Which apps are best alternatives to TextNow?

Alternative Apps
1

My TextNow app has been giving me issues, and I urgently need an alternative service for messaging and calling. What are reliable apps like TextNow that I can try?

2

Certainly! Here’s a personalized ranked list of the 10 best app alternatives to TextNow:

1. Google Voice

  • Homepage Link: https://voice.google.com
  • Pros & Cons:
    • Pros: Free to use, integrates with Google ecosystem, reliable call and text quality, voicemail transcription, easy-to-use interface.
    • Cons: Only available in the U.S. and Canada, requires a Google account, lacks some premium features of competitors.
  • Features:
    • Free calls and texts within the U.S.
    • Low international calling rates.
    • Ability to forward calls to other numbers.
    • Spam detection for unwanted calls.
  • User Reviews:
    Many users praise Google Voice for its stability and seamless integration with other Google services. Some find the international call rates competitive, though the lack of availability outside North America is a downside.
  • Verdict:
    If you’re in the U.S. or Canada and already use Google products, Google Voice is a no-brainer. Its stability and simplicity make it an excellent alternative to TextNow.

2. TextFree

  • Homepage Link: https://textfree.us
  • Pros & Cons:
    • Pros: Free texting and calling, customizable phone number, supports group messaging, lightweight app.
    • Cons: Requires Wi-Fi or mobile data, ads can be intrusive unless you opt for the paid version.
  • Features:
    • Free U.S. phone number.
    • Voicemail and group messaging support.
    • Option for ad-free experience via subscription.
  • User Reviews:
    Users appreciate the affordability of the premium version and the no-frills approach to messaging and calling, though many have commented negatively on the frequency of ads in the free version.
  • Verdict:
    A straightforward and reliable app with excellent basic functionality. Go for the ad-free upgrade if you want less clutter.

3. Talkatone

  • Homepage Link: https://www.talkatone.com
  • Pros & Cons:
    • Pros: Free U.S. and Canada calls, low-cost international rates, simple-to-use interface.
    • Cons: Ads in the free version, call quality can fluctuate on weaker networks.
  • Features:
    • Free texting and calling to U.S. and Canada.
    • Earn credits through offers or get a subscription for ad removal.
    • Virtual phone number support.
  • User Reviews:
    Generally considered a solid TextNow alternative with mixed feedback about call reliability at times.
  • Verdict:
    Talkatone offers an experience close to TextNow but with a slightly less refined interface. Still, it’s a great option, especially if you need a quick replacement.

4. WhatsApp

  • Homepage Link: https://www.whatsapp.com
  • Pros & Cons:
    • Pros: Fully free to use, end-to-end encryption, widely used worldwide, excellent for international messaging and calling.
    • Cons: Requires a SIM card to set up, can’t pick a new phone number.
  • Features:
    • Voice and video calling.
    • Multimedia messaging with support for files, photos, audio, and video.
    • Group calling and group chat features.
    • End-to-end encrypted for privacy.
  • User Reviews:
    Loved by millions globally for its ease of use and reliability for both personal and professional communication.
  • Verdict:
    While it doesn’t emulate TextNow’s virtual phone number model, WhatsApp is incredibly versatile and suitable for anyone looking for a solid messaging app.

5. Skype

  • Homepage Link: https://www.skype.com
  • Pros & Cons:
    • Pros: Excellent video call quality, integration with Microsoft services, cheap international rates.
    • Cons: Can feel outdated compared to newer services, requires credits for certain features.
  • Features:
    • Free audio and video calls to other Skype users.
    • SMS and landline calling at affordable rates.
    • Screen sharing and conferencing support.
  • User Reviews:
    Some users feel Skype is losing ground to competitors, but it’s still held in high regard for video calling and larger conference calls.
  • Verdict:
    Skype is a veteran in the VoIP game. If you need video calling and SMS support under one app, it’s worth a go.

6. Sideline

  • Homepage Link: https://www.sideline.com
  • Pros & Cons:
    • Pros: Professional-grade second phone number, affordable pricing, excellent business features.
    • Cons: Not free (starts at $9.99/month for basic plans), targeted more toward professionals.
  • Features:
    • Customizable voicemail greetings.
    • Auto-reply texting.
    • Text and call analytics for small businesses.
  • User Reviews:
    Highly rated for its business-oriented tools, but casual users may find the subscription fee off-putting.
  • Verdict:
    Perfect for anyone who needs a clean, professional line for work. Less attractive for casual usage.

7. 2ndLine

  • Homepage Link: https://www.2ndline.co
  • Pros & Cons:
    • Pros: Affordable optional subscription, virtual phone number, much like TextNow in feel and functionality.
    • Cons: Ads can be overwhelming in the free version, primarily available in the U.S. and Canada.
  • Features:
    • VoIP calling with Wi-Fi or data.
    • Voicemail transcription.
    • Supports MMS and emojis.
  • User Reviews:
    Praised as being extremely similar to TextNow, with solid reliability. However, complaints about ads mirror issues with TextNow.
  • Verdict:
    If you want something almost identical to TextNow without much adjustment, 2ndLine is your best bet.

8. Viber

  • Homepage Link: https://www.viber.com
  • Pros & Cons:
    • Pros: Free and secure communication, excellent international calling experience, fun stickers and multimedia support.
    • Cons: Fewer users compared to WhatsApp, call costs for landlines and non-Viber numbers are higher.
  • Features:
    • Free chats and calls between Viber users.
    • Large variety of stickers and group chat support.
    • End-to-end encryption.
  • User Reviews:
    People love the international reach and fun stickers but note that the user base is smaller compared to apps like WhatsApp.
  • Verdict:
    Great for connecting with others outside your country, especially if they’re existing Viber users.

9. LINE

  • Homepage Link: https://line.me/en/
  • Pros & Cons:
    • Pros: Free HD calls and messages, excellent sticker shop, popular in Asian markets.
    • Cons: Interface can be overwhelming for new users, less popular in Western markets.
  • Features:
    • Voice and video calls.
    • Chat backups with cloud sync.
    • Fun sticker packs and themes.
  • User Reviews:
    LINE is extremely well-rated in Asia, but users in other regions mention difficulties finding contacts.
  • Verdict:
    Ideal if you connect often with users in regions where LINE is popular. Otherwise, WhatsApp may serve you better.

10. Dingtone

  • Homepage Link: https://www.dingtone.me
  • Pros & Cons:
    • Pros: Free phone number and competitive international call rates, decent interface.
    • Cons: Credits required for certain features like premium numbers, can’t match larger names in polish.
  • Features:
    • Free texting and calling.
    • Earn credits by completing offers.
    • Supports international numbers.
  • User Reviews:
    Feedback is mixed due to its use of credit systems, but many appreciate the affordability for international calls.
  • Verdict:
    Not the most polished app, but a fantastic backup option for affordable international texting or calling in a pinch.

Each of these apps has its own set of strengths and weaknesses. Try a few to find the one that works best for your specific use case!