Wi-Fi calling apps let you make calls over any internet connection, often at a fraction of what carriers charge for domestic and international minutes. The category has grown crowded, though, with everything from free ad-supported services to full business phone systems competing for attention. We tested and compared 12 of the most widely used options to help you find the best app for wifi calling for your situation.
This guide covers call quality, pricing, security, and real-world performance for each app so you can find the right fit for your situation.
Each entry includes pros, cons, screenshots, and direct links. We cover everything from free consumer apps like WhatsApp to enterprise platforms like Zoom Phone, so you can compare in one place.
1. CallSky.io
Best For: Cost-conscious international callers, businesses, and former Skype users.
CallSky.io connects users to landlines and mobile numbers in over 180 countries through a pay-as-you-go model. There are no subscriptions: you buy credits, they never expire, and you pay only for the minutes you use. That makes it a practical option for anyone with irregular calling patterns, whether individual or team.
The app uses a dual-provider routing system that picks the cheaper carrier for each call, with automatic fallback to the second provider if the first drops. Most competitors rely on a single network, which creates a single point of failure.
Key features and user experience
For businesses, there's a centralized admin dashboard with shared credit pools, verified caller IDs, and call history exports. Calls use end-to-end encryption, and payments go through Apple's StoreKit 2.
Setup is fast and the interface is straightforward. Credits never expire, which removes the pressure to use them before a balance runs out. If you need to make international calls to actual phone numbers rather than just other app users, CallSky.io is worth trying.
Pros:
- Very low, transparent per-minute pricing with no subscriptions; credits never expire.
- High call quality via carrier-grade networks and smart dual-provider routing.
- Business features: shared credits, verified caller IDs, and centralized management.
- Strong security with end-to-end encryption and secure payments.
Cons:
- Currently available only as a native iOS app; web and Android support is planned.
- Smart routing may occasionally require a brief confirmation to switch providers.
Website: https://callsky.io
2. Google Voice (consumer and business)
Google Voice is a VoIP service that gives you a free secondary phone number for calls, texts, and voicemails. It integrates closely with the Google ecosystem, so it works well for anyone already using Gmail, Calendar, and other Google Workspace tools. The service runs over Wi-Fi or cellular data, with free domestic calls in the U.S. and low-cost international rates.
Key features and use cases
The personal version is good for anyone who wants a second line for privacy or screening calls, with voicemail transcription included. For businesses, the Google Workspace add-on turns it into a phone system with auto-attendants, ring groups, and reporting.
- Best For: Users deeply integrated in the Google ecosystem, U.S.-based individuals needing a free second number, and businesses seeking a scalable phone system.
- Pricing: Free for personal use (U.S. calling); Business plans start at $10/user/month.
- Website: https://voice.google.com
Pros:
- Reliable call quality.
- Deep integration with Google Workspace.
- Transparent and competitive international rates.
Cons:
- Personal version is U.S.-centric.
- Has limitations for emergency (911) calls.
3. TextNow
TextNow is an ad-supported service that gives you a free U.S. or Canadian phone number for Wi-Fi calling and texting. The core service is completely free, with unlimited calls and texts to U.S. and Canadian numbers over Wi-Fi or cellular data.
Key features and use cases
The main use case is getting a free phone line for personal use, privacy, or as a secondary business number. While its core features are free, TextNow also offers a SIM card for wireless service in the U.S. and an "Ad-Free+" subscription. This paid tier removes ads and unlocks key features like number locking (preventing your number from being recycled due to inactivity) and support for verification codes. You can compare it with other cheap international calling apps in our separate guide.
- Best For: Individuals in the U.S. or Canada needing a free, secondary phone number for domestic calls and texts.
- Pricing: Free (ad-supported); Ad-Free+ subscription available for a fee.
- Website: https://www.textnow.com
Pros:
- Free Wi-Fi calling and texting for U.S./Canada.
- Provides a real, usable phone number upon signup.
- Broad device support including mobile apps and a web interface.
Cons:
- Key features like number locking require a paid upgrade.
- Full functionality can be limited outside the U.S. and Canada.
