Calling your bestie in France? Or catching up with grandma in India? Skype makes it super easy to call people all over the world. But wait—how much does it actually cost? Let’s break it down in a way that’s simple, fun, and crystal clear.
TL;DR (Too Long, Didn’t Read)
Skype lets you call phones abroad using either Skype Credit or a subscription. Calling rates vary from country to country and depend on whether you're calling a mobile or landline. Some destinations are super cheap, others—not so much. Make sure to check rates before you dial, so you don’t get bill shock!
What is Skype, Anyway?
Skype is a communication app. You can use it to call, chat, or video with people around the globe. Best of all, Skype-to-Skype calls are totally free.
But calling a phone number that's not on Skype? That’s a different story. That’s what this guide is about—international calling rates when you use Skype to call a landline or mobile number.
Two Ways to Pay: Skype Credit vs Subscription
- Skype Credit: Pay-as-you-go calling. Great for occasional users.
- Subscription: Flat monthly rate for heavy callers. Usually cheaper if you call the same country often.
Let’s explore these options a bit more!
Skype Credit
This is like topping up your phone. You put in money, and Skype charges you per minute. Each country has its own rate. Some rates also depend on whether you’re calling a mobile or a landline.
Here’s an example:
- Calling the UK (landline): Around $0.02 per minute
- Calling the UK (mobile): Around $0.15 per minute
See the difference? Always check what type of number you’re calling!
Subscription
If you're calling someone often—like daily calls to a partner overseas—a subscription makes more sense. You pay a fixed monthly fee and get a certain number of minutes (or even unlimited) for your selected destination.
Some examples:
- Unlimited calls to landlines in the US: ~$3.59/month
- 400 minutes to mobiles and landlines in India: ~$7.79/month
Pretty budget-friendly, right?
So… How Much Does It Actually Cost to Call Abroad?
Skype’s international rates vary, but here are a few average examples as of today:
| Destination | Landline Rate (per min) | Mobile Rate (per min) |
|---|---|---|
| USA | $0.023 | $0.023 |
| India | $0.013 | $0.009 |
| Afghanistan | $0.108 | $0.337 |
| UK | $0.022 | $0.117 |
| Nigeria | $0.172 | $0.188 |
These rates can change, so always check the official Skype rates page before calling.
Is Skype Cheaper Than Other Options?
Often, yes! Especially for landlines. Compared to mobile carriers, Skype can save you a lot.
But for mobile calls to certain countries, services like WhatsApp, FaceTime, or Messenger—though internet/data-based—might be more cost-effective, especially for longer chats.
When Is Skype the Best Choice?
- When you're calling someone without internet access.
- When you want reliable audio with low delays.
- When you're calling a landline number.
- When your friend doesn’t use any other app but knows how to answer a phone.
Hidden Costs? Not Many!
Skype is pretty transparent. But here are some things to watch for:
- Connection fee: A one-time charge at the start of a call in some countries.
- Charged per minute: Even if you talk 10 seconds, it’s a full minute’s charge.
- Internet usage: If you're on mobile data, it counts toward your data plan.
Other than that—no contracts, no gotchas!
Tips to Save More on Skype Calls
- Use Wi-Fi: Avoid racking up mobile data charges.
- Buy a subscription: If calling one or two countries a lot, it's cheaper overall.
- Call landlines: Usually cheaper than mobiles.
- Bundle calls: Instead of multiple short calls, make one long catch-up session.
What About Emergency Calls?
Important! You can't use Skype to call emergency services in most countries. That includes 911 (US), 112 (EU), and others. Always have another way to call for help.
Final Thoughts
Skype brings people closer, no matter how far. It’s not the only option out there, but it’s one of the most widely used for international calling. Whether you’re checking in with family across the ocean or making business calls to another continent, Skype has tools that match your calling style and budget.
Pro tip: Before any big convo, load up your Skype Credit or check if a subscription works better. It pays to plan ahead—literally!
Ready to Make Your First Call?
Just open Skype, type in the number (with country code), and hit call. You’ll hear that magical ring, and next thing you know—you’re talking to someone across the globe like they’re in the next room.
Happy calling!
