By Michael Graw
last updated
Call recorder apps for iOS and Android
PRICE
VERDICT
REASONS TO BUY
REASONS TO AVOID
VERDICT
REASONS TO BUY
REASONS TO AVOID
The best call recorder software makes it simple and easy to record, manage and store calls on your smartphone.
Call recording can be a useful and even essential for recording an interview, keeping records of your communications, or just keeping logs of your phone calls for admin purposes.
While the basic premise of a call recorder is simple, many of these apps differ when it comes to ease of use, playback, and more. In addition, you’ll need to decide whether you’re willing to pay for a call recorder or whether you want free software with potentially fewer features.
Keep in mind that the laws around call recording vary between states and countries. If you’re planning to record a call, it’s always good practice to ask the person you’re talking to first.
With that, let’s take a look at the five best call recorder software options you can start using today.
You may also like to check out our featured best business smartphones.
The best call recorder software of 2023 in full:
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1. ACR Call Recorder
Best free call recorder for Android
Reasons to buy
+ Automatic call recording toggle Intuitive app interface Search recordings by contact Auto-delete old recordings
Reasons to avoid
- Manual recording requires upgrade Doesn’t automatically back up recordings Doesn’t record VoIP calls
For Android users, there are few free options better than ACR Call Recorder. This simple app features an on/off toggle switch that enables you to automatically record every call that takes place on your phone.
One of the best things about it is that it’s intuitive. You can search for recordings by contact names and easily share recordings right from the app. It also comes with an auto-delete option so that your phone’s storage doesn’t fill up with old recordings.
The only downside is that if you leave automatic recording off and want to manually start recording for a specific call, you’ll need to upgrade to the paid version.
2. Cube Call Recorder
Best Android app for recording VoIP calls
Reasons to buy
+ Supports multiple apps Record by contact Start recording mid-call Supports automatic backups
Reasons to avoid
- Security costs extra Free version includes ads Only backs up to Google Drive
Many call recording apps only work if your call takes place through your phone’s built-in dialing app, not if you use a voice over IP (VoIP) app. But Cube Call Recorder is capable of recording calls through Skype, Facebook, WhatsApp, Slack, and more on Android devices.
The free version of this app comes with ads, but it offers most of the essential recording features that users need. You can choose to record every call or list specific contacts for recording your conversations. Starting a manual recording mid-call is free, too.
The premium version adds automatic backup, file security, and automatic deletion. For backup, your recordings are synced to Google Drive as soon as your call ends.
3. Blackbox Call Recorder
Best call recorder for professionals
Reasons to buy
+ Reliable recording software Customizable file organization On-screen widget for manual recording Security using password or pin
Reasons to avoid
- Requires monthly subscription Doesn’t support VoIP recording No automatic backups to cloud
Blackbox Call Recorder bills itself as reliable recorder software made for professionals. It requires a small monthly subscription, but, it brings a number of advanced features together in one place that you won’t find elsewhere.
For example, you can lock Blackbox to prevent unauthorized access with a password or pin. You can also set up your own file directory to better organize your files, and sort recordings by date, time, or duration. The app also provides you with an on-screen widget that you can use to start or stop recording calls manually.
The biggest downside to this platform is that it doesn't work with VoIP calls. So, if you frequently talk over WhatsApp, Skype, or another app, Blackbox Call Recorder won’t be able to capture those conversations.
4. Just Press Record
Best call recorder for iOS
Reasons to buy
+ Works with iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch Record from AirPods Automatic transcription Edit audio files in the app
Reasons to avoid
- Backup only syncs with iCloud Doesn’t support VoIP Complex interface Doesn’t support automatic call recording
Just Press Record is easily the best call recorder software for iPhones if you’re willing to pay a small fee. Part of what makes this app great, especially for Apple fans, is that it’s available for iPad and the Apple Watch as well. You can record from your device’s microphone or from AirPods.
This recorder also features automatic transcription in over 30 languages. You can edit transcripts in a notepad-like tool within the app to get your recordings just right. All of the text is searchable within the app, too.
What’s more, Just Press Record supports audio editing. You can view the waveform of your audio file and cut out parts you don’t need to save space on your device.
5. Rev Call Recorder
Best free call recorder for iOS
Reasons to buy
+ Free to use
No ads
+Share recordings easily
+No time or contact restrictions
Reasons to avoid
- Doesn’t record VoIP calls No automatic cloud backups Doesn’t offer a security lock
Rev Call Recorder is completely free call recorder software for iPhones. There are no limits or in-app ads, but keep in mind you can only register for this app if you have a US phone number.
The app is somewhat simple, but gets the basic features right. It records high-quality audio and you can share the files via email, text, or cloud app.
That said, you can’t record VoIP calls with Rev, and the app won’t automatically backup your recordings to the cloud for safekeeping. There’s also no way to set the app to automatically record all incoming and outgoing calls.
We've featured the best business phone systems.