4. Talkatone
Talkatone is a free Wi-Fi calling and texting app that assigns users a real U.S. phone number. It runs over Wi-Fi or cellular data with unlimited free calls and texts to most U.S. and Canadian numbers. Setup is quick, and the free entry point makes it practical for travelers or anyone who needs a temporary number.
Key features and use cases
International travelers often use it to get a U.S. number without paying roaming charges. Users can also purchase credits for low-cost international calls. For those who want an enhanced experience, Talkatone offers subscription tiers like Talkatone Plus to remove ads and unlock additional features. It's backed by VoIP provider Ooma, which gives it more stability than some independent free calling apps.
- Best For: Travelers needing a temporary U.S. number, users seeking a simple and free secondary line, and budget-conscious international callers.
- Pricing: Free (ad-supported); Paid subscriptions available to remove ads and add features.
- Website: https://www.talkatone.com
Pros:
- Quick setup process.
- Provides a free, functional U.S. number for calls and texts.
- Long-running, reliable service backed by Ooma.
Cons:
- Does not support 911 or emergency service calls.
- Number availability can be limited for certain area codes.
5. TextFree by Pinger
TextFree provides a free, ad-supported U.S. phone number for texting and calling over Wi-Fi. It allows users to select a real U.S. phone number from their preferred area code, which can then be used for unlimited texts and app-to-app calls, along with a limited number of free minutes for calls to any U.S. or Canadian number. Its straightforward setup makes it a popular choice for a secondary line.
Key features and use cases
The primary use case for TextFree is obtaining a simple, no-cost second number for casual communication, online sign-ups, or maintaining privacy. While the core service is free and supported by ads, users can subscribe to TextFree Plus to remove ads, keep their number from expiring due to inactivity, and get unlimited calling minutes. It's a reasonable choice if you mostly text and only need basic calling.
- Best For: U.S. and Canadian users needing a free, text-focused secondary number for casual use.
- Pricing: Free (ad-supported); TextFree Plus subscription available for premium features.
- Website: https://textfree.us
Pros:
- Completely free to get a U.S. phone number and start texting.
- Simple, user-friendly interface that is easy to set up.
- Includes free voicemail service.
Cons:
- The free version is heavily supported by ads.
- Web-based calling has limited support for new accounts.
- Numbers can be reclaimed if not used actively on the free tier.
6. WhatsApp
With over two billion users worldwide, WhatsApp is the default communication app in many countries. It offers free, end-to-end encrypted voice and video calls to any other WhatsApp user, running over Wi-Fi or mobile data. The person you want to call internationally probably already has it installed, which removes the need for phone credits or international calling plans.
Key features and use cases
WhatsApp works well for connecting friends, family, and colleagues across borders at no cost. Group calling and voice chats in large groups make it easy to loop in multiple people at once. The service is available across iOS, Android, and desktop (with calling features on its desktop and web clients), providing cross-platform flexibility for users to stay connected regardless of their device.
- Best For: International communication with other WhatsApp users, personal chats, and group calls.
- Pricing: Free (uses Wi-Fi or mobile data).
- Website: https://www.whatsapp.com
Pros:
- Huge global user base makes it easy to reach contacts for free.
- Strong end-to-end encryption for all calls and messages.
- Low data usage on voice calls.
Cons:
- Cannot call regular landline or mobile phone numbers.
- Call quality can be inconsistent depending on network conditions.
7. Viber (Viber Out)
Viber offers free, encrypted app-to-app messaging, voice, and video calls. Its "Viber Out" feature also lets users call any non-Viber landline or mobile number worldwide, which makes it useful if you want one app for both free app-to-app calls and paid calls to regular phone numbers.
Key features and use cases
Viber Out offers flexible payment models, including pay-as-you-go credits for infrequent callers and monthly subscription plans that provide unlimited minutes to specific countries or regions. Rates are listed upfront, and the app works on both mobile and desktop, so it's easy to track spending.
- Best For: Users who frequently communicate with both Viber and non-Viber contacts, international callers needing flexible payment options.
- Pricing: Pay-as-you-go credits or monthly calling plans (e.g., World Unlimited from $5.99/month).
- Website: https://www.viber.com
Pros:
- Flexible calling options for both app users and traditional phone numbers.
