As discussed in our previous articles, we had mentioned about FaceTime, about its working and how to use it on Mac & iPhone. Here in this article, we are going to discuss the FaceTime alternatives. So if you are looking for some best alternatives for video calls in the market for FaceTime, this article is for you. So let’s explore some other alternatives of FaceTime and their respective features…
Although there are many apps like Facetime and many are coming in the market almost daily. As per our research and user reviews, we are listing down top 10 best FaceTime alternatives for video calls along with their pros and cons.
Facetime is also available for Windows and Mac devices. Officially Facetime is not launched for Windows PC but here is a method to use Facetime on PC and some best alternatives of Facetime.
FaceTime alternatives for video calls
Apple’s audio and video calling service, FaceTime, from which you can make free calls to anywhere just at the cost of your wifi or cellular data. Here are some alternatives to that for video calling.
1) Skype
Pros:
- Flexible calling
- Real-time Video+VoIP on mobile and PC
- Cross-platform
- You can make direct international calls at cheap rate
- A simple group calling feature
- Beneficial for large group calls over multiple platforms
- Google Voice
- Can create voicemail number in order to receive calls from landline or mobiles (offline)
- FaceTime can only be used for iOS users while Skype supports multi-platform like windows, android, etc
- Advantages of multi-tasking
Cons:
- Being a VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) its speed depends upon the speed of network connectivity
- More prone to cyberbullying and attacks
- Wiretapping capabilities could cause security breaches
- Requires Wi-fi or 3G services to work
Also Red: How to Use FaceTime on iPhone and Mac
2) Facebook Messenger
Pros:
- Absolutely free platform for texting, calling and collaborations
- Nice platform for group calls
- Not only calls, but texting is also fun like never before
- You can call your Facebook friends easily and hassle-free
- It makes chatting faster and easier
- You can send media as well
- In-built stickers make video calls a fun experience
- Seamless audio & video calls capabilities
Cons:
- Not so apt as per the security
- Drains battery of the device faster
- Annoying frequent notifications
- Takes up a lot of space
3) Google Duo
Pros:
- Offers 720p high definition video calling
- High-quality video calls over low-speed internet as well
- Great upgradation in video calling experience
- Google trusted services
- A feature of leaving a message if a person isn’t available to pick up the call
Cons:
- Cannot be used on different devices as it uses the phone number
- Cannot send a text or chat over this platform
- No knock preview option over iOS version for the incoming calls unless the duo is opened
4) WhatsApp
Pros:
- WhatsApp video call is seamless and easy to use
- Call connect even over low-speed internet
- The two caller screen can be toggled
- While calling you can get back to the messaging chat
- Doesn’t drain too much battery of the device
- You can flip the camera as well for showing the opposite side of your face
Cons:
- The quality of video call isn’t too appreciable
- The low-speed internet lowers the video quality
- Video calls cause hindrance if either of the caller’s internet speed is slow
5) Viber
Pros:
- Offers full-screen call notification
- Video calls and texting facilities
- You can respond to messages through push notifications without actually opening the Viber
- Integrates phone address book each time you make a call or send a message
- Group chats services
- Media sharing available
Cons:
- Doesn’t offer call blocking facility
- Reduces video quality over slow speed internet
- If you change your number, you have to reinstall Viber
- You can’t communicate a non-Viber or offline friend
6) IMO
Pros:
- Doesn’t consume much space. Possess small sized cache files.
- Huge sticker listing for fun experience
- International calls are easier and seamless
- High-quality video calling
- Supports Group chats
- Best-in-class control
- Call encryption ensures security
Cons:
- Cannot be used without internet connectivity
- Consumes battery
7) Google Hangouts
Pros:
- User-friendly interface with fun features
- Youtube integration
- Grouping calling facilities
- Comes with ease of use and practical interface
Cons:
- Needs an invitation to Google+ to get started
- Google Video plugin needs to be installed
8) Tango
Pros:
- Tango recognizes you through your mobile number and hence username and password creation like in FaceTime isn’t required
- Contacts address book synchronization automatically
- Free video and voice calling service
- During calls, you can create certain animations like flying balloons over the screen.
- Simple and straightforward interface with user-friendly features
Cons:
- No integration with other platforms
- No calls to non-tango users possible
- No texting possible
9) WeChat
Pros:
- An extensive set of interesting features other than simple chat and calling facilities like finding a store nearby, shake to identify songs, send money, search for articles, WeChat wallet, and so on
- Mini programs and online games
- Apart from calling and chatting, other communication methods include picture messaging, contacts details sharing, and act as a social media platform.
- Wallet features make it more versatile than most of the instant communication platforms
Cons:
- There is a limit to add the number of friends
- Sometimes the features are a bit confusing
- Privacy settings are not up to the mark
10) Hike Messenger
Pros:
- Fast and easy-to-use
- Interesting interface and updates frequently
- Other features like news, games and many small programs
- Free SMS facility for offline contacts
- High-quality video calls
- Attractive stickers and chat background feature
- Mutual chat background feature
- Wallet facility
Cons:
- Calli quality is not up to the mark
- Overwhelming interface
Final Words:
Thanks for reading this article on best Facetime Alternatives for Android and Windows PC. Comment your favorite Video Calling App like Facetime for PC or Windows.
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