• What is a VoIP?;
• How does a VoIP phone service work?;
• The list of top VoIP in Canada;
• Top VoIP services in Canada: Comparison;
• 10 best VoIP providers in Canada: Overview;
• How we ranked these 10 best VoIP in Canada;
• How to choose the best Canadian VoIP phone for business;
• Key features to look for in Canadian VoIP providers;
• How much does a VoIP provider in Canada cost?;
• With a VoIP phone in Canada, be present from Newfoundland and Labrador to Yukon.

What is a VoIP?

VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. It lets you make and receive phone calls over the internet. Using VoIP phone service in Canada is simple. Instead of desk phones, with a VoIP service, you need any internet-connected device (laptop, smartphone, or tablet).

Voice over IP technology also oftentimes includes things like IVR, call forwarding, call queues, and more, which help take the quality of communication with clients and business partners to a new level.

How does a VoIP phone service work?

When you use your VoIP phone, you begin the call by dialing (or you pick up, if you have been dialed). Then when you speak, the sound is broken up into what we can call digital packets. Those packets are then sent through the internet to the destination (namely, the person or people with whom you are speaking). They then are reconstructed there and emerge out of the receiver as audio (your voice).

This all happens incredibly rapidly; if it did not, conversations would be impossible.

This is done over the internet, so to use a VoIP phone system in Canada, you need to be plugged into a router/wall socket (as some computers have this capability) or you need Wi-Fi or satellite signal (an internet connected phone).

The list of top VoIP in Canada

There are a lot of VoIP providers in Canada. But as to who is the best – well, we thought we’d help you out there with a list:

1. MightyCall – best all around VoIP for small business in Canada
2. GoTo – best for video calling
3. RingCentral – best for experienced service
4. Net2Phone – best for lower prices
5. OpenPhone – best for intuitive SMS software
6. Dialpad – best for AI technology
7. Ooma – best for unique features
8. CallHippo – best for ease of use
9. 8×8 – best for streaming meetings
10. Aircall – best for flexibility

Top VoIP services in Canada: Comparison

10 best VoIP providers in Canada: Overview

1. MightyCall

MightyCall is a premier company and one of the top VoIP providers in Canada. That’s because they offer features which are useful for companies of all sizes, from a small business to call centers. Constantly innovating and offering a deep bench of crucial features, they are well-equipped to take your burgeoning business to the next level – and if your business is not burgeoning, they can help get it jump started.

Why we picked it

MightyCall is an incredibly well-rounded program and does not have anything seriously lacking when it comes to providing the tools and features necessary for businesses looking for a solid option. The interface is extremely user-friendly, and no features are wasted.

Best for

While MightyCall is best for small to medium sized businesses to call centers, they can comfortably provide service to many types of businesses, including solopreneurs.

Pricing (user/month)

• Core: $20 (when paid monthly)
• Pro: $25 (when paid monthly)
• Enterprise: Get a quote

Features

MightyCall has a lot of features, the key ones of which (though to be clear this is not an exhaustive list) are:

• Virtual Voicemail
• Call notes
• Automatic call distribution
• Multi-level IVR
• Live call monitoring
• Call whisper
• Call barging
• Call routing

Integrations

MightyCall offers integration with plenty of the top integration tools, like:

• HubSpot
• Salesforce
• Zoho
• Zapier

Pros & Cons

User reviews

TrustPilot: 4.⅗

Reviewers particularly liked the customer service/support and the ease of use.

2. GoTo

Number two on our list of business VoIP Canada companies is GoTo (also sometimes called GoToMeeting). A long-serving company, GoTo has a ton of experience bringing business closer with their clients. With a focus on meetings – both audio and video – this can be a powerful tool for businesses hoping to have a closer or more personal touch.

Why we picked it

GoTo is a well-known name in the business VoIP phone service industry, and it is not hard to figure out why. Their focus on being able to have “face to face” meetings which are high quality sets them apart.

Best for

GoTo is best for small to medium sized businesses.

Pricing (user/month)

• Business: $12 (when paid monthly)
• Professional: $16 (when paid monthly)
• Enterprise: Get a quote

Features

GoTo offers lots of features, including:

• Desk phone compatibility
• Quick-launch meetings
• Dial Plan Editor
• Call-routing scheduling

Integrations

GoTo offers integration with lots, like:

• Marketo
• Slack
• Zendesk

Pros & Cons

User reviews

G2: 4.2/5

Reviewers particularly liked video/audio quality and interface, though some had negative comments about the support.

3. RingCentral

RingCentral rounds out our top three on our list of top ten; if you are looking for the best VoIP provider for small businesses in Canada, RingCentral is an option you should not skip for your business. They have a ton of experience providing quality to their customers, as well as making sure that they are equipped with the key features they will need to succeed.

Why we picked it

RingCentral has just so much experience as being a well-rounded communications platform that it deserved a high spot on our list. Their recent acquisition of Hopin Events, an event management platform, is also particularly noteworthy.

Best for

RingCentral is best for medium sized to larger businesses.

Pricing (user/month)

• Core: $30 (when paid monthly)
• Advanced: $35 (when paid monthly)
• Ultra: $45 (when paid monthly)

Features

RingCentral’s long list of features includes:

• Auto call recording
• Digital white boards
• IVR
• Internet Fax

Integrations

RingCentral has the following integrations (this list is not exhaustive):

• Salesforce
• Zendesk
• Google

Pros & Cons

User reviews

G2: 3.9/5

Reviewers found the software to be extremely user friendly and a time saver, but took issue with customer service. Others reported having video issues.

4. Net2Phone

Coming in at number 4 on our list of VoIP phone providers in Canada is Net2Phone. While these guys are not as well known as some of the other options on our list, their ability to conduct business from a single place (thanks to the power of the VoIP phone) earns them a spot on our list.

Why we picked it

Net2Phone seems to know that it is lesser known, so it tries to make up for this – successfully – with much lower prices than many competitors, as well as providing all of the classic features you have come to expect from internet phone companies, and then some, such as 7-digit dialing and company directory, which are not as common.

Best for

Net2Phone is solidly best for medium sized businesses, as they seem built around medium sized offices (or at least workers of that number who may be spread out over a geographic distance).

Pricing (user/month, when the company has 10-24 users)

• Office: $25.99 (when paid monthly)
• Office Pro: $28.99 (when paid monthly)
• Office Power: $35.99 (when paid monthly)

Features

Net2Phone has plenty of features, including:

• Video conferencing
• Receptionist console
• User portal
• Auto attendant
• Busy lamp field

Integrations

Net2Phone offers integration with plenty of the top integration tools, like:

• Zoho
• Slack
• Zapier

Pros & Cons

User reviews

G2: 4.5/5

Reviewers had good things to say about how the service was user friendly and that the customer service was top notch. However, some had negative comments about the mobile app.

5. OpenPhone

Just about halfway down our VoIP phone Canada comparison list, we have OpenPhone. Like Net2Phone, they advertise as a one stop shop for business communications. And they are not wrong: whether you want to call Vancouver or Ontario, they are one of the companies you should consider going with when looking for a company which can keep you connected with your clientele.

Why we picked it

OpenPhone tries hard to make itself more than a place to make calls – and on that front they succeed. Their SMS software is intuitive, and does not feel like an add-on which they felt would be necessary; rather, it seems thought through and a real part of the software.

Best for

OpenPhone is best for solopreneurs and smaller to medium sized businesses.