- Clear rate structures and monthly plans for frequent international calling.
- Strong security with end-to-end encryption for app-to-app communication.
Cons:
- Per-minute rounding on credits can use them up faster than expected.
- Call quality can sometimes be inconsistent for certain destinations.
8. magicApp by magicJack
magicApp brings the magicJack VoIP service to your smartphone, either as a standalone subscription or alongside a magicJack home device. It gives you a dedicated U.S. or Canadian phone number with unlimited domestic calling and texting over Wi-Fi.
Key features and use cases
The appeal is price and simplicity for North American calling. If you already use a magicJack device at home, the app will ring simultaneously with your home phone, so you won't miss a call. As a standalone service, it provides a new phone number with unlimited calling to the U.S. and Canada and unlimited texting to any U.S. number, which works for international users who want a local North American presence or anyone who needs a second line.
- Best For: Existing magicJack users, individuals needing a budget-friendly U.S./Canadian number, and travelers staying connected to North America.
- Pricing: Standalone app subscription is typically around $14.99/year.
- Website: https://www.magicjack.com/magicApp.html
Pros:
- Very affordable pricing for a dedicated U.S. or Canadian number.
- Works with the magicJack hardware ecosystem.
- Unlimited calling within the U.S. and Canada.
Cons:
- Primarily focused on the North American market.
- Has significant limitations for emergency (911) calls compared to traditional carriers.
9. Quo (formerly OpenPhone)
Quo (formerly OpenPhone) is a business phone system that gives teams a dedicated number (local or toll-free) across smartphones and desktops. It's designed for startups and SMBs that need team-oriented features like shared inboxes and a clean interface.
Key features and use cases
Quo is designed for collaboration, offering shared inboxes, internal threads, and contact management. Key features include call recording, voicemail-to-text transcription, and advanced call routing like auto-attendants and ring groups. We cover more options in our best VoIP services for small business guide. Quo also integrates with Salesforce and HubSpot for sales and support workflows.
- Best For: Small to medium-sized businesses, startups, and remote teams needing a collaborative and feature-rich phone system.
- Pricing: Business plans start at $15/user/month.
- Website: https://www.openphone.com/pricing
Pros:
- Rich admin controls and team collaboration features.
- Simple setup and user-friendly interface.
- Unlimited calling and texting in the U.S. and Canada.
Cons:
- Primarily intended for business, not personal use.
- International calling is a paid add-on.
- Business messaging (A2P 10DLC) may require registration and fees.
10. Zoom Phone
Zoom Phone adds cloud-based calling to the Zoom meetings platform. Its main advantage is combining video meetings, chat, and phone calls in one app, which matters most for teams already using Zoom. The service includes PBX features, SMS/MMS in the U.S. and Canada, and calling plans for both domestic and international use.
Key features and use cases
Zoom Phone puts voice calls inside the desktop and mobile apps users already know. Features like call recording, voicemail transcription, and advanced call routing are standard. We included it in our list of remote team communication tools for this reason. Some plans also include AI-powered call summaries and analysis.
- Best For: Businesses and teams that heavily use Zoom for meetings and want a single, integrated platform for all communications.
- Pricing: Metered plans start at $10/user/month; US/Canada Unlimited plans start at $15/user/month.
- Website: https://www.zoom.com/en/products/voip-phone/solutions/business-phone-service/
Pros:
- Unified experience for meetings, chat, and phone calls.
- Competitive pricing for U.S. and Canada calling plans.
- Strong desktop and mobile client performance.
Cons:
- Onboarding and registration can sometimes delay initial use.
- Costs can increase significantly with advanced features or global calling plans.
11. Microsoft Teams Phone
Microsoft Teams Phone adds PSTN calling to the Teams interface, so users can make and receive external calls over Wi-Fi or data using an assigned phone number. It works best for organizations already on Microsoft 365, where it consolidates meetings, chat, and phone calls into one platform.
Key features and use cases
Teams Phone is designed for businesses needing advanced call management features like auto-attendants, call queues, and detailed analytics. Companies can choose between Microsoft Calling Plans for straightforward setup or use Direct Routing to connect their own telecom provider. Either option works for small teams or large organizations.
