The 12 Best International Calling Apps of 2025: A Complete Guide


Making international calls shouldn't be a complicated or expensive process. While traditional phone carriers often impose exorbitant rates for connecting across borders, Voice over IP (VoIP) technology provides a powerful, affordable alternative. The challenge, however, is navigating the crowded market of applications to find the one that truly fits your needs. With dozens of options available, each with unique pricing models and features, making an informed decision can feel overwhelming. This guide is designed to eliminate that confusion and provide a clear path forward.
We have researched and analyzed the top platforms to bring you a definitive list of the best international calling apps available today. This resource moves beyond generic descriptions to offer a detailed comparison, focusing on the practical aspects that matter most. For each app, we will explore its specific strengths, pricing structures, and ideal use cases, helping you understand which service aligns with your communication habits.
This comprehensive breakdown is tailored for a wide range of users, from individuals keeping in touch with family abroad to businesses managing global teams and international clients. Inside, you will find:
Our goal is to equip you with all the information needed to select the most reliable and cost-effective solution for staying connected globally. Let’s dive into the options.
YodelPhone earns its top spot by offering a remarkably streamlined and transparent international calling experience directly from your web browser. It completely eliminates the need for software installations or mobile app downloads, positioning itself as one of the best international calling apps for users who prioritize speed, simplicity, and cost control. The platform operates on a pure pay-as-you-go model, allowing individuals and businesses to make calls to over 180 countries without any contracts, subscriptions, or hidden fees.

This browser-based approach is its defining strength. You can create an account, add credits, and initiate your first call in seconds from any device with a modern browser, a convenience that traditional app-based services can't match. New users can test the service with a one-minute free trial without providing credit card details, making it a zero-risk option. The platform’s clear per-minute rates (e.g., US $0.019/min, UK $0.034/min) ensure you always know what you're paying. For those seeking alternatives to established but often cumbersome platforms, YodelPhone presents a compelling case; discover more about how YodelPhone serves as a modern Skype replacement.
YodelPhone is engineered for both personal and professional use, offering practical tools that enhance its core calling functionality.
YodelPhone’s pricing is entirely usage-based. You purchase credits and they are deducted on a per-minute basis as you make calls. While this is highly cost-effective for occasional or moderate callers, users with very high call volumes might find unlimited subscription plans from other providers more economical. Call quality is generally strong but, like all VoIP services, depends on the stability of your internet connection and local network conditions in the destination country.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Platform | Web Browser (No app download required) |
| Pricing Model | Pay-as-you-go (per-minute rates) |
| Trial Offer | 1-minute free call (no credit card needed) |
| Caller ID | Free verification to display your own number |
| Business Features | Team accounts with shared credits, purchasable local numbers, analytics |
Pros:
Cons:
Website: https://yodelphone.com
Google Voice leverages the power and reliability of Google’s infrastructure to offer one of the best international calling apps, especially for users already embedded in the Google ecosystem. It provides a dedicated U.S. phone number that works over Wi-Fi or cellular data, allowing you to make and receive calls from anywhere. Its primary strength lies in its transparent and often highly competitive pay-as-you-go pricing for international calls to landlines and mobile numbers.

The user experience is seamless across its web interface, iOS, and Android apps, offering features like voicemail transcription and call forwarding. For businesses, Google Voice integrates directly into Google Workspace, providing advanced functionalities such as auto attendants and ring groups through its paid tiers.
The platform functions as a VoIP service. For personal use, individuals based in the U.S. can get a free number and make free calls to the U.S. and Canada. To call other countries, you simply add credit to your account and pay per minute. The rates are clearly published and easy to check before making a call.
Best For: Individuals and small businesses who need a reliable, low-cost way to call international phone numbers directly, particularly if they are already using Google Workspace.
Pro Tip: Before making frequent calls to a specific country, double-check Google's current per-minute rate. While generally low, rates can fluctuate, and comparing them against a subscription plan from another service might save you money on high-volume calling.
Website: https://voice.google.com
Viber Out expands the popular Viber messaging app into a comprehensive global calling solution, allowing users to reach any landline or mobile number worldwide, even if the recipient doesn't have the Viber app installed. It stands out by offering flexible payment options, including pay-as-you-go credits and country-specific monthly subscription plans. This makes it one of the best international calling apps for those who are already familiar with the Viber ecosystem for its free app-to-app communication.