Pricing (user/month)

• Standard: $17 (when paid monthly)
• Premium: $25 (when paid monthly)
• Enterprise: Contact them

Features

OpenPhone offers plenty of features, like:

• Snippets
• Internal threads
• Shared contacts
• User groups
• Auto-replies

Integrations

OpenPhone has the classic integrations including:

• Zapier
• Email
• Webhooks

Pros & Cons

User reviews

G2: 4.7/5

While some reviewers had issues with the Windows app, many liked the voicemail transcription and the flexibility the service offers.

6. Dialpad

Leading off the back half of our list of Canadian VoIP providers is Dialpad, a solid service well regarded for its offering of easy to conduct business meetings. Read on to find out how it stacks up to the other services on our list.

Why we picked it

Dialpad is very well known, and has been a major peer competitor of other services for a while. Recently, however, they took a big step forward by being one of the first internet phone companies in Canada to make artificial intelligence – AI – a major part of their software, integrating it in order to help their users in new and inventive ways.

Best for

Dialpad is best for larger companies.

Pricing (user/month)

• Standard: $23 (when paid monthly)
• Pro: $35 (when paid monthly)
• Enterprise: Contact them

Features

Dialpad’s feature list includes:

• AI Recap
• Action item capture
• Web and chat support
• Global SMS capabilities
• 24/7 live agent support

Integrations

Dialpad’s integration list includes:

• Microsoft Teams
• Google Workspace
• Microsoft 365

Pros & Cons

User reviews

TrustPilot: 4.3/5

Reviewers were very happy with customer support but some complained of glitches in the system.

7. Ooma

Ooma is a service which offers both residential and business-oriented plans. As our list is focused on business tools, we will only be discussing the latter.

Why we picked it

As a company with a lot of different offerings for both home and business solutions, you may worry that they are not focused enough on being a great VoIP option. But fret not: their plethora of features shows that they made sure to put out a finely crafted product.

Best for

Ooma is best for smaller, family-owned businesses.

Pricing (user/month)

• Essentials: $19.95 (when paid monthly)
• Pro: $24.95 (when paid monthly)
• Pro Plus: $29.95 (when paid monthly)

Features

Ooma’s features include:

• Ring groups
• Digital Fax
• Call Recording
• Enhanced Call Blocking
• Hot Desking

Integrations

Ooma’s integration list includes:

• Salesforce
• Microsoft Dynamics 365

Pros & Cons

User reviews

TrustPilot: 2.6/5

Reviewers have reported serious audio quality issues. However, others have noted that adding new extensions is fairly easy.

8. CallHippo

Like Ooma and other VoIP companies in Canada, CallHippo offers two different types of services: one for call centers, and one for office phone systems. And like before, here we will be focusing on how CallHippo serves offices across Canada.

Why we picked it

CallHippo has lots of experience with VoIP. They also offer some fairly rare features, like Email Tagging, which make them worth taking a look at.

Best for

CalHippo is best for larger offices.

Pricing (user/month)

• Starter: $18.99 (when paid monthly)
• Professional: $29.99 (when paid monthly)
• Ultimate: $40.99 (when paid monthly)

Features

CallHippo has features like:

• Call Tagging
• Digital Fax
• Call Notes & Ratings
• Call Cascading
• Web Hooking

Integrations

CallHippo’s list of integrations includes:

• Hubspot
• Zoho
• Zapier

Pros & Cons

User reviews

G2: 4.4/5

Users have said that the sound is clear but that there are sometimes small dashboard glitches.

9. 8×8

8×8 is an advanced system in that it offers a large amount of features, including some unique ones, like Conversation IQ.

Why we picked it

8×8 is also a VoIP phone in Canada company specializing in multiple things: contact centers, business phone, and video meetings. For our purposes, we will be focusing on their business offerings.

Best for

8×8 is best for medium to larger businesses.

Pricing (user/month)

• X2: Contact them
• X4: Contact them

Features

8×8’s features include:

• Voicemail transcription
• Private/public live streaming of meetings on YouTube
• Call analytics
• Multi-level auto attendant
• Presence detection

Integrations

If you are looking for 8×8’s integrations, you’ll be happy to be able to use:

• Salesforce
• Google Workspace
• Copper

Pros & Cons

User reviews

G2: 4.1/5

Users have praised the reliability while also criticizing the ease of use for those who are less technically proficient.

10. Aircall

Coming in last but certainly not least is Aircall. Serving Canada with VoIP calling, Aircall features all the key tools they need to qualify as one of the best VoIP providers in Canada.

Why we picked it

Aircall puts a focus on flexibility, and it comes through in their offerings. One of their most notable options is the ability to have simultaneous outbound calls.

Best for

AirCall is better for larger companies.

Pricing (user/month)

• Essentials: $40 (when paid monthly)
• Professional: $70 (when paid monthly)
• Custom: Contact them for details

Features

Aircall features include but are not limited to:

• Mandatory call tagging
• Power Dialer
• Unlimited calls within the US and Canada

Integrations

Aircall has plenty of integrations, including:

• Hubspot
• ActiveCampaign
• Salesforce

Pros & Cons

User reviews

G2: 4.3/5

With such a rating on G2, Aircall ranks solidly in the midst of the best VoIP phone service in Canada.

How we ranked these 10 best VoIP in Canada

If you are wondering how we ranked our list of VoIP service providers, do not fret: we did not just throw darts at a wall. Out rankings were developed by analyzing the following criteria, all of which are key to a functioning Canadian business VoIP provider:

• Features: Does the system actually offer you something serious? Some hosted VoIP services are extremely bare-bones – but some also offer a lot of what we can call “fluff features” which do not actually help you much. The right balance is key.
• Price: How much does the software cost? This is pretty important for any small business, and it was important in our rankings as well. Is the price accordant to the service provided?
• Call quality: Do phone calls sound like you are speaking through a blender? Does it only work when the signal is at its absolute best? These all mattered in our ranking system.
• User support/quality of service: When you actually need help – which should hopefully be a rarity – can you get it? Or are you directed to some sort of FAQ page with the possibility of having an agent get back to you in a week?
• Ease of use: Is it easy for non-techies to use? We do not mean it should be made for a five year old, but is it overly complex in an unnecessary way?
• Reliability: Having a high uptime can be extremely important. The last thing you want is for an important meeting or call to be interrupted because of a signal issue or audio issue. It won’t be your fault, but it will still look bad for you. Don’t take the risk.

How to choose the best Canadian VoIP phone for business

But what about the things you yourself should be paying attention to? After all, our list is not necessarily exhaustive, or there may be things that you want to keep up with yourself.
It may be the following (use this points or come up with your own):

• Baseline VoIP Features: Does the service have the tools you need? Does it have things like an auto attendant? If not, keep on looking elsewhere.
• Cloud-Based or On-Premises System: Is the system based in the cloud – meaning you can access it from anywhere – or is it an older system, based around a physical box? If it is the latter, that can be more expensive and can require technicians to fix.
• Network and Hardware Considerations: How many people do you have in your office? Is your Wi-Fi the kind which is made for one person living in a college dorm, or is it the kind which can handle potentially dozens of calls being made at the same time? Some VoIP in Canada may require the most reliable internet, whereas others can work with weaker signals.
• Make Sure Remote Workers Are Up to Speed: Do your employees know how everything works? Have they worked with this system before, or have they never even worked remotely? How difficult will it be to train them?
• Provide Your Workers with Convenience: Making calls all day can be stressful enough. Don’t add to that stress for your agents by providing them with difficult-to-use software.
  Security: Your employees working from afar may mean that they use Wi-Fi which isn’t the safest (like unsecured coffeehouse internet). If they do, will your VoIP provider have other protections?

