International Call on Skype
Skype remains one of the most popular platforms for making international calls, offering affordable rates and excellent convenience for both personal and business communication. Whether you’re connecting with family overseas or collaborating with colleagues abroad, Skype provides various options to suit your needs. But how does it work, and how much does an international call on Skype cost? This article answers all your questions and helps you make the most of Skype’s international calling features.
What Is Skype International Calling?
Skype is a communication platform that allows users to make voice and video calls, send messages, and share files over the internet. While calls between Skype users are free, Skype also offers the ability to call landlines and mobile numbers worldwide for a fee. This feature is what makes Skype a popular option for international communication.
How Does Skype International Calling Work?
To make an international call on Skype, follow these steps:
- Sign Up: Create a Skype account if you don’t already have one.
- Add Skype Credit or a Subscription: Purchase Skype Credit for pay-as-you-go calls or choose a subscription for unlimited or discounted rates to specific regions.
- Dial the International Number: Use Skype’s dial pad to enter the international number, starting with the country code. For example, to call a number in the UK, dial +44 followed by the local number.
- Connect and Call: Press the call button and start your conversation!
Does Skype Charge for International Calls?
Yes, Skype charges for international calls to landlines or mobile numbers. The cost depends on:
- The Destination Country: Different countries have varying rates. For example, calls to the U.S. may be cheaper than calls to certain regions in Africa.
- Your Payment Method: You can either use Skype Credit (pay-per-minute) or a subscription (flat monthly fee).
For updated rates, visit Skype’s official pricing page.
What Are the Benefits of Skype for International Calls?
- Affordable Rates: Skype offers competitive rates compared to traditional international calls.
- Free Calls Between Skype Users: If both parties are on Skype, the call is entirely free.
- Global Reach: Call landlines and mobile numbers in over 150 countries.
- Flexible Payment Options: Choose pay-as-you-go Skype Credit or monthly subscriptions tailored to your needs.
- Multi-Device Support: Use Skype on your phone, computer, or tablet.
Limitations of Skype International Calling
- Internet Dependency: You need a stable internet connection for clear calls. Poor connectivity can result in dropped or low-quality calls.
- Not Always the Cheapest: While Skype is affordable, other platforms like AfriCallShop may offer even lower rates for specific regions.
- No Emergency Calls: Skype cannot be used to contact emergency services.
How to Save Money on International Calls Using Skype?
- Use Skype Subscriptions: Subscriptions often provide unlimited or discounted rates to specific countries.
- Leverage Free Skype-to-Skype Calls: If possible, encourage your contacts to use Skype for free calls.
- Monitor Call Duration: Track the length of your calls to avoid running out of Skype Credit.
- Compare Rates: For frequent calls, compare Skype’s rates with alternatives like AfriCallShop, which specializes in affordable international calls.
Alternatives to Skype for International Calls
While Skype is a reliable platform, other services might better suit your needs:
- AfriCallShop: Offers low-cost calls to landlines and mobiles worldwide, particularly in Africa and other high-rate regions from iOS and Android.
- WhatsApp: Free voice and video calls when both users are connected to Wi-Fi.
- Google Voice: Affordable international call rates with seamless integration into Google services.
Why Choose AfriCallShop Over Skype?
While Skype is a great option for general use, AfriCallShop stands out for those looking for:
- Lower Rates: Competitive pricing for high-cost destinations.
- High-Quality Connections: Reliable service for uninterrupted communication.
- Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface tailored for international callers.
Conclusion
Skype remains a leading choice for international calls, offering affordability and convenience with its versatile features. While calls between Skype users are free, charges apply for calls to landlines and mobiles. By choosing the right payment option, like Skype Credit or a subscription, you can control your costs effectively.
For those seeking even more affordable international calling options, consider services like AfriCallShop, which provide competitive rates and excellent service for staying connected across the globe.