Just a couple of years ago it was impossible to talk about an alternative to Skype - a program for video calls. However, today on the Internet you can download other applications that will be easier to run on weak PCs, will not be updated without permission, and will not glitch when switching from one tab to another. Let's look at analogues of Skype and their advantages.
ooVoo – video chat program
ooVoo is a free application that allows you to organize video chats with up to 12 people each. The advantage of such a program over Skype is the absence of lags when the Internet is weak. The program also has the function of exchanging text messages, files, pictures, stickers. That is, it is in no way inferior to the popular Skype. At the same time, it should be noted that ooVoo takes up less space on the PC.
WhatsApp with video calling support
Probably only a child does not know about the WhatsApp program. This is a popular messenger that appeared simultaneously with touch phones. And if previously the video calling function was available only for devices with the iSO operating system, then since the end of 2016, users of other popular platforms can also call via WhatsApp. Including Windows.
Talky - a new analogue of Skype
The Talky program is still young. It is intended for gadgets that run on iSO. To use it on Windows 7 and higher, you should use a browser. However, the advantage of Talky over Skype is that you can organize a video chat for 15 people simultaneously for free for unlimited communication time. At the same time, Talky allows you to capture images not only from the camera, but also from the screen. This means that showing other participants what is happening on your display is quite realistic and simple.
WeChat is a video calling service for Windows 10 and MAC
WeChat is a popular Chinese service that has an English-language interface. Until recently, it only worked on Android and iSO. However, in 2016 it received support for MAC and Windows 10. Using this application, you can organize video calls, conduct correspondence, and transfer files of various formats.
Viber is a favorite calling service
Many PC users have a number of difficulties installing Viber. However, this does not affect the popularity of this application. Using Viber, you can send various files to your interlocutor, call mobile phones, and even organize a video call. The program is completely free. It differs from Skype in that it has rather rare updates that are not downloaded without the knowledge of users.
ICQ – an old-timer for video communication
Initially, ISQ was developed exclusively for text correspondence. However, as its popularity grew, this application began to receive many other useful features. In addition to transferring files and attaching stickers, calling a mobile phone, the program received a video calling function. Since the program is familiar and convenient to everyone, there are no problems with its use.
Gem4Me - the simplest messenger in the world
Not much is known about Gem4Me. This is a popular messenger in Europe and America, which appeared 2 years ago and already has 1 million downloads on Google Play. Using this application, a person can call, write, organize video conferences and even send money. The program has high-quality hacking protection. Developed in Switzerland. Distributed free of charge.
Hangouts - a simple program for organizing video conferences
A program for communicating online, with which you can send text messages, files, call mobile phones, and organize video conferences. The program is designed for browsers. Works on both MAC and iSO.
In addition to the programs listed above, there are others on the network that can be an excellent alternative to Skype.
Skype company has been providing its users with the opportunity for free and unlimited time communication for several years now. During this time, the program was constantly updated and supplemented with new features. The developers of the Skype company did not let their fans down this time either. In July, the company updated its world-famous application. Now, all users of the service have the opportunity to exchange short video messages. This feature is available to all device users on most platforms that support Skype, including Windows 8, iOS, Mac, Android and BlackBerry. Let's take a closer look at all possible alternatives to Skype that are not inferior in functionality, and maybe even superior.
A new development is that video messages can be recorded for three minutes. Skype- this is an excellent service that helps you communicate and see your relatives who live far away, giving you the opportunity to be at least a little closer to them. But, unfortunately, no new technology can save us from overloaded everyday life, busy schedules and missed calls. This is where the need to introduce a new function manifests itself. Even if you missed a call from someone close to you, you will still see a familiar face and hear a familiar voice in a message that will wait for you for as long as you like.
There are, of course, a number of disadvantages that this innovation has, for example, a video letter cannot be sent to several subscribers; there is no way to share audio messages; The recorded audio clip cannot be saved in the memory of your gadget. Also, sent video messages, unlike text messages, cannot be canceled after sending. Despite the numerous discontent that was caused by Skype being caught in transferring confidential information about its users to the authorities, Skype still occupies a leading position in the Internet telephony market. If you decide not to look for a replacement for Skype, you can download Skype for free for Windows 7 on our website using a direct link.