Key features to look for in Canadian VoIP providers

We have discussed some of the key features offered by Canadian VoIP providers above in our pro and cons lists, but in case you need it crystal clear so that you do not leave any off of your list, here are a few that your business cannot do without:

1. Call recording: This is a staple, fundamental VoIP feature. This can help save you from frivolous lawsuits, can help you train your employees, and can help you to remember what you may have forgotten.
2. Auto attendant: Up there with call recording is this crucial feature. Without this feature, you simply are not getting the best for your small business. This feature helps you to organize your callers without having had to even speak to any of them.
3. Call forwarding: Another crucial part of any VoIP plan is call forwarding. This allows you to forward calls which are to a specific number to another one; this lets you have calls to numerous numbers go to one central “place.”
4. Texting: Modern communications essentially rely on texting. To not have this feature would be to be stuck in the past.
5. Real-time analytics: Always know what is happening in your business. Find out when calls are being made, when they are being missed, who is making them, and more.
6. Call whisper: Being able to speak to your agents without the person on the other end knowing can be a big boon when it comes to training new agents.
7. Call notes: With cloud-based VoIP phones, your employees can leave notes about calls for fellow agents, to keep them in the loop so that there are no awkward moments or important information missed. This can really be important when it comes to appearing as a professional and serious company.
8. Virtual voicemail: Your colleagues and employees may need to listen to a ton of voicemails – and some of them can get rather meandering. But here, you do not need to worry about that, because with virtual voicemail you can read them – which is a far more quick solution.

How much does a VoIP provider in Canada cost?

While you can look above for the particular prices of our reviewed VoIP providers, you may be wondering what the general price is across all companies. While a singular industry average is hard to pinpoint – especially when prices scaled on how many employees you have are taken into consideration – generally speaking prices range from around CA$15 to as high as CA$100 or more.

MightyCall’s prices are on the lower side, with the lowest tier starting at only $15 a month.

With a VoIP phone in Canada, be present from Newfoundland and Labrador to Yukon

When looking for a phone service provider, you want to make sure that you get only the best for yourself, your employees, and your business. After all, you do not want to be jumping around a lot with providers – so it is best to take your time and really think about what YOU need for YOUR business. Don’t allow yourself to rush what will be such an important decision. To help you make it, we scoured Canada for nothing but the best Canadian VoIP providers, and the result was our list above. When you are ready to make a purchase and select a company, be sure to consult our list to make sure that it lines up with what you need.

And while you are looking, we’d love it if you checked out MightyCall. It’s a system made for businesses like yours: with a laundry list of key features, security, and customer service to boot.

The post Best VoIP Providers in Canada: Detailed Business Phone Service Comparison first appeared on MightyCall.

• What Is VoIP?
• How Does a VoIP Service Work?
• The List of Best VoIP Phone Service Providers
• VoIP Services: Comparison
• Top 15 VoIP Providers: Overview
• How We Ranked These 15 Best VoIP Providers
• Key Features of VoIP Providers
• How Much Does VoIP Phone Service Cost?
• What Equipment Do I Need for VoIP Service?
• VoIP Phone Service Providers Pros and Cons
• How to Choose a VoIP Provider
• What is the Best VoIP Phone Service?

What Is VoIP?

You need to know what cloud-based communication is when comparing VoIP providers. VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol, meaning that the audio signal is transmitted over the internet connection rather than the traditional wire method. This makes it a great option for anyone who wants to cut location ties and have the ability to call from anywhere and from any device by simply logging into the account.

How Does a VoIP Service Work?

As mentioned before, these phones work by transmitting your calls over the internet. That’s why they are also referred to as “cloud VoIP services,” meaning that they let you store and share your audio, video, and other files via their servers. This makes the communication almost instant, given that you have good WiFi quality.
The special thing about VoIP phone services is that there is no requirement for both callers to be using it. A virtual phone number works like any other phone number, meaning that you can simply use the dial or choose from your phone contacts like you would with a traditional phone or sim card.

The List of Best VoIP Phone Service Providers

Here is the list of the best business VoIP service providers we rated for this article:

1. MightyCall: best price-value voice over IP service provider;
2. Grasshopper: known for its reliability;
3. Line2: works with slower internet connection;
4. RingCentral: a well-earned reputation;
5. Nextiva: an impressive tool set;
6. 8×8: enterprise VoIP telephony system;
7. Google Voice: a minimalistic solution;
8. Dialpad: great for company virtual meetings;
9. Vonage: superior audio quality;
10. OpenPhone: one of the cheapest base plans;
11. magicJack: a voice over IP phone service and device provider;
12. Ooma: a simple voicemail tree;
13. GoTo Connect: all-in-one phone software;
14. Phone.com: IP phones and analog adapters;
15. Microsoft Teams Phone: a standardized business VoIP service for Microsoft users.

VoIP Services: Comparison

* all prices relevant at the time of publication

Top 15 VoIP Providers: Overview

1. MightyCall

With over 30 calling choices and integrations, local, toll-free, and vanity numbers, MightyCall is a smart choice for companies of all sizes.

Why we picked it

MightyCall is known to have one of the best customer support services on the list of hosted VoIP providers, alongside a very generous feature set that comes at a rather low price. The other unique feature is that MightyCall offers plans based on your team size rather than feature sets, meaning that it allows every company to have access to all the necessary tools without having to pay for add-ons.

Best for

SMBs: Medium-sized and small businesses

Pricing per month

• Core: from $15 per user
• Pro: from $20 per user

Features

Including, but not limited to:

• Local, toll-free, vanity business numbers
• Audio calls
• SMS/MMS
• Conference calls
• Standard and Multi-Level IVR
• Call waiting
• Call recording
• Call screening
• Call log

Integrations

• Hubspot
• Salesforce and other CRM platforms.
• Over 1500 business applications on Zapier

User Experience

MightyCall has a simple design that was developed to be used intuitively without any instructions or help, and it consistently introduces new updates.

Customer Service

MightyCall has tons of demos and a helpful customer care team, accessible by live chat, phone, and email. Furthermore, all new clients receive free assistance with phone system setup, integrations, and other issues they may have.

Pros & Cons

User reviews

4.1 on G2

2. Grasshopper

Grasshopper is one of the best VoIP phone systems that includes conventional virtual telephony functionality as a long-standing service.

Why we picked it

Grasshopper’s UI is straightforward to use, and the service provides all of the basic business phone functions. However, if you already use a virtual service and are seeking a standalone dialer, you will be unable to utilize their softphone for business until you convert to the service.

Best for

Grasshopper is one of the best internet phone services for mid-size teams with a need for standard calling functionality.

Pricing (user/month)

• Solo: $29 up to 3 user extensions
• Partner: $49 up to 6 user extensions
• Small business: $89 for unlimited users

Features

Included, but not limited to:

• Business phone numbers
• Audio calls
• Messaging
• Conference calling
• Call forwarding

Integrations

• No native integrations with CRM systems.
• Zapier
• API

User Experience

Grasshopper’s layout is known to be simple and easy to use thanks to its experience on the market.

