Yes, you can make phone calls on a tablet, but the method depends on what you own and what services you have

A tablet can make calls in three main ways: through a cellular connection if your tablet has a SIM card slot and an active plan, through Wi-Fi calling if your carrier supports it, or through internet-based apps like WhatsApp, Google Meet, or Skype that work on any Wi-Fi connection. The easiest route for most people is an internet app, since it requires no extra subscription and works on any tablet. If you want to use your regular phone number, you'll need either cellular service or a carrier that offers Wi-Fi calling on tablets.

The experience differs from a phone because tablets have larger screens and speakers, which can actually make calls clearer. The trade-off is that a tablet is less portable—you can't slip it in a pocket—so this works best for calls at home or in a fixed location.

Key Takeaways

  • Internet calling apps like WhatsApp, Google Meet, Skype, and Facebook Messenger work on any tablet with Wi-Fi and require no phone plan.
  • If your tablet has a cellular slot and an active plan from your carrier, you can call using your regular phone number just like on a phone.
  • Wi-Fi calling through your carrier lets you use your phone number over Wi-Fi if your carrier supports it and your tablet is compatible.
  • Tablets have larger screens and built-in speakers, which can make calls easier to hear, but they are less portable than phones.
  • Some tablets do not have microphones or speakers built in, so you may need to buy a headset or external speaker to make calls.

Calling through internet apps (no plan needed)

The simplest way to call on a tablet is through an app that uses your internet connection. WhatsApp, Google Meet, Skype, Facebook Messenger, and Zoom all let you make voice calls to other people who have the same app. You do not need a phone plan or SIM card—only Wi-Fi. These calls are free if both people have the app, and the call quality is usually good as long as your Wi-Fi is stable.

To start, read the app from your tablet's app store (Google Play on Android, App Store on iPad). Create an account, add your contacts, and tap the call button next to their name. The person on the other end will see an incoming call notification and can accept or decline. If you want to call someone who does not have the app, some services like Skype let you pay a small fee to call regular phone numbers, but this is not free.

The main limitation is that both people need the same app and an internet connection. If you want to call someone's regular phone number without them having an app, you'll need a different method.

Calling with cellular service (using a SIM card)

If your tablet has a cellular slot and you add a SIM card with an active plan from a carrier like Verizon, AT&T, or T-Mobile, you can make calls using your regular phone number. The process is the same as on a phone: open the Phone app, dial the number, and tap call. You'll be charged according to your plan—either per minute or as part of an unlimited calling package.

Not all tablets have cellular slots. Most iPad models come in Wi-Fi only or Wi-Fi + Cellular versions. Most Android tablets also have a cellular option, but you have to check the model. If your tablet does not have a slot, you cannot add cellular service later.

If you already have a phone plan, adding a tablet to that plan usually costs extra per month. Some carriers let you share a pool of data between devices, while others charge a separate line fee. Contact your carrier to ask what options they offer for your specific tablet model.

Wi-Fi calling through your carrier

Some carriers let you make calls over Wi-Fi using your regular phone number, even without a cellular connection. This is called Wi-Fi calling, and it works on tablets if your carrier supports it and your tablet is compatible. Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile all offer Wi-Fi calling, but the setup and compatibility vary.

To use Wi-Fi calling on a tablet, you typically need to enable it in your settings and sign in with your carrier account. On an iPad, go to Settings > Cellular > Wi-Fi Calling and toggle it on. On Android, the path varies by brand, but it's usually in Settings > Network & Internet > Mobile Network > Wi-Fi Calling. You may need to verify your address with your carrier before it works.

The advantage is that you use your real phone number and your existing plan. The disadvantage is that not all tablets are compatible—some carriers only support Wi-Fi calling on phones. Check with your carrier's website or call their support line to confirm whether your specific tablet model can use Wi-Fi calling.

What you need to check before calling on your tablet

Before you try to make a call, confirm that your tablet has a microphone and speaker. Most tablets do, but some older or budget models may not have a built-in microphone. If yours doesn't, you can buy a USB headset or Bluetooth headset with a microphone for $20 to $50.

Also check your Wi-Fi connection. Internet calling apps need a stable connection—if your Wi-Fi is slow or drops frequently, calls will sound choppy or drop. If you're far from your router, move closer or consider upgrading your router. For cellular calling, check that you have signal in the area where you plan to call.

Finally, make sure the app you want to use is compatible with your tablet's operating system. Most major apps work on both iPad and Android tablets, but some older tablets may not support the latest versions. Open your tablet's app store and search for the app to see if it's available for your device.

Common problems and how to fix them

If people can't hear you, the microphone may be muted or blocked. Check that the mute switch on the side of your iPad (if you have one) is not turned on. On Android, swipe down from the top of the screen and check that Microphone is not disabled. Also make sure nothing is covering the microphone—it's usually a small hole near the top or bottom of the tablet.

If you can't hear the other person, check that your speaker is not muted. Press the volume buttons on the side of your tablet to turn up the volume. If the speaker is very quiet, try using a Bluetooth speaker or headphones instead—they often sound louder and clearer than the tablet's built-in speaker.

If the call keeps dropping, your Wi-Fi connection is probably unstable. Try moving closer to your router, restarting your router, or switching to a different Wi-Fi network if one is available. If you're using cellular calling, move to an area with stronger signal or contact your carrier to check for outages in your area.

Calling on a tablet versus a phone

The main advantage of calling on a tablet is the larger screen and usually louder speaker, which makes it easier to see the person you're talking to (if you're video calling) and easier to hear them. Tablets are also good for calls you plan in advance, since you can set them on a stand and have your hands free.

The main disadvantage is portability. A tablet is too large to carry in a pocket, so you can only call when you're near a power outlet or have a charged battery. If you need to make calls while moving around, a phone is more practical. Some people use both—a phone for calls on the go and a tablet for longer calls at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my phone number on a tablet?

Yes, if your tablet has cellular service with an active plan, or if your carrier supports Wi-Fi calling on tablets. Check with your carrier to see which option is available for your tablet model. Internet calling apps use different numbers or usernames instead of your phone number.

Do I need to pay extra to call on a tablet?

Internet calling apps are free if both people have the app. Cellular calling and Wi-Fi calling use your existing phone plan, though adding a tablet to your plan may cost extra per month. Skype and similar apps charge a fee only if you call regular phone numbers that don't have the app.

What if my tablet doesn't have a microphone?

You can buy a USB or Bluetooth headset with a built-in microphone for $20 to $50. Plug it in or pair it via Bluetooth, and your tablet will use the headset's microphone instead of the built-in one. This also gives you better sound quality for calls.

Can I video call on a tablet?

Yes. Apps like Google Meet, Skype, WhatsApp, and Zoom all support video calls on tablets. The larger screen actually makes video calls easier to see than on a phone. You'll need a front-facing camera, which almost all tablets have.

Will calling on a tablet use my data plan?

Internet calling apps use Wi-Fi data, not your cellular plan. If you use cellular calling or Wi-Fi calling with your phone plan, it counts toward your plan's minutes or data, depending on your carrier. Check your plan details to see what's included.