Top 8 TextNow alternatives: Free text and call apps for Android

TextNow has become very popular due to its free sms and free calling services for those who are economically tight. Whether you are trying to reduce those nasty phone bills, searching for an extra phone number for registration purposes or an efficient and reliable means of reaching your kids, TextNow has probably featured on your list of options. But what happens when TextNow just isn’t the right fit for you? Then you gotta look at Textnow Alternatives. 

Like you can’t rely on TextNow when you are searching for enhanced security, added functions or just want a change from your current hosting provider. So, this blog recommends eight great apps that should provide an even richer texting and calling experience.

What is TextNow app & How does it work?

TextNow is a leader in free texting and calling services. It is an easily recommended choice for anyone who needs a second phone line, lower cost, or even another carrier’s services without incurring any fees to get there. TextNow functions in a way that relies on the client’s internet connection (WiFi or mobile data).

Main features

• Free Local Phone Number: In this way, users can choose a number according to their area code, and it will contain a personal or professional name or number.
• Unlimited Texts and Calls: One benefiting factor I have so much appreciated about TextNow is the fact that it doesn’t limit the number of messages or calls a user can make for free.
• Ad-Supported Model: It offers a paid subscription option to give an ad-free interface.
• Voicemail and Call Forwarding: Perfect for our kind of busy professionals who dislike any important call or message going unheeded.

How to use the TextNow app?

The signup process is quite easy if you want to start with TextNow. It is only necessary to have a compatible device and a good-quality internet connection. All you need to run this app is an Android or iOS with a working internet connection. From there, you can just rely on your cellular connection or home Wi-Fi to create an account and use this app. 

Steps to use:

1. Download TextNow from the Google Play Store or App Store.
2. Locate the app, select a new account, and input an email address or login information drawn from a previous account.
3. Select a toll-free number that can be taken from a range of available numbers in the local area.
4. For instance, request permission to access contacts and microphones.
5. Begin texting or calling as soon as possible using the particular number.

Top 8 free alternatives to TextNow

There are other applications out there to replace TextNow, and for very good reasons, too! Whether you want privacy, fewer ads, or a new atmosphere, the apps below are going to help you succeed.

1. WhatsApp

There seems to be no way of avoiding it; WhatsApp is not just an application but a requirement. For communication, whether formal or informal, its user base transcending geographical borders speaks volumes of it.

Pros:

1. With end-to-end encryption, the chat contents of the application are further ensured that they are personal and private.
2. It is perfect for travelers, especially since International texts and calls are allowed for free.
3. File sharing specifically addresses the media, including images, videos, and documents.

Cons:

1. It does not work in an anonymous way; people have to use their real phone numbers.
2. It may flood the users with too many notification messages.

2. Signal

If the Signal were an individual, it would be a privacy advocate’s best friend. It is a simple toolbar designed with a very sophisticated security interface and appeals to users who value the security of their information.

Pros:

1. No adverts or other non-essential data gathering.
2. Open-source software results in transparency; hence leaders can trust the software.
3. Interesting VoIP calls and encrypted group messages allow users to set the privacy of the group.

Cons:

1. To set it up, one needs a phone number.
2. Fewer registered users in comparison with competitors such as WhatsApp.

3. Skype

The company known as Skype has been entertaining users for years, both for professional and home purposes. It has maintained the video call feature as one of the best and most efficient on the market.

Pros:

1. With dependable group video calls, it is perfect for business and family meetings/interactions.
2. Another advantage is that all information relates to an account and is synchronized, so there is no interruption.
3. Provides trial and paid subscriptions for making international calls to any landline.

Cons:

1. Lack of sophistication in texting when compared with other similar services.
2. It is also evident that frequent updates are not good for user experience.
3. Some of the features are only available via a Microsoft account.

4. TextPlus

The TextPlus interface is simple and the company has made it as cheap as possible so that anyone can afford it. It actually has a very tight competition with TextNow, particularly when it comes to free texting.

Pros:

1. Complimentary text and voice messaging with the USA and Canada.
2. Cheap mobile and fixed international call tariff.
3. It works where the cell phone doesn’t, does not require a SIM card, and needs Wi-Fi.

Cons:

1. Heavily dependent on its free model.
2. Some messages are sent without encryption, raising issues of privacy.
3. Available only in the U.S. and Canada.

5. Telegram

The favorite for the techie is Telegram. They still make it more than the conventional messaging app with some exciting features such as secret chats and huge group chats.

Pros:

1. Self-deleting messages have maximum confidentiality.
2. Compatible with large file downloads, it supports video files and documents well.
3. The organizational system is hosted on a cloud and thus is accessible from any device.

Cons:

1. By default, chats are not protected by end-to-end encryption.
2. It is linked with a phone number, so user anonymity is limited.
3. Burdened with numerous options that may initially baffle the consumer of the product.