The best alternative to Skype for computer and phone.
Analysts from the company Analysis Mason conducted an independent study which found that Skype is used by 79% of all Internet users. But, recently, new versions of the program have become less and less popular and are causing negative reviews. Some will wonder if there is alternative to Skype which can replace the outdated version of Skype.
Internet giant Google recently combined its services into one. Now, in order to take advantage of the many benefits of the search engine Google Hangouts You don't even need to install an additional program. This service is launched through a Chrome browser extension. The new service includes Gtalk chat, Gmail mail, and video communication service analogue of SkypeGoogle Voice.
Is ooVoo a real replacement for Skype?
ooVoo is another completely free application that can be replacement for Skype, but even if you don’t replace it completely, you will noticeably move “Skype”. The Oovoo program has many more different options when using video calling. The quality of the transmitted picture and sound is an order of magnitude higher than that of Skype. In addition, Oovoo users are given the opportunity to completely expand the conversation to the entire diagonal of the monitor. The application interface is also very convenient and easy to use.
One of the most convenient functions of the Oovoo program is the joint viewing of video information. That is, you can easily watch a movie or video remotely from each other at the same time and at the same time discuss it during the broadcast. The free version of the Oovoo service has a limit on group communication; the number of participants should not exceed 12 people. You can download the OoVoO program at
The Skype program allows you to make video calls, audio calls, and also exchange messages via the Internet (between two computers or phones on which this software is installed).
Communication occurs in real time and is quite stable at normal Internet speeds; however, such software places a significant load on the hardware resources of a computer or phone.
For this reason, some users want a better and lighter alternative to Skype.
Program selection
Why is it so important to choose the most suitable software for yourself?
First of all, it plays a big role functionality– it is important that the software has all the necessary functions, but not too many of them ( since extra functionality makes the application more difficult to use, increases its “weight” and the load it puts on RAM b).
It is also very important that managing the program is as convenient as possible - this plays an especially significant role for people who use such software quite often or regularly.
Comparative characteristics
Usually, in addition to functionality, when choosing a program, factors such as, for example, cost and the presence of Russification (menu design in Russian) are of great importance.
The table below shows the main characteristics of alternative programs to make it easier to choose between them.
| Name | Device type | Price | Security | Sending files | Audio calls | Video calls | Format |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Viber | Smartphone, tablet | For free | Low | Yes | Yes | Yes | application |
| OOVOO | For free | Low | Yes | Yes | Yes | online service | |
| TOX | Smartphone, tablet | For free | High | Yes | Yes | Yes | application |
| Google Hangouts | Smartphone, tablet based on Android | Free (pre-installed) | No | Images only | Yes | Yes | application |
| Apple Face Time | Smartphone, tablet, personal computer based on Apple | Free (pre-installed) | High | Yes | Yes | Yes | application |
| KAKAOTALK | Smartphone, tablet, personal computer | For free | Relative | Yes | Yes | Yes | application |
| Bleep | Smartphone, tablet, personal computer | For free | High | Yes | Yes | Yes | application |
Below, each of the options considered is described in more detail.
They are located in a top format created based on user reviews.
Viber
Currently, Skype is the most popular software for communicating using this method, but it is “breathing down its back.”
This application is the second most popular after Skype, due to the fact that it is free, easy to use and provides access to various additional functionality.
Feature is that it is designed to work on a smartphone and allows communication between devices on which such an application is installed.
It is maximally optimized for working on a mobile device, while PC is less optimized.
In particular, it has a greater impact on the hardware of the device. However, Viber is suitable only for those users who call from a phone and not a PC.
- Contacts saved on the device are imported into the program automatically;
- There are assemblies designed to work on all existing mobile device platforms;
- The functionality is very diverse (audio and video calls, sending messages, chatting, sending files of different formats).
- Strict connection with mobile phone number
- low phone security.
Here's what users say about this application:
“The application is simply installed, synchronized with the contact list, so that immediately after installation in the phone book you will see which subscriber also has Viber installed. Easy to use, has a wide gallery of interesting emojis".