Customer Service

Their website suggests using the FAQs and Documentation to solve problems. If this doesn’t fit your criteria, there’s an option to “Call Support” at the end of relevant FAQ articles.

Pros & Cons

User reviews

4.1 on G2

3. Line2

A simple service that can provide you with a second phone line, but it will not replace a full-fledged IP phone service for Mac due to a lack of extra capabilities.

Why we picked it

Line2 is straightforward, clean, and minimalistic. There is only one plan, with monthly and annual payments available. You receive unlimited calling in the US and Canada, unlimited SMS/MMS, and basic PBX services for a relatively low fee. Good for solopreneurs, yet restrictive for developing businesses.

Best for

Individual use, solopreneurs, small teams

Pricing (user/month)

$15.99 or $13.75/month annually

Features

Included, but not limited to:

• Business phone numbers
• Call screening
• Voicemail transcriptions
• Audio calls
• Messaging

Integrations

Not available

User Experience

Users like the ease of use and the design, but complain about frequent downtimes.

Customer Service

Customer support can be reached via phone and email during work hours.

Pros & Cons

User reviews

2.8 on G2

4. RingCentral

RingСentral is a seasoned provider of virtual phone numbers. The functionality and pricing strategy of this phone system are intended for large enterprises.

Why we picked it

RingCentral is one of the best VoIP providers on the market. It has a long-lived reputation and a high-quality connection. The platform also has several advanced features, but its plans are known to be the most expensive and basic in the industry.

Best for

Large teams/companies and enterprises

Pricing (user/month)

• Essentials plan – $29.99
• Standard – $37.99
• Premium – 44.99
• Ultimate – $59.99

Features

Included, but not limited to:

• Business phone numbers
• Voice calls
• Video calls (only on Standard plan and above)
• SMS
• Voicemail to text

Integrations

• Standard Plan:
  Microsoft 365
  Google
  Slack
• Premium Plan:
  CRM integrations (Salesforce, Zendesk, etc.)
  Industry-specific integrations (Canvas, Smarsh etc.)

User Experience

The customers like the call quality and the simplicity of the app and the functions of the system. There is a slight concern regarding the high prices and long-term contracts.

Customer Service

The company offers 24/7 support on Standard plans and above

Pros & Cons

User reviews

3.9 on G2

5. Nextiva

Named the “Best Business Phone Service” by U.S. news, Nextiva definitely one of the most well-known VoIP platforms on the market.

Why we picked it

Nextiva is a well-recognized VoIP provider and has received some awards and good media coverage, making it a note-worthy service. It also has a great volunteer group called Nextiva Cares that focuses on giving back to the community.

Best for

One of the best VoIP phone services for your business, small to mid-sized, if you are not looking for a great variety of features

Pricing (user/month)

• Essential Plan: $21.95 USD
• Professional Plan: $26.95 USD
• Enterprise Plan: $36.95 USD

Features

Included, but not limited to:

• Unlimited voice & video calling
• Voicemail
• Toll-free numbers
• Outlook/Google Contacts Integrations
• Unlimited internet fax

Integrations

Google and Microsoft integrations

User Experience

Nextiva customers praise it for the help in the call organization, but there are a few complaints (and praises) about the support services and the app complexity. Based on the rating and reviews, Nextiva is a platform your team will either love with their whole heart or will not accept and move on to a different provider.

Customer Service

There is a video hub and a FAQ service, as well as a chat and an option to submit a ticket

Pros & Cons

User reviews

4.4 on G2

6. 8×8

8×8 is an established VoIP provider, known to have high recording quality and convenient message alerts.

Why we picked it

As one of the biggest players on the market, 8×8 is a popular VoIP service option that has to make it into any VoIP brands ranking. It has a solid feature set and a global plan with 40 international locations.

Best for

Businesses with a large volume of international calls looking for a long-term contract

Pricing (user/month)

• Express: $15
• X2: $28
• X4: $57

Features

Including, but not limited to:

• Business phone numbers
• Audio calls
• Document sharing (on X plan and above)
• Streaming of meetings on YT(on X plan and above)
• Analytics(on X plan and above)

Integrations

• Microsoft Teams
• CRM, productivity and service apps on X2 plans and up.

User Experience

Customers of 8×8 laud the company for its assistance with call organizing, although there are a few concerns (and compliments) regarding the company’s support services and the integration ease.

Customer Service

Manuals, FAQ, and live chat.

Pros & Cons

User reviews

4.1 on G2

7. Google Voice

Google has a telephone VoIP service for businesses that easily integrates into other Google products.

Why we picked it

Google Voice is a part of one of the most well-known VoIP telephone services, so it was an intuitive decision to include it when we review VoIP services. If you are using other Google products, Google Voice will automatically come up as an option.

Best for

Small businesses with a small call volume

Pricing (user/month)

• Starter Plan: $10 USD
• Standard Plan: $20 USD
• Premier Plan: $30 USD

Features

Included, but not limited to:

• International calls to Europe from the USA
• Texts and phone calls
• Phone apps
• Web application
• SIP Link for plans above Starter

Integrations

• Google Suite

User Experience

Google users will feel very comfortable with the interface, it is considered a lighter option for users who are not very interested in diving head-first into professional VoIP solutions. Users do complain about the lack of features included with the plans, but you have to keep in mind that Google Voice is just a part of the ecosystem rather than a standalone product specifically crafted for voice over IP.

Customer Service

24/7 via the Google Voice Help page with its FAQs and the help community forum

Pros & Cons

User reviews

4.1 on G2

8. Dialpad

Dialpad has traditionally positioned itself as a viable VoIP solution for mid-sized organizations.

Why we picked it

Dialpad is one of the best known systems on the market, since it was created by a talented team of ex Google Voice employees and was developed to be feature-rich. It has been around for a long time, and it should be considered when choosing a VoIP provider for your team.

Best for

Mid-sized businesses and enterprises

Pricing (user/month)

• Standard Plan: $23 per user
• Pro Plan: $35 per user
• Enterprise Plan: custom

Features

Included, but not limited to:

• Phone app
• Call forwarding
• IVR/Multi-level IVR
• Call recording
• Voicemail/voicemail to text

Integrations

Standard option: Google and Office 365 integrations

User Experience

Founded and maintained by a small group of former Google Voice employees, it offers more capabilities than Google Voice ever did. This means that it is a feature-rich system with a great design.

Customer Service

• 24/5 through chat and web for regular clients
• 24/7 support for Pro and Enterprise customers

Pros & Cons

User reviews

4.4 on G2

9. Vonage

Vonage is a VoIP phone provider for business communications, offering over 40 powerful features with its plans.

Why we picked it

Vonage has a lot to offer: its service has exceptionally good quality with a great uptime for unlimited calling and texting. On top of everything, Vonage has one of the most stylish designs available on the market.

Best for

Small to mid-sized businesses

Pricing/line/month

• Basic Plan: $19.99 USD
• Premium Plan: $29.99 USD
• Basic Plan: $39.99 USD

Features

Included, but not limited to:

• Phone and desktop apps
• Vonage App Center
• Unlimited Team Messaging
• Unlimited Calls and SMS
• Multi-level auto attendant on Premium Plan

Integrations

CRM Integration for Premium and up

User Experience

Users tend to love Vonage’s clean interface, features, and call quality. There is a complaint about Vonage numbers getting marked as spam and customer support team inefficiency.

