Due to the Coronavirus, there is an increased dependency on communication tools for remote teams. Imagine a company that has multiple teams across the globe. For global teams to work, there needs to be a working communication tool that allows productive conversations. Skype used to be the solution for remote teams.

However, there are rumors that Microsoft will be shutting down Skype as of July 31, 2021. Microsoft’s goal is to encourage people to start using Teams. But, not everyone likes using Teams due to its complexities. To see alternatives to Microsoft Teams, click here.

If you are a person using Skype, there are more holistic alternatives that can deliver more than what you have. To figure out which communication tool is best for your remote teams, we provide a list of alternatives. Here are the five best skype alternatives. 

  1. AirSend
  2. Discord
  3. Telegram
  4. Zoom
  5. Tox


Image of AirSend main channel view

AirSend is a simple communication tool designed for remote teams. Our platform provides built-in:

  • Conversation spaces
  • Video and audio calling
  • Sharing files/notes
  • Task and Business management

AirSend’s capabilities will allow remote teams to work better and faster. No more distractions, everything is found in one space. Even more notable is that users can also plan and communicate on upcoming projects from multiple devices. Working from any device allows users to constantly stay in the loop without missing a beat.

Furthermore, our user interface carries a sleek and simplistic design. A clean design allows users to view all features needed for a channel, such as writing/tracking notes.

Finally, AirSend can do large file transfers, downloads, and uploads. 


Discord Stardew Valley Community channel view

Discord is known for its all-in-one voice and text chat. While Discord is originally meant for gamers, they offer a lot of features for a free communication tool. Compared to Skype, Discord offers way more functionality to seamlessly get work done. With Discord, users can 

  • Organize their servers/channels
  • Install bots and moderator roles
  • Do basic code
  • Audio/video calling

However, Discord is originally designed for community building. What this means is that Discord’s features and tools are made for communities. But, if you can get past the community features, which also work great for a team chat setting, then Discord may be a good choice. 


Image of Telegram channel view




Though Telegram carries a lot of features, they lack the features and functions for team collaboration. Like WhatsApp, Telegram is made for casual conversation with friends and family.


Zoom is a web-based video conferencing software. Though the platform lacks channel-based functionality, we believe that the video/audio quality is much better than Skype. With Zoom, you can have guest links and scheduled meetings. Additionally, Zoom can house up to 50+ people in a call without any lag. However, Zoom has a 40-minute call limit in the free version. 


Tox main channel view

Tox is a great alternative to Skype. The tool features encryptions and is fairly easy to use. Additionally, the platform supports text, voice, and video chat. They also support screen sharing. One of the main selling points to the tool is that it has zero central servers. This means that the entire network is comprised of the users. This also means no server outages that could disrupt workflow.


As you can see, each platform carries its pros and cons. However, we believe these tools are currently the five best Skype alternatives. It is all a matter of what you feel would be the perfect team chat software and alternative to Skype.