6. TextMe

Among the many alternatives to TextNow, the TextMe app is relatively less well-known. TextMe offers users a second phone number for texting and calling within the U.S., Canada, and internationally. It provides free texting, calling, and voicemail features, with options to purchase credits for premium services like international calls and custom numbers. It offers both free and paid services. The credit-earning system is quite different and may not be favored by many.

Pros:

1. Unlimited free text messages and calls to US & Canada.
2. Video messaging brings the technology feel to it.
3. Get coins for basic and additional functions while watching advertising videos.

Cons:

1. Pop-up and pop-under ads interfere with the usage of the site or software.
2. It can be used up very fast, which causes the user to subscribe and pay for extra services.
3. Lack of international function as compared to applications like WhatsApp.

7. 2ndLine

2ndLine is all about offering people an additional phone line for business or any other purposes. It’s a good way of putting a barrier between business and personal life without having to own a different device.

Pros:

1. In addition to voicemail, a transcription service is available to make it easy to retrieve your messages.
2. Free solutions for standard functions and paid subscriptions for advanced services.
3. Ideal for the citizens of America and Canada.

Cons:

1. There is a free version available, which comes with a fair number of advertisements.
2. It is not efficient when used in regions of the globe other than North America.
3. It is completely dependent on the presence of an internet connection on the desired target platform.

8. Talkatone

In its current state, Talkatone is a companion you’ll want to have if you need free international communications over Wi-Fi. It is well-embraced among travelers and students.

Pros:

1. Offers a free US-based phone number.
2. It functions continuously on Wi-Fi without requiring a connection to a carrier.
3. Free calls and messages to local telephone numbers.

Cons:

1. Extremely dependent on the connection with Wi-Fi.
2. Sometimes, the ads can interrupt users, especially in the case of the free version.
3. Lesser number of customizable options in comparison with other similar products.

A quick comparison of TextNow alternatives

Key factors in choosing the best TextNow alternative

It is not an easy task at all to choose the right alternatives to opt for TextNow. That leaves the question of how one decides which of the many exists for the selection. 

1. Pricing Transparency

It’s crucial to assess the app’s pricing model thoroughly. Look for clear pricing structures that show exactly what you’re paying for and any potential costs. As long as an application is downloadable and usable for free, people do not seem to be concerned about the fact that it might feature hidden charges. Apps that advertise “free” but require in-app purchases or subscriptions for essential features might not be as cost-effective in the long run.

2. Security and Privacy

Choosing an app that prioritizes your privacy and ensures strong encryption is vital to avoid potential information leaks or breaches. Information leaks are the stuff of nightmares where business and technology exist in symbiosis. The major products from well-known developers and companies are relatively reliable, but not 100%.

3. Usability

An attractive, intuitive user interface may be the key to making your experience all the difference. Such software like WhatsApp is used not only for the options it offers but also for simplicity. When choosing a TextNow alternative, prioritize apps with a clean, user-friendly interface that makes sending messages, making calls, and managing contacts straightforward and hassle-free.

4. User Reviews

The feedback of other users can provide invaluable insight into the performance and reliability of an app. User reviews are usually about the app features, stability, and potential problems. Negative reviews often highlight hidden bugs, poor customer service, or unresolved issues that could impact your experience.

How to track and guide your kids use free texting apps safely

Children do not even think ahead about what might happen in the process of communication over the Internet. From giving a stranger one’s phone number all the way to falling for a phony email scam – the threats are genuine. That is where parents’ intervention is crucially called for, especially when children depend on technology for information.

Check out those tips for parents:

1. Teach data security

Elaborate on the impact of maintaining privacy over the phone number and home address, among others. Educate kids never to share such details with strangers, whether online or in person, as doing so can expose them to risks such as spam calls, identity theft, or unwanted attention.

2. Discuss common risks

There are several online and phone-based risks that children should be aware of, such as spam phone calls, fake text messages, and suspicious links. Teach your kids to never respond to unknown callers or click on links in unsolicited messages. Encourage them to report any suspicious incidents they encounter, ensuring they know it’s okay to ask for help.

3. Establish boundaries

Please make rules on when and how often your kids can use these apps. Revenue generation and screen-free periods: Depending on children’s ages, parents should specify the time when children need to be free from screens: while eating, before going to sleep, etc.

4. Use a parental control app

FlashGet Kids is one of those top-rated parental control apps many parents cannot live without today. They enable you to track apps your child is using, block specific harmful apps, and limit their screen time daily. With the notification tracker, notices on your child’s phone, including social media notifications and text messages, are synchronized to your phone. Or you can choose to turn on screen mirroring to see what your child is doing on their phone in real-time. It has all the bells and whistles you might need to safeguard your child’s innocence. 

Final thoughts

The current generation is blessed with free applications for texting that make it easier than ever before. TextNow comes out on top, but there are a number of TextNow alternatives that can provide for your concrete necessities even more adequately. Like:

• Signal is a boon for privacy lovers.
• Business users prefer the reliability of Skype Business and the encryption of WhatsApp.
• Families who do not want a SIM card yet still want the flexibility of the other applications might prefer Talkatone or TextPlus.

FAQs