OOVOO
This service lags far behind Viber and Skype in popularity, however, it is also quite widespread.
The significant difference is that this is still a service that works through a browser, and not an application.
Thus, using the service does not require installation of additional software.
The peculiarity of the application is that it can work on any device that has a browser, both mobile and desktop.
It does not take up additional memory, since it is not installed directly, but it is not very convenient to use, since you need to constantly open the browser.
Therefore, it is suitable for people who use this type of connection infrequently and do not want to load the phone’s memory with unnecessary applications.
- No need to download the program;
- High stability of communication - this indicator surpasses even Skype and Viber;
- Various functionality, for example, showing your desktop to chat participants, etc.;
- A large number of chat participants is 12 people, while in Skype the user is limited to 10.
- A significant disadvantage of using such a service is that stable operation with it is achieved only with a sufficiently high Internet speed.
Users respond to the application as follows:
“An excellent program, it worked almost flawlessly; if there were problems, it was only due to the speed of the Internet. However, with the latest update, problems began - the software does not launch stable enough, causes failures in other programs that use the Internet, and no significant improvements occurred after the update.”
TOX
This service is quite new and has not yet become widespread among users, but even taking this into account, it is already surpassing in popularity many services of a similar type, even older ones.
This messenger is still under development, although the existing version is no longer beta and works stable enough for comfortable use.
The application differs significantly in that it transfers data directly between subscribers, without using any system for temporary storage and recoding.
The program is not bad both in functionality and in other characteristics, but is still in many ways inferior to Skype.
It has a set of only “basic” functions. In addition, it is significantly inferior to Skype in terms of security and data privacy protection.
However, it is suitable for those who regularly work, since in this case it is easy to get used to its functionality, and in addition, there is no additional need to download and install the program.
- Cross-platform if you have a Google account;
- Easily synchronize participants and add them to your contact list;
- Availability of all standard functions;
- Minimal load on the hardware due to optimization for Android devices;
- The ability to stream conferences directly on YouTube, as well as other opportunities for interaction with other Google services.
- Inability to use without a Google account;
- Transfers files of only one format – images;
- There is no protection of confidentiality of correspondence at all.
Users say the following about this messenger:
“Nice minimalistic design, all the necessary functions are present. However, it “weighs” quite a lot for its functionality, and in addition, it has an inconvenient text input field (too narrow).”
Apple FaceTime
The program is similar in many respects to the previous type.
It was also originally designed for devices with only one type of operating system - and is also pre-installed on all Apple smartphones.
It can communicate exclusively between subscribers who have such a device, and only with an Apple ID.
The stable operation of the program is noted due to the fact that it is maximally optimized for this type of operating system.
Does not require downloading and installation, does not take up much memory and is easy to use.
In general, if the user is accustomed to Apple products, working with the program should not pose any difficulties.
- Featuring audio and video synchronization;
- High connection stability;
- No bugs or crashes.
- it can only be used by owners of Apple devices
- functionality is narrower compared to other applications
User reviews of the application are as follows:
“This application uses much less traffic than Skype, is quite convenient to use, in addition, it takes up a small amount of memory and does not need to be downloaded.”
KAKAOTALK
The application is gradually gaining popularity in European countries, while in South Korea it has long occupied one of the leading positions in the ranking, because it was developed specifically for use in this region. And much later it became widespread in Europe and the USA.
- Availability of assemblies suitable for any platform and operating system;
- Availability of all necessary communication functions with minimal load on the device memory and its hardware.
- it was originally developed for South Korea, and all data is processed on the servers of this state
- during its operation, significant delays may be observed, because in fact the signal goes from you in the Russian Federation, first to South Korea, and then from there it returns to the Russian Federation to its addressee
- the interface does not have Russification, that is, it is not translated into Russian.
- security of information and privacy of correspondence are at a fairly low level. However, this poses a particular problem for predominantly local users (i.e., South Koreans). For users in other regions, the application is mostly safe.
Users leave quite different reviews for this application, for example, the following:
“I like the wide possibilities for personalizing the application - you can set different color schemes, choose wallpapers from those offered, or upload your own. There is a wide range of emoticons, stickers and emojis, which have no analogues in other messengers. This is an ideal messenger for people who value good functionality, stable operation and beautiful design of programs.”
