cheap ways to call internationally
7 Cheap Ways To Call Internationally: The Ultimate 2025 Guide
Staying in touch with family, friends, and colleagues across the globe is more important than ever. But high international calling rates from traditional phone carriers can quickly turn a heartfelt conversation into a costly expense. The good news is that technology has revolutionized global communication, making it accessible and affordable. Gone are the days of relying solely on expensive calling cards or bill shock from your mobile provider. Today, a multitude of services offer crystal-clear calls for just pennies per minute or even as part of a low-cost subscription.
This guide explores the most effective and cheap ways to call internationally, breaking down each method's costs, benefits, and ideal use cases. We'll dive into VoIP services, dedicated calling apps, and innovative platforms that give you a local presence from anywhere. Each option is detailed with screenshots, direct links, and a clear comparison to help you choose the right fit.
Whether you need a quick, no-install solution for a one-off call or a robust platform for daily business communication, you will find a smart, budget-friendly option here. We get straight to the point, showing you exactly how to connect with anyone, anywhere, without the hefty price tag. Let's find the perfect service for your needs.
1. YodelPhone: Instant Browser-Based Calling (No App Needed)
YodelPhone establishes itself as a standout choice for anyone seeking a fast, transparent, and hassle-free way to make cheap international calls. Its core advantage lies in its browser-based model, which completely eliminates the need for software installations or app downloads. This "call-from-anywhere" convenience allows you to start dialing from any modern desktop or mobile browser in seconds, making it one of the most accessible solutions on the market.
The platform is built on a foundation of simplicity and transparency. There are no contracts, subscriptions, or hidden connection fees. You simply add credit to your account and pay for the minutes you use, with clear, upfront rates displayed before you ever dial. This pay-as-you-go approach gives you complete control over your spending, whether you're an individual calling family overseas or a small business managing a budget.
Key Strengths and Features
YodelPhone’s strength comes from blending consumer-level simplicity with powerful, business-ready features. This makes it an exceptionally versatile tool for a wide range of users.
- Instant Accessibility: The no-app, browser-only model means zero setup friction. You can sign up and make your first call in under a minute, a significant advantage over services requiring downloads and configuration.
- Transparent Pay-As-You-Go Pricing: Costs are straightforward. You know exactly what you'll pay per minute, with highly competitive rates to destinations like the US ($0.019/min), UK ($0.034/min), and Mexico ($0.031/min).
- Business-Oriented Tools: YodelPhone includes features often missing from basic calling apps. Call history with analytics helps track spending, while team accounts with shared credits simplify expense management for multiple users.
- Professional Presence: The service offers free caller ID verification, ensuring recipients see your real phone number. For businesses looking to establish a local footprint, you can purchase dedicated virtual phone numbers in different countries.
- Security and Quality: All calls are secured with encryption, and the platform supports connections to over 180 countries, prioritizing clear call quality.
Who is YodelPhone Best For?
YodelPhone is an excellent fit for users who value speed, flexibility, and control. It’s particularly effective for:
- Individuals and families who need a quick and affordable way to stay in touch internationally without committing to a monthly plan.
- Freelancers and small businesses that make occasional but critical international calls to clients and need a professional, reliable service with cost-tracking capabilities.
- Remote teams requiring a simple, unified platform for cross-border communication that works on any device without IT overhead.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Truly browser-based: No app or software to install, works instantly on any modern device. | Dependent on internet quality: Call stability can be affected by a slow or unreliable internet connection. |
| Transparent pay-as-you-go pricing: No contracts, subscriptions, or hidden fees. | Not a full PBX system: Lacks advanced enterprise features like complex IVR or advanced call queuing. |
| Powerful business features: Call analytics, team accounts, and purchasable virtual numbers. | |
| Free trial and referral rewards: Get a free test minute and earn $5 in credit for each referral. | |
| Secure and broad coverage: Encrypted calls to over 180 countries with verified caller ID. |
To try it out, visit the YodelPhone website. New users receive a free one-minute call with no credit card required, offering a risk-free way to test the quality and simplicity firsthand.
2. YodelPhone
YodelPhone carves out a unique niche by offering one of the most accessible and cheap ways to call internationally directly from a web browser. There's no software to download or app to install; if you have a device with a modern browser like Chrome or Safari, you can start making calls in seconds. This makes it an ideal choice for users who value speed, simplicity, and don't want to commit to a specific app or contract.
