While Hushed is a popular choice for a burner phone app, several alternatives offer similar functionality and features. Here are some options you might consider:
Free or Freemium Options
- TextNow: This app provides a free phone number with calling and texting over Wi-Fi or a cellular data connection. A SIM card option is available for nationwide coverage with some free data. You can get a number in most US area codes or use your existing number. Ad-free usage and other features require a subscription.
- Talkatone: This app offers free calls and text messaging over Wi-Fi. It provides a free US or Canadian phone number.
- Text Free: Similar to TextNow, this app offers a free phone number for calls and texts.
- Google Voice: This service provides a free phone number for calls, texts, and voicemail. It integrates with Google Workspace and can route calls to multiple devices. It’s a good option if you primarily need a second number for call management rather than temporary use.
- Dingtone: This app offers free calls and unlimited texts to the US and Canada over Wi-Fi or data. You can get multiple numbers, and it includes business features like voicemail and call forwarding. Calling outside the US and Canada requires credits, which can be earned within the app.
- 2ndLine – Second Phone Number: This app provides a second phone number for free calls and texts. It’s positioned as a business-friendly option.
Whether It’s a Free or Subscription Service, Remember To:
- Modify the settings so your messages dont end in with a signature promoting the app.
- Set up your voicemail so if anyone calls you they wont hear the default branded voicemail message.
- Dont use your real email address when signing up.
- If you suspect a number is calling from a app, try looking for a free online “phone number lookup” and it will give you the carrier name. If the “carrier” is some kind of internet/telecom company (e.g. Distributel), it’s voip or an app.
Subscription-Based Options
- Burner: This app provides temporary phone numbers for calls and texts, with the number expiring if your trial or subscription lapses. Premium subscriptions offer multiple numbers with unlimited minutes and texts. It offers integration with other services like Slack and Dropbox.
- Line2 – Second Phone Number: This app focuses on providing a second phone line for business use with unlimited SMS and MMS messaging and virtual calling. Upgraded plans support multiple extensions per number. User reports no issues with “no calls from app”
- Sudo: A privacy-focused app that provides multiple secure, private phone numbers and email addresses, all within one application. It allows users to call, text, and email with increased. Create a separate identity, complete with its own contact list and settings.
- CoverMe: This app emphasizes privacy, offering US or Canadian phone numbers for anonymous calls and texts. It offers features like message self-destruct and the ability to hide your primary number.
- iPlum: Marketed towards business professionals, iPlum offers a separate line with calling, texting, and phone system features. It supports compliance requirements for healthcare and finance industries and offers features like auto-attendant and call recording.
- MightyCall: This is a cloud-based call center solution designed for small to medium-sized businesses, offering virtual numbers with features like call routing and CRM integration.
- Grasshopper: Primarily aimed at small businesses, Grasshopper provides virtual phone systems with features like vanity numbers, toll-free numbers, and extensions.
Physical Phone
Sometimes the real thing is best. There are a number of phones you can buy and put your own SIM card in them. Most will let you pay cash if you need to recharge your SIM card with more minutes/data.
Canada
- Speak Out (7 Eleven) This phone is sold at 7-11 locations nationwide on Rogers network. Free voicemail, caller ID, call waiting, and incoming text messages are included. Speak Out is a good option primarily for very light users who make few calls and send few texts.
- Chatr This offers nationwide plans. They offers text, talk and data. They allow you to Bring Your Own Phone (BYOP) and just buy a SIM card. All Chatr plans include essential features like call display, call forwarding, and group calling.
Key Considerations When Choosing an Alternative
- Pricing: Consider whether you prefer a free, freemium, or subscription-based model.
- Number Availability: Check if the app offers numbers in your desired area code or country.
- Features: Determine if you need features like call forwarding, voicemail, MMS messaging, or international calling.
- Privacy: If privacy is a primary concern, look for apps with strong encryption and clear privacy policies. Some apps, like CoverMe, focus specifically on anonymous communication.
- Ease of Use: Consider the app’s interface and how easy it is to manage numbers and communicate.
- Temporary vs. Long-Term Use: Some apps, like Burner, are designed for temporary numbers, while others are better suited for a long-term second line.
It’s a good idea to explore a few of these alternatives to see which one best fits your needs and preferences. Many offer free trials, allowing you to test their features before committing to a subscription.
