European Alternatives to Skype
Looking for a European alternative to Skype? Microsoft's Skype is a widely-used video calling platform, but it's owned by a US company and processes your data on American servers. For businesses and individuals who value privacy, GDPR compliance, and data sovereignty, European video calling alternatives offer compelling options.
We've curated the best privacy-focused video calling and messaging apps built in Europe. These alternatives provide excellent communication features while keeping your data protected under European law.
Why Choose a European Alternative to Skype?
End-to-End Encryption
Many European alternatives offer true end-to-end encryption for all communications.
GDPR Protection
Your data stays in Europe, protected by the world's strongest privacy laws.
No US Surveillance
Free from CLOUD Act and other US data access laws.
Open Source Options
Many European video calling solutions are open source for full transparency.
Best European Alternatives to Skype
We've curated the best privacy-focused video calling apps from European companies. Each alternative has been evaluated for features, privacy, and GDPR compliance.
Jitsi Meet
Free, open-source video conferencing with no account required
Wire
Swiss end-to-end encrypted communication for teams and enterprises
Whereby
Norwegian browser-based video meetings - no downloads required
Element
Decentralized, encrypted communication built on Matrix protocol
Frequently Asked Questions
The best alternative depends on your needs. Jitsi Meet is excellent for free, open-source video calls with no account required. Wire from Switzerland is ideal for secure business communication with end-to-end encryption. Whereby from Norway offers the easiest browser-based experience with custom room URLs.
Yes, several European video calling apps offer full GDPR compliance including Jitsi Meet, Wire (Switzerland), Whereby (Norway), Element, and Nextcloud Talk (Germany). These services process data within Europe and many offer self-hosting options for complete data control.
Yes, both Jitsi Meet and Nextcloud Talk can be self-hosted on your own European servers. Element also supports self-hosting through the Matrix protocol. This gives you complete control over your data and ensures nothing leaves your infrastructure.
Wire and Element offer full end-to-end encryption for all communications by default. Jitsi Meet supports end-to-end encryption for 1-on-1 calls and is working on group encryption. This means even the service providers cannot access your call contents.
Yes, both Jitsi Meet and Whereby work entirely in the browser with no downloads required. Simply share a link and participants can join immediately. This makes them ideal for quick calls with clients or external parties who may not want to install software.
Explore More European Alternatives
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