The platform operates on a transparent, pay-as-you-go credit system. You add funds to your account and the cost of each call is deducted per minute, with clear pricing for over 180 countries displayed upfront. This model is perfect for both occasional callers and small businesses that need to manage expenses without being locked into a monthly plan.
Key Features and User Experience
YodelPhone’s interface is clean and straightforward, focusing entirely on the calling experience. After a quick sign-up that doesn't require a credit card, you can immediately use their one-minute free trial to test call quality. The ability to verify your own phone number as the caller ID is a significant advantage, ensuring the person you're calling recognizes your number.
- Instant Access: 100% browser-based, eliminating the need for downloads or installations.
- Pay-As-You-Go: Simple credit-based billing with no hidden fees or contracts.
- Caller ID Verification: Display your own mobile or landline number when you call.
- Business Tools: Offers team accounts with shared credits, call history, and basic analytics.
Pricing and Getting Started
Getting started is exceptionally fast. Simply visit YodelPhone.com, create an account, and you can make your first free test call. To continue, you add credits via credit card or PayPal. The rates are competitive and vary by destination.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Pay-as-you-go per minute |
| Trial Offer | One-minute free call to any supported country (no credit card needed) |
| Device Support | Any modern web browser on a desktop, laptop, tablet, or smartphone |
| Unique Selling Point | Unmatched ease of use and instant access without software installation |
YodelPhone is an excellent choice for anyone who needs to make an international call right now without any fuss, or for small teams looking for a simple, shared calling solution.
3. Google Voice
For those already embedded in the Google ecosystem, Google Voice offers a familiar and integrated solution for cheap ways to call internationally. The service provides a persistent U.S. phone number tied to your Google account, allowing you to make and receive calls and texts. Its primary appeal is the convenience of having your calling capabilities managed alongside your Gmail and other Google Workspace tools, with highly competitive per-minute international rates.
Google Voice operates on a straightforward prepaid model for personal users. You simply add calling credits to your account and the cost is deducted per minute. This makes it an excellent option for U.S.-based users who need to call abroad without committing to a monthly plan. For businesses, it is available as a paid add-on to Google Workspace subscriptions, offering more advanced features. This deep integration is one of the key reasons users choose this service, and you can learn more about how VoIP services like Google Voice work for international communication.
Key Features and User Experience
The user experience is seamless for anyone familiar with Google's interface. Calls can be made directly from the Google Voice app on mobile or through the web interface on a desktop. A key advantage for personal users is that the service is free to set up with a U.S. number, and you only pay for the international calls you make.
- Deep Google Integration: Works seamlessly with Gmail and Google Workspace accounts.
- Prepaid Credits: Simple, pay-as-you-go billing for personal use.
- Transparent Rates: Publishes a clear, per-destination rate card with a log of any changes.
- Business Tiers: Available as a Google Workspace add-on with features like call transferring and multi-user management.
Pricing and Getting Started
For personal users in the U.S., getting started involves visiting the Google Voice website and claiming a phone number. For international calls, you add credit via Google Pay. Business pricing is tied to Google Workspace plans, starting with the Voice Starter tier.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Prepaid credit for personal use; monthly subscription for business tiers |
| Trial Offer | Service is free to set up for personal U.S. users; no specific call trial |
| Device Support | Web browser, Android, and iOS apps |
| Unique Selling Point | Seamless integration with the Google ecosystem and a persistent U.S. number. |
Google Voice is an ideal choice for U.S.-based individuals and businesses that heavily rely on Google's suite of products and want a simple, unified calling solution.
4. Rebtel
Rebtel offers a flexible and reliable app-based service, making it one of the most versatile and cheap ways to call internationally, especially for users with unstable internet. Its standout feature is the ability to connect calls using local phone lines, which means you don't need Wi-Fi or mobile data to get a clear, high-quality connection. This makes it a fantastic choice for people in areas with poor internet or for those who want to avoid data charges while abroad.
The platform caters to different calling habits with multiple pricing options. You can choose from country-specific unlimited calling plans, a "Global Unlimited" plan covering around 50 countries, or a simple pay-as-you-go credit system. This flexibility allows both frequent and occasional callers to find a cost-effective solution tailored to their needs. You can learn more about Rebtel and other international calling apps in our detailed guide.
Key Features and User Experience
Rebtel's mobile app is designed for simplicity, allowing users to quickly select their preferred connection method: local line, Wi-Fi, or mobile data. The local line feature is its main differentiator; the app assigns a local number to your international contact, so you just dial a regular number at a local rate while Rebtel handles the international connection.
