TextNow vs. Google Voice vs. TextFree vs. TextMe: Full Comparison and Verdict 2025

TextNow vs. Google Voice vs. TextFree vs. TextMe: Comparison Table

TextNow Review

Platforms Supported: Windows/Mac/iOS/Android

TextNow is a popular free phone service that operates as an over-the-top (OTT) service, meaning it uses Wi-Fi or data networks instead of traditional cellular networks. It provides users with a unique phone number, allowing them to make unlimited calls and texts in the US and Canada.From its inception, TextNow has come a long way. Formerly, it was available only in the US and Canada. And now, it has expanded its services to two dozen countries.Further, to broaden more, it opened its first satellite office in 2016. Significantly, TextNow started Free Nationwide Talk & Text, launching its SIM cards in 2020.Their products and technology are in the hands of millions of users. 

TextNow works in the same way that most other free calling apps do.You can obtain a free phone number and make calls and send texts across North America at no cost by downloading and using the TextNow app on any device. This unique app stands out as the sole provider of free nationwide cellular service, which is accessible thanks to ad support. To begin, simply purchase a SIM Activation Kit. TextNow also allows for affordable international calling to more than 230 countries, giving you the freedom to communicate without the stress of high charges. By downloading the TextNow app, you'll receive a secondary phone number with a customizable area code. This service can be utilized as your business line across various devices, including your phone, tablet, and computer. 

Unlike similar programs, TextNow allows you to send messages and make phone calls even when you aren’t connected to the internet. They’ll send you a SIM activation kit that provides you access to T-Mobile's countrywide network for a one-time fee of $10. 

To sum up,TextNow is a good place to start if you’re searching for a simple program that lets you text and calls for free. It has a 4.5 rating on Google Play and a 4.8 rating on the App Store, making it the most respectable and well-liked free texting and calling apps in the United States.

TextNow Plans and Pricing

TextNow has a few different phone plans that you can choose from, including basic free plan with or without Wi-Fi, free essential data plan, and data plan. 

1) Basic Free Plan

The Wi-Fi Talk and Text service is available for free and requires a Wi-Fi connection to be able to text and call.

2) Free Essential Data Plan

The Essential Data plan is free for anyone living in the United States, which means you'll never be billed for it! This service runs on their nationwide network and requires a one-time purchase of a TextNow SIM card. This plan does not require a Wi-Fi connection or data plan to access calling, texting, and essential data services such as most email, maps, and rideshare services.

3) Data Plan

If you need mobile data to access the internet and other apps outside of TextNow, you can purchase a 1-hour or 24-hour unlimited data pass, or you can subscribe to a monthly unlimited data pass.

A significant downside of TextNow’s free plans is their ads, which I found distracting on desktop and mobile. If you don’t mind the ads, TextNow’s free service is a good value because there are few free unlimited calling and SMS platforms. You can also upgrade from a free ad-based plan to TextNow’s paid Ad-Free+ plan, which removes the ads from the app and provides other features, such as call forwarding and visual voicemail. 

TextNow Plan Comparison

TextNow Pros and Cons

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Google Voice Review

Platforms Supported: Windows/iOS/Android/ChromeOS

You can also use Google Voice from your web browser if you’re using one of these four options:

• Google Chrome

• Safari

• Mozilla Firefox

• Microsoft Edge

Google Voice is a phone system and call management software that integrates with your Gmail account and allows you to send voicemails to landlines, mobile and electronic numbers at a click. It was launched in 2009 in order to provide a new way to interact with users. Google Voice is low cost and converts SMS to email as well as call logging and call screening.It’s a simple VoIP service accessible by desktop or mobile, with only the essential business features—SMS, call routing, ring groups and voicemail. Google Voice is a good option for companies prioritizing low cost or those who want something simple for basic calling and texting in the U.S., Canada or from within Europe.

Google Voice offers a free U.S.-based phone number for calling, texting, and voicemail, with seamless integration into Gmail, Google Contacts, and Android. It doesn’t serve every region, but it’s one of the most reliable services if you have a Google account.Unlike TextNow, Google Voice has no ads, and its voicemail transcription, spam filtering, and call forwarding are excellent.

It’s really easy to get started: simply download the app and select the phone number you want to use. From there, you’ll be able to make free calls and texts from any Wi-Fi hotspot in the United States and Canada. Google Voice also offers free voicemail storage and will even transcribe your messages for you. A Chrome extension is also available from Google for your machine.Besides that, you can also access Google Voice from your computer so that’s great. All in all, Google Voice is a great choice for a free texting app and you should definitely check it out.

Google Voice Plans and Pricing

Google Voice only has three pricing plans that cost between $10 and $30 per user per month. Here are their differences:

• Starter plan – Available for $10 per user, per month. You’ll get a maximum of 10 users and 10 domestic locations, along with 24/7 support, a user forum, a knowledge base, and a phone line to contact.

• Standard Plan – Available for $20 per user, per month. You’ll get everything available with Starter, but the user and location caps are removed under this plan. Plus, a variety of features are added for the first time: Multi-level auto-attendant/virtual receptionist, customizable call routing, ring groups, desk phone support, eDiscovery for calls, and voicemail and SMS records.

• Premier Plan – Available for $30 per user, per month. You’ll get localized and toll-free numbers (although Google requires you to have a genuine presence in the location), as well as everything in Standard. However, it’s not a huge leap in functionality. Competing providers like GoTo Connect still offer more features – like customizable hold music, call flip, and a call queue – for a lower price.

For business use, you’ll need to pay for Google Workspace and select a paid Google Voice business plan. 

