Our verdict: LINE for Windows is worth installing if your friends, family or colleagues use LINE, which is common in Japan, Taiwan and Thailand. Chats and calls are free; stickers and some extras are paid. Elsewhere, few people use it.
About LINE
LINE is run by LY Corporation, the company formed from LINE Corporation and Yahoo Japan. The Windows app is a companion to your LINE account, which you create in the mobile app with a phone number.
On the PC you can send messages, stickers and files, and make voice and video calls to your LINE contacts and groups. Sticker packs, emoji and coins are sold in the in-app shop, and LYP Premium is an optional subscription.
What it does well
- Chats and groups. Message friends and groups with text, stickers and files.
- Voice and video calls. Call LINE contacts for free from the PC.
- Login with QR code. Sign in to the PC app by scanning a code with LINE on your phone.
- OpenChat. Join topic-based group chats with people outside your friends list.
- Stickers and emoji. Use free stickers or buy packs in the LINE sticker shop.
Who it is for
Good fit
People whose contacts use LINE, especially in Japan, Taiwan and Thailand.
Look elsewhere
Users looking for an open-source or privacy-focused messenger.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Free chats and calls
- Large user base in East and Southeast Asia
- Full desktop app with calls and file sharing
Cons
- Needs a LINE account created on a phone
- Many stickers and extras are paid
- Not widely used outside Asia
How to install LINE
The download is a small web installer that fetches the full app. Create your LINE account on your phone first, then log in on the PC with the QR code or your registered email address.
Questions about LINE
Is LINE free?
Yes. The app, messages and calls are free. Stickers, emoji and LYP Premium are paid extras.
Can I use LINE on a PC without a phone?
You need a LINE account, which is created in the mobile app. After that you can log in on Windows with a QR code or email.
