Side by side
Signal vs Talkatone
Both stand on voip calling apps. Which one you can start free with, which one lets you read the code, and what each costs once you pay.
Free plan AndroidiPhoneLinux+2
Signal covers everyday messaging, file sharing and voice or video calls, with encryption and group controls. Keep the phone-registration and desktop setup requirements in mind.
Visit Signal Free plan AndroidiPhone
Choose Talkatone if you want free calling and texting to most U.S. numbers through an Android or iOS app, without using cell minutes. Look elsewhere if you need a phone number outside the U.S. or Canada, or if your international calling needs do not fit its credits or select-country subscription.
Visit TalkatoneThe facts
| Signal | Talkatone | |
|---|---|---|
| Free plan | Yes | Yes |
| Open source | Not published | Not published |
| Runs on | Android, iPhone, Linux, Mac, Windows | Android, iPhone |
| Lowest paid plan | Free or on request | Talkatone Calling Subscription: $12.99 a month |
| Plans published | 1 | 2 |
| Maker | Not published | Not published |
| Website | signal.org | talkatone.com |
| On voip calling apps | #5 of 21 | #9 of 21 |
Signal: what it does well
- Messages and calls are end-to-end encrypted by default.
- Supports voice and video group calls.
- Group chats include admins, permissions and @mentions.
- Users can connect through a unique username.
- Available across mobile and desktop platforms.
What to know first
- Phone number registration is required.
- Desktop app requires prior phone installation.
- Accounts can link up to five devices.
- Minimum age is 13, subject to higher local requirements.
Talkatone: what it does well
- Free U.S. number that can be changed while keeping history.
- Unlimited texts to U.S. numbers on the free plan.
- Free calls and texts to most U.S. numbers, including landlines.
- Picture and GIF messaging includes a GIF library and photo editor.
- Available for Android and iOS.
What to know first
- The service is intended for use only in the United States and Canada.
- International calling requires credits or a paid subscription.
- Available phone numbers are limited to U.S. or Canadian numbers.
- The maker says account information security cannot be guaranteed.
Alternatives to Signal Alternatives to Talkatone The whole list