If you’re searching for reliable TextNow alternatives, you’re in the right place.
TextNow has been a popular app for free texting and calling, offering users a virtual number and an easy way to communicate without a traditional phone plan. However, it’s not perfect for everyone—some users encounter service restrictions, ads, or feature limitations. Thankfully, the digital world is full of alternatives that offer better features, flexibility, and connectivity options.
In this article, we’ll explore the best TextNow alternatives for 2025, helping you stay connected without compromise. These platforms go beyond basic texting, offering features like voicemail, call forwarding, international calling, and app integration, giving you more control over your communication.
Why Look for TextNow Alternatives?
Even though TextNow is free and popular, there are several reasons why users search for alternatives:
- Service Limitations: Some features like international calling or ad-free messaging require a subscription.
- Platform Compatibility: TextNow may not be available or fully functional on all devices or regions.
- Better Features: Users might want more options such as higher call quality, custom numbers, or integration with other apps.
- Privacy & Security: Some users prefer apps with stronger encryption and privacy controls.
By exploring TextNow alternatives, you can find apps that fit your communication style, budget, and security needs.
Best TextNow Alternatives
Rather than just listing apps, let’s look at how each alternative improves your texting and calling experience, and what makes it a great choice.
1. Google Voice
Google Voice stands out as a versatile solution for both personal and business communication. Unlike TextNow, Google Voice integrates seamlessly with your Google account, allowing you to manage calls, texts, and voicemails across multiple devices.
Why it’s great:
- Provides a real phone number that works on smartphones and computers.
- Voicemail transcription makes it easy to read messages on the go.
- Supports call forwarding, international calls, and multiple devices.
Google Voice is perfect if you want a professional, reliable alternative that works well with other Google services.
2. TextFree
TextFree offers a robust texting experience similar to TextNow, but with some notable upgrades. You get a free number, unlimited texting to US and Canada, and the ability to earn credits for calling.
Why it’s great:
- Offers customizable numbers so you can pick an area code.
- Allows both texting and calling without a traditional plan.
- Ad-supported, but premium upgrades remove ads and add features.
For users who enjoy flexibility and personalization, TextFree is an excellent choice.
3. Sideline
Sideline is tailored for people who need a second phone number, making it ideal for freelancers, small business owners, or anyone who wants to separate personal and professional communications.
Why it’s great:
- Provides a local number for calling and texting.
- Supports team messaging and auto-replies, which is useful for small businesses.
- No hardware required; everything runs on your existing phone.
Sideline excels at giving you professional communication tools without needing another device.
4. Burner
Burner focuses on privacy and temporary numbers. It’s perfect for situations where you don’t want to share your real number, like online transactions, dating, or classified ads.
Why it’s great:
- Create multiple temporary phone numbers.
- Messages and calls can be auto-deleted after a set period.
- Offers integration with apps like Slack and email for advanced workflows.
Burner is ideal if you value privacy and control over your phone numbers.
5. TextMe
TextMe is a free messaging and calling app with a global reach. It supports voice, SMS, and video calls, making it a strong alternative for those who want all-in-one communication.
Why it’s great:
- Works internationally, unlike TextNow which is limited to some regions.
- Provides free texting and low-cost calling options.
- Includes voicemail, picture messaging, and chat features.
TextMe shines for people who need a comprehensive solution for both domestic and international communication.
6. Dingtone
Dingtone is another excellent alternative that offers free calling and texting with a real number. It also has credit-based systems to call international numbers at low costs.
Why it’s great:
- Free texting and calling to the US and Canada.
- Earn credits for free international calls.
- High-quality VoIP calls and a user-friendly interface.
Dingtone is perfect if you want a low-cost, global communication option with extra perks.
Final Words
Finding the right TextNow alternative depends on your priorities—whether it’s privacy, professional use, international calling, or simple texting convenience. Google Voice and Sideline are excellent for professional needs, while Burner and TextMe focus more on flexibility and privacy.
By exploring these alternatives, you can choose a service that fits your lifestyle, security needs, and communication style. Don’t settle for limitations—find the platform that lets you stay connected on your terms.