TextNow Review 2026: Is It Legit & Safe?
Abigail Lewis
In this review, we’ll explore how TextNow works and what it offers. You’ll learn about its free calling features, texting options, and app setup. We’ll also look at its safety, pricing, and user experience. By the end, you’ll know if TextNow is worth trying in this current era.
TextNow Review: My Honest Verdict
After spending time with TextNow, I found it to be a service that offers free calling, texting, and certain mobile data access through eligible apps. In day-to-day use, the overall value for me came from being able to stay connected without the usual recurring phone bill.
What impressed me most was the inclusion of free essential data for specific apps like navigation and email. Before, running out of data meant being cut off from key tools on the go; with TextNow, those basics stayed available even without an active paid plan. I also appreciated the option to use their voice and text features without being tied to a traditional carrier.
The site makes it clear how data usage is handled, including fair use limits and which apps qualify for free access, which helped me trust the setup. The main drawback was that speeds can drop noticeably depending on network conditions, which matters if you rely on it in busy areas. Overall, it’s worth considering for anyone who needs a low-cost backup or secondary line without complicated commitments.
Pros
Cons
Why do you need TextNow?
You need TextNow for a free, flexible second line that works on Wi‑Fi and cellular with unlimited U.S./Canada talk and text, no contract, and minimal upfront cost. It syncs across phone and desktop, supports voicemail and group messaging, and offers low international rates. It’s ideal for budget use, privacy, online listings, travel, and keeping personal and work numbers separate.
What is TextNow?
TextNow is a mobile app and wireless service that gives you a free phone number for calling and texting over Wi‑Fi or cellular data. It uses ads to keep the basic plan free. You can upgrade to remove ads. It supports voicemail, group texting, and low-cost international calls. Ideal for budget-conscious users, students, or anyone needing a second number, TextNow serves as a handy alternative to traditional carriers or pricier VoIP services. It’s a handy alternative when I want to keep a separate number for online sign-ups and travel.
What are the Features of TextNow?
1) Free Phone Number Assignment
TextNow provides a free U.S. phone number upon sign-up. This number lets you call and text without paying a monthly fee. It works like a regular number and can be used for both personal and business communication.
2) Unlimited Texting and Calling
You can send unlimited texts and make calls to U.S. and Canadian numbers for free. There are no per-minute or per-message charges. This feature is available on both Wi-Fi and cellular connections, depending on your plan.
3) Voicemail Transcription
TextNow automatically converts your voicemails into text. This makes it easy to read your messages when you can’t listen to them. Transcriptions are delivered directly to your app inbox for quick access and convenience.
4) Wi-Fi Calling and Messaging
You can make calls and send messages over any Wi-Fi connection. This helps save mobile data and works even in areas with weak cellular signals. It’s perfect for frequent travelers or those in remote areas.
5) Cross-Platform Accessibility
TextNow works on smartphones, tablets, and desktop browsers. You can switch between devices without losing messages or call history. All your communication stays synced through your account, making it easy to stay connected anywhere.
6) Low-Cost International Calling
TextNow offers affordable rates for international calls. You can add credit to your account and pay only for what you use. Rates vary by country, but they are often cheaper than traditional carriers.
7) Customizable Voicemail Greeting
You can record a personalized voicemail greeting. This allows you to add a professional or friendly touch to your calls. The feature is simple to update and can be changed anytime in the app settings.
8) Ad-Supported Free Plan
The free plan includes ads to cover costs. These ads do not block essential functions like calling or texting. TextNow also offers premium plans to provide users with ad-free experience.
9) Affordable SIM Card for Data and Calls
TextNow sells low-cost SIM cards for use with unlocked phones. This gives you nationwide calling, texting, and mobile data. It’s a budget-friendly way to stay connected without expensive carrier contracts.
10) Group Messaging
TextNow lets you send messages to multiple recipients from a single conversation. Everyone in the group can see and reply to messages in real time. It works like group chats on popular messaging apps.
11) Call Forwarding
TextNow lets you forward incoming calls to another number. This is useful if you want to receive calls on a different device. You can turn this feature on or off anytime in your account settings.
12) Caller ID and Spam Detection
TextNow displays the caller’s name or number when you get a call. It also flags potential spam calls, helping you avoid unwanted interruptions. This feature improves call safety and convenience.
13) Number Porting Support
You can transfer your existing phone number to TextNow. This allows you to keep the same number while switching services. Most major carriers support porting and follows standard transfer procedures.
14) Private and Secure Messaging
TextNow uses encryption to keep your messages secure. Your conversations remain private, and the company has policies to protect user data. This helps ensure your communication is safe from unauthorized access.
15) In-App Purchases for Premium Features
You can buy extra features directly in the TextNow app. These may include ad removal, voicemail transcription upgrades, or additional customization options. Purchases are optional and can be added at any time.
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How Does TextNow Work?
Here are the steps to start with TextNow:
Step 1) Download the TextNow app. It’s free and easy to find on the App Store or Google Play. You can also download the app for your Windows PC from the Microsoft Store. This app lets you make calls and send texts without needing a traditional phone plan.
Step 2) Choose a phone number. You can either use your current number or get a new one for free. Once you’re set up, you can start texting and calling using Wi-Fi—no need for mobile data or minutes.
Step 3) You can order their SIM card if you want to use TextNow without Wi-Fi. It gives you unlimited calling and texting across the country, even when you’re not connected to Wi-Fi. And the best part? It’s just $0/month for basic use.
Step 4) Stay connected on the go. With the SIM card, you also get free access to essential apps like maps, email, and ride-sharing—even without a full data plan.