Google Voice Pros and Cons

TextFree Review

Platforms Supported: Web/iOS/Android

TextFree is a service that provides free texting and calling over the internet via a mobile app and web service. The service costs nothing because it is supported by ads, but users have the option of paying for an ad-free version with enhanced features.

TextFree lets you create a custom phone number with local area code. With the dedicated phone number, you can send free SMS and MMS to anyone you want. The great part is that you can text anyone even if they don’t have the app installed. Send texts, group messages, pictures, videos, and emoji from your phone or the web. Make reliable WiFi calls without a carrier plan and customize your voicemail greeting. There is also a calling option but it’s a paid service so there is that.TextFree runs on iOS, Android, and browsers, making it a flexible choice for users who want to stay connected across devices.

Inbound and outbound calls made using the Text Free app are both free and limitless. If you wish to call a phone number that doesn’t use Text Free, though, you’ll only get 60 minutes per month. More minutes can be earned by watching video advertising or purchased directly.

However, do note that Text Free is only available to US users. So if you are from the US, Text Free is the best free texting app you should get. The service is reliable and you will love all the perks of its free texting service.

TextFree Plans and Pricing

TextFree is FREE to use for calling and texting, and TextFree Plus is an optional paid subscription upgrade for added features.In addition to the standard TextFree features, TextFree Plus subscribers:

• Get to reserve their number (no more fear of losing it!)

• Receive an ad-free experience.

• Have the ability to change their TextFree number daily.

• Can receive certain shortcode/verification codes (see below for details).

• Can use their subscription with TextFree Web.  

All purchases of TextFree Plus are managed by the Apple App Store (iOS users) or the Google Play Store (Android users).

TextFree Pros and Cons

TextMe Review

Platforms Supported: Web/iOS/Android

TextMe is a cross-platform messaging application that allows you to send text messages (real SMS) to any phone number in United States, Canada, Mexico and 100 countries in the World for FREE,along with international calling options via credits.Similar to Text Free, it lets you send text messages and MMS to anyone for free. You can also send free text messages to users who don’t use Text Me which is really great. if you are looking for a free texting app which covers a broad list of countries then Text Me is the best app you can ask for. You should definitely go for it.

It supports multimedia messaging, voicemail, and custom ringtones, and users can choose numbers from different U.S. area codes.The unique aspect of TextMe is its reward system, where users earn free calling credits, making it an economical option for budget-conscious users. 

TextMe Plans and Pricing

TextMe is a free service that works over your existing internet data plan (the same you use for email and web browsing). You still have to check your phone operator contract for your data plan details, but if you have unlimited internet access from your smartphone, you won't have extra charge.

You can also use WiFi.You need to have an internet connection to use TextMe. TextMe works on WiFi, 3G or 4G or Edge connections, whichever is available.

However, removing ads or gaining unlimited calling requires a subscription.TextMe offers premium features, which may include ad removal, at a cost. 

TextMe Pros and Cons

Conclusion: Which One Should You Choose?

TextNow is a good option for free, unlimited calling and texting, especially as a secondary or temporary number. TextFree offers basic free texting and calling, but is heavily ad-supported and may have less reliable service than TextNow.TextMe is a free alternative to TextNow. It provides free texting and calling to any number, multimedia messaging, and customizable phone numbers. However, the free version includes ads, and the quality of service may depend on internet connectivity.

Google Voice stands out as a simple and cost-effective cloud phone system. It’s a great option if you use Google Workspace and Google Meet, especially if you have high domestic calling and SMS volumes. It’s also an excellent choice for companies prioritizing low cost, and teams based in Europe with high call volumes to other European countries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What carrier does TextNow use?

TextNow primarily uses T-Mobile's network as a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO). While calls are often made over Wi-Fi, TextNow also utilizes T-Mobile's 5G network for cellular service. Initially, TextNow was associated with Sprint, but after the merger, it transitioned to T-Mobile. 

Does TextNow work without WiFi?

Yes, TextNow can work without Wi-Fi. While TextNow's service is based in an app and can utilize Wi-Fi for calls and texts, it also offers a SIM card option that allows users to make calls and send texts over a cellular network, even when not connected to Wi-Fi. This cellular service is accessed through the TextNow app, not the device's native dialer or iMessage. 

Can TextNow number be traced?

Yes, while TextNow provides a degree of anonymity, police can trace TextNow numbers with a valid court order or subpoena. This is because law enforcement can access user data associated with the TextNow account. Specialized investigators can also help identify the user behind a TextNow number using various methods like analyzing user data and online activities. 

Is a TextNow number a real phone number?

Yes. TextNow’s virtual and mobile phone numbers are legitimate, real numbers.

Is TextNow safe?

Yes. As a legitimate mobile service, TextNow is safe and secure.

What is the downside of TextNow?

Its ad-cluttered interface and lack of data make TextNow ineffective as a primary business phone system or personal mobile number. Further, TextNow lacks the business phone features that most VoIP alternatives offer.

What is the disadvantage of Google Voice?

The main downside of Google Voice is that it lacks many of the advanced features that competitors have such as call monitoring, call queues and user-friendly analytics.

Can I use Google Voice as a phone?

Yes, you can use Google Voice as a phone service. However, you still need a hardware device—such as a smartphone or computer—to connect to the internet and make calls.

How long does a free TextMe number last?

TextMe Up allows you to get multiple numbers and you can keep each for a different amount of times! Your first number, your "default" number is free for American and Canadian users. As long as you use it at least once every two weeks, you will keep that number tied to your account.

Can people see who you are on TextMe?

On registration, it assigns a 'new' mobile number to each user, effectively making them anonymous.

Does TextMe send pictures?

Yes. TextMe users are able to send both pictures and videos to other TextMe users. However, some non-TextMe users may experience some issues with sending or receiving to/from a TextMe user. 

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