Which app is best to make international calls?

Beyond WhatsApp: Finding the Perfect App for Your International Calling Needs

Making international calls shouldn’t break the bank or break your head. While WhatsApp has become a ubiquitous tool for staying connected across borders, the world of international calling apps offers a surprisingly diverse landscape, catering to different needs and budgets. Choosing the right one hinges on understanding your specific priorities – frequency of calls, call quality, features, and cost.

This isn’t a simple “best app” scenario. Instead, consider your typical usage: are you a frequent traveler needing reliable, affordable calls on the go? Do you primarily need to connect with family and friends, prioritizing ease of use? Or are you seeking a more robust platform with advanced features like voicemail and number management?

WhatsApp: The Familiar Favorite for Personal Connections

WhatsApp’s ubiquity is its greatest strength. Almost everyone you know probably already uses it, making it incredibly convenient for casual chats and video calls. Its reliance on data makes it cheap (or free on Wi-Fi), making it ideal for frequent, shorter calls with loved ones. However, WhatsApp’s limitations become apparent for professional calls or extended conversations. Call quality can fluctuate depending on your internet connection, and it lacks advanced features found in other apps.

Google Voice: The Swiss Army Knife of International Calling

Google Voice shines with its versatility. It offers a US-based phone number, allowing you to receive calls even when traveling internationally and manage multiple devices seamlessly. This is particularly useful for those who need a separate business line or prefer the convenience of a single point of contact. While calling internationally isn’t its core strength, it’s a reliable option integrated into the Google ecosystem, offering good call quality and reasonably priced rates. However, navigating its numerous features might feel overwhelming to new users.

Rebtel: The Traveler’s Trusted Companion

For the frequent international traveler, Rebtel stands out. It focuses on providing affordable rates for calls to specific countries, often significantly undercutting traditional carriers. Its straightforward interface is designed for ease of use, and it prioritizes low call costs, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious individuals who make frequent calls to specific regions. However, its feature set is more limited compared to Google Voice, prioritizing affordability over extensive functionality.

Beyond the Big Three:

Numerous other apps cater to specific niches, such as Skype, Viber, and TextNow. Researching these options is worthwhile, particularly if you have very specific needs, like high-definition video calls or integrated messaging services.

Conclusion:

The “best” international calling app is subjective. WhatsApp is ideal for casual personal calls, Google Voice offers versatility and robust features, and Rebtel prioritizes affordability for travelers. By carefully considering your usage patterns and priorities – frequency, call quality, budget, and desired features – you can select the perfect app to keep you seamlessly connected with loved ones and colleagues across the globe.