How is the User Experience and Interface?
TextNow’s interface feels intuitive—I got started in minutes. You’ll find calls, texts, and voicemail easy to access, whether on mobile or web. Ads show up on the free plan (a bit distracting), but you can upgrade to remove them. I liked picking a local number and using dark mode. It’s a solid pick if you’re budget-conscious.
Is TextNow’s Performance Reliable?
TextNow feels quick for calls and texts on Wi‑Fi. With a SIM, it uses a big 4G/5G network. So, reliability stays steady daily. You’ll breeze through basics, but free data is app‑limited. I’ve seen occasional hiccups and slower support. For urgent or business‑critical use, I’d keep a backup. For everyday use, it’s dependable.
What is the Cost of a TextNow Subscription?
TextNow’s core service is free: unlimited talk, text, and essential app data on its ad-supported plan. For full data access, the Month Pass costs $39.99/month and auto-renews, but can be canceled anytime in the app. Payments are accepted via major debit/credit/prepaid cards (Visa, Mastercard, AmEx, JCB, Discover, Diners Club). In-app upgrades are billed through Apple App Store/Google Play, and any refunds must be requested through those stores; TextNow fees are generally non‑refundable.
Here’s a quick snapshot of TextNow’s current TextPass Plans and what each includes:
| TextPass Plans | Price | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Essential Data | Free | Unlimited talk & text; data for essential apps (email, maps, rideshare). |
| Hour Pass | $0.99 | 60 minutes of unlimited calling, texting, and data; first 300MB at high speed, then reduced to 2G. |
| Day Pass | $4.99 | 24 hours of unlimited calling, texting, and data; first 2GB at high speed, then 2 GB. |
| Month Pass | $39.99 | Unlimited calling, texting, and data for a month; first 10GB at high speed, then 2 GB, no ads, and roaming in Canada and Mexico included. |
How Accurate is the Customer Support?
I found TextNow’s support decent but limited in channels. Live chat is available daily, 10 am–5:30 pm ET, via the Help Center bubble. There’s no public phone support for customers. You’ll rely on FAQs, chat, and social DMs for help. However, the responses were slow at times with mixed resolutions that didn’t satisfy my requirements.
How does TextNow handle spam and fraudulent calls?
TextNow tackles spam and fraud with layered defenses: automated detection and algorithms to flag abuse, strict bans on autodialing/robocalling, and limits on features like verification-code receipt for free accounts. Users can block and “Report Junk” within the app/web, and even text #STOP to block numbers; serious cases can be reported to abuse@textnow.com, with lawful cooperation for investigations.
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What are common TextNow user complaints, and how to avoid them?
Some users have raised complaints while using TextNow. Here are some of the common user complaints, along with the most common ways to resolve them:
- Sudden account/number deactivation
Solution: I would always suggest avoiding using TextNow for critical OTP/banking. You should keep a backup number and follow the acceptable-use policy. If flagged, you must appeal immediately to the customer support. - Poor call quality/dropped or missed calls
Solution: You should keep the TextNow app updated. Additionally, I also recommend checking your Wi-Fi connectivity (strong connectivity required). At the same time, you need to disable battery optimization/DND, turn off Bluetooth, and clear cache (Android). - Messages are not delivering/notifications are buggy.
Solution: You need to check the notification permissions (allowed/not allowed). I also advise you to avoid using TextNow on public Wi-Fi connections (chances of VoIP blocking), and you should also clean the cache memory. - Aggressive ads/free plan limitations
Solution: You must verify subscription status if ads keep reappearing after the payment. Also, before subscribing to paid plans, check whether it offers an ad-free facility or not. Talk to customer support if ads keep coming even after you have selected an ad-free option. - Limited/slow support and refunds
Solution: I recommend considering the in-app help center and documented appeal flows. Also, you should stay away from making it a sole business line.
How does TextNow compare to the Top Alternatives for Free Texting and Calling?
1) Google Voice
Google Voice is Google’s cloud phone system for individuals and businesses, offering VoIP calling, texting, voicemail transcription, spam filtering, and integrations with Google Calendar and Meet. Business plans start at $10/user/month with features like auto attendants, ring groups, desk phone support, and eDiscovery on higher tiers.
Link: https://workspace.google.com/products/voice/
2) Talkatone
Talkatone provides a free US/Canada phone number for Wi‑Fi or data-based calling and texting, including SMS/MMS and group messaging, without using carrier minutes. It supports free calls to most U.S. numbers and low-cost international calling via credits, with the option to “burn” and replace a disposable number once for free.
Link: https://www.talkatone.com/
3) Zoom
Zoom Phone is a cloud PBX integrated with Zoom, featuring unlimited domestic calling options, SMS, voicemail transcription, IVR/auto attendants, call routing, and call recording on supported plans. Pricing includes a $10/user/month metered plan, $15 unlimited U.S./Canada, and Global Select with unlimited domestic calling in 40+ countries.
Lifetime Free Basic Plan
FAQs
Conclusion
Before signing off, I would say TextNow is a legitimate and reasonably safe option for casual use. It’s ideal if you’re looking for a free secondary number with unlimited texting and calling over Wi‑Fi. However, it’s not designed to fully replace a primary phone line. While the platform offers decent security, it lacks key protections like end‑to‑end encryption and two‑factor authentication. For that reason, it’s best to avoid using it for sensitive conversations and make sure to set a strong password. If you’re okay with occasional ads and minor verification hiccups, TextNow stands out as a solid budget-friendly choice.
