Top 5 Best Video Call Apps to Use After Skype Shuts Down

Microsoft is officially shutting down Skype. Even if you haven’t used the app for years, it’s likely to be the first introduction to a modern video call apps. Skype was easy to connect to friends and family around the world, as long as you have a reliable internet connection.

When Microsoft pulls a connector in Skype, long users need a new platform. Microsoft recommends switching to Teams, but there is a better video call app.

The most important challenge when choosing a new video calling platform is to make sure you have contacts in place. The last thing you want is to choose an app that no one else will use, and force your friends and family to make a difference. The easier the migration is, the best option is to integrate your existing accounts or popular platforms. Options like Viber and Signal offer powerful video calling features, but it’s easier to go to places where the network already exists.

With that in mind, here are the best alternatives to Skype that make switching effortless.

Google Meet:

If you`re searching out the perfect video calling solution for the common person for your contact list, Google Meet is a strong choice. In 2025, chances are high that the person you`re trying to reach already has a Google Account, although it`s now no longer their preferred platform.

Because Google Accounts are so widespread, Google Meet works throughout almost any device—Mac, PC, iOS, or Android—with out compatibility issues. It`s free to use, though premium users get perks like higher-quality video.

However, Google Meet isn`t the maximum intuitive option. Designed commonly for business and professional meetings, it lacks the casual, user-friendly feel that made Skype popular. Even calling them “meetings” instead of video calls makes it appear greater work-orientated than social. There`s additionally a 60-minute limit in keeping with name for free users—first-rate for quick chats however inconvenient for longer conversations.

If your pal has their Google Account nicely set up, calling them is seamless—nearly as easy as the use of a phone. But if their account isn`t configured for Meet, you`ll want to ship them a link to join, which provides a small hurdle to what have to be a straightforward process.

For laptop customers, Google Meet works immediately via an internet browser and not using a want for additonal software. Mobile customers can download the app for iOS or Android, aleven though Android devices frequently include Meet pre-installed.

Google Meet additionally helps video calls with as much as 100 participants, matching Skype`s capacity and making it a appropriate option for each personal and organization calls.

WhatsApp:

Just Like Google Meet, WhatsApp is one of the most frequently used communication platforms in the world. Even if you’re not actively using it, someone on your contact list could make a powerful alternative to Skype.

The big advantage of WhatsApp is that there is no time limit for video calls. You can chat with WhatsApp if you wish, as opposed to the 60-minute limit for free users of Google Meet.

WhatsApp is also very versatile in terms of accessibility. Available on iOS, Android, and desktop, and can also be used via web apps. In contrast to Google Meet, WhatsApp offers a dedicated desktop application, making it a more natural alternative to Skype. Especially for those who are used to making video calls on their computers.

However, supports a smaller number of participants than Skype. Skype allows up to 100 people per call, but caps video calls to 32 participants. This remains a significant number for most personal and small group conversations.

Messenger:

If you are considering the Meta app, Facebook Messenger is another option. Messenger has long been a contact for Facebook users who are seamlessly integrated into social networks. Over time, Meta Messenger has been positioned as an independent messaging service and is a solid alternative to personal video calls.

The biggest advantage of Messenger is its integrated user base. With Facebook still offering billions of users, it’s more likely that people who want to make a call are already on the platform. You may need to add it as a friend first, but the size of your Facebook network makes it a comfortable option for video chat.

Messenger desktop experience is another point, offering a Skype-like surface that may be familiar with long-term users. One disadvantage, however, is that you cannot start a video call without an existing chat thread. If you have never sent that person before, you must first send a text before starting a video call.

Previously, supported messenger video calls for up to 50 people on the currently discounted feature “Room”. Today there is no official Messenger Call participants, and no time limit – an important advantage over Google Meet.

FACETIME:

If you and the person you are calling, both Apple devices are one of the easiest video calling options available. The service is end-to-end encryption, very easy to use and has practical features such as screen release and remote screen control.

It is seamless to initiate a FaceTime call. Tap the FaceTime button in the iMessage thread or open the FaceTime app and select your contacts. They are connected within seconds.

• Non-Apple User Challenges

FaceTime works easily in the Apple ecosystem, but when you try to call someone who doesn’t have an iPhone, iPad or Mac, things are getting more difficult if you live in another country and don’t associate international numbers with Apple.

However, addressed this limitation by introducing a FaceTime link. This feature allows you to generate a link that allows Android and PC users to connect to FaceTime calls. Add a few extra steps compared to calling another Apple user. However, if you are an iPhone or Mac user looking for a simple solution, it’s still a great option.

FaceTime, like WhatsApp, supports up to 32 participants per call with no time limit.

However, the biggest drawback is the lack of integrated text chat functionality. Google Meet is based on call messaging and text communications from WhatsApp & Messenger, but FaceTime exists only as a video and audio call platform. If everyone is using an Apple device on their phone, they can continue the conversation about iMessage, but they don’t offer the same seamless chat experience as other platforms.

Microsoft Team:

Microsoft naturally wants Skype users to switch to teams. It seems like a logical step, but the platform is primarily designed for work in the workplace and is not a casual video call apps. The name itself – the team – makes it clear that his focus is on business and professional use, and is slightly exaggerated to personal conversations. (For the same reason, we usually recommend Slack for casual video chats too.)

If you and your contacts are Windows users with a Microsoft account, your team could be a practical option. It supports up to 100 participants per call, with free users receiving a time limit for group calls for 60 minutes (although one interview can take up to 30 hours).

Furthermore, teams are available on several platforms, not just Windows PCs. If your device has a camera, you can use your team for video calls. The app also includes an integrated chat function, a plus for ongoing conversations.

Despite his skills, the team feels more like a professional tool than after the unofficial video call apps. The user interface and features are aimed at meetings, collaboration, and productivity. This makes it unnecessary complicated for simple personal calls.

If you’re looking for a user-friendly and casual video call apps, options like WhatsApp, FaceTime, Google Meet, Messenger and more are good for you.