The virtual phone system market is crowded, making it difficult to assess all available VoIP vendors and choose the best VoIP service for your business. With virtual phones becoming increasingly vital, finding the perfect one is crucial. This article provides a comprehensive comparison to help you navigate the options.
Understanding VoIP: Voice over Internet Protocol
When comparing VoIP providers, it’s essential to understand what VoIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol, is. VoIP technology transmits audio signals over the internet rather than traditional phone lines. This offers significant flexibility, allowing users to make and receive calls from any location and device with an internet connection.
MightyCall VoIP provider
How VoIP Services Function
VoIP services operate by converting your voice into digital data packets and transmitting them over the internet. Often referred to as “cloud VoIP services,” these systems utilize servers to store and manage audio, video, and other communication files. This cloud-based infrastructure ensures near-instant communication, provided you have a stable internet connection. A key advantage of VoIP is its compatibility with traditional phone networks. You can call any regular phone number from your VoIP service, and vice versa, ensuring seamless communication regardless of the recipient’s technology.
Top VoIP Phone Service Providers: A Curated List
To simplify your search, we’ve compiled a list of the top business VoIP service providers, evaluated and ranked for 2024:
VoIP Services: Side-by-Side Comparison
| VoIP Service | Starting Price (per user/month) | Key Features | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|---|
| MightyCall | $15 | Multi-level IVR, SMS/MMS, Vanity/Toll-Free/Local Numbers, Web/Desktop/Mobile Calling, CRM Integrations | Small to Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs) |
| Grasshopper | $29 | Business Numbers, Basic Telephony Features, Web/Desktop/Mobile Calling | Mid-sized Businesses |
| Line2 | $15.99 | Business Number, Basic Telephony, Desktop/Mobile Calling | Solopreneurs, Individual Users |
| RingCentral | $29.99 | Business Numbers, Extensive Telephony Features, Web/Desktop/Mobile Calling, Enterprise Features | Large Teams, Enterprises, Call Centers |
| Nextiva | $26.95 | Business Numbers, Basic Telephony, Web/Desktop/Mobile Calling, Unlimited Fax | Call Centers, Large Teams, Businesses needing Fax |
| 8×8 | $15 | Business Numbers, Unlimited International Calling, Web/Desktop/Mobile Calling | International Businesses, Global Teams |
| Google Voice | $20 | Local Business Numbers, Web/Desktop/Mobile Calling, Google Workspace Integration | Solopreneurs, Google-centric Businesses |
| Dialpad | $23 | Business Numbers, Advanced Telephony, Web/Desktop/Mobile Calling, AI Features | Call Centers, Large Teams, Mid-sized Businesses |
| Vonage | £9.00 | Business Numbers, Basic Telephony, Web/Desktop/Mobile Calling | Small to Mid-sized Businesses |
| OpenPhone | $13 | Business Numbers, Telephony Features, Web/Desktop/Mobile Calling, Integrations | Call Centers, Large Teams, Growing Businesses |
| magicJack | $15.99 | Business Numbers, Telephony Features, Desktop/Mobile Calling, US Focus | Larger US-based Teams |
| Ooma | $19.95 | Business Numbers, Telephony Features, Desktop/Mobile Calling, Hardware Options | Small Businesses with Office Presence |
| GoTo Connect | Free Plan Available | Basic Calling Features, Limited Volume | Solopreneurs with Low Call Volume |
| Phone.com | $14.99 | Business Numbers, Telephony Features, Web/Mobile Calling | Small Businesses, Solopreneurs, Growing Teams |
| Microsoft Teams Phone | $8.00 | Business Numbers, Telephony Features, Web/Mobile Calling, Microsoft Integration | Larger Teams, Microsoft Ecosystem Users |
*Prices are current at the time of writing and may vary.
In-Depth Look at the Top 15 VoIP Providers
1. MightyCall
MightyCall: Comprehensive VoIP for Growing Businesses
MightyCall stands out with its extensive suite of over 30 calling features and integrations, offering local, toll-free, and vanity numbers. It’s a robust choice for businesses of all sizes seeking feature-rich yet affordable VoIP solutions.