The user experience is integrated directly into the main Viber application, available on both mobile and desktop, making it easy to manage credits and subscriptions. While Viber’s core strength is free, encrypted messaging and calls between users, Viber Out bridges the gap to traditional phone networks. This is a crucial feature that many app-only services lack; you can learn more about how services like WhatsApp can't call landlines.
Viber Out operates on a prepaid model. Users can purchase "World Credit" for pay-as-you-go calling at per-minute rates, which are published within the app. Alternatively, for more frequent calling to specific destinations, you can subscribe to a monthly calling plan. These plans often provide a bundle of minutes or unlimited calls to select countries, offering significant savings over the standard credit rates.
Best For: Existing Viber users who need a simple, integrated way to call international landlines and mobiles directly from the app they already use for messaging.
Pro Tip: If you're making frequent calls, always compare the cost of a monthly subscription plan against the pay-as-you-go credit rate for your target country. Subscriptions like the "World Unlimited" plan can be more cost-effective for high-volume callers.
Website: https://www.viber.com
Rebtel has carved out a niche in the international calling space by offering a hybrid approach that caters to users with varying connectivity needs. It provides both traditional VoIP calls over Wi-Fi/cellular data and a unique local access number system, making it a versatile choice. This flexibility, combined with competitive pricing through pay-as-you-go credits and unlimited subscription bundles, positions Rebtel as a strong contender among the best international calling apps.

The app is available on both iOS and Android, focusing on a straightforward user experience for calling landlines and mobiles in over 190 countries. Beyond just calls, Rebtel also allows users to send mobile airtime top-ups to contacts in other countries, adding another layer of utility for those connecting with family and friends abroad.
Rebtel gives users three ways to connect their calls: Wi-Fi, cellular data, or local numbers. When you choose the "local numbers" option, the app dials a local phone number in your country, which then connects you internationally. This method uses your regular carrier minutes instead of your data plan, which is ideal for areas with poor internet connectivity. For more information, you can explore various methods for how to make international calls.
Best For: Individuals who need a reliable way to call internationally from areas with unstable internet, or those who want a simple, app-based solution with predictable subscription costs.
Pro Tip: Use the local access number feature when traveling in an area with expensive or unreliable mobile data. This allows you to leverage your standard cellular plan's minutes for international calls without incurring high data roaming charges.
Website: https://www.rebtel.com
Localphone is a UK-based provider that consistently ranks as one of the best international calling apps due to its aggressive, ultra-low-cost pricing model. It stands out by offering some of the cheapest pay-as-you-go rates on the market, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious users who make frequent calls to specific countries. The service provides a straightforward way to add credit and call internationally without committing to long-term plans.

The platform is accessible via its dedicated Android and iOS apps or directly from a computer or landline. A key feature is the ability to make calls over the internet (VoIP) or through a local access number, which is useful for situations with poor internet connectivity but a stable cellular signal. New customers can even take advantage of a free trial call to test the quality.
Localphone primarily operates on a pay-as-you-go basis where users top up their accounts with credit. To make a call, you can use their app to connect over Wi-Fi or data. Alternatively, the service can assign a local number for your international contact; you dial this local number from your phone, and Localphone connects the call internationally on their end, charging you their low rate instead of your mobile provider's high one.
Best For: Price-sensitive individuals who need to make regular calls to specific international landlines or mobiles and want to find the absolute lowest per-minute rates available.
Pro Tip: Before committing, use Localphone's transparent on-site rate checker. While rates are generally low, they vary significantly by country. For high-volume calling to a single destination, check their optional monthly subscriptions for even deeper discounts.
Website: https://www.localphone.com
BOSS Revolution, powered by IDT, has carved out a strong niche among the best international calling apps, particularly for users who value straightforward prepaid services and retail accessibility. It excels in offering low-cost international calls, often supplemented by unlimited country-specific plans, mobile airtime top-ups, and frequent promotions for US-based customers. Its key differentiator is a hybrid approach that combines a modern app with traditional phone card features, like toll-free access numbers.