Bleep
This application is the closest analogue of TOX in terms of functionality, features and even appearance.
However, it has a number of minor shortcomings and shortcomings., which make it less in demand and popular.
This software does not have any specific control center, but only connects subscribers with each other directly.
Registration for the program is very simple - in fact, there is no registration at all.
Users are not assigned any identification numbers, etc., as in TOX - they just need to indicate their login.
The functionality is not too wide, but all the necessary functions are available.
- There are versions designed for different types of devices, different platforms and operating systems;
- This application has the highest level of confidentiality and data security - since communication is carried out directly between users, and in addition, all data is securely encrypted. with Skype and stability.
In addition, the program has a very complex encryption code, which ensures high security of use, since it is almost impossible to decrypt the data.
Distinctive feature of the application– stable operation even at fairly low Internet speeds.
However, despite all this, the program has still received very little distribution.
But a significant disadvantage is that the software is focused only on PCs.
Currently, a version for Android has also been developed, but it is extremely unstable, crude, and, in fact, it is impossible to fully use it.
LinPhone– quite easy to use, cross-platform client. Allows you to maintain stable communication even when the bandwidth is heavily loaded. A significant advantage is cross-platform - there are versions for different operating systems.
Traffic is well encrypted, which ensures high security of communication.
In addition, calls made, both audio and video, can be recorded in high quality.
One of the disadvantages is the low prevalence of the program.
It is used mainly by people who understand software. Although the interface is quite simple.
Conclusion
Which application should you choose for yourself? Each user answers this question independently, based on exactly what functions he requires for comfortable work. However, with any requirements for the messenger, it is recommended to pay attention to the level of security and give preference to those messengers that have a higher level of security.
For users of Google services, Hangouts software may seem quite convenient and functional, and in many ways, the optimal solution. However, for those who are not used to this type of menu design and work organization (or do not have a Google account), it is better to give preference to another messenger. As for owners of Apple equipment, the pre-installed FaceTime application will be the best option for them when they communicate primarily with subscribers who have equipment of the same brand.
Viber is highly popular and is considered one of the most popular and functional instant messengers at present. In terms of popularity, it has almost caught up with Skype. However, it is worth considering that the degree of protection in it is quite low, so the transfer of economic and other confidential information through it may be unsafe.
If you use video calls quite rarely, preferring to use traditional telephone communication, then the OOVOO service may be suitable for occasional use. Although it is not very convenient to use, it nevertheless does not take up memory on the device, and in addition, it does not put a significant load on the hardware (no more than normal browser operation).
Functional
Interface
Price
Skype is traditionally considered the most popular program for free communication using a smartphone or PC. Thanks to its functionality, you can send files, images and messages. The most impressive features of Skype are calls to anywhere in the world (both regular, audio, and video). You can also create video conferences with multiple participants. However, the quality of communication and frequent malfunctions of Skype have led to the fact that many users are gradually switching to other communication options. Moreover, several dozen developments can be called an analogue of Skype for a computer, although no more than eight of them can actually replace this application.
Viber is a full-fledged analogue of Skype for PCs and smartphones
One of the most popular analogues of Skype for video communication, working on both computers and mobile phones, is Viber. Its main advantage is the ability to make free calls to any phone number registered in the system. At the same time, the quality of communication is always high. Other benefits include:
The disadvantages of using the application include binding to a phone number - using it on a computer is not so convenient. In addition, the security of using Viber is lower compared to Skype. Although Viber can become a real alternative to Skype both for PC users and for those who only have this program installed on their phone.
Hangouts is an analogue of Skype for Google account holders
Another alternative to Skype for Windows is the Hangouts application, one of the few disadvantages of which is the presence of a Google account.
The Hangouts service is integrated with Google email and linked to search service profiles on PCs and smartphones.
However, it will only take a few minutes to register this account, and as a result you will receive:
In addition, if the file is not sent in the messenger, you can open access to it in your file storage on the Google server. This means that the level of usability of the application is quite consistent with the capabilities of Skype.
