In the classic spy movies, a “burner phone” is a cheap, prepaid handset that gets tossed into a trash can after a single secretive call. In the modern world, you don’t need to buy extra hardware to protect your privacy. Whether you are dating online, selling furniture on Craigslist, or trying to avoid telemarketers, “burner apps” allow you to create temporary, disposable phone numbers right on your current smartphone.
Here are the best apps to mimic a burner phone experience without the extra clutter.
1. Burner (The Gold Standard)
Appropriately named, Burner is the most popular app in this category. It provides you with a second line for calling, texting, and picture messaging.
- How it works: You choose an area code and get a real phone number that routes calls to your cell phone.
- Best Feature: The “Burn” button. Once you’re done with the number, you can delete it instantly, and that number will no longer reach you.
- Cost: Offers a free trial, with subscription plans for long-term use.
2. Hushed (Best for Global Privacy)
Hushed is a powerhouse for those who need international options or multiple lines at once.
- How it works: It offers numbers from over 60 countries. It’s completely anonymous—no contract, no identity verification, and no link to your actual SIM card.
- Best Feature: Hushed often offers “Lifetime” deals through third-party sites (like StackSocial), making it the most cost-effective option for long-term privacy.
- Cost: Pay-as-you-go or subscription models available.
3. Google Voice (The Best Free Option)
If you aren’t doing anything “top secret” and just want to keep your personal number private from businesses, Google Voice is the top choice.
- How it works: It gives you a permanent second number that rings through to your phone or computer.
- Best Feature: It’s free for calls and texts within the US and Canada. It also has excellent spam filtering.
- The Catch: It is linked to your Google Account. If you are looking for true anonymity from the government or big tech, this isn’t the “burner” for you.
4. TextNow (Best for Budget Users)
TextNow provides a free phone number supported by ads. It is a great “low-stakes” burner app.
- How it works: You sign up and get a number for calling and texting over WiFi or data.
- Best Feature: If you have an unlocked phone, they even offer a low-cost SIM card that allows you to use the service on cellular networks for free (with ads).
- Cost: Free with ads; paid versions remove ads and lock in your number.
5. Sideline (Best for Professionals)
While many use burner apps for privacy, some use them for work. Sideline is designed for people who need a dedicated “work line” on their personal device.
- How it works: It uses your carrier’s minutes rather than VOIP (data), meaning the call quality is usually much higher than other apps.
- Best Feature: It includes professional features like auto-reply (sending a text when you miss a call) and team number sharing.
- Cost: Mostly a subscription-based service.
Why Use a Burner App Instead of a Physical Phone?
- Convenience: You don’t have to carry two devices or worry about charging a second battery.
- Cost: Buying a $30 prepaid phone plus a $20 airtime card is more expensive than most app subscriptions.
- Instant Disposal: You can generate a new number and “burn” the old one in seconds without going back to a store.
- Organization: You can keep your “Dating,” “Work,” and “Personal” lives in separate notification silos.
Important: A Note on Security
While these apps mimic the function of a burner phone, they are not invisible. Most of these apps require an internet connection (VOIP) or use your existing cellular minutes.
- For high-level privacy: Use these apps in conjunction with a VPN.
- For emergencies: Remember that 911 calls are usually better handled through your primary carrier line for accurate GPS location.
Final Verdict
If you want the true “burner” experience with maximum features, go with Burner. If you want a free, reliable second line and don’t mind Google having your data, Google Voice is the winner.
Which app will you use to reclaim your privacy?