The 7 Best Skype Alternatives in 2025

Skype was a pioneer, but the world of communication has changed. Whether you need a simple app for international calls or a powerful business tool, here are the best modern alternatives to Skype.

#1 Top Pick for 2025
5.0 / 5.0

StartACall: Best for Instant Browser-Based Calling

StartACall is our top choice because it solves the biggest annoyance of traditional VoIP apps: the need for downloads and installations. It runs entirely in your web browser, allowing you to call any mobile or landline number worldwide instantly from any device.

Pros

  • No app or download required
  • Call any phone number in 195+ countries
  • Transparent Pay-As-You-Go pricing
  • Works on any device with a browser
  • AI-powered features for smarter calls

Cons

  • Requires an internet connection
  • No free app-to-app calling (focus is on phone numbers)

First call is on us • No credit card required

Other Great Alternatives

#2 Google Voice

4.5

Best Free Option for US-Based Users

A solid, free service from Google that provides a US phone number, voicemail, and cheap calls. Its biggest limitation is its primary focus on the US market, making it less ideal for global users.

Pros:

  • Free US phone number
  • Voicemail transcription
  • Very cheap rates to the US/Canada

Cons:

  • Primarily for US users only
  • Limited international features
  • No browser-based calling to non-US numbers

#3 Viber Out

4.2

Good for Existing Viber Users

Viber is a popular messaging app, and Viber Out is its feature for calling non-Viber users on their mobile or landline. It requires the Viber app and uses a credit or subscription model.

Pros:

  • Integrated into a popular messaging app
  • Competitive international rates
  • Offers monthly subscriptions

Cons:

  • Requires app installation
  • Not purely browser-based
  • Call quality can be inconsistent

#4 WhatsApp

4.0

Best for App-to-App Calling

With billions of users, WhatsApp is the king of free, encrypted app-to-app calls. However, it cannot call traditional landline or mobile numbers, which is a major limitation compared to Skype.

Pros:

  • Completely free calls to other users
  • End-to-end encryption
  • Huge user base

Cons:

  • CANNOT call landlines or mobile numbers
  • Requires both parties to have the app
  • Tied to your mobile phone number

#5 Zoom Phone

4.4

Best for Businesses Integrated with Zoom

An extension of its popular video conferencing platform, Zoom Phone is a powerful cloud PBX system for businesses. It's feature-rich but can be overkill and more expensive for individual users.

Pros:

  • Excellent integration with Zoom Meetings
  • Advanced business features (PBX, call routing)
  • High-quality audio

Cons:

  • More expensive than consumer options
  • Complex for individual users
  • Primarily designed for business teams

#6 Microsoft Teams

4.1

The Official Skype for Business Successor

Microsoft is phasing out Skype for Business in favor of Teams. It's a comprehensive collaboration tool, but its external calling features are an add-on and are deeply integrated into the Microsoft 365 ecosystem.

Pros:

  • Deep integration with Office 365
  • All-in-one collaboration tool
  • Enterprise-grade security

Cons:

  • Calling is a paid add-on
  • Overkill for personal use
  • Requires a Microsoft 365 subscription for full functionality

The Choice is Clear for Hassle-Free Calling

While many services require downloads and complex plans, StartACall offers the simplest path to high-quality international calls. Try it from your browser right now.