Section 6.6. How Much?

6.6. How Much?

Nothing.

Skype doesn't cost a penny to download and use to call other Skype users. Neither SIPphone or FreeWorld Dialup asks for a credit card when you download their software and install it on your computer. They also offer free calls to other service members.

SkypeOut minutes cost about $.02 depending on the euro exchange rate and are bought in blocks of 10 euros (about $13.30 in early 2005). Rates to some countries are more expensive, including Alaska and Hawaii (considered long distance while the rest of the U.S. states fall into the lower bulk rate of two cents).

SIP minutes from SIPphone also use a flat rate of two cents for calls to any location in the U.S. Check their rate sheet carefully if you have specific countries you wish to call, because the pricing varies wildly and you could be unpleasantly surprised.

FreeWorld Dialup refers users wishing to call traditional telephones to sign up with a third party for access. They recommend IConnectHere at www.iconnecthere.com That's a pretty good recommendation, since IConnectHere offers U.S. rates at 1.1 cents per minute. Their international rates are much more in line with other broadband phone services and consistent between countries than those from SIPphone.