Skype is shutting down — find a better alternative

The Best Skype Alternative for International Calls

Skype is closing its doors. Switch to PhoneTheWorld for better quality, lower prices, and credits that never expire. No apps to download.

Skype Alternatives: Full Comparison Matrix

Compare PhoneTheWorld against 9 other Skype alternatives side-by-side. All data is factual and current as of 2026.

ServiceSubscriptionCredit ExpiryApp RequiredConnection FeesCall Any PhoneBrowser CallingCountries
PhoneTheWorldNoNever expiresNo — browser onlyNoYesYes195+
SkypeRequired180 daysYesYesYes (paid)Limited200+
Google VoiceNo (US only)ExpiresOptionalNoYes (US only)YesUS only
VonageFrom $9.99/moPlan minutesYesMay applyYesNo100+
Viber OutPlans available6 monthsYesNoYes (Viber Out)No200+
RebtelFrom ~$10/moPlan minutesYesNoYesNo50+
MyTelloNoExpiresYesNoYesNo200+
Talk360NoExpiresYesNoYesNo200+
WhatsAppNoN/A (free)YesNoNo (app-to-app only)NoApp users only
DingtoneNoExpiresYesNoYesNo200+

Rates current as of June 2026. Data compiled from official provider websites. No defamatory claims — all comparisons are factual.

Why Switch from Skype to PhoneTheWorld?

Skype's closure is a chance to upgrade to a better service.

Skype is Shutting Down

Microsoft has announced Skype is closing. Users are being migrated to Teams, which lacks affordable international calling.

No More Expiring Credits

Unlike Skype where credits expire after 180 days, your PhoneTheWorld credits never expire. Use them whenever you want.

No App Downloads

Skype required a desktop app or mobile app. PhoneTheWorld works directly in your browser — just open and call.

No Monthly Fees

Skype charged monthly subscription fees for international calling plans. We use pay-as-you-go pricing with no subscription.

Better Call Quality

We use modern WebRTC technology that delivers HD voice quality, often better than traditional phone calls.

Call Any Phone

Unlike Skype-to-Skype calls, PhoneTheWorld lets you call any phone number worldwide — landlines and mobiles.

Former Skype Users Love PhoneTheWorld

"After Skype announced it's closing, I was worried about how I'd call my family abroad. PhoneTheWorld is actually better and cheaper!"

Maria Santos
Miami, FL

"I hated that Skype credits expired. With PhoneTheWorld, I buy credits and they're there whenever I need them."

James Chen
San Francisco, CA

"The browser-based calling is so convenient. No more updating apps or dealing with Skype login issues."

Priya Sharma
New York, NY

Switch from Skype in 3 Easy Steps

1

Create Account

Sign up free with your email. Takes 30 seconds.

2

Add Credits

Start with $5. Credits never expire like Skype credits.

3

Start Calling

Call the same numbers you called on Skype, right from your browser.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best Skype alternative for international calls in 2026?

PhoneTheWorld is the best Skype alternative because it works in your browser (no app download), offers pay-as-you-go pricing with no subscription, credits that never expire, and lets you call any phone number in 195+ countries. Skype was shut down by Microsoft in May 2025, so finding a reliable replacement is essential.

Is Skype still available in 2026?

No. Microsoft officially discontinued Skype in May 2025. Existing users were encouraged to migrate to Microsoft Teams, which does not offer the same affordable international calling features. PhoneTheWorld is a purpose-built replacement for anyone who used Skype for international calls.

Do PhoneTheWorld credits expire like Skype credits did?

No. PhoneTheWorld credits never expire. Skype credits expired after 180 days of inactivity, which meant you could lose money you already paid. With PhoneTheWorld, you buy credits once and use them whenever you need — no time pressure, no wasted money.

Can I call any phone number with PhoneTheWorld?

Yes. Unlike Skype-to-Skype calls which only worked between Skype users, PhoneTheWorld lets you call any landline or mobile phone number in 195+ countries. The recipient does not need any app or account.

Do I need to download an app to use PhoneTheWorld?

No. PhoneTheWorld works entirely in your browser using WebRTC technology. Skype required downloading a desktop or mobile app. With PhoneTheWorld, you just open your browser, sign in, and start calling from any device with a microphone.

How do PhoneTheWorld rates compare to Skype?

PhoneTheWorld rates start from 2 cents per minute for USA landlines, 3 cents for UK and Germany, and 6 cents for India. Skype typically charged from 2.4 cents per minute plus a per-call connection fee. PhoneTheWorld has no connection fees, so the total cost per call is lower.

Does PhoneTheWorld charge a monthly subscription?

No. PhoneTheWorld uses a pay-as-you-go model. You add credits and pay only for the minutes you actually use. There is no monthly fee, no contract, and nothing to cancel if you stop using the service.

Can I see the call rate before I make a call?

Yes. PhoneTheWorld shows you the exact per-minute rate before you place a call. You always know what you will be charged. There are no hidden fees or surprise charges.

Don't Wait for Skype to Close

Make the switch today and discover why PhoneTheWorld is the best Skype alternative.

No credit card required • Credits never expire