Customer Service

The customer support is available via calls (7 days a week, varying work hours), a community forum, and via opening a case on the website.

Pros & Cons

User reviews

4.3 on G2

10. OpenPhone

A VoIP service with a good reputation, OpenPhone is primarily targeted at small and medium-sized organizations. It has a good range of pricing options and a strong feature set.

Why we picked it

OpenPhone is well-known on the market for its great UX, integrations, and high-quality calling services. It allows international calling, has auto-attendants, and other useful features.

Best for

Call centers and large teams

Pricing (user/month)

• Standard Team Plan – $13 USD
• Premium Team Plan – $25 USD
• Enterprise Team Plan – Individual

Features

Included, but not limited to:

• SMS/MMS
• Webphone
• Phone app
• Call forwarding
• A simple IVR

Integrations

• Email, Slack, Google Contacts, Hubspot CRM
• Zapier for extra cost

User Experience

The customers like the app, the feature variety, the Slack integration, and the toll-free numbers. There is at times a lack of customer support availability for the basic plans.

Customer Service

• FAQ section, chat box with a form;
• Priority support available for the Enterprise Plan.

Pros & Cons

User reviews

4.8 on G2

11. magicJack

MagicJack’s VoIP plans include free unlimited calls from the U.S. & Canada and great feature sets.

Why we picked it

This list of VoIP providers needs some quality variety added to it. The plans are based on the number of years in the contract: from one to three. This is a nice option that can protect your budget long-term, although it does require commitment.

Best for

Larger teams within the US

Pricing/contract

• 1 year plan: $43 USD
• 2 year plan: $79 USD
• 3 year plan: $109 USD

Features

Included, but not limited to:

• Voicemail
• Call forwarding
• Call blocking
• Number porting
• Free unlimited incoming calls from US and Canada

Integrations

None listed

User Experience

Users report the service to be most reliable and easy to use, while others complain that it is difficult to switch telephony providers.

Customer Service

A FAQ page, issue reports on the website, or an email

Pros & Cons

User reviews

3.3 on G2

12. Ooma

Ooma stands out from the other providers on our list in that its product may be used without a computer. Ooma also sells separate hardware in the form of IP desk phones.

Why we picked it

Ooma deserves to be represented on the list for its unique services since most other VoIP phone companies will not be selling you hardware. Ooma is a very successful marriage of traditional, old-school tools with modern technology.

Best for

Small business office use

Pricing (user/month)

• Essentials: $19.95
• Pro: $24.95
• Pro Plus: $29.99

Features

Included, but not limited to:

• Business phone numbers
• Audio calls
• Virtual receptionist
• Virtual fax
• Call forwarding

Integrations

Salesforce integration is available only on the highest-tier plan, Ooma Office Pro Plus.

User Experience

The service is highly valued by its customers, and although there are some complaints about processes like number porting being slightly confusing, most VoIP phone reviews praise the service and its numerous products.

Customer Service

Support is available via documentation manuals and phone 24/7.

Pros & Cons

User reviews

4.7 on G2

13. GoTo Connect

A simple and secure top VoIP provider with a great design for the not-so-tech-savvy users.

Why we picked it

GoTo Connect is one of the most popular services on the market, It has a nice, though not the most vast, set of features that would be a nice addition to most businesses.

Best for

Solopreneurs with a small call volume

Pricing (user/month)

• Basic Plan: $27 USD
• Standard Plan: $32 USD
• Premium Plan: $43 USD

Features

Included, but not limited to:

• Voice calls
• Call flows
• Analytics
• Video meetings
• Admin controls

Integrations

• HubSpot
• Salesforce
• Google Calendar
• Microsoft Teams

User Experience

Users report it as easy to manage and having a great UX, but they complain about the poor app call quality.

Customer Service

Via community forum, and form submission

Pros & Cons

User reviews

4.4 on G2

14. Phone.com

Phone.com is a VoIP phone system that offers call forwarding options, phone numbers, and the capacity to place calls using internet-connected devices.

Why we picked it

Phone.com has a loyal customer base. This top business VoIP provider has a solid basic plan, and the customer service is apparently on par. This provider covers most of the essential needs of the smaller teams. It is affordable, and it is worth looking at.

Best for

Growing teams, small business, solopreneurs

Pricing (user/month)

• Basic: $14.99
• Plus: $19.99
• Pro: $29.00

Features

Including, but not limited to:

• Business phone numbers
• Auto attendant
• Voicemail and transcription (the latter on Pro plan only)
• Call routing
• Audio calls

Integrations

Only available with the Pro Plan:

• Zapier
• Zoho office suite
• AllProWebTools CRM, and Chrometa time tracking
• Native integrations with CRMs: Hubspot and Salesforce, PipeDrive

User Experience

The users have some complaints about the call quality, but they tend to like the user interface and the ease of use of this provider.

Customer Service

24/7 service via live chat, email, and phone.

Pros & Cons

User reviews

3.3 on G2

15. Microsoft Teams Phone

A cloud-based calling solution from Microsoft comes in handy to make your team comfortable while making phone calls and holding conferences.

Why we picked it

Many Microsoft users would feel like adding another product from the same provider would make it more comfortable for the team to make calls and adapt.

Best for

Large cross-functional teams

Pricing (user/month)

Starts at $8.00/mo/user

Features

Included, but not limited to:

• Basic call control
• Make and answer calls
• Merge calls
• Transfer and ring back
• Transfer calls between devices

Integrations

Integrates with the Microsoft Office Suite

User Experience

This service is intuitive for Microsoft users, and is praised for being highly reliable. However, sometimes, it is reported to be difficult to integrate if you are not used to it.

Customer Service

Via phone numbers depending on your location

Pros & Cons

User reviews

4.8 on G2

How We Ranked These 15 Best VoIP Providers

We were looking to make a varying list of different providers, most of which are well-known VoIP companies on the market. It is important to note that every provider is unique and may end up being just perfect for your business regardless of the ranking. However, we focused on the following when selecting VoIP packages for our list:

• Features — what features does each business phone system offer? Will you get your money’s worth or will you barely be able to make calls? Are there any special add-ons?
• Price (affordability) — will you be able to afford it? What will you get for your money’s worth when choosing between the systems? What plans are available for your company? Are there hidden costs and a price comparison?
• Integration simplicity — how easy will it be to integrate the product into your company? What integrations are available? Will you have the freedom of choice?
• Amount of calls — is there a limit? Will you have to pay extra to purchase more? Will the calls be limited to local only? How about international calls? How about texts?
• Customer support — how long will you have to wait to have your concerns resolved? What are the methods of communication? Does the provider have an FAQ service or a live chat?
• UI — will you need to watch hour-long instruction videos or is the user interface intuitive? Is the design clean and simple? Will you know how to make a call, is the dial pad comfortable?
• Stability — will your company be losing customers due to VoIP system failures? Will the audio calls drop out of nowhere, and what is the uptime? Are the apps lagging?

