Alternatives to SKYPE

[sergio]

This may have been discussed before but maybe there are some updates. I have Magic Jack. I am not satisfied with it, especially as I have to carry a device around with me and the connection is unstable. Is there anything out there similar to Skype that allows me to call USA numbers at a flat rate or at least at a low rate? I need it when I am using my Macbook. Thanks

 

[Ronnie Hotdogs]

I’m using Yolla on my iPhone.
Guess it will work on a computer.
Also let’s it look like you are calling from our own number if that be of use to you.
Not sure how it compares to Skype price wise

 

[neurofly]

You can also try Hushed.

 

[lunar]

Is there anything out there similar to Skype that allows me to call USA numbers at a flat rate or at least at a low rate? I need it when I am using my Macbook.

Option 1. Google Voice.

You sign up at https://voice.google.com and can call US numbers right from your browser on your Mac. No extra hardware, free domestic US calls

Option 2. Sip Softphone / Sip Provider.

Install Zoiper, then open an account with a provider like voip.ms or Callcentric. Enter the credentials in Zoiper and you can call US numbers at low pay-as-you-go rates.

If you only need outgoing calls, you don’t have to buy a phone number from them.

 

[elhombresinnombre]

I keep meaning to take a look at Viber (https://www.viber.com) I believe like Skype, it's free Viber to Viber and (mostly) a few cents for Viber out. It's not US owned which you may or may not see as a good thing.

 

[pixer12]

Tello is what I use. I ported my U.S. cell number to it a while back. Very cheap and calls over Wi-Fi work great. I have read it’s not officially possible to activate a number with them while outside the U.S. (a recent change) but also that it’s possible to get around this by using a VPN on your phone.

 

[Silvie]

I use Tello to make wifi free calls (300 minutes + sms) for USD 9.55 including taxes but I use it as an E-sim on my cell phone

 

[carride]

that allows me to call USA numbers at a flat rate or at least at a low rate? I need it when I am using my Macbook. Thanks

Option 1. Google Voice.

You sign up at https://voice.google.com and can call US numbers right from your browser on your Mac. No extra hardware, free domestic US calls

Yes Google Voice is free calls/SMS to any US number, and they give your own US number to receive calls and SMS. It is the best case for everyday, and the best to keep as a backup emergency. From the MacBook definitely, and the iOS and Android apps have been stable for more than five years (finally after not being great for 10+ years).

 

[sergio]

Yes Google Voice is free calls/SMS to any US number, and they give your own US number to receive calls and SMS. It is the best case for everyday, and the best to keep as a backup emergency. From the MacBook definitely, and the iOS and Android apps have been stable for more than five years (finally after not being great for 10+ years).

Thanks. I see it's U$S 10 a month. I'd prefer a service that charged only as it's used but maybe this is the best option.

 

[Caribbean Cool]

Thanks. I see it's U$S 10 a month. I'd prefer a service that charged only as it's used but maybe this is the best option.

My Google Voice is not per month....U.S. calls are free