Traditional International Calling Alternatives: Apps & Services

If you want to make international calls without breaking the bank, you might want to look beyond traditional phone services. They often charge high rates and have hidden fees that can add up quickly. Luckily, there are several apps and services designed specifically to help you connect with loved ones or colleagues across the globe at a much lower cost. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best traditional international calling alternatives: apps and services that can keep you connected without the hefty price tag.

Key Takeaways

• Yolla offers low-cost international calls to any number, not just app users.
• Viber allows free calls between its users and affordable rates for external calls.
• Finding a Skype alternative is important due to Skype’s limitations and shifting focus.
• Dingtone provides a unique service with a second phone number for added privacy.
• Rebtel and Talk360 are great options for affordable international calling, each with their own features.

Yolla: The Best All-in-One Solution for International Calls

Staying connected across borders shouldn’t be a hassle. Traditional phone providers make it expensive, sometimes charging a lot per minute for international calls. Free calling apps seem good, but they only work if both people use the same app. That’s where Yolla comes in. It lets you call for free when both people use Yolla, and it keeps costs low when you need to reach mobiles and landlines. Whether it’s a quick chat, an important business call, or travel plans, Yolla gives you a simple, reliable way to stay in touch without the high price.

Why Use Yolla?

Yolla stands out as a great choice for international calls because it addresses many limitations of other calling apps. It allows you to call any number worldwide, whether it’s a mobile, landline, or VoIP, and the person receiving the call doesn’t need the app. This is a big advantage over apps like WhatsApp or Telegram, which only work if both users have the app. Plus, Yolla offers lower rates than services like Viber Out and Google Voice, with no hidden fees. If you need affordable international calling services, Yolla is a solid option.

Yolla uses your existing mobile number for both caller ID and account identity. This keeps things simple and familiar.

Key Features of Yolla

Yolla has some cool features that make it a good choice for international calls:

• Caller ID: Yolla displays your own mobile number as the caller ID, so the person you’re calling knows it’s you.
• SMS Support: You can send SMS to international numbers, which is more than some voice-only apps offer.
• Balance Transfers: Yolla lets you transfer in-app balance between users.
• Referral Bonuses: You can get bonuses for inviting friends to use the app.

Pricing and Plans

Yolla offers a simple and flexible pricing structure. You can choose between pay-as-you-go or minute bundles, so you’re not forced into a subscription. This makes it easy to control your spending and only pay for what you need. Pricing varies depending on the country you’re calling, but Yolla is generally cheaper than other options like Viber Out and Google Voice. Here’s a quick comparison:

Service	Pricing
Yolla	Pay-as-you-go or minute bundles
Viber Out	Credits or monthly subscriptions
Google Voice	Free for some calls, paid for others

Viber: A Versatile Messaging and Calling App

Viber is more than just a messaging app; it’s a full-fledged communication platform. It lets you connect with people all over the world. I’ve been using it for years to keep in touch with family overseas, and it’s been pretty reliable.

Free Calls Between Viber Users

One of the best things about Viber is that calls and messages between Viber users are totally free. It works just like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger in that regard. If you and your friends or family both have the app, you can chat and call as much as you want without paying a dime. It’s a great way to cut down on communication costs, especially if you have a lot of contacts who also use Viber. You can easily create groups for enhanced connectivity.

Viber Out for External Calls

When you need to call someone who doesn’t have Viber, or you’re calling a landline, that’s where Viber Out comes in. It’s a paid service that lets you call any phone number in the world. It’s super handy because you can keep all your communication in one app. Plus, it can be a lifesaver when you’re traveling and want to avoid those crazy roaming charges. By using Wi-Fi, you can make calls to local and international numbers without breaking the bank.

Pricing Structure

Viber Out gives you a couple of ways to pay. You can either pay as you go, with per-minute rates, or you can get a monthly subscription plan. The pay-as-you-go option is good if you only make occasional international calls. But if you call frequently, the monthly plans can save you a lot of money. They also offer World Credit, which you can use to call any number globally. It’s worth checking out their Viber Out options to see what works best for you.

Why You Need a Skype Alternative for International Calls

Skype has been a big name in international calls for a long time. However, it’s not the only option, and honestly, it might not even be the best option for everyone anymore. There are several reasons why exploring a Skype alternative is a smart move, especially if you rely on it for keeping in touch with people abroad.

Limitations of Skype

While Skype is still around, it does have some drawbacks:

• Call Quality Issues: Sometimes, the call quality can be spotty, especially if your internet connection isn’t great or the person you’re calling has a weak signal. This can be super frustrating when you’re trying to have an important conversation.
• Resource Intensive: Skype can use a lot of your computer’s or phone’s resources, which can slow things down, especially if you’re running other apps at the same time.
• Not Always the Cheapest: While Skype-to-Skype calls are free, calling actual phone numbers can get expensive, especially if you’re making frequent international calls. There are often cheaper options out there.

Switching from Skype can feel like a big deal, but it’s worth considering the benefits. Newer apps often have better technology, leading to clearer calls and more reliable connections. Plus, many offer more competitive rates for international calls, saving you money in the long run.