Key Features of VoIP Providers

Here are the features you want to be looking for in the best VoIP companies:

• SMS/MMS: Calls are not always accessible and are sometimes considered intrusive in the modern world. SMS and MMS features expand your client communication field and let you share information without format limitations.
• Mobile app/webphone: Can you use the app on your phone, and can your team use the service to make calls from a desktop? This defines the flexibility of your business communication.
• Call forwarding: Will you have to take the call regardless of your availability, or will you be able to conveniently forward the calls to a colleague? Passing the calls along in the team can be a crucial factor when it comes to leaving a positive impression on your clients.
• IVR/Multi-Level IVR: When your client calls you, will they be greeted by a beeping sound or will there be a friendly voice welcoming them to the pre-recorded information points or to the right department?
• Call recording: Will you have your own personal archive with the communication history? Will there be an easy way to supervise your operators and ensure exceptional service quality?
• Voicemail/voicemail to text: When your clients call after hours, it is important to give them a chance to be heard. And it is equally important for your operators to have a quick way to check your voicemail by converting it to text.
• Conference calling: Will you be able to have multiple people on the call?
• Mini-CRM functionality: Will the customer data be managed properly, and does it deliver insights?

How Much Does VoIP Phone Service Cost?

You could find a service for free, and you could also be looking at a few hundred dollars per month. The free options will, of course, have fewer features and potentially lower call quality, but most importantly, you cannot expect much from a free service. This is why the providers with less costly plans will be a better option for you if you are trying to save money. You should be able to find the best VoIP phone service for your team for between $10 and $25 USD per person per month.

What Equipment Do I Need for VoIP Service?

One of the reasons why this type of communication is popular is due to its ease of setup. There are only a few things required:

• The best available internet connection. For a steady, interruption-free call, we advise choosing 100 kbps and above.
• A web client or your mobile service. Without using a VoIP service, you cannot have a number that is accessible via the internet.
• A contemporary gadget that can support a reliable internet connection. It can be done via a computer, a cell phone, or a tablet.

Some items are optional:

• Headphones or a headset. If your device doesn’t have a speaker or microphone and can’t record or play audio, a headset will fix the problem and let you benefit from better audio quality.
• An adaptor. You will need a virtual phone adapter to convert analog audio signals into digital IP packets if you wish to use your standard phone system with a virtual phone line. It is necessary for the operation of all virtual lines.

VoIP Phone Service Providers Pros and Cons

VoIP phone service providers have pros and cons that need to be considered prior to switching from a traditional landline.

Pros of VoIP Phone Service

• VoIP phones are not tied to a specific geographic location. This will let you expand your office internationally or be more flexible with the location of your employees. You can become a digital nomad and simplify the job for people who are not able to make it into the office.
• Virtual phones are accessible on multiple devices. This means that you will be able to connect to your account from anything that has an internet connection. Switching from your phone to your laptop will open a wide door of possibilities.
• VoIP phone services usually come with dozens of useful features. With the right provider, you will be able to have extras, such as a multi-level IVR or business contacts, for free.
• The costs tend to be lower than the average traditional phone line costs. No need to pay for the equipment or rental, and a useful package of features makes VoIP options a very attractive alternative.
• Virtual phone services are easier to scale and can be easily ported. You can get more phone numbers and make them toll-free or vanity within a few seconds.

Cons of VoIP Service

• Phone services with VoIP communication require a stable internet connection. This means that making calls during a snow or rain storm may not be possible, and your dream about going off to live in a lonely cabin in the middle of the forest will have to wait.

• The connection can be laggy based on the app or the provider you select. You will need to ensure that there is perfect compatibility between your phone, your app, and your internet provider to have good call quality.

• VoIP communication also needs a continuous power supply. Starting with the router that needs to be plugged in and ending with the phone charging, going wireless does not mean you are completely wire-free.

• Sometimes VoIP communication does not support emergency calls. You would usually have a regular phone around as well, but it is still necessary to check whether your cloud VoIP provider offers emergency calling to have proper protocol in place.
• You could get into a binding contract or run into hidden costs, although this could also happen with a traditional landline service. It would be wise to talk to your provider and check that you will be paying exactly what you were intending to.

How to Choose a VoIP Provider

Choosing the correct VoIP hosting provider will define your business communication and your relationship with your team and your customers. It takes a few steps and a few things to consider:

• Security: You will be looking for how secure the connection is and whether the service will protect you from robocallers or someone eavesdropping on your conversations. Is the server where you store information secure, or have there been rumors of its security getting hacked?
• Price-to-value relationship: How much will you be getting for your money’s worth? How expansive is the feature set? What is included in the service? Is there a free trial that helps you see for yourself that the audio quality is stable? Are the competitors offering better VoIP costs?
• Feature set: What are the features included in the plans? There is quite a variety of features that a VoIP line can offer: Toll-Free and Local Numbers, International Numbers, Caller ID, CNAM, Custom Greeting, Music on Hold, Business Hours Call Routing, Vanity Numbers, Multi-Level IVR, and more.
• Integrations: Will you be able to integrate the system into your pre-existing work processes, or will you have one more app to take care of that is completely separate from the other apps? Imagine having a few calendars to keep track of? Tough, right? This is why you may want to check whether the provider integrates into your systems.
• Technology requirements: Some providers do not work on Macintosh computers or do not have apps that work on iPhones. This is why you will need to check the compatibility and whether you have the right system update prior to making any payments or commitments.
• Customer support: Is there 24/7 support, a chat, or a ticket submission? Regardless of what the provider says on their website, it is smart to check how highly it is rated and what the reviews on one of the professional platforms say to see what people think of the service. Usually, customers go there to express complaints or gratitude.

What is the Best VoIP Phone Service?

The best VoIP service provider is the one that works best for your team and your business. Each team has its unique needs and style of operation, meaning that there is no universal approach. Each of our reviewed VoIP carriers is the best in its niche in its own way. Here is a brief review:

1. MightyCall: the most cost-effective VoIP for small businesses, providing the most features for each plan;
2. magicJack: with this VoIP operator, you will get both a device and the service;
3. Google Voice: one of the most well-known operators, you may have used its free version at some point;
4. 8×8: one of the best enterprise VoIP systems for large company owners;
5. Ooma: if you want the most simple voicemail tree, this is your operator.

The post Best VoIP Providers: Full Phone Services Review first appeared on MightyCall.

• What is VoIP?;
• What are the VoIP phones?;
• VoIP working requirements
• Powerful VoIP phone features
• How does VoIP work?
• How VoIP works with different devices
• How to use VoIP and make most of it?
• How much does a VoIP phone cost?;
• How to choose VoIP phone system that will work best for you;
• Making your VoIP phone work perfectly for your business;

What is VoIP?

VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) is a way to make telephone calls using the Internet instead of a regular analog, PBX system, or digital phone line. Your voice is turned into digital information data packets that travel over the web, making it easier and often cheaper to stay connected.

What are the VoIP phones?

A VoIP phone is more than just a physical device with buttons and a handset. While traditional VoIP telephones do exist and look much like regular office phones, the term also applies to software-based solutions. In essence, an internet phone can be a program that turns any Internet-compatible device into a phone capable of making and receiving calls via the Internet.
This means your smartphone, tablet, or even your computer can function as a virtual phone, provided you have the right software installed.
The term includes both tangible devices and VoIP phones that operate over the web, offering more flexibility and often reducing costs.

VoIP working requirements

For VoIP to work smoothly, there are several key requirements you’ll need to consider. Here’s a simplified list to guide you:

• Internet Connection: A stable, high-speed Internet connection is crucial while using a virtual phone system. A minimum bandwidth of 100 kbps per line is generally recommended for good voice quality.
• Router: A powerful router can make a big difference in call quality. Ensure it supports Quality of Service (QoS) settings to prioritize virtual traffic.
• VoIP Software or Hardware: You’ll need a virtual voice calling platform, which could be a physical VoIP phone or software on your computer or mobile device.
• Audio Equipment: A good-quality headset or microphone and headphones.