Allyo is an analogue of Skype from Rostelecom
Rostelecom also released its Alle messenger, a domestically produced analogue of Skype. With this program you can:
It is worth noting that this analogue of Skype from Rostelecom is not available in every Russian city, but only in 16 largest settlements. However, in the future, Allyo's coverage area should be expanded and, theoretically, could actually replace Skype for domestic users.
TOX - an alternative to Skype without advertising
Unlike the Russian analogue of Skype, the Tox application allows you to make free audio and video calls not only from a mobile phone, but also from a PC. 
In addition, this free service does not contain advertising and reliably protects the transmitted information. Encryption is performed using NaCl crypto libraries, which means that neither fraudsters nor even government services will be able to gain access to the user’s confidential information. Among other advantages of the program, it is worth noting free additional features for which other messengers require payment.
Analogue of Skype ooVoo - stable connection and recording of video calls
Among the paid features is disabling advertising. The advantages compared to Skype include a more stable connection and an invitation to participate in communication among users of popular social networks from Twitter to Facebook. In addition, up to 1 thousand minutes of video recordings can be stored on the application server.
KakaoTalk - South Korean replacement for Skype
South Korean developers also offer their own alternative to Skype for PC, which is distinguished by its cross-platform functionality, large size of transferred files (100 MB) and user-friendly interface. Using this service you can:
Some disadvantages of KakaoTalk include questionable data security and the presence of only three languages, among which there is no Russian. Additionally, the app may experience slowdowns due to the servers being located in South Korea. And yet it can be used instead of Skype.
Analogues of Skype for sending messages
Among the programs that successfully replace Skype, but do not allow video calls, two popular applications can be noted:
WhatsApp is a program similar to Skype that works on smartphones and allows you to send various types of messages (from text and graphic to audio). The advantages include free calls and the availability of group chats. Among the disadvantages are the lack of support for video conferencing and not very convenient work on the computer.
The Telegram service, created by one of the developers and owners of the social network Vkontakte, allows you to transfer audio and video, images and texts. Video conferencing and even video calls are not in the list of capabilities of this domestic messenger. However, reliable information protection allows us to expect that the service’s popularity will grow over time. Especially if the functionality of the application reaches the level of Skype.
The Skype platform is not the least popular in the ranking of messengers. However, recent updates to the service have begun to alienate users. There is a need to search for new messengers. Is there a worthy alternative to Skype?
There are also disadvantages
According to statistics from Analysis Mason, the messenger is used by 79% of all web users. Unfortunately, the constant updating of the service has ceased to contribute to the growth of popularity, and even on the contrary - the mark is declining along with a gradual increase in negative reviews.
What shortcomings have users started to identify?
- Skype has deprived subscribers of the ability to send video messages to multiple subscribers and the ability to send audio messages.
- You can no longer save an audio clip in the device memory.
- There is no way to cancel sent video messages, unlike text messages.
- Information about users is transferred to the authorities.
A worthy alternative
So, what can replace Skype? There are a lot of programs like Skype. Which ones are worthy of attention? Let's look at the most famous ones.
Unified Google Service
The corporation has recently combined all its services into one system called Google Hangouts. What does it include?
- Gtalk chat,
- Gmail mail service,
- Google Voice video communication service.
To use the system, you do not need to install additional software - just download the extension from the Google Chrome browser store.
This alternative is available in a limited number of states. However, as you can see, the developer is not standing still, which means the offer can be expanded.
Viber
The purple design of this program is familiar to almost everyone. The main advantage of the messenger is that it can be installed on PCs, tablets and smartphones with any type of OS.
Calls to other Viber accounts are free, as they are made via the Internet. There is an option for calls to mobile phones that do not have the program installed, as well as to landlines. This happens through the Viber Out service - the tariff is quite low and less than Skype. However, for now this function is available for gadgets on iOS and Android. Manufacturers promise that the function will soon appear in the version that is installed on the computer.
Unlike Skype, Viber does not have any annoying advertising. Thus, this is a very promising replacement for Skype.
ooVoo
Another free messenger and far from the last in the ranking. It can replace Skype almost completely. In addition, the program contains additional features.
