While WhatsApp remains a giant in the realm of messaging apps, it's not the top pick for making calls with an unstable internet connection or calling international landlines for free. We've found three excellent alternative apps that maintain connectivity independently of internet quality and are less consuming on your data allowance.

WhatsApp reigns as the go-to messaging app globally, boasting over 1.6 billion users. It's often the first-choice platform for a quick chat or call to loved ones. Yet, when it comes to making free calls to Mexico—or other countries—there are noteworthy limitations to its service.

For instance, WhatsApp falls short when:

• You need to connect with someone over a weak internet connection;
• You intend to dial outside of the app, such as a landline or mobile;
• Your mobile data is running low;
• You're looking to conserve your smartphone's battery life.

To assist you, we've identified three WhatsApp alternatives that won't cost a dime when calling Mexico—or anywhere else.

WhatsApp Alternative #1: LINE App

For free calls to Mexican landlines and mobiles, LINE is a rapidly ascending star. With WhatsApp-like features—like complimentary texts and video calls among app users—it stands out by permitting some free international calls to regular phones, symbolizing an ideal method for free calls to Mexico.

Why it's a standout:

Every day, LINE grants a set quantity of minutes free of charge for landline and mobile calls. This allotment varies per country; for instance, you can call Mexico gratis for up to three minutes per call. Though it's not a replacement for more extended conversations, it's incredibly convenient when you need to relay a brief message to someone in Mexico and your usual mobile plan's call credit is exhausted. This app is the most adaptable in our review of WhatsApp alternatives.

WhatsApp Alternative #2: Pinngle App

If you need to make calls without access to the internet, Pinngle has emerged as a hidden treasure. It provides the same utility and adaptability as WhatsApp but is significantly more efficient with its low data consumption and superior calling caliber. Remarkably, it also facilitates free calls offline.

Why it makes the list:

Pinngle's unique Callback feature lets you initiate calls sans internet. After dispatching a callback request to a contact, you'll swiftly receive an automated call—simply answer, and the connection to the other party is made, no matter the quality of your own connection. Even with a 2G connection, Pinngle does not compromise on the clarity of the call and is gentle on your data plan.

WhatsApp Alternative #3: IMO App

For friends and family in regions with subpar internet in Mexico, IMO might be your best solution. While some report increased battery usage, not all users will encounter this, and the high-quality calling experience is consistent and nearly failproof, making it another excellent choice for free calls to Mexico.

The upside:

IMO assures superior video and voice call clarity, despite unreliable internet connections on either end of the conversation. Plus, it's light on your phone's storage.

Messaging apps like WhatsApp and its alternatives can be fantastic tools for free calls to Mexico as they don't deplete your calling credit. However, to guarantee an ongoing connection, you must have Wi-Fi or a backup mobile data plan. If you suddenly find your data exhausted, an online top-up for any American or Mexican mobile service is always an option.

Curious about how much data these messaging apps might consume? These benchmarks, coupled with your average monthly calling time, can help you gauge your necessary mobile data:

• LINE uses approximately 374 KB/minute in voice calls;
• WhatsApp: 310 KB/minute for regular usage, 204 KB/minute on low data mode;
• Pinngle requires just about 60KB/minute for a voice call.