Powerful VoIP phone features

A virtual phone service offers an expansive range of features that cater to diverse business needs. For a more holistic view of the use of VoIP technology, let’s focus on these crucial functionalities that can significantly improve your communication strategy:

• International, Toll-free, and Local Numbers: Whether it’s a toll-free number for broad customer accessibility, a local number to create a hometown feel, or an international number to expand your reach—manage all these through a single dashboard with ease.

• SMS: Enables businesses to reach customers through text messages, great for quick updates or marketing campaigns.
• CNAM: The Caller ID Name service allows you to identify the nature of the incoming call—be it business or personal.
• Call Log: Maintains a comprehensive record of all inbound and outbound calls for monitoring and analytics.

• Call Recording: A versatile tool for quality control and training, this feature allows you to record calls for future review. It’s also an excellent way to capture important information and monitor customer interactions for compliance and improvement.
• Webphone: Enables making calls directly from a web browser, eliminating the need for additional hardware or software.
• Voicemail to Text: Transcribes voicemails into text messages, allowing you to read messages at your convenience within the VoIP phone system.

• Automatic Call Distribution (ACD): Distributes incoming calls to available agents based on predetermined criteria, improving efficiency.
• STIR/SHAKEN: Security protocols to prevent call spoofing and ensure call integrity.
• 911 Emergency Calling: Provides the critical capability to dial emergency services directly from your VoIP system.
• Multi-level IVR: Offers a complex voice menu with multiple tiers and languages to guide callers more accurately to the desired service or agent.

Each feature offers unique advantages that can help your business communicate more effectively and efficiently. It’s all about picking the ones that align most closely with your organizational needs.

How does VoIP work?

So how does a VoIP phone work? Below are the essential components and steps involved in making a VoIP call:

Initialization: Setting up the call

Before a VoIP call can begin, both the sender and receiver must establish a connection. The Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) is commonly used for this purpose. SIP helps in setting up, maintaining, and terminating multimedia communication sessions. In simpler terms, SIP acts like a “middleman” that introduces the caller to the receiver and sets the stage for the conversation to take place and the VoIP phone system to work.

Voice capture: Converting sound to data

When you speak into a VoIP-enabled device, your voice is captured by a microphone. This voice is then converted into digital data. This process is vital because only digital data can travel over the Internet. The complexity of this conversion is managed seamlessly in the background when the VoIP call works, making it transparent to users.

Compression: Making data smaller

Once the voice is converted into digital data, it is compressed to reduce its size. Compression helps speed up the data transfer and minimizes bandwidth usage (so it can travel quicker over the Internet). Efficient step-by-step compression is one of the reasons why making VoIP phone calls can be cheaper than regular phone calls.

Data packetization: Organizing data for transfer

The compressed digital data is then divided into smaller pieces known as packets. These packets are tagged with destination and sequencing information to ensure they arrive at the correct location and in the correct order, meaning that these envelopes know where to go and in what order to arrive so that your conversation makes sense when it gets there. Protocols like the Real-Time Transport Protocol (RTP) and the Transmission Control Protocol (TCP) assist in this packetization process in virtual phone systems.

Transmission: Sending data over the internet

While using VoIP, these packets are sent over the Internet through a series of virtual ports. Port selection depends on the protocols being used and the network configuration: They go through a sort of Internet “post office” system that makes sure they get to the right place. During this phase, the data packets may travel through multiple routers and switches before reaching their final destination.

Decompression and playback: Completing the call

Once the packets reach the receiving end, they are reassembled and decompressed to restore the original voice data. They’re opened up and put back together in the correct order. Then they’re turned back into sound, so the person using VoIP or regular service on the other end hears what you’ve said, just like in a regular phone conversation.

How VoIP works with different devices

You might wonder how do VoIP phones work with different devices. Here’s a brief overview of your possible options:

VoIP Phones/SIP Phones

VoIP phones, also known as SIP phones, are specialized devices designed to work with virtual technology. These phones look a lot like traditional office phones but have Ethernet connectors to plug directly into your broadband network. Once connected, they automatically handle the conversion of your voice into digital data, its compression, and the entire process of sending and receiving data packets over the Internet. They often offer enhanced features like voicemail, call forwarding, and multiple lines, making them ideal for business settings.

Softphones

Softphones are software applications for Mac or Windows that let you make virtual voice calls from a computer or mobile device while using VoIP. You don’t need a physical phone; you just need a microphone and speakers. Softphones are especially useful for travelers or remote workers. You can make calls as long as you have the app and an Internet connection.

Analog Telephone Adapters (ATA)

If you’re attached to your old analog phone but want to try using a VoIP phone, an Analog Telephone Adapter (ATA) is for you. This small box plugs into your traditional phone and converts its analog voice signals into digital data that can travel over the Internet. It’s a simple way to upgrade without replacing your entire phone system.

Computers

Using Voice over IP works on a computer in a straightforward manner. You’ll need a softphone application, a good-quality headset, and a stable Internet connection. Most services offer a user-friendly interface that mimics a phone’s keypad and controls, making the transition from traditional to digital calling a breeze.

Mobile Phones

Mobile phones can also serve as Voice over IP devices, thanks to a variety of apps that can be installed. These apps use your phone’s data connection to make calls, offering a cost-effective alternative to using your mobile network, especially for international calls.

How to use VoIP and make most of it?

The technology is versatile, providing advantages for both office and remote work settings. By focusing on key tasks that VoIP can help solve, you can learn how to use VoIP and tap into its full potential to make your work processes more efficient and effective.

Working from the office:

• Improved internal communication: Connect with team members across different departments without physical barriers. Advanced phone system features like multi-level IVR and ACD help guide the caller to the right department or individual.
• Customer relationship management: Integrate VoIP service with CRM software to bring customer information to your fingertips during calls, making each interaction more personalized and effective.
• Meeting and collaboration: Utilize video conferencing and screen sharing features to hold team meetings or collaborate with clients, saving time and reducing the need for physical spaces.
• Cost-efficiency: Replace expensive traditional phone lines and long-distance call charges with VoIP, which often comes with flat-rate billing for unlimited calls.

Working from home:

• Easy transition: With features like call forwarding and webphone, you can transition easily from office to a home phone without losing touch with clients or team members.
• Professional presence: Use toll-free numbers and custom greetings to maintain a professional image, even when working from remote locations.
• Enhanced flexibility: Use VoIP technology to make and receive calls not just on desk phones but also on computers, tablets, or smartphones when you work at home. Mobile apps often come with the same functionalities as desktop versions.
• Secure communication: Implement security features such as end-to-end encryption and STIR/SHAKEN VoIP protocols to maintain the confidentiality and integrity of your calls.
• Team coordination: Use real-time analytics and call logs to keep track of team activities and productivity levels, making it easier to manage a dispersed team.

How much does a VoIP phone cost?

The cost of VoIP phones can vary widely based on your needs and the provider you choose. There are free plans available, though these often come with limitations on features and accountability. For average service with a reasonable range of features, you can expect to pay around $15 per month per user. If you’re looking for more capabilities, prices can go higher. Enterprise plans, offering extensive features and higher levels of phone service accountability, can cost several hundred dollars per month. It’s crucial to consider additional costs like setup fees, number porting fees, and potential long-distance charges when calculating the total price.

