Skype is one of the most popular VoIP services out there, but there are plenty of other ways to video chat for free or make a free phone call online. Here’s a look at the best free Skype alternatives, including desktop and smartphone apps that offer group calling, video calling, and more.
Zoom is one of the fastest growing Skype alternatives out there. That’s because it’s so flexible. It works just as well for audio calls as it does for video calls, and you can use it one-on-one or for group calls. It’s easy to use and works across every platform, including your desktop. Just be a little wary of how easy it is to get Zoom-bombed and other security issues.
Slack is often thought of as a primarily business tool for text and instant messaging collaboration, but you can also make audio and video calls on the service. The free plan only lets you video call one other person, but if you just want to have a quick conversation it’s a great alternative since you likely already have Slack open and ready. It’s also great for quick screen collaborations and annotations, which is super useful in a business context. Just expect to have to subscribe if you want more powerful features.
WhatsApp is one of the largest instant messaging services in the world. It connects billions of users and offers much more than just instant messaging. You can also use it to make voice and video calls, as well as group chats. Video chats are limited to just four people, making it a more intimate event than most video chat apps, but it’s hugely popular, so if you’re trying to arrange a chat with a family member who isn’t as tech-savvy, they probably still know how to use WhatsApp.