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Linphone vs TextNow

Professional comparison and analysis to help you choose the right software solution for your needs.

Linphone icon
Linphone
TextNow icon
TextNow

Linphone vs TextNow: The Verdict

⚡ Summary:

Linphone: Linphone is an open source voice over IP (VoIP) phone and instant messaging client for Linux, Windows, macOS, iOS and Android. It supports standard voice and video calls as well as instant messaging between Linphone clients.

TextNow: TextNow is a free texting and calling app and service. It provides a free phone number to send SMS messages and make phone calls over Wi-Fi. The basic service is ad-supported, but premium options without ads are available.

Both tools serve their respective audiences. Compare the features, pricing, and user ratings above to determine which best fits your needs.

Last updated: May 2026 · Comparison by Sugggest Editorial Team

Feature Linphone TextNow
Sugggest Score — —
Category Social & Communications Social & Communications
Pricing Open Source —

Product Overview

Linphone
Linphone

Description: Linphone is an open source voice over IP (VoIP) phone and instant messaging client for Linux, Windows, macOS, iOS and Android. It supports standard voice and video calls as well as instant messaging between Linphone clients.

Type: software

Pricing: Open Source

TextNow
TextNow

Description: TextNow is a free texting and calling app and service. It provides a free phone number to send SMS messages and make phone calls over Wi-Fi. The basic service is ad-supported, but premium options without ads are available.

Type: software

Key Features Comparison

Linphone
Linphone Features
  • Voice over IP calling
  • Video calling
  • Instant messaging
  • Call encryption
  • Call recording
  • Call transfer
  • Audio codecs (Speex, G.711, G.722, G.729, MP3, AMR, etc.)
  • Video codecs (H.263, H.264, VP8, H.265)
  • NAT traversal using ICE protocol
  • Echo cancellation
  • DTMF support
  • Presence and buddy lists
  • Address book integration
  • Call logs
  • Conference calling
  • Call waiting
  • Caller ID
  • Message waiting indication
TextNow
TextNow Features
  • Free phone number
  • Free calling and texting over WiFi
  • Voicemail
  • Call forwarding
  • Conference calling
  • Group messaging
  • MMS picture messaging

Pros & Cons Analysis

Linphone
Linphone
Pros
  • Free and open source
  • Cross-platform availability
  • End-to-end encryption
  • Good call quality
  • Active development and support
Cons
  • Limited native integration with mobile OS
  • Less features than proprietary alternatives
  • Smaller user base than competitors like Skype
TextNow
TextNow
Pros
  • Free basic service
  • No contract required
  • Works over WiFi
  • Can port existing number
  • Good call quality
Cons
  • Limited cellular minutes
  • Data charges may apply without WiFi
  • Ads in free version
  • Limited advanced features in free version

Pricing Comparison

Linphone
Linphone
  • Open Source
TextNow
TextNow
  • Not listed

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Learn More About Each Product

Linphone
Linphone
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →
TextNow
TextNow
Reviews, pricing & alternatives →

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