Advantages of ooVoo:
- The quality of video and sound is much higher.
- The ability to completely expand the conversation to the entire diagonal of the monitor.
- Convenient and intuitive interface.
- The function of simultaneous viewing of the same video remotely from each other. So, you can watch a movie and simultaneously discuss it during the broadcast in a chat.
The disadvantage of the program is the limitation on the number of participants in a group call (no more than 12 people).
It is more reliable to download the utility from the official resource at the link: http://www.oovoo.com/Download-oovoo. The program can be installed on most devices.
VSee
This is a Skype-like option that focuses on more functional video communication: medical examinations at a distance along with the transmission of ultrasounds, x-rays, surgical fluoroscopes and other things online.
The messenger is perfect for everyday communication: here, with a smaller amount of transmitted data, the quality of sound and video is higher. This means that a 3G connection on a mobile device is sufficient to communicate with people. There is some traffic savings. However, the picture does not freeze.
VSee is a universal, simple tool that is effective for communicating between people at the everyday level and for conducting scientific conferences, medical examinations and other important purposes.
Jitsi
The app is not very popular, but it is easy to use. You can communicate on a computer using this program, but mobile versions are still being tested.
The interface of the official resource is only in English. Address: https://jitsi.org.
The application is available for Windows, Mac, Ubuntu, Linux. Like VSee, the program offers high call quality along with a slow connection. Separately, it is worth noting the level of security - it is extremely difficult to decrypt the transmitted data.
This option is suitable for owners of Apple products. Its users note that the program clearly synchronizes picture and sound with excellent quality of the two parameters.
The application is simple. This is both a plus and a minus at the same time: it does not have pleasant additional features, like ooVoo, for example.
Bleep
It is a cross-platform alternative to Skype from BitTorrent. Among the advantages, simplified registration stands out, or rather, practically no registration: to start working, you just need to indicate your login.
Supports all types of communication: chats, calls with audio and video, file sharing. Plus, there is reliable data encryption.
You can download it from the manufacturer’s official website: http://www.bleep.pm. Versions are available for the most popular PC operating systems and portable devices.
Tox
Tox is a newcomer to the messenger market, which is still at the finalization stage. However, this did not prevent it from acquiring the full set of functions that are available in Skype, so it is an excellent answer to the question: “What can replace Skype?”
The advantage is increased safety. Communication is established directly between subscribers, bypassing centralized data transfer and storage.
Among the shortcomings is the lack of cross-platform functionality: TOX users often encounter difficulties if they communicate through different devices.
Each user is also assigned a Tox ID - a long code of letters and numbers that is difficult to remember. This is not entirely convenient, although you can get the usual login if you register on the site.
The installer can be downloaded from the website: https://tox.chat.
Application from a South Korean manufacturer. It was originally created for communication within the country. However, it has become widespread throughout the world.
CacaoTalk supports any platform and all types of communication:
- text messages,
- video communication,
- audio communication,
- sharing files of various categories.
Since user data is processed in South Korea, the application may experience delays. There is also no Russian version of the program.
You can download the program here: http://www.kakao.com/talk.
Slow Internet is not a hindrance to working with this program. Available for all OS and devices, including Linux and Blackberry. Supports IPv6, a new version of the IP protocol. A significant plus is recording calls with high video and audio resolution.
Although the design of the program is quite simple, it is more popular among “techies”.
This Skype substitute also has an official resource: http://www.linphone.org.
This alternative server program is equipped with all the features of Skype and additionally offers:
- Fast file sharing.
- High quality sound and picture.
- Video conferences with a large number of participants.
- Work both in the local network and on the Internet.
- Improved interface for personal correspondence. At the same time, it is possible to quickly transfer messages from correspondence to a private channel.
- Independent choice of encryption mechanism and the ability to connect servers to each other.
- Message notifications on a special key located on the taskbar.
Be it ordinary communication purposes or corporate ones, the application copes with the tasks.
Official resource where you can find out more details: http://www.commfort.com/ru/.
The products replacing Skype are no worse than the “founding father” of video communication, no matter what his contribution to the development of IP telephony was. In some cases, other instant messengers are even better, given their additional features.
