Video calls in Cuba: what you need to know
Video calls are an essential part of daily communication between Cuba and the rest of the world. However, due to connectivity limitations and the cost of mobile data, it’s important to understand:
Which video calling apps work in Cuba without restrictions
How much data each app consumes based on call quality and duration
Which apps are best for saving data or improving call stability
The differences between apps can be significant. Choosing the right one can help you make the most of your mobile data plan.
Video calling apps that work in Cuba
The following apps work in Cuba and allow video calls without using a VPN:
WhatsApp
Telegram
Facebook Messenger
Google Meet
Some other popular apps may not work properly due to restrictions or because they require more bandwidth than is usually available.
Which app uses the least data?
Data consumption varies depending on several factors:
3G or 4G signal quality
Video resolution
Phone model
Lighting conditions
Number of participants in the call
That said, average usage can be estimated.
Estimated data usage for a 3-minute video call
App | Estimated data usage |
~7.5 MB (≈ 2.5 MB/min) | |
Telegram | 10–12 MB |
Messenger | 18–45 MB |
Google Meet | 15–45 MB |
Best app depending on your needs
If you want to save mobile data
The most efficient option is:
WhatsApp — lowest average data consumption
If you want better quality and stability
Recommended option:
WhatsApp, thanks to its automatic quality adjustment on unstable networks
If you need group video calls
Better options are:
Google Meet
Messenger
These apps handle multiple participants well but consume significantly more data.
In Cuba, the most efficient video calling apps are those that adapt best to limited connectivity.
WhatsApp offers the best balance between low data usage and stable quality, while Google Meet and Messenger are better suited for group calls, at the cost of higher data consumption.
If your family in Cuba needs mobile data for video calls, you can send balance or combined data plans directly through Fonoma, with fast and secure delivery.
Frequently asked questions about video calls in Cuba
Can I make video calls using 3G?
Yes, but quality will be lower, and data consumption may increase due to reconnections or pixelation.
Does 4G reduce data usage?
No. 4G does not reduce consumption, but it improves stability and reduces interruptions, resulting in a better experience.
Do video calls consume promotional bonus data?
Yes. Video calls first use promotional bonus data (if available), then active plans, and finally the main balance.
Can I reduce data usage from the app settings?
Yes. Both WhatsApp and Telegram offer data-saving options in their settings.