Benefits of Alternative Apps

There are a bunch of reasons to consider other apps for international calls:

• Better Call Quality: Many newer apps use advanced technology to provide clearer and more reliable call quality, even with slower internet connections.
• Lower Costs: Some apps offer significantly lower rates for international calls compared to Skype, helping you save money.
• More Features: Many alternatives come with extra features like call recording, group video calls, and screen sharing, which can be useful for both personal and professional use.

Choosing the Right App

Finding the right app depends on what you need. Here are a few things to think about:

• Call Quality: Look for apps that are known for their clear and reliable call quality.
• Pricing: Compare the rates for calling the countries you call most often. Some apps have different pricing structures, so find one that fits your needs.
• Features: Consider what features are important to you, such as video calling, call recording, or the ability to send text messages. Yolla is a great all-in-one solution for international calls.
• Ease of Use: Pick an app that’s easy to use and has a user-friendly interface. You don’t want to spend hours figuring out how to make a call.

Dingtone: A Unique Second Phone Number Solution

Dingtone offers a pretty cool solution if you’re looking for a second phone number without the hassle of getting a new phone or SIM card. It’s an app that gives you a real, working phone number on your existing device. Let’s explore what makes Dingtone stand out.

Features of Dingtone

Dingtone combines the features of a free calling app with a virtual phone number service. You get a real phone number, mostly from the U.S., Canada, or the UK, and you can use it just like a regular phone line. Think calls, texts, and even voicemail, all through the app using your internet connection. It’s pretty handy if you need a separate number for work, privacy, or just to keep things organized.

• Get a second phone number without a new SIM.
• Make calls and send texts over Wi-Fi or cellular data.
• Access features like voicemail, call forwarding, and call blocking.

Dingtone is a solid option for anyone needing a second number without the commitment of a full-blown phone plan. It’s especially useful for those who want to keep their personal and professional lives separate, or for anyone who needs a temporary number for specific situations.

Best Use Cases

Dingtone shines in a few key areas. If you’re on a tight budget, you can actually earn calling credits by watching ads or completing tasks within the app. It’s also great for privacy. Need to sign up for something but don’t want to give out your main number? Use your Dingtone number instead. Plus, international users often use Dingtone to get a U.S. number for receiving SMS verification codes or for affordable international calling.

Here’s a quick look at who benefits most from Dingtone:

• Students and budget-conscious users.
• Privacy-focused individuals.
• International users needing a U.S. number.

Pricing Options

Dingtone offers free app-to-app calls and texts between Dingtone users. For calling actual phone numbers or getting a second phone number, the app uses a virtual credit system. New users get some free credits to start, and you can earn more by watching ads, completing in-app tasks, checking in daily, or referring friends. If you prefer, you can also buy credits or purchase monthly bundles and unlimited calling plans through in-app purchases. Calls to U.S. numbers typically cost just a few credits per minute, and rates vary by destination. Dingtone publishes detailed rates on its Rate & Plan page so you can check costs before making a call. International call rates are generally low and comparable to other VoIP services, with coverage to over 200 countries.

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Rebtel: Affordable International Calling

How Rebtel Works

Rebtel takes a unique approach to international calling. It’s designed for voice calls, mixing internet-based calling with local access numbers. While it can work like a typical VoIP app using Wi-Fi or mobile data, Rebtel can also route your calls through local phone numbers. This helps sidestep internet issues like lag or poor audio quality.

For example, when you make an international call through Rebtel, it might dial a local access number in your country, which then connects to the recipient abroad. This setup gives you the call quality of a local call while still reaching an international destination. If local access isn’t available—or if you prefer—Rebtel can use traditional VoIP instead. The person you’re calling gets a regular phone call. Rebtel assigns a number to route the call, but it doesn’t give you a permanent inbound number. However, Rebtel does support free app-to-app calling through a feature called Rebtel Calling, which only works if both users have the app.

Key Features

Rebtel is all about international voice calling. It doesn’t really focus on video calls or fancy messaging features. SMS support is there, but it’s not a big part of what they do anymore. Here’s a quick rundown of what makes Rebtel stand out:

• Hybrid Calling: Combines VoIP with local access numbers for better call quality.
• Mobile Top-Ups: You can send credit to prepaid phones as a bonus.
• Accessibility: Available as a mobile app, but you can also make calls from regular phones using local access numbers.

Rebtel is available worldwide, with apps accessible on all major app stores. Users can make calls from virtually anywhere using Wi-Fi or mobile data. One of Rebtel’s standout features is its local access numbers, available in over 50 countries. This allows users in those regions to place international calls by dialing a local number, which then connects them to their destination—ideal for users with limited or unreliable internet.

Pricing and Plans

Rebtel offers flexible pricing to fit different calling needs. For occasional users, the Pay-As-You-Go option lets you buy credit and pay only for the minutes you use. This plan works for calls to almost 200 countries, with rates that change based on where you’re calling. For example, calling India costs about $0.02 per minute. It’s a good choice if you don’t want a monthly subscription.