The user experience is built around transparency; the app displays the per-minute rate before you dial, ensuring there are no surprises. Funds can be added through the app, on the web, or conveniently at thousands of participating retail stores, making it accessible even for users who prefer to pay with cash. Free app-to-app calling and messaging are also included.
The service operates on a prepaid or pay-as-you-go model. Users create an account and add credit to their balance. They can then make international calls directly from the app over Wi-Fi or cellular data. Alternatively, users can dial a local or toll-free access number from any phone and use their BOSS Revolution balance, which is a useful backup for times without a reliable internet connection.
Best For: Individuals who frequently call one or two specific countries and can benefit from unlimited plans or promotional rates. It is also ideal for users who prefer the option to top up their balance at physical retail locations.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for new-user credits and seasonal promotions on the BOSS Revolution website or app. Taking advantage of these deals can significantly reduce your international calling costs.
Website: https://www.bossrevolution.com/en-us/
Yolla positions itself as a straightforward, consumer-focused solution for international calling, stripping away complexity in favor of a simple pay-as-you-go credit system. Its main appeal is making affordable calls to mobile and landline numbers in over 190 countries without requiring the recipient to have the app installed. A key feature is its Caller ID passthrough, which displays your regular phone number to the person you're calling, avoiding the confusion of an unknown or blocked number.

The app offers a clean user experience, clearly showing the per-minute rate before you initiate a call, ensuring transparency. While Yolla-to-Yolla calls are free, its core value is in connecting to traditional phone networks. Topping up your account is simple, with options like PayPal and credit cards, and the service often runs promotions that provide bonus credits, adding extra value for regular users.
Yolla operates on a prepaid credit model. Users purchase credits through the app, which are then deducted on a per-minute basis when making international calls to landlines or mobiles. The rates vary by destination, and the app's dialer conveniently displays the cost before connecting the call. There are no connection fees, so you only pay for the time you talk.
Best For: Individuals who need a simple, no-subscription app for making occasional or regular international calls and want the recipient to see their real phone number.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye out for Yolla’s promotional offers and referral programs. You can often earn bonus credits by referring friends or taking advantage of special top-up deals, effectively lowering your overall calling costs.
Website: https://yollacalls.com
Talk360 is a straightforward international calling app designed for users who need to reliably reach any mobile or landline number worldwide, regardless of whether the recipient has an internet connection or the app installed. Its core strength is simplicity and accessibility, offering a pay-as-you-go credit system that avoids recurring subscriptions. The platform supports a wide array of payment methods and currencies, making it a flexible choice for a global user base.

The app prioritizes ease of use, featuring a clear interface for looking up per-country rates and managing your balance. By allowing users to place calls over Wi-Fi or cellular data to traditional phone networks, it effectively bridges the digital divide, making it one of the best international calling apps for connecting with friends and family in areas with limited data infrastructure.
Users download the app and purchase calling credits through one of over 30 available payment methods. There are no contracts or mandatory subscriptions. Before making a call, you can look up the specific per-minute rate for the destination country, with distinct pricing for landlines and mobile numbers. Many new users are offered a free test minute to check call quality to their desired destination.
Best For: Individuals who need a simple, commitment-free way to call international landlines and mobiles, especially when the person they are calling has unreliable or no internet access.
Pro Tip: Always use the free one-minute test call if offered. This allows you to verify call clarity and connection stability for your specific destination before committing to purchasing a larger credit bundle.
Website: https://www.talk360.com
KeepCalling offers a straightforward and flexible prepaid model that stands out among international calling apps, prioritizing ease of use and accessibility. It's designed for users who want a simple pay-as-you-go system without committing to a monthly subscription. The platform shines with its "Offline Calling" feature, which allows users to place international calls without an internet connection by routing them through local access numbers.

This service provides clear, upfront pricing with a rate finder and savings calculator directly on its website, ensuring there are no surprises. With apps for both iOS and Android, plus access numbers available in over 35 countries, KeepCalling delivers a reliable calling experience supported by 24/7 customer service.
Users purchase "Voice Credit" on a pay-as-you-go basis, which is then used for per-minute international calls. You can initiate calls directly through the app over Wi-Fi or data. Alternatively, the Offline Calling feature connects you to a local number first, which then bridges your call to the international destination, using your plan's local minutes instead of data.
Best For: Individuals who need a dependable, no-frills international calling solution, especially those who may have an unreliable internet connection and can benefit from local access numbers.
Pro Tip: Utilize the Offline Calling feature when traveling or in areas with poor Wi-Fi. This can be a lifesaver, as it only requires a stable cellular connection to a local number, not a data connection for the entire international call.
Website: https://keepcalling.com
Talkatone, backed by the VoIP expertise of Ooma, carves out its niche by offering a free U.S. or Canadian phone number that users can operate entirely over Wi-Fi or cellular data. This makes it an excellent tool for travelers or expats who need to maintain a North American number while abroad. Its approach to international calling is flexible, accommodating both infrequent users and those with more consistent calling needs.