How we tested the best call recorder software
To test for the best call recorder software we searched for a range of popular options as well as took recommendations from people we know who use call recording software regularly. We then tried each platform to see how user-friendly each was, as well as determine what range of tools and advanced options were available. Pricing also came into account when determining our best list.
See how we test, rate, and review products on TechRadar.
Which call recorder software is best for you?
When deciding which of the best call recorder software apps to use, first consider what actual needs you have. For example, someone simply wanting to use one on a casual basis may find a free or cheap option is the most cost-effective while providing all of the necessary tools that would be required. However, if you're planning to use call recording for professional or business purposes, especially with a large number of people and on a regular basis, then you will probably want to look to the higher-end options for the more advanced tools that are included.
We've also featured the best project management software.
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Michael Graw
Michael Graw is a freelance journalist and photographer based in Bellingham, Washington. His interests span a wide range from business technology to finance to creative media, with a focus on new technology and emerging trends. Michael's work has been published in TechRadar, Tom's Guide, Business Insider, Fast Company, Salon, and Harvard Business Review.
FAQs
Is there a call recorder app that actually works? ›
Call Recorder – callX is an automatic call recorder that will help you record, block call, or note call. This Android call recorder app allows you to do the automatic recording for incoming and outgoing calls. Features: Record phone calls from both sides and record phone calls while on the phone.
Which is best automatic call recorder? ›- #1 Notta.
- #2 Cube ACR.
- #3 Google Voice.
- #4 Blackbox.
- #5 Automatic Call Recorder.
- #6 Phone by Google.
- #7 Boldbeast.
- #8 Auto Call Recorder.
- Answer the incoming call you intend to record.
- Press 4 to start recording.
- Press 4 to stop recording.
- Access recordings in the Google Voice voicemail tab.
On your Android device, open the Voice app and tap the menu, then settings. Under calls, turn on incoming call options. When you want to record a call using Google Voice, simply answer the call to your Google Voice number and tap 4 to start recording.
Which call recorder records both sides? ›Call Recorder – callX is an automatic call recorder that will help you record, block call, or note call. This Android call recorder app allows you to do the automatic recording for incoming and outgoing calls. Features: Record phone calls from both sides and record phone calls while on the phone.
Is there an app to secretly record conversations? ›Smart Recorder is the best secret voice recording app for Android users. The app can record surrounding voice even when the display is off. The app does not consume too much battery life in comparison to other such hidden voice recording apps.
How can I secretly record all calls? ›If you have an Android phone, the Automatic Call Recorder by Appliqato is one of the best apps available in the Google Play Store for recording phone calls. Once installed, the app automatically records all outgoing and incoming phone calls without alerting the person you're recording.
How do I permanently record calls on my Android? ›...
Turn on “Always record” for unknown numbers
- On your Android device, open the Phone app .
- At the top right, tap More options Settings. Call recording.
- Under “Always record,” turn on Numbers not in your contacts.
- Tap Always record.
Automatic Call Recorder
On devices with Android 10 or higher, you'll need to turn on the accessibility service. Tap the Turn On button. At the Accessibility settings screen, tap the entry for Call Recorder under Downloaded apps and turn on the switch for Use Call Recorder.
The new Google Play Store policy has imposed a call recording apps ban and it includes all the third-party apps. The call recording apps ban on the Play Store is from May 11, 2022.
How do I record a live conversation on my iPhone? ›
The Voice Memos app comes preinstalled on most devices, but it is also free on the App Store. Open the Voice Memos app and tap the red record button and start speaking for long enough that you can ensure that the sound quality is good enough to record, and then clearly understand, a conversation.
How do you record a conversation with someone? ›Taping In-Person Conversations
Download a free third-party app like Voice Recorder, Audio Recorder, or Smart Recorder. Or use the pre-installed Voice Memos app on iPhone. Place your phone between your conversation partner and yourself. Open up your app and hit the “record” button to start recording.
The treble or alto recorder is the most popular instrument of the recorder family, with most of the solo repertoire composed for its range.
What are the 5 types of recorders? ›Recorders come in many different sizes. The main kinds, from small to large, are: sopranino, descant (soprano), treble (alto), tenor and bass.
What are the three types of recorders? ›Recorders of all sizes, from small to large
Also, in general, ensembles are quartets that perform with the four types of recorders; soprano, alto, tenor and bass.
If the screen is off, Android will not allow the recorder running, as a result the call will not be recorded. If the screen is on, all apps are activated in this case, the call can be recorded.
Why call recorder is not recording all calls? ›This is a deliberate attempt by Google to block all call recording apps from the Google Play Store. The company called it off and announced a new policy change (that went live from May 11, 2022) to prevent third-party apps from using the Accessibility API for recording calls.
What are the two types of recording? ›The two main classes of sound recording technology are analog recording and digital recording.
Can you record a conversation with someone without their knowledge? ›Under the federal Wiretap Act, it is illegal for any person to secretly record an oral, telephonic, or electronic communication that other parties to the communication reasonably expect to be private. (18 U.S.C.
