Skype Alternatives
7 Tools Like Skype
Quick answer: Top Skype alternatives include Microsoft Teams, Zoom and Google Meet. For open source, look at Jitsi Meet. Microsoft Teams and Zoom are free or have free plans.
Skype was Microsoft’s video calling and chat app; Microsoft retired it in May 2025 in favour of Teams.
Skype has been shut down, so former users need a new home for video calls, chats and calls to phone numbers.
- 7 alternatives
- 7 with a free plan
- 1 open source
- 1 self-hostable
The best Skype alternatives
#1Microsoft Teams
microsoft.com
Chat, meetings, calls and files, included with Microsoft 365.
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In Microsoft Teams’s own words: “Working together is easier with Microsoft Teams. Tools and files are always available in one place that's designed to help you connect naturally, stay organized, and bring ideas to life.”
Microsoft Teams has a free plan.
People switching from Slack, Zoom, Skype and Google Classroom often consider Microsoft Teams.
#2Zoom
zoom.us
Video meetings, webinars and team chat.
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In Zoom’s own words: “Modernize workflows with Zoom's trusted collaboration tools: including video meetings, Zoom Chat, VoIP phone, webinars, whiteboard, contact center, and events.”
Zoom has a free plan.
People switching from Skype and Microsoft Teams often consider Zoom.
#3Google Meet
meet.google.com
Browser-based video calls built into Google Workspace.
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In Google Meet’s own words: “Use Google Meet for secure online web conferencing calls and video chat as a part of Google Workspace.”
Google Meet has a free plan and works right in the browser.
People switching from Zoom and Skype often consider Google Meet.
#4WhatsApp
whatsapp.com
Encrypted messaging and calls used by billions of people.
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WhatsApp is free to use and is mobile-first.
People switching from Telegram, Skype and Snapchat often consider WhatsApp.
#5Discord
discord.com
Voice, video and text communities with servers, roles and bots.
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In Discord’s own words: “Discord is great for playing games and chilling with friends, or even building a worldwide community. Customize your own space to talk, play, and hang out.”
Discord is free to use.
People switching from Slack, Zoom, Reddit, Telegram and Skype often consider Discord, along with 2 other tools.
#6Jitsi Meet
meet.jit.si
Free, open-source video meetings with no account required.
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In Jitsi Meet’s own words: “Join a WebRTC video conference powered by the Jitsi Videobridge”
Jitsi Meet is open source, is free to use and can be self-hosted.
People switching from Zoom and Skype often consider Jitsi Meet.
#7Whereby
whereby.com
Simple video meeting rooms that open in the browser.
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In Whereby’s own words: “Host quick instant meetings or embed video calls into your platform with Whereby’s video conferencing API and SDK.”
Whereby has a free plan and works right in the browser.
People switching from Zoom and Skype often consider Whereby.
Listed for information; LaunchStall isn’t affiliated with these companies. Features and plans change — check each site for current details.
How these Skype alternatives compare
| Tool | Best for | Where it beats Skype | The trade-off |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microsoft Teams | The official successor | Microsoft’s suggested replacement, with chat and calls. | A heavier app. |
| Zoom | Reliable meetings | Very reliable group video. | Time limits on the free plan. |
| Google Meet | Calls with nothing to install | Runs in a browser with Google Calendar. | Needs a Google account for hosting. |
| Personal calls on your phone | Most of your contacts probably have it. | Phone number required. | |
| Discord | Friends and communities | Always-on voice channels. | Less suited to formal calls. |
| Jitsi Meet | Free meetings with no account | Open source and needs no sign-up. | No calling to phone numbers. |
| Whereby | Simple client meetings | Guests join by one click. | Not for phone calls. |
Which should you choose?
- You want the official replacement: Microsoft Teams
- You call family: WhatsApp
- You need no account: Jitsi Meet
Our editorial summary of each tool’s focus, written November 2026. Tools change quickly, so check the details on each site.
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Frequently asked questions
What are the best Skype alternatives?
Popular Skype alternatives include Microsoft Teams, Zoom and Google Meet. The best choice depends on whether you need a free plan, open-source software or specific features.
Is there a free alternative to Skype?
Yes. Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Google Meet and WhatsApp are free or have free plans.
Is there an open-source alternative to Skype?
Yes — Jitsi Meet is open source.
Why do people look for Skype alternatives?
Skype has been shut down, so former users need a new home for video calls, chats and calls to phone numbers.
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