The platform is designed for mobile-first users, with dedicated apps for iOS and Android. The primary appeal lies in its dual-model for international communication: you can either purchase pay-as-you-go credits for occasional calls or opt for a 30-day subscription plan that provides a bundle of minutes to supported countries for a flat fee.
After signing up, you are assigned a real phone number that can make and receive calls and texts to other U.S. and Canadian numbers for free. For international calls, you add credits to your account for per-minute billing or purchase a monthly plan, such as their offering of up to 1,000 minutes to certain destinations. All communication is routed over your internet connection.
Best For: Individuals who need a free U.S./Canadian number to use while traveling abroad, allowing them to call home affordably over Wi-Fi.
Pro Tip: Before committing to the monthly subscription, carefully check the list of included countries. The bundle offers great value, but only if your primary calling destinations are covered within the plan.
Website: https://www.talkatone.com
While not an international calling app itself, the Apple App Store is the primary gateway for iPhone and iPad users to find, compare, and securely manage the best international calling apps. It serves as a trusted, centralized marketplace where users can explore options like Viber, Rebtel, or Yolla, read user reviews, and check ratings to make an informed decision. Its value lies in providing a secure environment for transactions and simplifying subscription management.

The platform enhances user security with features like App Privacy labels, which detail what data an app collects before you download it. In-app purchases and subscriptions are handled through Apple’s secure payment system, offering an added layer of protection and making it easy to track and cancel services directly from your device settings.
The App Store functions as the official digital distribution platform for iOS. Users can search for "international calling" to see a curated list of applications, each with its own dedicated page. These pages provide descriptions, screenshots, version history, and verified customer reviews. You can download apps and make in-app purchases for calling credits or subscriptions using your Apple ID.
Best For: iOS users who prioritize security, convenience, and a straightforward way to discover, compare, and manage their calling app subscriptions in one central location.
Pro Tip: When subscribing to a service through the App Store, compare the in-app purchase price with the price on the provider’s official website. Sometimes, subscribing directly can be slightly cheaper or unlock exclusive promotions not available through Apple.
Website: https://apps.apple.com/us
While not a calling app itself, the Google Play Store is the essential starting point for Android users seeking the best international calling apps. As the official marketplace for Android, it provides a secure and centralized hub to discover, download, and manage leading services like Viber, Rebtel, and Yolla. Its primary value lies in offering a trusted environment with verified apps, consolidated user reviews, and a streamlined installation process.

