TextFree Review: Is it worth it?

If you’re on the hunt for a free texting or calling app, or even just a second phone number to use for a side gig, a small business, or general online safety, then you would have come across TextFree. TextFree is a free messaging and calling app that provides a real local phone number (in most U.S. and Canadian areas) for texting and calling over Wi-Fi or your own data plan (not to be mistaken for TextNow, another free calling & texting app that can also be used as a wireless phone provider with its free 5G service).

But is TextFree the best app to fulfill your talk & text needs? It has some decent features, but if you’re looking for a cleaner experience with more premium features, there are better alternatives.

TextFree summary

TextFree is a good starting option for anyone who wants a second phone number or a free phone number to use for their growing business. However, the free version gets annoying fast, to the point that you’re tempted to start paying for the Plus version (which is probably not an accident) to be able to get any texting done. While it’s reasonable to offer the free service through ads (as many free services do), these ads are a little too intrusive to be able to enjoy the service at all.  

TextFree's full screen ad after exiting out of a conversation back to the main screen.

Additionally, with a lack of support outside of Wi-Fi and without features like 911 and international support, TextFree would not be a good choice as a longer-term, phone service alternative solution.  

We’ve compiled a detailed list of all the features and paid upgrades available through TextFree, so you can easily determine whether it fits your particular needs.  

TextFree pros & cons

Final Verdict: Should you use TextFree?

TextFree is a OK option for those who are looking for a second phone number for privacy or an inexpensive business line. However, the actual experience of using the free app is frustrating with having to constantly exit out of full screen ads and having to upgrade to use features like receiving a verification code (from your bank, for example). While it holds true to its promise of providing a free phone number with free calling and texting, there are similar services, like TextNow, that provide the same features with a cleaner experience and extras that don’t cost a thing, like international texting & calling and even nationwide 5G service so you’re not left stranded without Wi-Fi.  

Ultimately, for a longer-term service that is easy to use and reliable, we’d recommend looking for an alternative.  

TextFree alternatives

If you’re looking for a free second phone number that can be used as a true phone service alternative, here are some options:  

• TextNow. A similar free talk & text app that offers broader international calling & texting, plus access to a free 5G network with unlimited calling & texting, plus data for select apps like email, maps, finance, and rideshare for $0/month.  

• TextPlus. A similar free talk & text app that offers free communication to both American and Canadian numbers.  

• TextMe. A similar free talk & text app that allows you to manage multiple numbers under one account, including international numbers.  

If you’re just looking for a free texting app but don’t necessarily need a second phone number, there are other alternatives, such as: 

• Signal.  
• Viber.  
• WhatsApp.  
• Google Voice.  
  

TextFree detailed review

TextFree plans & pricing

TextFree, as the name suggests, primarily offers a free calling & texting plan that can be used without limits over Wi-Fi. If you have a data plan with your carrier, you can use the TextFree app outside of Wi-Fi as well -- but it will use your mobile data, so unless you have an unlimited data plan keep an eye on the app's data usage. 

On top of its free plan, it also offers a paid upgrade for a more premium experience, called TextFree Plus:  

If you’re using your TextFree number for your side gig or small business, there may be a benefit to upgrading to TextFree Plus for the added features and security of your number. But note that you could also get a talk & text phone plan from a prepaid carrier that will give you nationwide service without Wi-Fi for the same or even cheaper price.

TextFree reliability & quality

TextFree’s reliability mainly depends on the reliability of your internet connection. As long as your internet (Wi-Fi or mobile data) connection is strong, you will experience reliable calls and texts.  

Some real user reviews do criticize the call quality, as the service is run on VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) rather than a traditional cellular network. With VoIP, there are higher chances of dropped calls, choppy audio, or other call-related issues.  

TextFree features 

While it’s a free app, there are enough calling & texting features included to make the experience feel robust. Here’s a compilation of all the features available with the free base plan:  

For a free app, there are enough features to make it a viable phone service alternative, but again, only if you’re not in need of service outside of Wi-Fi. If what you’re looking for is a free phone service that can keep you connected wherever you go, look into an alternative like TextNow.  

TextFree customer service & user experience

TextFree’s customer support is limited, as it is a free service. You can find answers to most questions on its support site, but if you’re experiencing an active issue and need more hands-on assistance, the best that you’ll get is an email exchange with one of their representatives. You can support through the app (under Settings -> General -> Support) or by emailing them directly at [email protected] (Pinger is TextFree’s parent company). Note that response time is listed as 1-2 business days, so you won’t get immediate assistance.  

From a user experience, it’s important to note that on the free base plan, if you don’t use the app or number for 30 days, you can lose the number. It can be recycled and given to another user.  

In general, TextFree holds a favorable rating on both the App Store and the Google PlayStore, indicating that for most people, their talk & text service holds up in real time.  

TextFree's security & privacy

As with any free online service, it’s recommended that you protect your account by implementing a strong password that’s changed frequently, and that you avoid clicking on any suspicious links that could be smishing or phishing attempts. TextFree doesn’t offer the ability to set up 2-factor authentication, so the security of your account purely depends on your diligence in keeping up with basic online safety tips.  

It should also be noted that since TextFree numbers are recycled and reused, it is possible to receive unwanted texts or calls meant for the previous owner(s). There is no active spam block feature with the app, so you may also receive more spam than usual as a result.  

In terms of privacy, TextFree operates under a transparent Privacy Policy that states it collects standard device information, usage data, IP addresses, and user data that is shared with advertising and analytics partners. You can also access or request deletion of your personal data under applicable laws in your region or state.  

Note that TextFree does not offer end-to-end encryption, and while your identity is anonymous behind the number, it can be traced via legal channels such as with a subpoena or search warrant.  

TextFree vs. TextNow vs. TextMe

Picking a free phone number app very often comes down to a choice between TextFree, TextNow, and TextPlus. Yes, the names are very similar, but when it comes to features they differ in important ways.  

>>Read more: TextFree vs. TextNow Detailed Review

FAQs about TextFree: