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 free application, which 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 popularity grew this application started receiving many others useful functions. 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

An online communication program that can be used to send text messages, files, call mobile phones, 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.

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 everything necessary functions, but there weren't 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 great importance have factors such as, for example, cost and the presence of Russification (menu design in Russian).

The table below shows the main characteristics of alternative programs to make it easier to choose between them.

Comparative characteristics of programs alternative to Skype

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 Apple-based	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 to work on mobile device, while the 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 the number mobile phone
• low phone security.

Here's what users say about this application:

“The application is simply installed, synchronized with the contact list, thanks to which, immediately after installation in 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, to use the service you do not need to install any 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 it requires constantly opening 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 sufficient high speed Internet.

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 latest update problems began - the software does not launch stable enough, causes failures in other programs that use the Internet, while 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 existing version is no longer a 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 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 connection even with a significant load on the bandwidth. 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 what specific 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 Google services Hangouts software may seem quite convenient and functional, and in many ways, 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 the owners Apple technology, then the pre-installed FaceTime app will be for them the best option in the case 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

Most popular program For free communication using a smartphone or PC, Skype is traditionally considered. 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 perform free calls to any telephone number registered in the system. At the same time, always high quality communications. Other benefits include:

The disadvantages of using the application include binding to phone number– using it on a computer is not nearly as 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 electronic by mailbox Google and is linked to search service profiles on PCs and smartphones.

However, for registration of this account It will only take a few minutes and as a result you will get:

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 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 provides fairly reliable protection. 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 paid features– 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, 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 availability group chats. Among the disadvantages is 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.

Today it is difficult to imagine life without Skype. After all, all relatives, friends, work colleagues and just acquaintances are there. To start communicating with any interlocutor, just make a few clicks. Everything is simply easy and accessible. But what if you need to maintain communication using other software? In this case, you need to use an alternative to Skype.

Analogues of Skype

To use an analogue instead of Skype, you first need to decide on the platform. Each of them has its own ideal set similar programs. We will look at two large groups. Please note that finding an alternative to Skype for Windows Phone you can in the section mobile platforms.

Discord

Discord appeared relatively recently and immediately established itself as stable and quality program for communication voice messages. The application immediately began to be used by e-sports teams, which only confirms its undeniable advantages:

• The ability to participate in large-scale voice conferences without significant expenditure of computer resources;
• Access can be obtained not only from the PC version of the application, but also through a convenient web interface on the program website;
• Availability of clients for mobile platforms: Android and iOS to always stay connected;
• Flexible voice chat settings;
• Increased security by adding malicious IPs to the blacklist.

ooVoo

ooVoo is a complete analogue of Skype for the computer, only much simplified. This does not mean that the program is inferior to Skype - quite the opposite. The most important advantage is the lightning-fast opportunity to start working. In other words, you don’t need to go through a long registration process, just quickly fill out three items about yourself, or integrate your account using social networks Twitter and Facebook. Other benefits:

• You can simultaneously video chat in a conference with 12 users;
• It is possible to send video messages;
• Ability to record all incoming and outgoing calls;
• Possibility to transfer files whose size is does not exceed 25 megabytes.

LINE

LINE is an analogue of Skype for a computer without a phone. This means that the program client can be used on a computer. There is also an optional option to use application clients on other platforms – Android and iOS. The functionality of Line is very similar to Skype.

Here you can communicate via video, audio and text chats, send files, create your own contact groups and even view a special activity feed of your friends.

• Light and pleasant Russian-language interface;
• Built-in convenient social network elements;
• Quick registration with minimal filling of information;
• Possibility to fill out personal information questionnaire after registration.

Conclusion

After reading our material, you will understand that there are a huge number of programs similar to Skype and each of them has its own advantages and benefits. Therefore, the question “What is the alternative to Skype?” no longer relevant. Explore, select and install. And then get to work! Which alternative to Skype is the best - decide for yourself, because each application has its own unique functionality.

A unique idea born in the developer’s head loses its former properties with practical implementation. Behind a person, a cohort of “like-minded people” forms, who create copies of the original source interspersed with individuality. Today we will talk about what it is alternative Skype, we will consider the most worthy projects, their strengths and weaknesses.

Briefly about the main thing

Hangouts

Minor from Google, which is linked to the account of the same name. The service has undergone integration with mail and profile on PCs and phones, which simplifies access to:

• Content on YouTube (text chats, streams, videos).
• Different platforms running specific operating systems.

A nice addition - a file not sent via the messenger can be viewed using cloud storage Google company.

KakaoTalk

Developers from South Korea took care of creating another “clone” of Skype, adding several interesting features. Within the system, the user can:

• Order food and make purchases in online stores (in foreign countries).
• View the news feed, list of promotions and discounts on popular products.

The main advantages of the project are an intuitive interface and the ability to transfer large files (up to 100 MB).

Among the shortcomings are: a dubious system for protecting user information, limited language support, unstable operation due to the remoteness of the server implementation.