Why We Picked It
MightyCall distinguishes itself with exceptional customer support and a generous feature set at a competitive price point. Unlike many providers that tier features based on plan level, MightyCall offers plans based on team size. This ensures that all businesses, regardless of size, have access to essential tools without incurring extra costs for add-ons. This approach makes MightyCall particularly appealing for businesses that need a full-featured VoIP solution without complex pricing structures.
Best For
Small and Medium-sized Businesses (SMBs)
Pricing (per month)
- Core: Starting from $15 per user
- Pro: Starting from $23 per user
- Power: Starting from $30 per user
- Enterprise: Custom quote available
Key Features
- Multi-level IVR (Interactive Voice Response)
- SMS and MMS messaging
- Local, toll-free, and vanity phone numbers
- Call recording and analytics
- CRM integrations
- Mobile and desktop apps
- Voicemail to email
Integrations
- HubSpot
- Salesforce
- Zapier (for 1500+ business applications)
- Other CRM platforms
User Experience
MightyCall is designed for intuitive use with a simple interface, minimizing the need for extensive training. The platform is continually updated, ensuring a modern and efficient user experience.
Customer Service
MightyCall provides comprehensive customer support through live chat, phone, and email. They also offer demos and free assistance with initial setup, integrations, and ongoing technical support, ensuring a smooth onboarding process for new clients.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Team-size based plans offer all features without tiered restrictions. | No built-in fax option. |
| Transparent pricing with no hidden fees. | Primarily focused on SMBs; enterprise-level features might be less extensive compared to providers like RingCentral. |
| Extensive feature set and integrations included in base plans. | No dedicated desktop client; accessed via browser or mobile app. |
| Consistently updated with new features and improvements. |
User Reviews
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2. Grasshopper
Grasshopper: Reliable Virtual Telephony with Essential Features
Grasshopper is a veteran in the VoIP industry, known for its reliable virtual telephony services and focus on core business phone functionalities. It’s a solid option for businesses needing standard calling and messaging features.
Why We Picked It
Grasshopper’s user interface is recognized for its simplicity and ease of navigation. The service provides all fundamental business phone functionalities effectively. However, it’s important to note that Grasshopper’s softphone is exclusive to their service. If you’re seeking a standalone dialer, you must fully transition to Grasshopper. This makes it a less flexible option for businesses already committed to other communication platforms.
Best For
Mid-sized teams requiring standard calling and messaging features.
Pricing (per user/month)
- Solo: $29 (up to 3 user extensions)
- Partner: $49 (up to 6 user extensions)
- Small Business: $89 (unlimited users)
Key Features
- Business phone numbers
- Audio calls
- Text messaging
- Conference calling
- Call forwarding
- Virtual fax
Integrations
- Zapier
- API
- No native CRM integrations
User Experience
Grasshopper is praised for its straightforward and user-friendly design, a benefit of its long-standing presence in the market.
Customer Service
Customer support primarily directs users to FAQs and documentation. Direct support is available via a “Call Support” option embedded within relevant FAQ articles, which may be less immediate than live chat or direct phone support.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Comprehensive business phone features. | Not ideal as a standalone dialer; requires full service adoption. |
| Desktop, web, and mobile dialer availability. | Lacks deep business integrations, particularly with CRMs. |
| Customizable interface. | Many advanced features like voicemail transcription are add-ons, increasing overall cost. |
| Higher starting price compared to some competitors, especially for the entry-level “Solo” plan. |
User Reviews
3. Line2
Line2: Simple Second Line Solution for Solopreneurs
Line2 provides a straightforward service for adding a second phone line to your devices. While functional for basic needs, it may lack the advanced features required for growing businesses seeking a comprehensive VoIP solution.
Why We Picked It
Line2 is known for its simplicity, clean interface, and minimalistic design. It offers a single plan with both monthly and annual payment options. Users get unlimited calling within the US and Canada, unlimited SMS/MMS, and basic PBX features at a relatively low cost. This makes it a budget-friendly option for individuals and very small teams, but its limited feature set restricts scalability for growing businesses.
Best For
Individual use, solopreneurs, and very small teams.
Pricing (per user/month)
$15.99 monthly or $13.75/month annually
Key Features
- Business phone numbers
- Call screening
- Voicemail transcriptions
- Audio calls
- Text messaging
Integrations
No integrations available.
User Experience
Users appreciate Line2’s ease of use and clean design but often report experiencing downtimes.
Customer Service
Customer support is available via phone and email during standard business hours.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable pricing, especially for basic needs. | Limited scalability; lacks features needed for larger or growing businesses. |
| Clearly defined purpose as a second line provider. | User reviews report inconsistent call quality, particularly over Wi-Fi connections. |
| Straightforward and easy to use. | Limited customer support hours; no 24/7 availability. |
| Lack of integrations limits its utility for businesses relying on CRM or other business applications. |
User Reviews
4. RingCentral
RingCentral: Enterprise-Grade VoIP with Extensive Features
RingCentral is a well-established VoIP provider recognized for its robust functionality and reliability. Designed for larger enterprises, it offers a wide range of advanced features and scalable solutions.
Why We Picked It
RingCentral is a market leader in VoIP, known for its long-standing reputation and high call quality. The platform is packed with advanced features suitable for large organizations. However, its plans are generally considered more expensive compared to competitors, particularly for basic plans which may offer fewer features relative to the price.
Best For
Large teams, enterprises, and call centers.
Pricing (per user/month)
- Essentials Plan: $29.99
- Standard Plan: $37.99
- Premium Plan: $44.99
- Ultimate Plan: $59.99
Key Features
- Business phone numbers
- Voice and video calls (video on Standard plan and above)
- SMS and MMS messaging
- Voicemail-to-text
- Advanced call management features
- Enterprise-level security
Integrations
- Standard Plan: Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, Slack
- Premium Plan: CRM integrations (Salesforce, Zendesk), Industry-specific integrations (Canvas, Smarsh)
User Experience
Users generally praise RingCentral for its call quality and the user-friendliness of its apps and system functions. However, some concerns are noted regarding the higher cost and the requirement for long-term contracts.
Customer Service
RingCentral offers 24/7 customer support starting with the Standard plan, providing continuous assistance for businesses of scale.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extensive enterprise-level telephony features on higher-tier plans. | Costly, especially for smaller businesses or basic plans with fewer features. |
| Wide range of integrations available on upper-tier plans. | Long-term contracts may be required, reducing flexibility for businesses with uncertain needs. |
| Robust and reliable platform suitable for large organizations. | Basic plans for SMBs may not offer the best value compared to providers like MightyCall or OpenPhone. |
| 24/7 customer support available on most plans. |
User Reviews
5. Nextiva
Nextiva: Award-Winning VoIP with Solid Core Features
Nextiva, recognized as a leading business phone service, is known for its reliability and comprehensive suite of core VoIP features. It is a popular choice for businesses seeking a dependable and well-regarded provider.
Why We Picked It
Nextiva is a highly recognized VoIP provider with industry awards and positive media coverage. Its reputation for reliability and solid performance makes it a noteworthy service. Additionally, Nextiva is commended for its community involvement through Nextiva Cares. However, while well-regarded, Nextiva’s feature set may not be as extensive or varied as some competitors, particularly for businesses needing highly specialized functionalities.
Best For
Small to mid-sized businesses seeking a reliable VoIP service with essential features.
Pricing (per user/month)
- Essential Plan: $21.95
- Professional Plan: $26.95
- Enterprise Plan: $36.95
Key Features
- Unlimited voice & video calling
- Voicemail
- Toll-free numbers
- Outlook/Google Contacts Integrations
- Unlimited internet fax
Integrations
- Google Workspace
- Microsoft 365
User Experience
Nextiva is praised for its effective call organization tools. User feedback on customer support and app complexity is mixed, suggesting experiences can vary. Overall, Nextiva seems to be a platform that elicits strong reactions – users tend to either be very satisfied or seek alternatives.
Customer Service
Nextiva provides customer support through a video help hub, FAQs, chat, and ticket submission system.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High call quality. | Limited variety of integrations compared to providers like RingCentral or Dialpad. |
| Customizable auto-attendant features. | User reports indicate the app can be buggy or somewhat confusing to navigate. |
| Well-recognized and award-winning service. | Feature set, while solid, may not be as extensive as some competitors in the same price range. |
User Reviews
6. 8×8
8×8: Global VoIP Solution with Strong International Calling
8×8 is an established VoIP provider, particularly known for its high recording quality and efficient message alerts. It’s a strong contender for businesses with significant international communication needs.
Why We Picked It
As a major player in the VoIP market, 8×8 is a popular and frequently considered option. Its inclusion in any VoIP provider ranking is essential due to its broad market presence and feature set. 8×8 is particularly attractive for businesses with international operations, offering a global plan covering 40 international locations.
Best For
Businesses with high volumes of international calls, seeking long-term contracts.
Pricing (per user/month)
- Express: $15
- X2: $28
- X4: $57
Key Features
- Business phone numbers
- Audio calls
- Document sharing (X2 plan and above)
- Meeting streaming on YouTube (X2 plan and above)
- Call analytics (X2 plan and above)
- Unlimited international calling to specific countries
Integrations
- Microsoft Teams
- CRM, productivity, and service apps (X2 plans and up)
User Experience
Customers commend 8×8 for its call management capabilities. However, similar to Nextiva, there are mixed reviews regarding customer support and ease of integration, suggesting a potentially variable user experience.
Customer Service
8×8 provides customer support resources including manuals, FAQs, and live chat.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unlimited international calling to numerous locations. | Vanity numbers are not available. |
| Robust integrations with business applications on higher-tier plans. | User reports suggest the app can be buggy and somewhat confusing. |
| Seamless transition between devices noted by many users. | Long-term contracts with potential penalties for early termination. |
User Reviews
7. Google Voice
Google Voice: Integrated VoIP for Google Workspace Users
Google Voice offers a straightforward VoIP service for businesses, seamlessly integrating with the broader Google Workspace ecosystem. It is a natural choice for companies already invested in Google’s suite of products.
Why We Picked It
Google Voice, as part of the well-known Google product family, is an intuitive choice for businesses already using Google services. Its inclusion in VoIP service reviews is essential due to its brand recognition and ease of adoption for Google users. For businesses deeply integrated with Google Workspace, Google Voice offers a streamlined communication solution.
Best For
Small businesses with moderate call volumes, heavily reliant on Google Workspace.
Pricing (per user/month)
- Starter Plan: $10
- Standard Plan: $20
- Premier Plan: $30
Key Features
- International calls to Europe (from the USA)
- Text and voice calls
- Mobile and web apps
- SIP Link (Standard plan and above)
- Voicemail transcription
Integrations
- Google Workspace suite
User Experience
Google Workspace users will find Google Voice’s interface familiar and user-friendly. It is considered a lighter, less feature-rich option compared to dedicated VoIP platforms, which may suit users seeking simplicity over extensive functionalities. Some users note the limited feature set compared to standalone VoIP solutions.
Customer Service
Customer support is available 24/7 through the Google Voice Help page, FAQs, and community forums.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Seamless integration with Google Workspace. | Vanity numbers are not available. |
| Familiar and user-friendly interface for Google users. | More limited feature set compared to dedicated VoIP providers. |
| Basic free option for personal use (with limitations). | Potential for various fees: activation, deactivation, and subscription fees. |
User Reviews
8. Dialpad
Dialpad: AI-Powered VoIP for Modern Businesses
Dialpad has positioned itself as a robust VoIP solution for mid-sized to large organizations, emphasizing AI-powered features and a modern communication experience.
Why We Picked It
Dialpad is a prominent system in the VoIP market, created by former Google Voice developers. It is designed to be feature-rich and technologically advanced, offering AI-driven functionalities. Its long-standing presence and continuous development make it a strong contender when evaluating VoIP providers.
Best For
Mid-sized businesses and enterprises seeking AI-enhanced VoIP solutions.
Pricing (per user/month)
- Standard Plan: $23
- Pro Plan: $35
- Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing
Key Features
- Mobile and desktop apps
- Call forwarding
- IVR/Multi-level IVR
- Call recording
- Voicemail-to-text
- AI-powered features (voice intelligence, real-time transcription)
Integrations
- Standard Plan: Google Workspace, Microsoft 365
- Pro & Enterprise Plans: CRM integrations (Salesforce, HubSpot), Custom integrations
User Experience
Developed by ex-Google Voice engineers, Dialpad offers a feature-rich system with a focus on user-friendly design. It expands on the simplicity of Google Voice with more advanced functionalities and AI capabilities.
Customer Service
- 24/5 support via chat and web for Standard plan users.
- 24/7 support for Pro and Enterprise customers.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extensive integrations, particularly for Pro and Enterprise plans. | 24/7 customer support not available on the basic Standard plan (24/5 support). |
| MMS messaging included in all plans. | Priority live agent support is exclusive to the Enterprise plan. |
| AI-powered features enhance communication and productivity. |
User Reviews
9. Vonage
Vonage: Feature-Rich VoIP with Excellent Call Quality
Vonage is a well-known VoIP provider for business communications, offering a comprehensive suite of over 40 features across its plans. It is recognized for its strong performance and user-friendly design.
Why We Picked It
Vonage stands out for its high-quality service, boasting excellent uptime for both unlimited calling and texting. It also features a stylish and intuitive user interface. Vonage provides a robust and aesthetically pleasing VoIP experience.
Best For
Small to mid-sized businesses seeking a feature-rich and reliable VoIP service.
Pricing (per line/month)
- Basic Plan: $19.99
- Premium Plan: $29.99
- Advanced Plan: $39.99
Key Features
- Mobile and desktop apps
- Vonage App Center for integrations
- Unlimited team messaging
- Unlimited calls and SMS
- Multi-level auto attendant (Premium plan and above)
Integrations
- CRM integrations (Premium and Advanced plans)
User Experience
Users generally appreciate Vonage’s clean and easy-to-use interface, extensive features, and strong call quality. Some users have reported issues with Vonage numbers being flagged as spam and occasional inefficiencies in customer support.
Customer Service
Customer support is available via phone (7 days a week, varying hours), community forums, and website case submissions.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Beautiful and user-friendly interface. | Potential hidden costs, add-ons, and extras beyond the base plan pricing. |
| High call and audio quality. | Some user complaints regarding customer service responsiveness and effectiveness. |
| Extensive feature set catering to various business needs. | Reports of Vonage numbers being occasionally marked as spam, potentially affecting outbound call deliverability. |
User Reviews
10. OpenPhone
OpenPhone: Modern VoIP with Excellent User Experience
OpenPhone is a well-regarded VoIP service focused on providing a seamless user experience, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses. It offers a strong feature set and flexible pricing options.
Why We Picked It
OpenPhone is recognized for its exceptional user experience, robust integrations, and high-quality calling services. It supports international calling and includes features like auto-attendants. Its focus on UX and modern design makes it a compelling choice.
Best For
Call centers, large teams, and growing businesses prioritizing user experience.
Pricing (per user/month)
- Standard Team Plan: $13
- Premium Team Plan: $25
- Enterprise Team Plan: Custom pricing
Key Features
- SMS/MMS messaging
- Webphone
- Mobile app
- Call forwarding
- Simple IVR
- Snippets for text message templates
Integrations
- Email, Slack, Google Contacts, HubSpot CRM
- Zapier (additional cost)
User Experience
Users appreciate OpenPhone’s app, feature variety, Slack integration, and toll-free number options. Some users have noted occasional limitations in customer support availability on basic plans.
Customer Service
- FAQ section and chat box with form submission.
- Priority support available for Enterprise plan users.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Snippets feature for creating custom text message templates improves efficiency. | Automated texting option requires Zapier integration, adding complexity and potential cost. |
| Stylish dark interface on the desktop app. | Customer support primarily via email, with priority support limited to Enterprise plan users. |
| Strong focus on user experience and modern design. |
User Reviews
11. magicJack
magicJack: Budget-Friendly VoIP with Long-Term Contracts
magicJack offers VoIP plans focused on affordability, particularly through long-term contracts. It provides unlimited calling within the US & Canada and a solid set of core features.
Why We Picked It
magicJack offers a different approach to VoIP pricing with plans based on contract length (1, 2, or 3 years). This model can provide long-term budget predictability, although it requires a commitment. This unique pricing structure differentiates it from monthly subscription models.
Best For
Larger teams within the US seeking budget-friendly, long-term VoIP solutions.
Pricing (per contract)
- 1-year plan: $43
- 2-year plan: $79
- 3-year plan: $109
Key Features
- Voicemail
- Call forwarding
- Call blocking
- Number porting
- Free unlimited incoming calls from US and Canada
Integrations
None listed.
User Experience
User feedback on magicJack is mixed. Some users report reliability and ease of use, while others mention difficulties switching from other telephony providers.
Customer Service
Customer support options include an FAQ page, website issue reports, and email.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fixed pricing for multi-year contracts provides long-term cost certainty. | No short-term contract options available; requires a commitment of at least one year. |
| Ease of use for basic VoIP functionalities. | Customer support options are somewhat limited. |
| Affordable pricing structure, especially for longer contracts. | Limited integrations with business applications. |
User Reviews
12. Ooma
Ooma: VoIP with Hardware Options for Office-Centric Businesses
Ooma distinguishes itself by offering both VoIP service and optional hardware, including IP desk phones. This makes it a unique choice for businesses preferring traditional desk phones alongside virtual communication tools.
Why We Picked It
Ooma’s unique selling proposition is its hardware offerings, setting it apart from purely software-based VoIP providers. It bridges the gap between traditional phone systems and modern VoIP technology, appealing to businesses that value physical desk phones.
Best For
Small businesses with a physical office presence, valuing both desk phones and VoIP features.
Pricing (per user/month)
- Essentials: $19.95
- Pro: $24.95
- Pro Plus: $29.99
Key Features
- Business phone numbers
- Audio calls
- Virtual receptionist
- Virtual fax
- Call forwarding
- Hardware options (IP desk phones)
Integrations
- Salesforce integration (Pro Plus plan only)
User Experience
Ooma is generally well-regarded by users. While some report complexities with processes like number porting, most VoIP reviews praise the service and its range of products.
Customer Service
Customer support is available via documentation manuals and 24/7 phone support.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Office-centric approach with hardware and software options. | Most business calling features are concentrated in the Pro subscription and higher. |
| Works with both softphone systems and IP desk phones, offering flexibility. | Softphone app availability is limited to Pro plan and above. |
| Simple voicemail tree setup. | Limited integrations, with CRM integration only available on the highest-tier Pro Plus plan. |
User Reviews
13. GoTo Connect
GoTo Connect: User-Friendly VoIP with Integrated Meeting Features
GoTo Connect is known for its simplicity and user-friendly design, making it accessible even for users less familiar with technology. It integrates VoIP with video conferencing and meeting tools.
Why We Picked It
GoTo Connect is a popular service recognized for its ease of use and well-designed interface. It offers a solid, though not extensive, feature set that caters to common business communication needs. Its user-friendliness is a key differentiator.
Best For
Solopreneurs and small businesses with low to moderate call volumes, prioritizing ease of use.
Pricing (per user/month)
- Basic Plan: $27
- Standard Plan: $32
- Premium Plan: $43
Key Features
- Voice calls
- Call flows
- Analytics
- Video meetings
- Admin controls
- Automated Content Recap feature
Integrations
- HubSpot
- Salesforce
- Google Calendar
- Microsoft Teams
User Experience
Users generally find GoTo Connect easy to manage and appreciate its user experience. Some users report concerns about app call quality.
Customer Service
Customer support is available via community forums and form submissions.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent user experience design and ease of use. | Higher price point compared to some competitors offering similar VoIP services. |
| Automated Content Recap feature for meeting summaries. | Feature set, while adequate, may be less extensive compared to providers like RingCentral or Dialpad. |
User Reviews
14. Phone.com
Phone.com: Affordable VoIP with a Wide Range of Features
Phone.com offers a feature-rich VoIP system at a competitive price point, providing call forwarding, virtual numbers, and internet-based calling capabilities.
Why We Picked It
Phone.com has a loyal customer base and offers a strong basic plan with reportedly good customer service. It covers essential needs for smaller teams affordably, making it a worthwhile option for budget-conscious businesses.
Best For
Growing teams, small businesses, and solopreneurs looking for affordable and feature-rich VoIP.
Pricing (per user/month)
- Basic: $14.99
- Plus: $19.99
- Pro: $29.00
Key Features
- Business phone numbers
- Auto attendant
- Voicemail and transcription (Pro plan only)
- Call routing
- Audio calls
- Video conferencing (Pro plan and above, up to 100 participants)
Integrations
- Pro Plan: Zapier, Zoho Office Suite, AllProWebTools CRM, Chrometa time tracking, HubSpot, Salesforce, Pipedrive
User Experience
Some users report call quality issues, but generally appreciate the user interface and ease of use of Phone.com.
Customer Service
24/7 customer service is available via live chat, email, and phone.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Impressive range and variety of features for the price. | Additional business numbers incur extra costs. |
| Video conferencing with up to 100 participants on the Pro plan. | Basic plan has limited features and only 500 pooled minutes. |
| 24/7 customer support across multiple channels. | Some user reports of inconsistent call quality. |
User Reviews
15. Microsoft Teams Phone
Microsoft Teams Phone: VoIP Integration within the Microsoft Ecosystem
Microsoft Teams Phone is a cloud-based calling solution designed to integrate seamlessly within the Microsoft Teams environment, offering VoIP capabilities to existing Microsoft users.
Why We Picked It
For organizations already heavily invested in the Microsoft ecosystem, Microsoft Teams Phone provides a convenient and integrated VoIP solution. It simplifies communication for teams already comfortable with the Teams interface.
Best For
Large, cross-functional teams deeply integrated with the Microsoft ecosystem.
Pricing (per user/month)
Starting from $8.00
Key Features
- Basic call control
- Make and answer calls
- Merge calls
- Transfer and ring back
- Transfer calls between devices
- Integration with Microsoft Office Suite
Integrations
- Microsoft Office Suite
User Experience
Microsoft Teams Phone is intuitive for existing Teams users and is praised for its reliability. However, integration can be challenging for organizations not already deeply embedded in the Microsoft ecosystem.
Customer Service
Customer support is available via phone numbers specific to your location.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Convenient for Microsoft Teams users seeking integrated communication. | Limited flexibility for businesses not heavily invested in the Microsoft ecosystem. |
| Clean and simple interface, consistent with the Microsoft Teams environment. | Not developed as a standalone VoIP provider; features are centered around Microsoft Teams functionality. |
| Reliable service backed by Microsoft’s infrastructure. | Integration can be complex if not already deeply embedded in the Microsoft ecosystem. |
User Reviews
How We Ranked These 15 Best VoIP Providers: Evaluation Criteria
Our ranking of these VoIP providers is designed to offer a diverse selection, recognizing that the “best” provider is subjective and depends on individual business needs. We prioritized well-known and reputable VoIP companies. Our evaluation focused on key factors crucial for businesses selecting a VoIP service:
- Features: The breadth and depth of features offered by each system. We assessed if the features justify the cost and if there are valuable add-ons.
- Price (Affordability): The overall cost-effectiveness of each service, considering plan structures, hidden costs, and value for money. We compared pricing tiers and plan inclusions.
- Integration Simplicity: Ease of integrating the VoIP system into existing business workflows and the range of available integrations with other business applications.
- Call Volume and Limits: Restrictions on call volumes, potential overage charges, and the scope of calling (local, international, texting capabilities).
- Customer Support: Responsiveness, availability, and channels of customer support (FAQ, live chat, phone, email). We considered user reviews on support quality.
- User Interface (UI): Intuitiveness, ease of use, and design of the user interface. We assessed whether the UI is user-friendly and efficient.
- Stability and Reliability: System uptime, call quality, and app stability. We considered user reports of dropped calls, audio quality issues, and system failures.
Key Features to Look For in VoIP Providers
When comparing VoIP providers, focus on these essential features:
- Auto Attendant (IVR): Automated system for routing calls.
- Call Analytics: Data and reporting on call activity.
- Call Forwarding: Directing calls to different numbers or devices.
- Call Recording: Recording calls for training or compliance.
- Conference Calling: Multi-party audio and video conferencing.
- CRM Integrations: Connecting VoIP with Customer Relationship Management software.
- Mobile and Desktop Apps: Accessing VoIP services on various devices.
- SMS/MMS Messaging: Text and multimedia messaging capabilities.
- Toll-Free and Local Numbers: Options for different types of business numbers.
- Voicemail-to-Email/Text: Receiving voicemail as text or email.
- Video Conferencing: Integrated video meeting capabilities.
- Virtual Fax: Sending and receiving faxes digitally.
VoIP Phone Service Costs: Understanding Pricing
VoIP service costs vary widely, from free basic options to premium services costing hundreds per month. Free services typically have limited features and potentially lower call quality. For most businesses, paid plans from reputable providers offer the best balance of features and reliability. Expect to budget between $10 and $25 per user per month for a robust business VoIP service.
Essential Equipment for VoIP Service
Setting up VoIP service is generally straightforward, requiring minimal equipment:
- Reliable Internet Connection: A stable, high-speed internet connection is crucial. Aim for at least 100 kbps for optimal call quality.
- VoIP Service Subscription: A subscription with your chosen VoIP provider.
- Compatible Device: A computer, smartphone, or tablet capable of supporting a reliable internet connection and VoIP software.
Optional equipment can enhance the VoIP experience:
- Headphones or Headset: Improves audio quality and privacy.
- Virtual Phone Adapter (ATA): Allows using traditional analog phones with a VoIP system.
VoIP Phone Service: Pros and Cons
Before switching to VoIP, consider these advantages and disadvantages compared to traditional landlines:
Pros of VoIP Phone Service
- Location Flexibility: VoIP is not tied to a geographic location, enabling remote work and international business expansion.
- Multi-Device Accessibility: Access your VoIP account from various devices with internet connectivity, enhancing mobility and flexibility.
- Feature-Rich Services: VoIP providers often include numerous valuable features like IVR and business contacts at no extra cost.
- Cost Savings: Generally lower costs compared to traditional phone lines, eliminating equipment and rental fees.
- Scalability and Portability: Easily add phone lines, toll-free or vanity numbers, and port existing numbers quickly.
Cons of VoIP Service
- Internet Dependency: Requires a stable internet connection; service disruptions can occur during internet outages.
- Potential Lag and Quality Issues: Call quality depends on internet stability and provider quality.
- Power Dependency: Requires continuous power supply for internet equipment and devices.
- Emergency Call Limitations: Some VoIP services may not fully support emergency calls; verify provider capabilities.
- Contractual Commitments and Hidden Costs: Potential for binding contracts and unexpected fees; carefully review terms and conditions.
Choosing the Right VoIP Provider: Key Considerations
Selecting the ideal VoIP provider is crucial for effective business communication. Consider these factors during your decision-making process:
- Security: Evaluate the provider’s security measures to protect against robocalls, eavesdropping, and data breaches.
- Price-to-Value Ratio: Assess the features offered relative to the cost, considering your budget and required functionalities.
- Feature Set: Match the provider’s features to your specific business communication needs, prioritizing essential functionalities.
- Integrations: Ensure compatibility and integration with your existing business tools and workflows, particularly CRM and collaboration platforms.
- Technology Requirements: Verify compatibility with your existing hardware and software, including operating systems and devices.
- Customer Support: Research the quality and accessibility of customer support, considering response times and available channels.
Conclusion: Selecting Your Best VoIP Phone Service
The “best” VoIP service provider is subjective and depends on your unique business requirements. Each of the reviewed providers excels in different areas. Consider your business size, communication needs, budget, and technical infrastructure when making your choice.
Here’s a quick recap of top recommendations based on specific needs:
- MightyCall: Best overall value and feature-rich VoIP for small businesses.
- magicJack: Most budget-friendly option with long-term contract savings.
- Google Voice: Best for businesses deeply integrated with Google Workspace.
- 8×8: Best for large enterprises with significant international calling needs.
- Ooma: Best for businesses seeking hardware options and office-centric VoIP solutions.
By carefully comparing VoIP providers and evaluating your business needs against the criteria outlined in this guide, you can confidently select the optimal VoIP solution to enhance your business communications in 2024 and beyond.
