How to Make International Calls in 2025
A comprehensive guide to calling internationally using traditional carriers, calling cards, VoIP apps, and modern browser-based solutions. Learn which method saves you the most money.
🌍Understanding International Calling
International calling lets you connect with people across borders, whether for business, keeping in touch with family abroad, or managing global relationships. In 2025, you have more options than ever to make cheap international calls without breaking the bank.
The key factors to consider when choosing how to make international calls are: cost per minute, call quality, convenience, and features offered. This guide breaks down every method available so you can make an informed decision.
Quick Fact
According to recent studies, international calling costs have dropped by over 90% in the past decade thanks to VoIP technology. What used to cost $2-5 per minute now costs as little as $0.01-0.02 per minute with modern services.
📞Method 1: Traditional Phone Carriers
Your mobile carrier (AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile, Vodafone, etc.) offers international calling as an add-on service. This is the traditional method most people know, but it's usually the most expensive option.
Advantages
- Uses your existing phone and number
- No internet connection required
- Works everywhere your carrier has coverage
- Familiar and simple to use
Disadvantages
- Most expensive option ($1-5 per minute)
- Requires monthly international plan ($10-15/mo)
- Hidden fees and connection charges
- Bill shock if you forget to add a plan
Typical Costs with Traditional Carriers
• Monthly plan fee: $10-15
• Per-minute rates: $0.25-5.00
• Connection fees: $0.39-0.99 per call
• Without plan: $1.50-5.00 per minute
💳Method 2: International Calling Cards
International calling cards are prepaid cards that give you minutes to call abroad. Popular brands include Boss Revolution, LycaMobile, and Pingo. You purchase a card, dial an access number, and enter your PIN to make calls.
Advantages
- Cheaper than traditional carriers
- No monthly fees or contracts
- Available at convenience stores
- Can use from any phone
Disadvantages
- Hidden fees (connection, maintenance)
- Minutes expire after 30-90 days
- Poor call quality on many cards
- Complicated dialing process
Watch Out For
Many calling cards advertise low rates but have hidden connection fees ($0.49-0.99 per call) and weekly maintenance fees that eat into your balance. Always read the fine print and calculate the actual cost per minute including all fees.
📱Method 3: VoIP Apps (Skype, WhatsApp, Viber)
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) apps let you make calls over the internet. Popular options include Skype, WhatsApp, Viber Out, and Google Voice. These require downloading an app to your smartphone or computer.
Advantages
- Much cheaper than traditional carriers
- Free app-to-app calls (if both use same app)
- Works on WiFi and mobile data
- Additional features (video, messaging)
Disadvantages
- Requires app download and setup
- Both parties need same app for free calls
- Quality depends on internet connection
- Some apps require subscriptions
Popular VoIP App Comparison
| App | Typical Rate | Monthly Fee | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Skype | $0.023/min | $0 or $2.99 | Business calls |
| Viber Out | $0.016/min | $0 | Casual callers |
| Google Voice | Varies | $0 | US-based users |
| App-to-app only | $0 | Free calls |
Important Note About VoIP Apps
While VoIP apps are cheaper than traditional carriers, they still have limitations. Skype is being phased out and merged into Microsoft Teams. Google Voice is primarily for US users. Most apps require downloads, account setup, and managing multiple apps for different contacts.
💻Method 4: Browser-Based Calling RECOMMENDED
Browser-based calling is the newest and most convenient way to make international calls. Services like StartACall use WebRTC technology (the same tech powering Google Meet and Zoom) to let you call any phone number worldwide directly from your web browser—no app downloads required.
Why Browser-Based Calling is the Future
Works Anywhere
Call from any device with a browser - laptop, tablet, or smartphone. No phone or SIM card needed.
Lowest Rates
Starting from $0.02/min with transparent pricing. No subscriptions or hidden fees.
Instant Setup
Start calling in under 60 seconds. Just sign up and dial - no apps to download or configure.
Enterprise Security
Bank-level encryption and secure WebRTC protocols protect every call.
Advantages
- No app downloads or installations
- Call from laptop, tablet, or phone
- Transparent pay-as-you-go pricing
- HD voice quality with WebRTC
- Real-time billing and usage tracking
- Virtual numbers for multiple countries
- No credit expiration
- Works on any browser (Chrome, Safari, Firefox)
Disadvantages
- Requires internet connection
- Relatively new technology (less known)
- Quality depends on internet speed
How Browser-Based Calling Works
Open Your Browser
Visit the calling service website (like StartACall.com) - works on any modern browser.
Sign Up & Add Credits
Create an account in 30 seconds and add credits (starting from $3). Secure payment via Stripe.
Start Calling
Dial any international number and connect instantly with HD voice quality.
StartACall: The Modern Way to Call Internationally
StartACall represents the evolution of international calling. By leveraging WebRTC technology and browser-based access, it eliminates the friction of traditional methods while offering the best rates available.
No credit card required • First call bonus for new users
Complete Comparison of All Methods
| Feature | Browser-Based (StartACall) | VoIP Apps | Calling Cards | Traditional |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Average Cost/Min | $0.02 | $0.02-0.05 | $0.05-0.15 | $1-5 |
| Monthly Fees | $0 | $0-3 | $0 | $10-15 |
| Setup Time | <60 sec | 5-10 min | Varies | Call carrier |
| No Download | ||||
| HD Quality | ||||
| Credit Expiry | Never | Varies | 30-90 days | Monthly |
| Hidden Fees | ||||
| Call Anywhere |
How to Choose the Best Method for You
Choose Traditional Carriers if:
- You rarely call internationally (1-2 times per year)
- You don't have reliable internet access
- You prefer using your regular phone
- Cost is not your primary concern
Choose Calling Cards if:
- You need a temporary solution
- You call very specific countries with good card rates
- You don't have a smartphone or computer
- You're okay with expiring minutes
Choose VoIP Apps if:
- Your contacts also use the same app
- You want video calling features
- You're comfortable with app installations
- You primarily use a smartphone
Choose Browser-Based Calling if:
- You want the cheapest rates without subscriptions
- You value convenience and no downloads
- You call from different devices (laptop, tablet, phone)
- You want instant setup and transparent pricing
- You make regular international calls
- You want credits that never expire
💡 Our Recommendation
For most people in 2025, browser-based calling offers the best combination of price, convenience, and quality. It eliminates the downsides of traditional methods while providing all the benefits of modern VoIP technology—no downloads, no subscriptions, and transparent pricing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
Making international calls in 2025 is easier and more affordable than ever before. While traditional carriers and calling cards still exist, they've been largely superseded by internet-based solutions that offer better rates, quality, and convenience.
Browser-based calling represents the cutting edge of this evolution, combining the lowest rates with maximum convenience. No apps to download, no monthly fees, and the ability to call from any device with a browser.
Ready to start making cheap international calls? StartACall offers the most modern, convenient, and affordable way to stay connected globally.