Your friend has WhatsApp. Your bank doesn’t. That’s the catch with internet calling: some apps connect people, while others let you dial regular phone numbers. And you don’t need an expensive phone plan to use either.
Maybe you’re catching up with friends, trying to reach a landline, or figuring out how to call Ethiopia from US. Here are six apps worth checking out, depending on who you’re calling and how you want to connect.
What to look for in an internet calling app
First, check who you can call. WhatsApp works great when both people use it. But if you’re calling a hotel, bank, or landline, you’ll need a service that supports regular phone numbers.
Next, look at pricing. You might need a quick call to a hotel abroad or affordable calls to Ethiopia for regular family catch-ups. Check what each service charges for your destination and whether a monthly plan makes more sense than paying by the minute. Those small charges can add up fast.
Privacy matters, too. Look for end-to-end encryption and two-step verification, especially if you make calls over public Wi-Fi.
Best apps to call phone numbers
If you need to reach landlines, businesses, or international numbers, these apps make it easy. Here are our top picks, each suited to a different calling need.
Internet calling apps
Best for landline calls: Google Voice
Google Voice is a handy choice if you live in the US and want to call regular phone numbers without paying extra for most domestic calls.
You get a US phone number, voicemail transcripts, spam filtering, and access through your phone or browser. International calls cost extra, with rates depending on the destination.
Pros: Mostly free domestic calls, voicemail tools, and spam protection.
Cons: Primarily available to US users, with limited emergency calling support for personal accounts.
Best for international calls: Yadaphone
Need to call an airline overseas from your laptop? Yadaphone lets you make calls directly from your browser.
There’s no software to install. You sign up, add credit, and dial. The person you’re calling doesn’t need an app or an internet connection.
Rates depend on the country, so check the price before dialing.
Pros: Browser-based calling, no subscription required, and pay-as-you-go pricing.
Cons: Calls cost money after any free trial allowance, and receiving calls may require a paid number.
Best for personalization: Viber
Viber is a good fit if you like your calls with a little personality. Along with free calls between Viber users, you get stickers, group chats, and disappearing messages.
Want to call someone who doesn’t use Viber? Viber Out lets you reach regular phone numbers using prepaid credit or a calling plan.
Pros: Free in-app calls, fun messaging features, and international calling options.
Cons: Viber Out costs extra, and there’s no browser version.
Best for social media: Messenger
Already chatting with someone on Facebook? Messenger makes voice and video calls easy without switching platforms.
It’s useful for quick catch-ups, family conversations, and group chats. You can send voice messages when you don’t have time for a full call.
Pros: Free calls, group conversations, and a familiar interface.
Cons: Can’t dial regular phone numbers, and you’ll need a Messenger account.
App for voice calls online
Best for iPhone-to-Android calls: Google Meet
Google Duo is now part of Google Meet, making it easier to connect across Android phones, iPhones, and computers.
You can start a video call, share a meeting link, or show your screen when explaining something out loud gets frustrating.
Basic calls are free, though some advanced features require a paid plan.
Pros: Works across devices, supports screen sharing, and offers free video calls.
Cons: Doesn’t replace a regular phone service, and some features cost extra.
Best for privacy: WhatsApp
WhatsApp keeps things simple. Open a conversation, tap the phone icon, and you’re calling. Video calls work just as easily.
Calls are end-to-end encrypted by default, and you can talk to people in other countries without paying international calling rates. Just remember that mobile data or roaming fees may still apply.
WhatsApp also supports group calls, voice messages, and file sharing.
Pros: Free international app-to-app calls, strong encryption, and easy group calling.
Cons: Requires a phone number to register and can’t call landlines.
Alternative: Use your carrier’s Wi-Fi calling
Don’t want another app? Your phone probably already supports Wi-Fi calling.
It uses your regular phone number and a Wi-Fi connection instead of relying entirely on cellular coverage. That can help when you’re indoors with weak reception.
On iPhone, look under Settings > Cellular > Wi-Fi Calling. On Android, search your settings for Wi-Fi calling.
Availability and charges depend on your carrier.