What's the difference between a rented number and an eSIM plan with a number?

We offer two different things called "a phone number". They suit different needs and can't replace each other, so choose by what you need the number for.

A rented number

• A virtual number you rent by the month or the year. It stays yours while you keep renewing. If a paid period ends without renewal, the number goes back to the carrier and can't be recovered.
• It works over the internet, on Wi-Fi or mobile data. Calls ring in our app or on our calling page in your browser, so no SIM is needed.
• It has no mobile data of its own.
• Calls you make and receive are charged per minute from your calling credit, and texts per message where the number can send texts. You see the rates before you pay.
• Numbers come from many countries. In most of them, the carrier must approve your identity and address before you can buy. Whether a number can send and receive texts is shown before you buy.
• WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal and most banks don't accept virtual numbers at sign-up.
• It can't be used for emergency calls.

An eSIM plan with a number

• A real mobile number issued by the network, on an eSIM in your phone, with data, call minutes and texts.
• Calls and texts go over the mobile network, with no internet needed.
• It works in the countries the plan covers, while the plan or a top-up is active, and is held for 90 days after the plan ends.
• It's the kind of number WhatsApp and similar apps accept at sign-up, though no service's code can be guaranteed.
• It only works in the phone that holds the eSIM: you can't use it from a browser or a laptop.

Which should I choose?

• To register WhatsApp, Telegram, Signal or a bank: an eSIM plan with a number.
• For a local or US number during your trip: an eSIM plan with a number. See our plans with a phone number.
• For one number you keep all year and answer on any device, over Wi-Fi too: a rented number. You'll find them on our calling page, with each country's number types and rules.

You can also have both. Not sure which fits? Contact support.