- Three Connection Modes: Choose between data-free local lines, Wi-Fi calling, or your mobile data plan.
- Flexible Pricing: Offers both unlimited monthly subscriptions and pay-as-you-go credits.
- No Internet Required: The local number option provides excellent call quality without depending on an internet connection.
- User-Friendly App: A clean, straightforward mobile experience for managing contacts and making calls.
Pricing and Getting Started
To begin, download the Rebtel app and sign up. You can then choose a subscription plan for a specific country or purchase credits for pay-as-you-go calling. Rates and subscription inclusions vary by destination, so it's best to check the specific country you wish to call on their website.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Monthly subscriptions (country-specific or global) or pay-as-you-go |
| Trial Offer | Varies by promotion; often includes bonus credits or free minutes on signup |
| Device Support | iOS and Android mobile apps |
| Unique Selling Point | Ability to make high-quality international calls without using any data |
Rebtel is an excellent option for users who prioritize call reliability over internet dependency or who make frequent calls to one or two specific countries where an unlimited plan offers significant savings.
5. Localphone
Localphone is a veteran in the international calling space, offering some of the lowest per-minute rates available. It stands out by providing a multitude of ways to connect, making it one of the most flexible and cheap ways to call internationally. Whether you prefer using a smartphone app, your computer's softphone, or even a traditional landline via local access numbers, Localphone has a method to suit your needs.
The service primarily uses a pay-as-you-go model where you top up your account with credit. For frequent callers, optional monthly subscriptions can further reduce the already low rates to many popular destinations. This hybrid approach caters to both sporadic users and those who regularly call abroad, offering granular control over spending.
Key Features and User Experience
Localphone’s strength lies in its versatility. Users with unlimited domestic calling plans can leverage the "Local Numbers" feature, which assigns a local number to each international contact. You simply dial that local number from your phone, and Localphone connects the call internationally, bypassing the need for data or Wi-Fi.
- Multiple Calling Methods: Use their mobile app (iOS/Android), desktop softphone, web callback, or traditional local access numbers.
- Transparent Pay-As-You-Go: Clear per-minute rates for both landlines and mobiles are listed on their website.
- Local Access Numbers: Save international contacts with a local number to avoid using mobile data or paying carrier surcharges.
- Optional Subscriptions: Pay a small monthly fee for even cheaper rates to specific countries or regions.
Pricing and Getting Started
Getting set up involves creating an account on Localphone.com and adding credit. New users often receive a free test call to try the service. You can add funds via various methods, including credit card and PayPal. The rates are highly competitive, but it's important to check the specific cost for both landline and mobile numbers for your destination country.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Pay-as-you-go with optional monthly subscriptions for deeper discounts |
| Trial Offer | Free test call for new customers to try the service quality |
| Device Support | Smartphone apps, web browser, desktop softphones (SIP), any standard phone |
| Unique Selling Point | Extreme flexibility in calling methods, especially for users avoiding data usage |
Localphone is an excellent choice for budget-conscious users who value choice and want one of the lowest per-minute rates, especially if they have an unlimited domestic calling plan.
6. Viber Out (Rakuten Viber)
For the millions already using Viber for free messaging and app-to-app calls, Viber Out extends this functionality to any phone number worldwide. It's an integrated service that offers cheap ways to call internationally to landlines and mobiles, even if the recipient doesn't have the Viber app. This convenience makes it a strong contender for users who prefer to manage their communications within a single, familiar platform.
Viber Out uses a flexible pricing model with options for different calling habits. Users can add "World Credit" for pay-as-you-go calls, which is ideal for occasional use. For more frequent callers, Viber offers country-specific calling plans with a set number of minutes or unlimited calling, plus a comprehensive World Unlimited plan that covers around 60 countries.
Key Features and User Experience
Since Viber Out is built into the main Viber app, the user experience is seamless. You can access the dialer, check your credit, and purchase plans directly within the app you already use for messaging. This integration is its primary advantage, removing the need to learn a new interface or download separate software. It's a popular option for those seeking a Skype replacement with competitive rates.
- Seamless Integration: Make international calls directly from the familiar Viber app on mobile or desktop.
- Flexible Billing: Choose from pay-as-you-go credit or various monthly subscription plans.
- Country-Specific Plans: Cost-effective options if you frequently call one or two particular countries.