- Best For: Businesses of any size that are heavily invested in the Microsoft 365 ecosystem and need a unified communications platform.
- Pricing: Requires a Microsoft 365 subscription. Teams Phone add-on and Calling Plans are purchased separately, with varied pricing.
- Website: https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-teams
Pros:
- Works across the Microsoft 365 suite.
- Enterprise-grade reliability and strong administrative controls.
- Flexible calling plan options (Microsoft-managed or bring-your-own-carrier).
Cons:
- Pricing and licensing can be complex to navigate.
- Best value is realized only for organizations already using Microsoft 365.
12. Hushed
Hushed is a privacy-focused app for disposable or long-term second phone numbers. All lines run over Wi-Fi or cellular data. It offers short-term prepaid plans for things like online marketplace transactions or dating, along with unlimited monthly subscriptions for users in the U.S. and Canada who need a consistent second line.
Key features and use cases
Hushed allows users to choose from over 300 area codes in the US, Canada, and the UK, and manage multiple numbers within a single app. This is ideal for maintaining privacy during marketplace transactions, managing short-term projects, or for travelers needing a local number. The app supports custom voicemail greetings and call forwarding, adding a layer of professionalism to its temporary numbers.
- Best For: Individuals needing temporary, private, or disposable numbers for specific tasks like online selling, travel, or maintaining privacy.
- Pricing: Prepaid plans start at $2.99; Unlimited US/Canada talk and text plans start at $4.99/month.
- Website: https://hushed.com/pricing/
Pros:
- Very affordable entry price for an extra line.
- Flexible short-term plans are great for privacy.
- Manage multiple numbers easily in one interface.
Cons:
- International calling and texting require separate pay-as-you-go credits.
- Feature availability can vary depending on the plan and number type.
Top 12 Wi‑Fi Calling Apps: Feature Comparison
| Service | Key Features / Coverage | Quality (★) | Pricing / Value (💰) | Target Audience (👥) | Unique Selling Points (✨) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CallSky.io 🏆 | Carrier-grade networks; PSTN calls to 180+ countries; iOS app (web soon); credits model | ★★★★★ | 💰 From $0.01/min; credits never expire; no subscriptions | 👥 Individuals, startups, remote teams, enterprises | ✨ Smart dual-provider routing, E2E encryption, enterprise dashboard & reporting |
| Google Voice | Free US number, voicemail, forwarding; Workspace business features | ★★★★☆ | 💰 Free (US); low intl rates; Workspace add‑on | 👥 US consumers; Google Workspace businesses | ✨ Deep Google ecosystem integration, stable PSTN connectivity |
| TextNow | Free Wi‑Fi calling/text with US/CA number; optional SIM & data | ★★★☆☆ | 💰 Free ad‑supported; paid Ad‑Free+ & SIM plans | 👥 Budget users in US/CA; multi‑device users | ✨ Free US number, broad device support |
| Talkatone | Free US/CA number; unlimited US texting/calling over Wi‑Fi; low‑cost intl | ★★★☆☆ | 💰 Free w/ads; optional Plus/ad‑free tiers | 👥 Travelers, secondary US line users | ✨ Simple setup, Ooma‑backed reliability |
| TextFree by Pinger | Choose US area code; free Wi‑Fi calling/text; ad‑supported | ★★★☆☆ | 💰 Free w/ads; TextFree Plus for ad‑free & number retention | 👥 Users wanting an extra US number | ✨ Easy onboarding, long‑standing consumer base |
| App‑to‑app voice & video calls, group calls, cross‑platform | ★★★★☆ | 💰 Free app‑to‑app over data/Wi‑Fi | 👥 Global contacts who use the app | ✨ End‑to‑end encryption, massive user base | |
| Viber (Viber Out) | App calls + Viber Out credits/monthly plans to PSTN worldwide | ★★★☆☆ | 💰 Free app calls; pay‑as‑you‑go credits & country plans | 👥 Users needing both app and PSTN reach | ✨ Flexible credits and monthly country plans |
| magicApp by magicJack | App companion/standalone subscription for US/CA number; pairs with home device | ★★★☆☆ | 💰 Subscription for unlimited US/CA calling | 👥 Budget users wanting a dedicated US line | ✨ Integrates with magicJack hardware ecosystem |