The user experience is built around discovery and security. Features like developer pages, app ratings, region availability notices, and device compatibility checks help users make informed decisions before downloading. Integrated billing also simplifies purchasing credits or subscriptions directly through your Google account.
The platform functions as a digital distribution service. Users can browse or search for international calling apps, read detailed descriptions, and view aggregated reviews from a massive user base. Once an app is chosen, Google Play manages the download, installation, and subsequent updates, ensuring you always have the latest version with the newest features and security patches.
Best For: Android users who want a secure, one-stop shop to compare, download, and manage their international calling applications safely.
Pro Tip: When buying calling credits, compare the price within the app (using Google Play's in-app billing) against the price on the provider's official website. Sometimes, direct purchases from the service's site can be slightly cheaper by avoiding platform fees.
Website: https://play.google.com/store
| Service | Core features & coverage | Call quality ★ | Pricing & value 💰 | Target audience 👥 | Unique selling points ✨ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| YodelPhone 🏆 | Browser-based, encrypted calls, team accounts, local numbers to 180+ countries | ★★★★ | 💰 Pay-as-you-go (e.g. US $0.019/min); 1‑min free trial; no subscriptions | 👥 Individuals, SMEs, remote teams, freelancers | ✨ Instant no-install calling, caller‑ID verification, shared credits, $5 referral |
| Google Voice | Web/app VoIP, number porting, Workspace business features | ★★★★ | 💰 Pay-as-you-go intl rates; free US/CA data calls | 👥 Google ecosystem users & businesses | ✨ Deep Workspace integration, voicemail transcription |
| Viber Out (Rakuten) | App-to-phone calls, credits, monthly country bundles, World Unlimited | ★★★ | 💰 Credits or monthly plans; per-country rates | 👥 Viber users needing to call non‑app numbers | ✨ Monthly bundles, easy top-ups within app |
| Rebtel | Local access numbers, subscriptions, pay-as-you-go, 190+ countries | ★★★ | 💰 Competitive rates; unlimited bundles available | 👥 Price-conscious international callers | ✨ Local access (no-data) option, mobile top-ups |
| Localphone | Low per-minute rates, local access numbers, transparent rate lookup | ★★★★ | 💰 Often among lowest published rates; free trial call | 👥 Users focused on lowest per-minute cost | ✨ Transparent rate tables, reliable low pricing |
| BOSS Revolution (IDT) | Prepaid balance, unlimited country plans, retail top-ups & promos | ★★★ | 💰 Promo-driven pricing; new-user credits; in-store top-ups | 👥 US-based users & retail buyers | ✨ Large retail footprint, frequent promotions |
| Yolla | Pay-as-you-go credits, caller ID passthrough, 190+ countries | ★★★ | 💰 Simple credit model; verify per-country rates | 👥 Casual international callers | ✨ Caller-ID passthrough, straightforward UX |
| Talk360 | Per-country landline/mobile rates, many payment methods, free test minute | ★★★ | 💰 Credits with no subscription; multi-currency support | 👥 Callers to regions with poor receiver data | ✨ Free 1-minute test call; 30+ payment options |
| KeepCalling | Local access numbers, Offline Calling (local bridging), 24/7 support | ★★★ | 💰 Pay-as-you-go; $5 min top-up | 👥 Users needing non‑data calling & support | ✨ Offline bridging for calls without internet |
| Talkatone (by Ooma) | Free US/CA number, app calls/texts, credits or monthly intl bundle | ★★★ | 💰 Free US number; optional ~$14.99/30d intl bundle | 👥 Travelers needing a US number, casual callers | ✨ Free US/CA phone number + bundle option |
| Apple App Store (iOS) | Secure app marketplace, reviews, subscriptions & refund flows | ★★★★★ | 💰 Payment protections; in-app prices may vary | 👥 iOS users | ✨ Trusted distribution, Family Sharing, refund tools |
| Google Play (Android) | Android app marketplace, auto-updates, billing & compatibility checks | ★★★★★ | 💰 In-app billing; regional price differences possible | 👥 Android users | ✨ Auto-updates, verified developer pages, easy refunds |
Navigating the crowded market of communication tools can feel overwhelming, but finding the best international calling apps is significantly simpler when you break down your specific needs. As we've explored, the "best" solution is not a one-size-fits-all answer; it's a personalized choice that balances cost, call quality, feature set, and overall convenience. Your ideal app hinges entirely on your primary use case, whether you're a freelancer connecting with global clients, a family staying in touch across continents, or a business building an international presence.
The landscape is diverse. Apps like Viber Out and Google Voice leverage vast existing user bases and deep integration into their respective ecosystems, making them excellent choices for those already invested. They offer a familiar interface and often provide free or low-cost calling options, especially within their networks. However, their reliance on a stable internet connection can be a significant drawback in areas with less reliable connectivity.
This is where services like Rebtel and KeepCalling carve out their niche. By offering innovative offline or local access number features, they provide a critical lifeline for users who cannot depend on Wi-Fi or mobile data. This flexibility is a game-changer for many, ensuring that a conversation is never missed due to a spotty connection.
To make a confident choice, move beyond feature lists and focus on your real-world calling habits. A structured approach will clarify which app truly aligns with your requirements.
Start by asking yourself these critical questions:
Ultimately, the goal is clear, reliable, and affordable communication. Each tool we've reviewed offers a unique pathway to achieving that, tailored for different priorities. The key takeaway is that you no longer need to rely on traditional, expensive phone carriers for international connections. The power to connect with anyone, anywhere, is now more accessible and affordable than ever before.
By carefully considering your personal or business needs against the strengths and weaknesses outlined in this guide, you are well-equipped to select an international calling solution that not only saves you money but also enhances your ability to build and maintain important global relationships. Make your choice with confidence, knowing you have the right tool to bridge any distance.
Ready to experience seamless, high-quality international calling without the hassle of app downloads or complex subscriptions? YodelPhone offers a powerful browser-based solution perfect for both personal and business use, featuring crystal-clear call quality and transparent pay-as-you-go pricing. Try YodelPhone today and see how simple global communication can be.
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