larger, formal events where sophisticated equipment will be needed, a conference room should be selected.

2. How to choose the right room for business meetings?

Take into account the number of people expected, the type of meeting, and the necessary equipment. If the meeting is a few colleagues catching up on work, a meeting room is fine. However, when the occasion calls for presentations, board discussions or client presentations, a conference room is appropriate.