| Quo (formerly OpenPhone) | Business VoIP: per‑user numbers, texting, admin controls, integrations | ★★★★☆ | 💰 Per‑user business plans; intl via add‑ons/credits | 👥 SMBs and teams needing polished phone system | ✨ Full admin/analytics and CRM integrations |
| Zoom Phone | Cloud phone with PSTN plans, recording, voicemail transcription | ★★★★☆ | 💰 Metered/unlimited/global plans (enterprise pricing) | 👥 Teams already using Zoom | ✨ Unified meetings + phone; AI features on some plans |
| Microsoft Teams Phone | PSTN calling via Calling Plans or direct routing; Teams integration | ★★★★☆ | 💰 Add‑on licensing or direct routing; complex options | 👥 Enterprises standardizing on Microsoft 365 | ✨ Deep M365 integration and enterprise admin controls |
| Hushed | Privacy‑focused second numbers; short‑term and monthly/yearly plans | ★★★☆☆ | 💰 Low monthly or short‑term plans; PAYG credits for intl | 👥 Privacy seekers, travelers, marketplace sellers | ✨ Multiple lines/area codes, flexible temporary plans |
How to choose your Wi-Fi calling app
The best app for Wi-Fi calling depends on what you actually need to do with it. Free ad-supported services like TextNow and TextFree work well for casual users who want a secondary U.S. number for domestic texts and calls.
If you're already deep in a specific ecosystem, that narrows things down. WhatsApp and Viber are good for reaching other app users internationally. Zoom Phone and Microsoft Teams Phone make more sense when adopted across a whole organization, though the per-user costs add up.
What to consider before picking an app
A few questions that will narrow the list quickly:
- Calling destination: Do you mostly call other app users, or do you need to reach landlines and mobile numbers? Services like Viber Out and CallSky.io are built for the latter. WhatsApp only works app-to-app.
- Business vs. personal: Solo user, or managing calls for a team? Apps like Quo and CallSky.io offer shared credits and centralized billing for teams.
- Budget and pricing model: Monthly subscription or pay-as-you-go? If your calling volume varies month to month, per-minute pricing can save money over a fixed plan.
- Privacy: Need a temporary or disposable number? Hushed is built for that.
Picking the right tool
VoIP apps have made international calling far cheaper and more accessible than it was even five years ago. The tradeoff is that there are now dozens of options, each optimized for a slightly different use case. Match the app to your actual calling patterns and you'll get the most value out of whichever one you choose.
Frequently asked questions about Wi-Fi calling apps
What is the best free Wi-Fi calling app?
For free app-to-app calls, WhatsApp has the largest user base and works worldwide. For a free U.S. phone number with calling and texting, TextNow and Talkatone are the most widely used options, though they are ad-supported and limited to North America.
Can Wi-Fi calling apps call regular phone numbers?
Some can, some can't. WhatsApp only calls other WhatsApp users. Apps like CallSky.io, Google Voice, Viber Out, and magicApp can call landlines and mobile numbers through the public telephone network (PSTN), usually for a per-minute fee or subscription.
Is Wi-Fi calling better than regular cellular calls?
It depends on your connection. On a stable Wi-Fi network, call quality is typically comparable to or better than cellular. The main advantage is cost: Wi-Fi calls to international numbers are usually much cheaper. The main downside is that quality drops on weak or congested networks.
Do I need a phone number to use a Wi-Fi calling app?
Most apps require a phone number for verification during signup, but several (including TextNow, Talkatone, and TextFree) will assign you a new number as part of the free plan. You can then use that number for calls and texts without a cellular plan.
Can I use a Wi-Fi calling app on Android?
Yes. Most apps in this list — WhatsApp, Viber, Google Voice, TextNow, Talkatone, TextFree, Zoom Phone, and Microsoft Teams — have Android apps on the Play Store. CallSky.io works on Android through its web app at callsky.io, no install needed. A native Android app is also in development.
CallSky lets you call 180+ countries with pay-as-you-go credit that never expires. No subscription needed.