I have long been using TextNow as my choice of free phone numbers, text messaging, and calls. It was easy to use and worked well. But over time, changes in coverage, advertisements, and restrictions changed my search results to find other options with superior features, stronger privacy, or real multi-platform support.
Several apps have risen that match or beat TextNow in different ways, be it using free calling, second numbers, voicemail, or integration with Wi-Fi calling. I have tested all of these myself and found out that they genuinely provide the real voice and texting experience without being very expensive.
Here are the 7 Best Apps Like TextNow, and when you should choose them.
| App | Free Texting | Free Calling | Local Number | International Calling | Multi-Device Sync | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Google Voice | Yes | Yes | Yes (US/Canada) | Paid | Yes | Reliable number & device sync |
| TextFree | Yes | Yes | Yes (US) | Paid | Yes | Everyday texting & calling |
| Skype | Yes | Yes | No | Paid (low rates) | Yes | International calling |
| Fongo | Yes | Yes | Yes (Canada) | Paid | Yes | Local calls + voicemail |
| TextPlus | Yes | Yes | Yes (US) | Paid | Yes | Texting with optional calling |
| Dingtone | Yes | Yes | Yes (multiple regions) | Paid | Yes | Multiple local numbers |
| Yes | Yes | No | Free over Wi-Fi | Yes | Messages & calls worldwide |
1. Google Voice
Google Voice is the most similar to a full service phone number experience, especially when you already use Google services. The difference between it and TextNow is stability and integration with your existing number and devices.
The app provides you with a free phone number, voicemail transcription, call forwarding, text messaging, and voicemail, all connected with your Google account. I personally found it useful when switching between phone, tablet, and laptop without missing calls.
Google Voice is very effective when you need a reliable number that feels closer to a real carrier number instead of a temporary app number.
Google Voice gives you a free US phone number for calls, texts, and voicemail that syncs across all devices using your Google account.
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2. TextFree
TextFree is another trusted app that offers a free phone number to text and call over Wi-Fi or cellular data. I liked TextFree because it lets you keep your number active as long as you use it regularly. There are more ads than some paid apps, but with basic text messaging and calling, it works smoothly.
The app also lets you send attachments and group messaging, which makes it more useful in daily life than the older free services.
TextFree lets you send free texts and make Wi-Fi calls with a US number, making it ideal for everyday messaging without a SIM card.
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3. Skype
Yes, Skype is one of the best options, since it provides a voice calling and a messaging feature built into an app to make calls and chat with a real phone number in other parts of the world, and free Skype-to-Skype calls and chats.
Skype saved me money when I had to make international calls compared to using the mobile carrier charges. You can purchase credit and only pay as you use.
Skype allows free voice and video calls worldwide with low-cost international calling, trusted for clear communication across devices.
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4. Fongo
Fongo is more popular in Canada, but its service is expanding. The feature that impressed me most about Fongo was its calling quality and local calling features that include voicemail and caller ID. The app provides you with real local numbers and integrates features like ringbacks and voicemail.
Fongo is the best option for individuals who want a free local number without weird limitations.
Fongo offers free Canadian calling, texting, and voicemail with a local number, perfect for users who want reliable phone services.
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5. TextPlus
TextPlus is another alternative that focuses on free texting and calling. The biggest difference to TextNow is that TextPlus offers you cheaper rates to both mobile and landline numbers when you add credit. Text-to-text works free with ads.
I tried voice quality and messaging reliability, and it was as much as I required for my daily communication. The interface is also cleaner and less cluttered than some of the free apps I tested.
TextPlus provides free texting and optional calling with a local number, making it a solid choice for basic communication needs.
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6. Dingtone
Dingtone does not limit itself to the basic and provides you with a second phone number, which you can use to text, make calls, and even to fax in some cases. It supports Wi-Fi calling and offers credits that you can earn or purchase to make calls.
What stood out to me was the flexibility of numbers. You can choose numbers from different regions (US, Canada, UK, etc.), which makes it helpful if you need a local presence in multiple locations.
Dingtone gives you free calls and texts with the option to choose numbers from different countries, ideal for global communication.
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7. WhatsApp (With WhatsApp Calling)
WhatsApp does not replace TextNow’s phone numbers directly, but it is one of the most popular voice and messaging apps that is used all over the world. WhatsApp continued to add features over the years, such as voice calls, video calls, status updates, and end-to-end encryption.
I use WhatsApp for all my personal contacts because everyone already has it. The calls are reliable on Wi-Fi and mobile data, and you do not need a separate number to use for all of them.
WhatsApp lets you send messages, make voice and video calls worldwide for free using the internet with strong privacy protection.
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FAQs
Can I keep my TextNow number if I switch apps?
No. Most apps do not allow you to transfer a TextNow number without either directly supporting number porting. Google Voice allows number porting from some services, but charges may apply.
Are these apps truly free?
Most provide free texting on their platform. Others have optional paid services, such as credit for real phone calls to non-app numbers.
Do these apps work without Wi-Fi?
Most will work with mobile data. Skype and WhatsApp only work with internet access, while apps with calling credits may let you call real phone numbers.
Will my messages sync across devices?
Yes, apps like Google Voice, Skype, WhatsApp, and Dingtone sync across devices as long as you log in with the same account.
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