Skype is now gone forever on May 5, 2025. Users now need new platforms for video calls and meetings. Here, I will explain 13 best skype alternatives with Bonuses.
Each option is simple, reliable, and easy to use. Whether for personal or professional use, there’s a tool for you. Let’s explore the top Skype replacements available today.
also read: Top 10 Best Adobe Reader Alternatives You Should Try in 2025
1. Google Meet: Best Overall Choice
Google Meet is a top pick for replacing Skype. It works with your existing Google account. No need to create a new login. Joining meetings directly from Gmail is possible here.
Guests can join via browser without signing in. The free version supports 100 participants for 60 minutes. If you opt for a paid plan it lets you allow 500 participants/meeting.
This makes scheduling and sharing files seamless. It’s ideal for students, teams, and businesses. The interface is clean and user-friendly.
Pros:
- No sign-in needed for guests
- Simple and intuitive interface
- Seamless integration with Google services
- Free version supports 100 participants
Cons:
- No dedicated desktop application
- Longer meetings require a paid plan
Pricing: Free; Paid plans start at ₹500/month
Platforms: Android, iOS, Web
2. Zoom: Feature-Rich Free Plan
Zoom gained popularity during the pandemic. It can be a worthy alternative to Skype with a free plan that allows up to 100 participants. However, meetings are limited to 40 minutes.
Zoom offers high-quality video and audio. You can easily use it on your mobile, desktop as well as desktop. Additional features include Zoom Mail and Calendar.
Many schools and businesses use Zoom daily. It’s reliable and easy to set up. Screen sharing and recording are also available.
Pros:
- Stable and reliable platform
- Compatible with major devices
- Includes email and calendar features
- Free plan sufficient for small groups
Cons:
- 40-minute limit on free meetings
- Some reported privacy concerns
- End-to-end encryption not default
Pricing: Free; Pro plan starts at ₹1,200/month
Platforms: Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Web
3. WhatsApp: Best for Personal Use
WhatsApp is widely used for personal communication. It supports group video calls with up to 32 people. There is no time limit on calls. Screen sharing with audio is also available. The app performs well even on weak networks.
It’s available on phones and computers. Most people already have WhatsApp installed. It’s free and very user-friendly. Ideal for family and friend groups. Not suitable for large professional meetings.
Pros:
- Completely free to use
- Supports 32-person group calls
- Good quality on weak networks
- Available on multiple platforms
Cons:
- Not ideal for large teams
- Lacks advanced professional tools
Pricing: Free
Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS
4. Slack: Suitable for Small Teams
Slack is designed for team communication. It offers channels for organized discussions. Video calls, known as “Huddles,” are available. Free version allows one-on-one video calls. If you opt for a premium plan it lets you add up to 50 participants.
Integrates with apps like Google Drive and Trello. The interface is clean and modern. Ideal for small to medium-sized teams. Not suitable for large-scale meetings. Offers robust search functionality.
Pros:
- User-friendly design
- Powerful search capabilities
- Supports numerous app integrations
- Effective for team collaboration
Cons:
- Limited to 50 participants in paid plan
- Not ideal for large enterprises
Pricing: Free; Paid plans start at ₹800/month
Platforms: Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Web
5. Microsoft Teams: Best for Office 365 Users
Microsoft Teams is the official replacement for Skype. Users can import Skype data into Teams. It integrates seamlessly with Office 365 tools. Supports video meetings, file sharing, and collaboration.
Group chats can easily transition into video calls. In Teams up to 10,000 participants can join but it depends on the plan. Ideal for large organizations and enterprises.
Some users may find the interface complex. Phone call features require additional plans. Occasional bugs reported in the user interface.
Pros:
- Easy migration from Skype
- Includes Office 365 integration
- Supports large-scale meetings
- No need for new account creation
Cons:
- Interface may be challenging for beginners
- Phone features cost extra
- Some interface bugs reported
Pricing: Free; Paid plans start at ₹800/month
Platforms: Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, Web
6. Webex: Secure and Professional
Webex by Cisco is known for its security features. Admins can set strong passwords and meeting rules. Free version supports 100 participants for 40 minutes. Paid plans offer features like whiteboards and recordings.
Supports screen sharing and file sharing. Users must be invited via email to join meetings. Does not support international phone numbers.
Ideal for professional and secure meetings. Not recommended for beginners due to complexity. Paid add-ons can be expensive.
Pros:
- Strong security and admin controls
- Suitable for professional environments
- Includes collaborative tools
- Supports up to 100 participants free
Cons:
- Expensive paid features
- Not user-friendly for beginners
- Requires email invitations
Pricing: Free; Paid plans start at ₹1,100/month
Platforms: Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Linux, Web
7. Discord: Fun for Small Groups
Discord is popular among gamers and small teams. Supports group video and voice chats. Allows up to 25 participants in video calls. Features screen sharing and custom bots. Users can create custom channels and notifications.