For those who call more often, Rebtel has Unlimited Plans for specific countries. These have a fixed monthly fee and let you make unlimited calls to that country. For example, the India Unlimited plan starts at $12 for 30 days, with longer options like $45 for 180 days. There’s also a Global Unlimited Calling plan that covers 50 countries, which is great if you call contacts in many different places. These unlimited plans make it easy to avoid tracking per-minute charges and are perfect for anyone who regularly calls the same destinations. Rebtel doesn’t have a free tier, but they sometimes have smaller deals, like “30 minutes for $1” or free trials for some destinations, so new users can try the service. Rebtel can also route your calls through local phone numbers.

Google Voice: A Reliable Communication Tool

Features of Google Voice

Google Voice is Google’s VoIP service that gives you a phone number for calls, texts, and voicemail. It works on phones, laptops, and even some desk phones. It’s been around since 2009 and has gotten better over time, now using Google AI to block spam and turn voicemails into text. It even has a Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) link, so businesses can use regular phone numbers from local carriers. If you’re already using Google’s tools, Google Voice is a convenient and cost-effective alternative. The service is simple, but it does what it promises efficiently.

Here’s a quick rundown of what it offers:

• A free U.S. phone number.
• Voicemail transcription.
• Integration with Google Workspace.

Limitations and Considerations

While Google Voice is pretty good, it’s not perfect. It’s missing some features that other VoIP services have. For example, it doesn’t have toll-free or vanity numbers. It also lacks advanced VoIP tools like call park and call flip. If you need those features, you might want to look at Zoom Unmetered or another service. Also, while it’s great if you’re already in the Google ecosystem, it might not be the best choice if you’re not.

Pricing Overview

Google Voice has a free option for personal use, which is cool. You get a local phone number, unlimited domestic calling, and unlimited text messaging within the US. But, if you need more features for your business, you’ll have to upgrade to a paid plan. The paid plans are pretty affordable, starting at $10 per user per month. Google Voice is a free VoIP phone service for solopreneurs and freelancers. If you need more call management features, upgrade to Google Voice’s paid subscription plans. They are among the most affordable in the market, with a starting monthly fee of $10 per user only.

Google Voice is especially useful if your business already uses Google Workspace. It integrates well with Google Chat and Google Meet, so you don’t have to switch between apps to make calls, message teammates, or have virtual meetings.

Talk360: Connecting You Globally

Talk360 is a VoIP calling app designed to make international calls to any mobile or landline number across the globe. The best part? The person you’re calling doesn’t need the app or even an internet connection.

How Talk360 Works

Talk360 operates like a modern calling card, bridging your internet-enabled app to the traditional phone network. It’s designed for outgoing calls only, so you won’t get a personal phone number with it. People can’t directly call you back on Talk360 unless you arrange a callback within the app. Think of it as a straightforward way to connect internationally without the complexities of other services.

Key Features

Talk360 keeps things simple and user-friendly. Here’s what you can expect:

• Call any landline or mobile number worldwide.
• Pay in local currency using various payment methods, including mobile wallets and bank transfers.
• Enjoy high-quality voice calls, even over long distances.
• The app works over any internet connection, including Wi-Fi and mobile data, without needing a SIM card or phone number registration. If you are looking to simplify life, this is a great option.

Talk360 focuses on reliability and accessibility. One of its biggest advantages is that the person you’re calling doesn’t need anything except a phone. Unlike messaging apps like WhatsApp or Facebook Messenger, you can reach anyone with a landline or mobile number—even if they don’t have internet access. This makes it ideal for calling parents, grandparents, or businesses that aren’t on modern apps.

Pricing and Availability

Talk360 uses a pay-as-you-go model, so there are no subscriptions or monthly fees. You simply buy calling credit either through the app or on the Talk360 website. You even get a free 1-minute trial call to test the service. It’s a flexible option, especially well-suited for occasional international calls. Talk360 is available for download and use worldwide, geared toward users in regions like Africa, Asia, and other areas where international calling can be expensive or less accessible.

Wrapping It Up

So, there you have it. If you’re tired of those crazy international calling rates and want to keep in touch without breaking the bank, these apps and services are definitely worth checking out. Each one has its own perks, whether it’s Yolla’s low rates or Viber’s free calls between users. Just remember, the best choice really depends on what you need. Do you want to call landlines? Or just chat with friends using the same app? Whatever it is, there’s an option out there for you. Give them a try and see which one fits your style. Staying connected shouldn’t be a hassle, and with these alternatives, it doesn’t have to be.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Yolla and why should I use it?

Yolla is an app that lets you make international calls easily and affordably. It allows free calls between Yolla users and low-cost calls to regular phone numbers.

Can I use Viber to call non-Viber users?

Yes, you can use Viber Out to call non-Viber users, but it may cost money depending on where you’re calling.

What are the main problems with Skype?

Skype has some issues like being less reliable for regular calls and may not work well if both users aren’t online.

How does Dingtone work for international calls?

Dingtone gives you a second phone number to make calls and send texts. It’s helpful for people who want to keep their main number private.

Is Google Voice free to use?

Google Voice is free for calls within the U.S., but charges may apply for international calls.

What makes Talk360 different from other calling apps?

Talk360 allows you to call anyone, anywhere, even if they don’t have the app. It focuses on making international calls affordable.