- Broad Accessibility: Purchase and manage your calling plans via the app or the Viber website.
Pricing and Getting Started
To start, you just need the Viber app. From the "More" or "Calls" tab, select Viber Out and choose whether to buy credit or a calling plan. Rates are competitive but can vary significantly by destination and whether you're calling a mobile or landline. It's worth noting that purchasing credits through iOS may include App Store transaction fees, so buying directly from the website can be more economical.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Pay-as-you-go (World Credit) and monthly subscriptions (Calling Plans) |
| Trial Offer | No free trial, but you can start with a small credit purchase |
| Device Support | Viber app for iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, and Linux |
| Unique Selling Point | Convenience of making paid international calls from an existing popular messaging app |
Viber Out is an excellent fit for current Viber users and anyone who needs a flexible, integrated solution for calling landlines and mobiles abroad.
7. BOSS Revolution
BOSS Revolution is a well-established name in the US market, offering reliable and cheap ways to call internationally through a versatile, hybrid approach. It combines modern mobile app functionality with traditional access numbers, catering to users with both smartphones and basic landlines. This flexibility makes it a go-to service for individuals who value mainstream brand reliability and diverse ways to connect and pay.
The service operates on a straightforward pay-as-you-go model where you add funds to your account balance. Its biggest differentiator is the sheer convenience of topping up. You can add funds via the app, online, or at thousands of physical retail locations across the country, a feature that appeals to users who prefer cash transactions or in-person service. The platform also offers occasional promotional bundles and country-specific calling plans.
Key Features and User Experience
BOSS Revolution provides two primary methods for making calls: dialing directly from their mobile app using your internet connection, or by dialing a local or toll-free access number from any phone. This dual-method approach ensures you can always make a call, regardless of your device or internet availability. The app clearly displays per-minute rates before you connect, ensuring price transparency.
- Flexible Calling Methods: Make calls via the mobile app (iOS/Android) or from any phone using local/toll-free access numbers.
- Extensive Top-Up Network: Add funds online, in-app, or at a massive network of participating retail stores.
- Reliable Service: A long-standing and widely trusted brand in the US for international communication.
- Promotional Offers: Frequent country-specific bundles and unlimited plans provide extra value for high-volume callers.
Pricing and Getting Started
To begin, you can download the app from the App Store or Google Play or sign up on the BOSS Revolution website. After creating an account, you top up your balance. Be aware that using a toll-free access number may incur a small per-minute surcharge, and local access numbers might use minutes from your domestic phone plan.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Pay-as-you-go credit and optional monthly plans |
| Trial Offer | $2 in free trial credit for new app users |
| Device Support | iOS/Android apps, any mobile phone, or landline via access numbers |
| Unique Selling Point | Unmatched top-up convenience with thousands of physical retail locations |
BOSS Revolution is an excellent solution for US-based users who need a dependable service that works from any type of phone and offers the unique convenience of in-person cash recharges.
Cheap International Calling — 7-Provider Comparison
| Service | Implementation 🔄 (Complexity) | Setup & Resources ⚡ (Cost / Requirements) | Expected Outcomes ⭐ / Impact 📊 | Ideal Use Cases 💡 | Key Advantages ⭐ |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| YodelPhone (full) | 100% browser-based, no install; instant onboarding 🔄 | Pay‑as‑you‑go, one‑minute free trial, transparent per‑minute rates; optional dedicated numbers ⚡ | Low-cost international calls, secure/encrypted, 180+ countries; quality depends on internet ⭐📊 | Individuals abroad; freelancers; small businesses; remote teams 💡 | Instant browser dialing; transparent billing; team features ⭐ |
| YodelPhone (summary) | Browser-only web app; no downloads or contracts 🔄 | Per‑minute billing, free trial (no card), team accounts and inbound numbers available ⚡ | Fast setup and predictable costs; broad coverage to 180+ destinations ⭐📊 | Quick laptop/phone calls; teams needing shared credits or analytics 💡 | No install; very fast onboarding; business tools ⭐ |
| Google Voice | Integrated with Google account/Workspace; web & mobile apps 🔄 | Prepaid credit for personal (US-only) or Workspace add-on (paid tiers) ⚡ | Persistent US numbers, generally reliable within Google ecosystem; limited non‑US availability ⭐📊 | Gmail/Workspace users needing a US number or simple business calls 💡 | Strong ecosystem integration; clear rate governance ⭐ |
