Staying connected with friends, family, or business contacts across the Atlantic doesn’t have to cost a fortune. Whether you’re catching up with loved ones or closing deals, finding the cheapest way to phone USA from UK can help you save big on your phone bill. For the best buyer guide of flagship phone click here
Thanks to cheap international calling apps, WiFi calling to USA, and internet-based calls to USA, there are now more options than ever. With the rise of affordable VoIP calling services and pay-as-you-go calls to USA, you can make crystal-clear calls without worrying about roaming fees. This guide explores every practical method to help you communicate smarter and cheaper from the UK to the USA.
How to Call the USA from the UK Without Breaking the Bank
Making a call from the UK to the USA doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With many cheap international calling apps and digital services available today, it’s now easier than ever to stay connected across the Atlantic. The best way to call USA from UK depends on your phone plan, device, and how often you call.
To begin a call to the USA, you need to dial the international code 00 or +, then 1 (the US country code), followed by the area code and number. Whether you use a mobile or landline, it’s important to check UK to USA phone rates before making frequent calls.
Best Free Apps to Call the USA from the UK in 2025
Several apps let you make free US calls from UK using your internet connection. WhatsApp, Google Voice, FaceTime, and Signal are popular in 2025 for their stability and low cost. These internet-based calls to USA offer excellent quality and are ideal for personal chats or quick updates.
However, most of these apps only allow calls between users who both have the app installed. For calling a landline or mobile number in the US, other tools like TextNow or Google Voice might be more suitable. These free calling services to US require Wi-Fi or mobile data but cost nothing if both parties use the same app.
Low-Cost Calling Plans to the US: Which Provider Wins?
Mobile providers like EE, Three, Vodafone, and O2 offer international add-ons that make it easier to save money on international calls. These cheapest mobile plans UK to US allow you to pay a small fee monthly and get discounted call minutes to the United States.
Pay-as-you-go SIMs also provide flexible options, especially if you rarely make calls. Some pay-as-you-go calls to USA can cost as little as 1p per minute with the right plan. Make sure to check with your provider and compare offers to find the most cost-effective way to phone US.
Can You Use Wi-Fi to Call the USA from the UK for Free?
Yes, WiFi calling to USA is a great alternative to using your mobile minutes. Most modern smartphones support Wi-Fi calling, which means you can call over an internet connection without using traditional minutes or incurring roaming fees.
As long as your provider allows Wi-Fi calling, and your device supports it, this is a reliable method. It works especially well indoors or in areas with weak cellular signals. This is one of the easiest long-distance calling hacks today.
Top VoIP Services That Make Calling the USA Dirt Cheap
Affordable VoIP calling is another excellent option for those who frequently contact the USA. Voice over IP services like Vonage, Rebtel, and Zoom Phone offer professional-level call quality and global reach. These platforms provide low rates to US numbers, even to landlines.
With VoIP, you use the internet instead of traditional lines. This lowers costs significantly and helps you avoid hidden charges on overseas calls. For business or high-volume use, VoIP is the best way to call USA from UK with long-term savings.
Hidden Fees You Must Avoid When Phoning the USA from the UK
Some providers charge extra without clear notices. Always read the fine print and ask questions before committing to a plan. Common hidden costs include connection fees, call setup charges, and taxes. These often surprise people who expect cheap US calling from UK.
To avoid hidden charges on overseas calls, check if your provider uses per-minute billing or rounded-up rates. Choose services that clearly list fees. Online reviews can also reveal common customer complaints.
Is It Cheaper to Call Landlines or Mobiles in the USA?
Many providers charge different rates based on the destination number. It is often cheaper to call landline USA cheap than mobile numbers. This is because mobile networks may include routing costs or added charges.
In most cases, a call to a landline number in the USA is more affordable and stable in quality. Always check this before selecting a plan or using a new app. The mobile vs landline rates to USA can change your overall bill significantly.
How to Use WhatsApp, Skype, and Google Voice for US Calls
Apps like WhatsApp and Skype are easy to use for internet call options to America. WhatsApp offers high-quality audio and video calling, but only works app-to-app. Skype and Google Voice allow calling to actual phone numbers, making them suitable for more than just personal chats.
To get started, install the app, sign in, and buy some credit if needed. Google Voice is especially useful for business calls. These apps to reduce call costs also support call recording and voicemail in many cases.
Comparison of Mobile vs. Landline Rates to the USA
Here is a quick comparison of average per-minute rates:
| Provider | Call to US Mobile (p/min) | Call to US Landline (p/min) |
| Vodafone | 55p | 40p |
| Three | 35p | 30p |
| O2 | 50p | 35p |
| EE | 60p | 40p |
This international phone call comparison shows that landlines are generally cheaper than mobiles. Using an app or VoIP can reduce this cost dramatically.
Using Calling Cards from the UK to the USA: Still Worth It?
Calling cards may seem outdated, but they still help some users save money on international calls. They work by dialing a local access number, then the destination number in the US. This keeps costs low, especially for long conversations.
However, they often come with connection fees and expiration dates. In 2025, digital calling options are usually better. But for those with limited internet, calling cards remain a cost-effective way to phone US.
Can I Call the USA with a UK SIM? Tips for Saving Money
Yes, you can call the USA using a UK SIM, but roaming charges may apply. Many networks offer international bolt-ons, or you can switch to UK SIM to call USA with built-in discounts. This helps in calling USA without roaming charges.
Dual-SIM phones let you use one line for data and another for calling. That’s helpful for travelers or business users who need better rates. Just make sure you turn off roaming when not in use.
Final Tips: Best Time and Method to Call the USA from the UK
Calling the USA from the UK works best in the late afternoon or early evening, depending on time zones. Avoid early morning UK hours when it’s night in the US. Use cheap international calling apps when possible for the most savings.
Whether you use a SIM, VoIP, app, or calling card, the best way to call USA from UK depends on how often and how long you talk. Keep exploring options to find what fits your needs, and always stay updated with provider changes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How to call the US from the UK for free?
Use free apps like WhatsApp, Skype, or Google Voice over Wi-Fi to call the US.
How to make a call to the USA for free?
Install VoIP apps like Viber or Zoom and make calls using an internet connection.
What is the cheapest way to use your phone in the US?
Buy a local US SIM or use WiFi calling to USA through cheap international calling apps.
How can I make international calls cheaply?
Choose affordable VoIP calling or pay-as-you-go calls to USA with no hidden charges.
How to call USA number from UK cheaply?
Use internet-based calls to USA through apps or international calling plans.
Is it free to call the USA from the UK on WhatsApp?
Yes, WhatsApp allows free voice and video calls from the UK to the USA over Wi-Fi.