Not all international calls cost the same — dialing a mobile number abroad can be 2–3× more expensive than calling a landline. With ZenCall, you’ll always see the exact rate before you connect, so you can avoid surprises and save money.
If you've ever tried making an international call and been shocked by the cost, you're not alone. But what most people don't realize is this: your call destination — landline vs mobile — can significantly change the rate you pay.
In 2025, international calling is more affordable than ever thanks to VoIP and browser-based services like ZenCall. Still, landline and mobile rates aren't the same, and understanding the difference can help you avoid overpaying — especially if you call abroad often.
In this guide, we'll break down:
Here's the core issue: telecom infrastructure and fees vary depending on whether you're calling a landline or a mobile number.
As a result, calling a mobile number abroad often costs 2–3× more than calling a landline in the same country. This pricing structure is one of the confusing aspects of international calling rates that catches many people off guard.
Let's take a look at current per-minute rates via ZenCall to see the difference:
| Country | To Landline | To Mobile |
|---|---|---|
| United Kingdom | $0.02 | $0.06 |
| Mexico | $0.03 | $0.09 |
| South Africa | $0.04 | $0.10 |
| India | $0.02 | $0.04 |
| Colombia | $0.03 | $0.08 |
| Nigeria | $0.04 | $0.11 |
| France | $0.02 | $0.06 |
💡 As you can see, mobile numbers often cost 2–4× more, even within the same country. These incredibly low rates starting at $0.02/min represent a significant advantage over traditional carriers.
If you're calling internationally:
So depending on your call habits, this could double or triple your international call costs over time — especially if you're using an old-school calling plan. For example, if you're frequently calling the UK from the US, knowing whether you're dialing a landline or mobile can make a substantial difference in your monthly bill.
Every country assigns number ranges to landlines and mobile phones. For example:
ZenCall automatically detects the number type based on the prefix and shows you the rate before the call starts — so you'll never be surprised.
If your international calling app doesn't show whether you're calling a landline or mobile — and what the rate is — it's time to switch.
ZenCall displays the exact rate per minute before every call, based on the number you're dialing. Check exact rates with ZenCall's rate calculator.
Most businesses still maintain landlines or VoIP-based fixed numbers, especially in sectors like:
💡 These calls are often the cheapest. If you're calling landlines abroad in 2025, you'll typically enjoy the lowest possible international rates.
Friends, family, and freelancers abroad are typically reached on mobile numbers — especially in countries where landlines are fading away.
💡 Expect slightly higher per-minute rates here.
In some countries, the cost difference between calling a landline and a mobile is especially steep. Here are a few notable examples:
If you regularly call one of these countries, it's worth checking the number type and comparing your options. Understanding why $0.02/min is such a great deal becomes even more apparent when you see these massive price differences.
Not entirely — but here are ways to manage or reduce your costs:
ZenCall offers transparent pricing, shows rates before you dial, and uses browser-based VoIP to keep rates lower than traditional carriers. When choosing a browser-based calling app in 2025, transparency and rate visibility should be top priorities.
If you're calling a business, ask if they have an alternative landline number, support line, or toll-free option.
Because mobile rates are billed by the minute, keep mobile calls shorter and use free messaging apps for follow-up.
ZenCall offers prepaid credit — the more you load, the more flexibility you have. No expiration, no contracts.
Here's how mobile vs landline pricing looks on legacy providers:
| Carrier | Country | Landline | Mobile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Verizon | Mexico | $1.49/min | $2.99/min |
| AT&T | Nigeria | $1.89/min | $3.69/min |
| T-Mobile | Colombia | $1.59/min | $2.79/min |
💀 That's not a typo — traditional mobile rates are 10x higher than browser-based calling services. For instance, calling the UK from the US for less than $0.05/min is easily achievable with modern VoIP platforms, while carriers charge exponentially more.
With ZenCall, you get low rates whether you're calling a landline or a mobile — and total transparency either way.
| Feature | ZenCall | Skype | Mobile Carrier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Landline rate to UK | $0.02 | ~$0.03 | $1.49+ |
| Mobile rate to Colombia | $0.08 | ~$0.10 | $2.79+ |
| Call from browser, no SIM needed | ✅ Yes | 🚫 No | 🚫 No |
| Rate shown before call | ✅ Yes | ☑️ Sometimes | 🚫 No |
| Reaches landlines & mobiles | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
Save frequently called numbers with ZenCall's contacts feature for even faster dialing.
If you're still paying one flat rate for all international calls — or worse, relying on your mobile provider — you're likely overpaying every time you dial a mobile number abroad.
Understanding the difference between landline and mobile rates isn't just for telecom geeks — it's for anyone who makes international calls, especially for business or family.
With a platform like ZenCall, you get:
Call smarter in 2025. Know the number. Know the rate. Choose wisely.