| Rebtel | Mobile app plus local access numbers; three connection modes (local/Wi‑Fi/data) 🔄 | Offers country unlimited plans, Global Unlimited (~50 countries), or pay‑as‑you‑go credits ⚡ | Reliable calling when data is weak; cost-effective for country‑specific unlimited plans ⭐📊 | Users without reliable data; heavy callers to specific countries; travelers 💡 | Works without data via local lines; flexible plan options ⭐ |
| Localphone | Multiple call methods (access numbers, app, SIP, callback); more setup options 🔄 | Very low published per‑minute rates; optional monthly Subscriptions for extra discounts ⚡ | Granular pay‑as‑you‑go control; avoids data usage; variable landline vs mobile rates ⭐📊 | Users with unlimited domestic minutes; VoIP device users; cost‑sensitive callers 💡 | Low headline rates and many calling methods ⭐ |
| Viber Out (Rakuten Viber) | Built into Viber app (mobile/desktop/web); Viber account required 🔄 | World Credit pay‑as‑you‑go, country plans, World Unlimited (~60 countries); in‑app or web purchases ⚡ | Convenient PSTN calling from the app; good unlimited options for target countries ⭐📊 | Existing Viber users; casual callers who prefer app integration 💡 | Familiar app flow; easy small‑credit top‑ups; competitive unlimiteds ⭐ |
| BOSS Revolution | App or local/toll access numbers; consumer-oriented flow 🔄 | Top‑up online, in‑app, or at retail locations; per‑destination rates and occasional bundles ⚡ | Reliable, mainstream service with retail recharge options; works from landlines ⭐📊 | US‑centric users needing retail top‑ups or landline/access‑number calling 💡 | Broad retail availability and landline/access‑number support ⭐ |
Choosing the Right International Calling Service for You
Navigating the world of international communication no longer means accepting exorbitant phone bills as a fact of life. As we've explored, a wealth of tools and services are available, each offering unique and affordable ways to connect with family, friends, and colleagues across the globe. From browser-based VoIP systems to dedicated mobile apps, the modern landscape provides powerful and cheap ways to call internationally, tailored to nearly any situation.
The key takeaway is that the "best" service is highly personal. Your ideal choice hinges on a clear understanding of your specific calling patterns, technical needs, and budget. What works perfectly for a small business managing international clients may not be the right fit for an individual making occasional calls to loved ones abroad.
How to Select Your Perfect Match
To make a confident decision, consider these critical factors we've discussed. Reflect on your own needs and weigh which features are most important for your day-to-day communication.
- Calling Frequency and Volume: Do you make a few long calls each month or many short, frequent ones? A pay-as-you-go model like YodelPhone or Localphone might be best for sporadic use, while a subscription plan from Viber Out could offer better value for high-volume callers.
- Internet Reliability: Is your Wi-Fi connection consistently strong, or do you often find yourself in areas with poor service? If your connection is unstable, a service like Rebtel that can leverage local phone lines for the connection is a significant advantage. For those with stable internet, purely VoIP-based solutions like Google Voice or YodelPhone offer excellent clarity.
- Business vs. Personal Use: Are you a freelancer needing a professional business line, or are you just calling family? Business users will benefit immensely from features like virtual numbers, call recording, and team collaboration tools offered by services like YodelPhone. Personal users might prioritize simplicity and app-based convenience, which services like BOSS Revolution and Viber excel at.
- Device Preference: Do you prefer making calls from your computer, or are you always on your mobile phone? A browser-based tool offers unparalleled flexibility for desktop users without requiring any software installation. Conversely, if you primarily use your smartphone, a well-designed mobile app is essential.
Your Actionable Next Steps
Finding cheap ways to call internationally is an achievable goal. The final step is to move from research to action. Don't just pick one based on a feature list; take advantage of the free trials and introductory credits that most of these services offer.
Set up two or three of the options that seem most promising. Make a few test calls to different countries you frequently dial. This hands-on experience is invaluable, allowing you to directly compare call quality, ease of use, and the overall user experience. By investing a small amount of time in testing, you can confidently select a service that will save you money and keep you seamlessly connected for years to come.
Ready to experience crystal-clear international calls without the hassle of downloads or complicated setups? YodelPhone offers a powerful, browser-based solution perfect for both personal and business use, providing one of the most direct and cheap ways to call internationally. Sign up for a free trial of YodelPhone today and make your first call in under a minute.