Is it illegal to secretly record audio conversations? ›Generally, it is illegal to secretly record oral communications between two or more people unless you have the consent of at least one of the individuals involved, or you are one of the parties to the conversation.
Can I secretly record a conversation with my boss? ›
California is a “two-party consent” state, which means that it can be illegal to secretly record conversations in person, over the phone, or through video chat if the other participant(s) also live in a “two-party consent” state. You would need the other party's consent and permission to legally record a conversation.
Can I record my husbands cell phone conversations? ›Shapiro points out, it is not legal to record a spouse's conversation with other people unless consent has been obtained from one of the participants in that phone call. Likewise the same rule applies to conversations without the use of the phone.
Can I record a conversation with someone on my phone? ›Federal law requires one-party consent, enabling you to record a conversation in person or over the phone, but only if you are participating in the conversation. If you are not part of the conversation but you are recording it, then you are engaging in illegal eavesdropping or wiretapping.
Why did Android Remove call recording? ›Google Play Locks Out Call-Recording Apps
According to the policy update, the “Accessibility API is not designed and cannot be requested for remote call audio recording.” This is because the Accessibility API is only meant to be used by developers to build apps for people with disabilities to access their devices.
Tap Record . Your phone will record, even if the screen goes to sleep. While recording, you'll see a "Currently recording" message in your notifications. You can record up to 18 hours on a single recording.
How long can you record on an Android phone? ›There's no time limit on recordings, so record as long as you want. Record as many videos as you want. You can record audio narration to go along with your screen recording.
Which is the best call recording software for Android? ›Call Recorder App ACR
With thousands of positive reviews, it is one of the most popular call-recording apps used for iOS as well as Android. A single tap lets you start and save the call recording.
The best free hidden call recorder app is the AirDroid Call Recorder app. It records all types of calls, even those made on the social media platforms such as Skype, Messenger, or WhatsApp.
How do I automatically record calls on Android without app? ›- Launch the Contacts app on your phone.
- Locate and select a contact you wish to record her calls automatically.
- Click the three-dot menu button in the top right corner.
- Select “Enable auto call recording”
The decision has been made for better privacy of the users, it says. Developers will not be able to access the accessibility API that offered the call recording functionality on Android smartphones. But just because the apps cannot record calls does not mean it is the end of the feature for users.
Does Samsung have inbuilt call recorder? ›
You can record important calls on your Samsung Galaxy Smartphone, and play them back from your audio library whenever you want. Follow the easy steps shown in the below video to learn how to record calls when needed. Please Note: This feature does not work in "Wi-Fi calling".
How can I record a call without someone knowing? ›If you have an Android phone, the Automatic Call Recorder by Appliqato is one of the best apps available in the Google Play Store for recording phone calls. Once installed, the app automatically records all outgoing and incoming phone calls without alerting the person you're recording.
What is the best free app to record phone calls? ›1. TapeACall. Using TapeACall, it's easy to schedule phone call recordings and manage your recording backlist. With this app, you can capture clear audio content with ease, and you can even access in-built audio transcription tools!
Is there any good call recorder for iPhone? ›Rev Call Recorder is the only iPhone app that allows you to record calls in just one simple step. No more fumbling over call merging with other apps. To top it off, call recording is completely free with absolutely no limits for incoming & outgoing calls.
Can I record a phone call without an app? ›You can easily record incoming and outgoing calls using the easy built-in feature available on Android phones. This feature has been added so that users do not have to rely on third-party applications for recording calls.
Can you voice record someone at work without them knowing? ›In California, it is a misdemeanor to record a conversation without the consent of all parties to the conversation, which can lead to fines of up to $2,500 and/or imprisonment for up to a year.
Which app is safe for call recording? ›Call Recorder App ACR
The call recorder app records call as well as helps in noting a voice message that can be shared across platforms. With thousands of positive reviews, it is one of the most popular call-recording apps used for iOS as well as Android.
It is illegal to record or intercept any telephone or electronic communication without the consent of at least one party. This offense is a felony punishable by fine and/or imprisonment, and can also carry civil liability.
How do I choose a recording device? ›- Using Windows 10, right click on the speaker icon (right hand side) of the taskbar to show menu choices, left click on Sounds. - Once in the Playback or Recording section, you should see the corresponding devices listed. - Right click on the appropriate device in the list, and select Set as Default Device.
How can I record a call on my iPhone without a subscription? ›- #1) Using Third-Party Applications. 1) TapeACall. 2) Rev. 3) Call Recorder Lite. 4) Applavia Call Recorder for iPhone.
- #2) Without App for Free.
- #3) Using Google Voice.
- #4) Using Voicemail.
Which is the best call recorder for iPhone for free? ›
- #1. Call Recorder ACR Plus.
- #2. TapeACall: Call Recorder.
- #3. Automatic Call Recorder.
- #4. Call Recorder- Recostar.
- #5. Call Recorder Lite for iPhone.