Yes, tablets can make phone calls, but it depends on what kind of tablet you have and what features you set up

Most tablets cannot make traditional phone calls the way a smartphone does, because they lack a cellular radio or a phone number assigned by a carrier. However, you can make calls on a tablet using internet-based apps like WhatsApp, Skype, Google Meet, or FaceTime if you have Wi-Fi or a data connection. Some tablets with cellular service can also make calls through their carrier, though this is less common than it used to be.

The method that works for you depends on whether your tablet has a cellular connection, which apps you already use, and who you want to call. A person with an iPad and a Wi-Fi connection can call another person with FaceTime. Someone with an Android tablet can use Google Meet or WhatsApp to reach almost anyone with a smartphone. If you have a cellular tablet and a plan that includes calling, you can dial phone numbers directly.

Key Takeaways

  • Tablets without cellular service can make calls through Wi-Fi using apps like WhatsApp, Skype, Google Meet, or FaceTime, but both people need the same app or service.
  • Cellular tablets with an active phone plan can make traditional phone calls to any phone number, just like a smartphone.
  • Wi-Fi calling works anywhere you have internet, but the person you call must have the app installed or be reachable through that service.
  • Some tablets allow you to link your phone number through your smartphone, so calls ring on both devices at once.

Wi-Fi calling apps: the most common way tablets make calls

If your tablet connects to Wi-Fi but has no cellular service, internet-based calling apps are your main option. WhatsApp is the most widely used globally — it works on both iPhone and Android tablets, and you can call anyone else with WhatsApp installed. Skype works similarly and lets you call other Skype users for free, or pay to call regular phone numbers. Google Meet (formerly Duo) is built into most Android tablets and works with anyone who has a Google account. FaceTime is Apple's calling app and works between iPhones, iPads, and Mac computers.

All of these apps require the person you are calling to have the same app installed. If you want to call someone who does not use the app, you will need to use a service that lets you dial phone numbers directly — Skype and WhatsApp both offer this, but you pay per minute or buy credit. The call quality depends on your Wi-Fi speed; a weak connection will produce choppy audio or dropped calls.

Cellular tablets: making traditional phone calls

Some tablets come with a cellular radio and can connect to a mobile carrier's network. These tablets can make phone calls to any phone number, just like a smartphone, if you have an active plan that includes calling. iPad with cellular is the most common example — you can add a phone number to your iPad and make calls through your carrier. Some Android tablets also support cellular calling, though fewer carriers offer plans for tablets than for phones.

Cellular tablets are more expensive than Wi-Fi-only models, and monthly plans cost extra. Many people who own cellular tablets use them mainly for data and video calls rather than voice calls. If you are considering a cellular tablet mainly to make phone calls, a smartphone is usually cheaper and more practical.

Linking your phone number to a tablet without cellular service

If you own both a smartphone and a tablet, you can set up your tablet to ring when someone calls your phone number — without needing cellular service on the tablet. On an iPhone and iPad, this is called Wi-Fi Calling or Continuity. You sign in with the same Apple ID on both devices, and calls to your phone number will ring on your iPad as well. You can answer on whichever device is closest.

On Android, the process varies by manufacturer and carrier. Some phones and tablets let you use the same phone number on both devices through your carrier's app. Others use Google Voice, which gives you a separate phone number that forwards to your real number. Check with your carrier or phone manufacturer to see what options are available for your specific devices.

What you need before making calls on a tablet

For Wi-Fi calling apps, you need a stable internet connection and the app installed on your tablet. Create an account in the app (usually with an email address or phone number) and add contacts. The person you want to call must also have the app and be in your contacts, or you need their username within that app.

For cellular calling, you need a tablet with a cellular radio, an active plan from a carrier, and a phone number assigned to that tablet. For linked calling between a phone and tablet, both devices must be on the same account (Apple ID or Google account) and connected to the internet.

Common problems and how to fix them

If calls drop or sound choppy, your Wi-Fi connection is probably too slow or unstable. Move closer to your router, restart the app, or switch to a different Wi-Fi network if one is available. If the app keeps crashing, restart your tablet and make sure the app is updated to the latest version.

If you are trying to call someone and they do not receive the call, check that you have the right username or contact information in the app. Some apps require the other person to have you in their contacts as well before they can receive your call. If you are using a service that dials phone numbers, make sure you have credit or an active plan.

If your tablet is linked to your phone but calls are not ringing on the tablet, check that both devices are signed in to the same account and that Wi-Fi or data is turned on. Restart both devices and check your carrier's website to see if linked calling is turned on for your account.

Tablets versus smartphones for making calls

Tablets are larger and easier to see during a video call, which is why many people prefer them for FaceTime or Skype. However, they are awkward to hold to your ear for a voice call, and most people do not carry them everywhere. If you need to make voice calls regularly and on the go, a smartphone is more practical. If you mainly make video calls or use Wi-Fi calling at home, a tablet works well.

Some people use a tablet as a second device to stay connected when their phone is charging or in another room. Others use a tablet for work calls while keeping their phone for personal use. The best choice depends on how you plan to use the device.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my phone number on my tablet?

Yes, if you have an iPhone and iPad, you can link them so calls to your phone number ring on both devices. On Android, this depends on your carrier and phone model — some carriers offer this through their app, while others do not. Contact your carrier to ask if they support linked calling.

Do I need to pay extra to make calls on a tablet?

Wi-Fi calling apps like WhatsApp and FaceTime are free if both people have the app. If you want to call a regular phone number through an app, you usually pay per minute or buy credit. Cellular tablets require a monthly plan from a carrier, which costs extra.

Can I call 911 from a tablet?

Wi-Fi calling apps do not reliably connect to 911 services, and many do not support emergency calls at all. If you have a cellular tablet with an active plan, you can call 911 like any phone. In an emergency, use a phone or go to the nearest emergency room instead of relying on a tablet.

What is the best app for calling on a tablet?

WhatsApp and FaceTime are the most popular because almost everyone has them. Google Meet is good if you want to call people with Google accounts. Skype works well if you need to call phone numbers directly. Choose based on who you call most often and what they already use.

Can I make calls on a tablet without Wi-Fi?

Only if your tablet has cellular service and an active plan. Wi-Fi calling apps require an internet connection and will not work on cellular data alone, though some tablets can use mobile data instead of Wi-Fi to run these apps.