Interface may be complex for new users. Not ideal for professional business meetings. Offers a fun and interactive environment. Free to use with optional premium features. Better suited for casual communication.
Pros:
- Supports video and screen sharing
- Customizable with bots
- Ideal for casual groups
- Free with optional premium features
Cons:
- Limited to 25 video participants
- Complex interface for newcomers
- Lacks professional tools
Pricing: Free; Premium plan at ₹850/month
Platforms: Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Web
8. FaceTime: Best for Apple Users
FaceTime is perfect for users within the Apple ecosystem. Supports high-quality voice and video calls. Works on iPhones, iPads, and Macs. No need to install additional apps. Now supports group calls for those in the Apple ecosystem. It works on iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
Now, Android and Windows users can join via links. Group calls support up to 32 participants. Video quality is sharp and calls are stable. No account setup is required—just use your Apple ID.
Ideal for personal and small group video chats. Lacks advanced features for business or webinars. No official desktop app for Windows or Linux.
Pros:
- Seamless for Apple device users
- High-quality audio and video
- No installation required for guests
- Strong privacy and end-to-end encryption
Cons:
- Limited to Apple devices as hosts
- Not suitable for professional use
- No built-in screen sharing tools
Pricing: Free
Platforms: iOS, macOS, iPadOS; Join via link on Android/Windows
9. Telegram Video Calls: Lightweight & Private
Telegram now supports group video calls. It’s known for speed and privacy features. Users can create video chats with up to 30 people. Great for casual or small business conversations. It includes screen sharing and voice filters too.
Lightweight app—runs well even on low-end phones. The UI is clean and fast like WhatsApp. Not as robust as Zoom or Teams for business. End-to-end encryption only available in secret chats.
Pros:
- Lightweight and fast app
- Screen sharing available
- Works well on slow networks
- Strong privacy reputation
Cons:
- Limited participants compared to others
- Fewer features for professional use
- Encryption isn’t end-to-end by default
Pricing: Free
Platforms: Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, Web
10. Jitsi Meet: Best Open Source Option
Jitsi Meet is a free and open-source video tool. No login or app installation required. Start a call from the website with one click. Supports up to 100 participants per meeting.
Offers screen sharing, chat, and live YouTube streaming. All data stays private as you can self-host it. Great for privacy-focused users or developers. Interface may seem basic to some users. Lacks premium support or upgrades.
Pros:
- Completely free and open-source
- No account required
- Can self-host for added control
- Includes screen sharing and live streaming
Cons:
- Basic interface and features
- No advanced support or integrations
- Video quality varies based on host setup
Pricing: Free
Platforms: Web, Android, iOS, Desktop (via browser)
11. Spike: Email + Video Calling Combo
Spike combines email, chat, and video calls. It’s perfect for teams that use email heavily. You can switch from emails to calls instantly. It offers group video meetings and screen sharing.
You don’t need to leave your inbox for calls. Spike keeps all communication in one place. Great for freelancers, startups, and remote teams. Not suitable for large enterprises or webinars.
Pros:
- Combines email, chat, and video
- Clean interface with fast switching
- No need for separate apps
- Useful for team collaboration
Cons:
- Free version has limited features
- Not widely adopted
- Lacks webinar-level tools
Pricing: Free plan available; paid plans start at $8/month
Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Web
12. Viber: Secure and Versatile Communication
Viber is a messaging app with video call features. It supports one-on-one and group video calls. End-to-end encryption ensures your conversations are private. You can also send texts, images, and voice messages.
Viber Out allows calls to non-Viber users at low rates. It’s ideal for both personal and some business use. The app is free with optional paid features. However, it may have fewer business tools than others.
Pros:
- End-to-end encryption for secure communication
- Supports group video calls
- Viber Out enables low-cost calls to landlines
- User-friendly interface
Cons:
- Limited business-oriented features
- Call quality can vary with network strength
Pricing: Free; charges apply for Viber Out calls
Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux
13. Jami: Decentralized and Privacy-Focused
Jami is a free, open-source communication platform. It offers video calls, voice calls, and messaging. No central servers mean enhanced privacy and control. You can use it without sharing personal information.
Ideal for users concerned about data privacy. Supports screen sharing and file transfers. However, it has a smaller user base. May lack some features found in mainstream apps.
Pros:
- Decentralized architecture for greater privacy
- No need for personal data to sign up
- Free to use with no ads
- Available on multiple platforms
Cons:
- Smaller user community
- Interface may be less polished
- Limited integration with other services
Pricing: Free
Platforms: Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, Linux
As We Conclude
Skype is gone, but above given 13 Best Skype Alternatives still exist. Each app serves a different type of user. Google Meet and Zoom are great for professionals. WhatsApp and Telegram are ideal for personal calls.
Slack and Teams suit collaborative workspaces best. Choose based on your needs, features, users, or budget. Stay connected with the right tool for you. The Skype era has ended, but better tools remain.
