A softphone is software that turns your computer, smartphone, or tablet into a VoIP phone. Instead of using a physical desk phone, you make and receive calls through an app using your SIP trunk or VoIP service.
This guide covers the best free softphones available, with download links for every platform. Whether you need a Windows desktop app, a Mac client, or a mobile app for iOS or Android, we have you covered.
Quick Start: Need a softphone right now? Zoiper Free is our top recommendation for most users. It works on all platforms and has an intuitive interface.
Quick Comparison Table
| Softphone | Platforms | Price | Free TLS/SRTP | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zoiper | Win, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android | Free | No (paid) | Best overall experience |
| Linphone | Win, Mac, Linux, iOS, Android | Free | Yes | Free encryption |
| MicroSIP | Windows only | Free | Yes | Lightweight Windows |
| Groundwire | iOS, Android | $9.99 | Yes | Best mobile reliability |
| Sipnetic | Android only | Free | Yes | Android with push |
Zoiper Free
Zoiper is the most popular softphone worldwide, known for its polished interface and cross-platform support. The free version includes everything you need for basic calling.
Download Links
Windows
Windows 7, 8, 10, 11
macOS
macOS 10.13+
Linux
Ubuntu, Debian, Fedora
iOS
iPhone & iPad
Android
Android 5.0+
Features
- ✓ 1 SIP account (free version)
- ✓ G.711, GSM codecs
- ✓ Call transfer & hold
- ✓ Contact integration
- ✓ Call history
- ✓ DTMF support
- ✓ Noise suppression
- ✓ Easy setup wizard
Linphone (Free + Open Source)
Linphone is a fully open-source softphone that includes TLS/SRTP encryption for free. It supports all platforms and is excellent for security-conscious users.
Download Links
Features
- ✓ FREE TLS/SRTP encryption
- ✓ Multiple SIP accounts
- ✓ Video calling
- ✓ Opus, G.722 HD codecs
- ✓ Instant messaging
- ✓ Conference calling
- ✓ Open source (GPLv3)
- ✓ SRTP encryption free
MicroSIP (Windows Only)
MicroSIP is an ultra-lightweight open-source softphone for Windows. At only 10 MB, it is perfect for users who want minimal resource usage and free encryption.
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Features
- ✓ Only 10 MB - very lightweight
- ✓ FREE TLS/SRTP encryption
- ✓ FREE G.729 codec
- ✓ Command-line interface for integration
- ✓ Click-to-dial support
- ✓ URL handler for tel: links
Best for: Windows power users, call center agents, and developers who need CLI integration. MicroSIP uses minimal system resources.
Groundwire (Overt) - Best Mobile
Groundwire (now called Overt) is the gold standard for mobile VoIP. At $9.99 one-time, it offers the best push notification reliability and call quality on iOS and Android.
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Why Pay for Groundwire?
- ✓ Best push notification reliability
- ✓ Calls ring even when app is closed
- ✓ Native iOS CallKit integration
- ✓ Excellent battery optimization
- ✓ TLS/SRTP encryption included
- ✓ Multiple SIP accounts
Sipnetic (Android Free Alternative)
Sipnetic is a free Android softphone with excellent push notification support. A great free alternative to Groundwire for Android users.
Features
- ✓ Free with push notifications
- ✓ TLS/SRTP encryption
- ✓ Multiple accounts
- ✓ Good battery optimization
Which Softphone Should You Choose?
Best Overall: Zoiper
Works on all platforms with an intuitive interface. Perfect for most users.
Best for Free Encryption: Linphone
Open source with free TLS/SRTP. Great for security-conscious users.
Best for Windows: MicroSIP
Lightweight, feature-rich, with free G.729 and encryption.
Best for Mobile Business: Groundwire
$9.99 is worth it for the best mobile reliability.
Connecting to IPComms SIP Trunking
All softphones listed above work with IPComms. Use these settings: