Voice over internet protocol, which is known as VoIP, is a technology that has transformed telephonic services in the U.S. and around the world. Unlike traditional landline phones, VoIP technology allows people to send and receive calls over the internet. Some VoIP providers allow you to call any number, including local, long-distance or international numbers. Others let you call other subscribers to the same service. And some VoIP providers let you make phone calls using your computer while others let you use traditional phones connected to a VoIP adapter.
There are many different VoIP providers, which may seem confusing when you’re trying to figure out which one to choose. Here are the top five VoIP providers to help you with your decision-making process.
1. Vonage
Vonage started with its classic consumer VoIP technology, which it still offers at $24.99 per month. Vonage offers several VoIP packages for businesses. There’s a range of packages to choose from today, beginning at a monthly cost of $19.99. Vonage offers customizable plans that allow you to build the services you need. The mobile plus package offers more than 40 business phone features, including the virtual receptionist, voicemail to email, and an admin portal. It can be used from any mobile device via broadband internet connection over your computer or mobile device.
Pros
- Easy to use, solid product
- Easy setup
- Calls can be forwarded to different locations
- Works on WiFi and on LTE
Cons
- Support is spotty
- Difficulty getting technical support
- Costs can add up when customizing services
2. RingCentral
RingCentral offers four different VoIP plan levels. The essentials package is the least expensive at a monthly cost of $19.99 per month and includes up to 100 toll-free minutes. The standard plan comes with unlimited users, includes up to 1,000 toll-free minutes, and costs $29.99 per month per user. The most popular plan is the premium plan, which has unlimited users, includes up to 2,500 toll-free minutes and costs $34.99 per month per user. Finally, RingCentral’s ultimate plan costs $49.95 per month per user, includes up to 10,000 toll-free minutes. All of these plans include unlimited video calls.
Pros
- Setup takes minutes
- Reliable tech and customer service support
Cons
- Inability to customize the greeting message for conference calls
- Linux support is not direct, but you can use the web dashboard
3. 8×8
8×8 VoIP service is hosted in the cloud, allowing you to get started in minutes. The setup is easy, and the platform comes with IP phones that are loaded with features. This service is based on a price-quote system, and your price will depend on the customized features you select. These include unlimited calls, call waiting and call forwarding, three-way calling, and video and audio conferencing.
Pros
- Uptime of more than 99.99 percent
- Global network allows clear, quick connections
- Flexible pricing
Cons
- Does not offer 24/7 customer service
- Limited options for call queuing
4. MegaPath
MegaPath was founded in 1996 and has more than 20 years of experience in the industry. It offers plans starting at $19.95 per user per month. The premium plan costs $29.95 per month per user, and the enterprise voice plan costs $39.90 per user per month. The entry-level plan includes unlimited nationwide calls and more than 50 features. The premium plan includes unified communication in addition to the features and unlimited nationwide calls. The enterprise plan offers unlimited international calls, making it a great choice if make many international calls. In addition to the 50 features that come with the plans, MegaPath offers many other optional add-ons, including auto-attendants, recorded calls, forwarding numbers, toll-free numbers and more.
Pros
- More than 50 available call features
- No contracts
- Unlimited national calling
Cons
- Added charges for some features such as e-fax and call recording
5. Jive
Jive VoIP services are available for businesses of all sizes. There are five different pricing options available. Tier one service costs $29.95 per month per user. Tier two costs $25.95 per user per month. Tier three costs $23.95 per user per month. Tier four costs $21.95 per user per month. Finally, tier five costs $19.95 per user per month. Jive is easy to setup and to use. It allows full mobility for people to take calls wherever they might be. You’re also able to access your desktop features from your mobile device, including video conferencing, split calls, extension calling, and much more.
Pros
- Affordable plans
- Good support
Cons
- Added charges for premium video options
- Adding existing phones can be time-consuming
Choosing the right VOIP provider for your business can help you to save substantial money on your phone costs. If you choose service from one of these leading providers, you’ll also enjoy the great variety of features that take your phone calls to better heights.
Like anything, it’s always a good idea to be aware of the latest research. We recommend comparing at least 3 or 4 options before making a final decision. Doing a search online is typically the quickest, most thorough way to discover all the pros and cons you need to keep in mind.