Best Skype Alternatives in 2026 (After Shutdown)
Looking for Skype alternatives after Microsoft shut it down? Compare the best replacements including Microsoft Teams, Zoom, WhatsApp, and VoIP options for calling.
With Microsoft shutting down Skype in May 2025, millions of users are searching for reliable alternatives for international calls, video conferencing, and messaging. This comprehensive 2026 guide compares the best Skype alternatives for both personal and business use, helping you find the perfect replacement.
⚠️ Skype Shutdown Notice
Microsoft officially discontinued Skype in May 2025, transitioning users to Microsoft Teams. If you relied on Skype for international calls or a Skype Number, you'll need to migrate to a new service.
Quick Comparison: Best Skype Alternatives 2026
| Service | Best For | Free Tier | Int'l Rates |
|---|---|---|---|
| BubblyPhone | International calls to phones | Free credits | $0.01/min |
| App-to-app calls | Unlimited | Free (app only) | |
| Microsoft Teams | Business/Enterprise | Yes (limited) | From $0.02/min |
| Google Voice | US/Canada users | Free US calls | From $0.01/min |
| Zoom Phone | Video + Voice unified | No | From $10/mo |
| Viber Out | International mobile calls | Limited | From $0.01/min |
Best Skype Alternatives for International Calls
1. BubblyPhone
Best OverallBubblyPhone is the ideal Skype replacement for users who need to call real phone numbers internationally. Unlike app-to-app services, BubblyPhone lets you call any landline or mobile worldwide at rates starting from just $0.01/minute.
✓ Pros
- • Call any phone number worldwide
- • Crystal-clear HD audio (WebRTC)
- • No app required - works in browser
- • Free credits to start
- • Pay-as-you-go pricing
✗ Cons
- • No video calling
- • Requires internet connection
2. WhatsApp
Best Free OptionWhatsApp is the world's most popular messaging app with over 2 billion users. It offers free voice and video calls to anyone with the app installed, making it perfect for staying connected with family and friends abroad.
✓ Pros
- • Completely free calls
- • End-to-end encryption
- • Video calling included
- • Group calls up to 32 people
- • Massive global user base
✗ Cons
- • Can only call WhatsApp users
- • Cannot call landlines/mobiles
- • Requires phone number to register
3. Microsoft Teams
Official Skype SuccessorMicrosoft Teams is the official replacement for Skype. It's primarily designed for business collaboration but also offers personal features. The free version supports meetings up to 100 participants for 60 minutes.
✓ Pros
- • Seamless Skype migration
- • Enterprise-grade security
- • Screen sharing & collaboration
- • Microsoft 365 integration
✗ Cons
- • Teams Phone requires business plan
- • Complex for personal use
- • No consumer PSTN calling
4. Google Voice
US/Canada OnlyGoogle Voice offers free calls within the US and Canada and affordable international rates. It provides a real US phone number and integrates with Gmail and Google services.
✓ Pros
- • Free US/Canada calls
- • Free US phone number
- • Voicemail transcription
- • Google ecosystem integration
✗ Cons
- • Only available in US
- • Limited international availability
- • 2FA SMS issues with some services
5. Viber Out
Viber Out allows you to call landlines and mobile phones worldwide, even if recipients don't have Viber. Popular in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Asia.
✓ Pros
- • Call any phone number
- • Prepaid credit system
- • Strong international presence
- • Free Viber-to-Viber calls
✗ Cons
- • Rates vary significantly
- • Less popular in Americas
6. Zoom Phone
Zoom Phone combines video conferencing with traditional phone calling. Ideal for businesses that want a unified communication platform with international calling to 15+ countries.
✓ Pros
- • Unified voice + video platform
- • Excellent call quality
- • Seamless video-to-call transition
- • Business phone features
✗ Cons
- • No free tier for calls
- • Starts at $10/month
- • Business-focused
Which Skype Alternative Should You Choose?
📞 For International Phone Calls
Need to call landlines and mobiles abroad at low rates?
→ BubblyPhone or Viber Out
💬 For Free App-to-App Calls
Want free calls to friends and family with the same app?
→ WhatsApp or FaceTime
👔 For Business Use
Need enterprise features, collaboration, and phone system?
→ Microsoft Teams or Zoom Phone
🇺🇸 For US/Canada Users
Based in US and want a free phone number?
→ Google Voice
Privacy-Focused Skype Alternatives
If privacy is your primary concern, consider these decentralized and encrypted options:
- •Signal - End-to-end encrypted calls and messages, open-source, no data collection
- •Jami - Decentralized peer-to-peer calls, no servers involved, completely free
- •Element (Matrix) - Open-source, self-hostable, federated communication
Replacing Your Skype Number
If you had a Skype Number (SkypeIn) for receiving calls, here are the best alternatives for getting a virtual phone number:
| Service | Countries | Starting Price |
|---|---|---|
| Google Voice | US only | Free |
| OpenPhone | US, Canada | $15/month |
| Grasshopper | US, Canada, UK | $26/month |
| Hushed | 60+ countries | $4.99/month |
Ready to Replace Skype?
Get free calling credits and start making international calls at just $0.01/minute.
Try BubblyPhone Free →Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Microsoft shut down Skype?
Microsoft discontinued Skype in May 2025 to consolidate its communication services under Microsoft Teams. The company had been gradually transitioning users for several years as Teams became the primary platform for business and personal communications.
What happened to my Skype credits?
Microsoft provided options to transfer remaining Skype credits to Teams or request a refund. If you haven't claimed your credits, contact Microsoft support as soon as possible.
Can I port my Skype Number to another service?
Unfortunately, Skype Numbers cannot be ported to other providers. You'll need to get a new virtual number from services like Google Voice, OpenPhone, or Hushed.
What's the cheapest way to call landlines internationally?
VoIP services like BubblyPhone offer the lowest rates, starting from $0.01/minute to most countries. This is significantly cheaper than traditional carrier international rates.