Ghost vs TextNow
TextNow and Ghost solve different problems. TextNow is a free, ad-supported number that has grown into a cellular carrier with data plans. Ghost is a paid, ad-free app for keeping second numbers separate from your real one.
- TextNow: free with ads, or a cellular plan from $18.99/mo
- Ghost: $60 every 2 months, no ads, up to 5 numbers
- Different jobs: phone service vs private second numbers
$60 every 2 months. Cancel anytime. No contracts.
See why thousands trust Ghost for their virtual phone number
Ghost and TextNow side by side
| Ghost | TextNow | |
|---|---|---|
| What it is | A second-number app | A free number app and a cellular carrier |
| Price | $60 every 2 months | Free with ads. Plus $18.99/mo, Unlimited $35.99/mo (both include mobile data). |
| Ads | None | On the free tier |
| Numbers | Up to 5 included | Not confirmed |
| Mobile data | Not included (uses your existing plan or Wi-Fi) | Included on paid plans |
| Business hours, auto-reply, signature | Per number | Not listed |
| App Store rating | 4.6 (7.7k reviews) | 4.8 (922k reviews) |
TextNow facts from textnow.com/wireless and its App Store listing, checked 2026-09-26.
Choose TextNow if
- You want a free number and don't mind ads.
- You want to replace your phone plan with a cheaper one that includes data.
Choose Ghost if
- You're keeping your current phone plan and just want private numbers on top of it.
- You want several numbers, each for a different part of your life.
- You want no ads, and tools like business hours, auto-reply, and a text signature per number.
About free numbers
Free numbers are paid for by ads, and many free services recycle numbers that go unused. TextNow sells a lock-your-number add-on in the App Store for this reason. If you'll hand the number to buyers, clients, or dates, make sure it will still be yours next month.
Ghost can't be used for 911 or emergency calls, so keep your regular line for those.
Frequently asked questions
Is TextNow free?
TextNow has a free, ad-supported tier. Its paid plans are cellular plans with mobile data, from $18.99 a month.
Does Ghost replace my phone plan?
No. Ghost adds second numbers to the phone and plan you already have. It works over Wi-Fi or your cellular data.
Does Ghost have ads?
No. Ghost is a paid app: $60 every 2 months. Cancel anytime. No contracts.
How many numbers can I have on Ghost?
Up to 5 on one plan, each with its own settings.
Sources (checked 2026-09-26)
Keep your plan. Add private numbers.
Up to 5 ad-free Ghost numbers on the phone you already have.
Get Number