How to choose VoIP phone system that will work best for you

When selecting a VoIP provider that best suits your needs, there are several criteria you should consider:

• Service Reliability: Check uptime statistics and customer reviews.
• Features: Look for internet phone service functionalities you specifically need, such as call forwarding, multi-level IVR, or video conferencing.
• Cost: Consider both the initial setup cost and monthly fees.
• Scalability: Make sure the system can grow with your business.
• Customer Support: 24/7 support can be invaluable.
• Security Measures: Features like end-to-end encryption and two-factor authentication are important.
• Quality of Service: Ensure the provider offers high-quality calls without latency or jitter.
• Ease of Use: An intuitive interface can save you time and frustration.

Making your VoIP phone work perfectly for your business

Choosing and implementing the right VoIP phone system can be a game-changer for your business, offering a flexible and affordable communication solution that grows with your business needs. The success lies in the details.
If you’re looking for a tried-and-true cloud phone system, MightyCall has been consistently recognized among the top providers by G2, the largest peer-review service platform. Enjoy a free trial period to experience the service and make an informed decision.

The post How Does VoIP Work: Full Internet Phone Operation Guide first appeared on MightyCall.

Here’s what that means:

G2 Summer 2023 VoIP Leader Award

We’ve made you happy. The G2 Leader Award means that MightyCall’s VoIP users have consistently been leaving positive reviews of our service, marking it as better than other alternatives on the market:

“It [MightyCall] checks all of the boxes without all the useless fluff that a lot of other phone companies seem to have. We have tried so many different providers, but none have held up to MightyCall!”

Erika W., Small Business

“[What problems is MightyCall solving and how is that benefiting you?]
Through this app we can call the international customers very easily without any technical or connectivity issues and this is the certified app. We also have support if we have any issues.”

Sony C., Small Business

“As we have to call the users, and not only 1-2 calls but more than 1000 calls per day, so for us, it is benefitting a lot. We can even easily forward the calls, record, and revert the calls.”

Suvi P., Small Business

G2 Summer 2023 Small Business Contact Center Leader Award

We love small businesses, and the feeling is mutual. MightyCall grows with its clients, and after MightyCall launched the Cloud Call Center functionality, its customer base has expanded alongside it. Our clients appreciate the ever-growing feature set, quick support, and the intuitive interface:

“MightyCall is solving all call listening, call intercept, and everything you might need for your business. This has definitely helped my business performance increase.”

Verified User in Public Relations and Communications, Small Business

“[What do you like best about MightyCall?]
The easy-to-forward numbers from one team member to another. We love that all calls are recorded, making it very easy to ensure that no one falls through the cracks. LOVE LOVE LOVE how easy the call direct and warm call transfers are.”

Zelma L., Small Business

“I love the quick responses from the support team!”

Verified User in Non-Profit Organization Management, Small Business

G2 Summer 2023 Momentum Leader in Call Center Infrastructure (CCI) & VoIP Award

We are growing fast. Users are shifting from other providers to MightyCall and are happy to stay:

“Setup and call flows are really nice. The technical support is responsive and excellent. The built-in SIP support is really a winner for us. We were previously using eVoice and it can only forward out to existing phone numbers (which themselves become spam call traps). This is so much better.”

Leon W., Small Business

“We have a small team and a phone number that people often text. Some systems we have used gave us an extension but wouldn’t let us view messages, calls, or anything our teammates were working on. This is fine if you are a regular worker but, as the COO this should always be available to monitor. Other systems would not allow us to use our phone number to text from because we assigned it with an auto attendant. So we were not really able to use our phone number that we put out into the world on our marketing.”

Erika W., Small Business

“What problems is MightyCall solving and how is that benefiting you?
Calling international clients for urgent support issues and troubleshooting. The ability to call anyone across the globe is a very valuable feature in customer support.”

Kshitij J., Technical Support Team Lead

What is G2?

G2 is the biggest and most reliable tech marketplace in the world, where companies can research and find software. Through user evaluations, G2 Crowd enables clients to select the top tech services on the market. G2 creates a remarkable and unique B2B marketplace by offering over 300,000 verified user evaluations to more than one million purchasers each month.

What is MightyCall?

One of the nation’s fastest-growing business phone service providers, MightyCall has won several prestigious industry awards, including the Inc. 5000 list, IT World Awards, Fastest Small Business Implementation by G2 Crowd, Top Performer Award from SourceForge, and more. Over 10,000 organizations worldwide are presently supported by MightyCall in achieving the most effective customer interaction.

The post MightyCall Wins Three G2 Summer 2023 Awards first appeared on MightyCall.

What is a VoIP Number? 

An internet number is a phone number that uses Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology for communication. It identifies the user on the IP network instead of the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) and transmits signals over the Internet rather than traditional phone lines. An internet number is a combination of a regular phone number and a virtual phone, making it easily portable and assignable to multiple devices. SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) is the standard protocol for implementing VoIP technology.

Fastest way to Get a VoIP Number?

Getting a VoIP number is a simple and straightforward process that can be completed in the following steps:

1. Determine Your Business’s Needs: Consider the location and type of number you need for your business, such as a local, toll-free, or international number.
2. Research Providers: Research and compare different VoIP companies to find the one that best suits your needs. Look for features such as call quality, customer support, and pricing.
3. Choose a Plan: Select a plan that fits your business’s needs and budget. Consider the number of simultaneous calls and minutes you’ll need.
4. Select a Number: A vanity number, toll-free, international? Work with your provider to choose and later on buy a VoIP number that is available and meets your requirements.
5. Make the Purchase: Once you have chosen a number, make the purchase through your provider’s website or customer service representative.
6. Set Up the Program: Follow the instructions provided by your provider to set up and configure your VoIP program. This includes setting up your hardware, such as a headset and microphone, and downloading the necessary software.
   With these steps, you can quickly and easily get a VoIP phone number for your business and start making and receiving calls over the Internet.

When Do You Need to Get a VoIP Phone Number?

Buying a VoIP number can benefit businesses of all sizes, including small businesses, enterprises, and call centers.

Small businesses can benefit from online numbers by saving on telecommunication costs and improving communication with customers. Web numbers allow small businesses to have a local number with presence in multiple locations without having a physical office, increasing their reach and accessibility.
Enterprises can improve their communication and collaboration with employees working remotely by getting VoIP numbers. Web numbers can also enhance their professional image and increase their competitiveness by offering multiple locations and toll-free options.
Call centers can benefit from the flexibility and scalability of web numbers. They may need a VoIP phone number for their call center agents to work from anywhere, reducing overhead costs and improving efficiency. Web numbers can also provide advanced call routing and reporting capabilities, helping call centers manage their operations more effectively.

Where to Get VoIP Numbers

VoIP can be obtained from a provider. Getting a VoIP phone number for your organization is easier than getting traditional phone numbers. To choose the best provider, consider factors such as reliability, quality of service, and pricing. Some popular providers include MightyCall, RingCentral, Vonage, and 8×8. After selecting a provider, you can assign a VoIP number to any device that you want to use for making and receiving calls. MightyCall is a great option for those looking for a flexible and affordable VoIP solution.

Best Practices for Choosing VoIP Phone Number

So what is the best strategy on how to get a VoIP number? The choice of a service provider for your business can significantly impact the success and growth of your company. With numerous options available in the market, it can be challenging to pick the right provider that aligns with your business objectives and goals. To make the right choice, it’s essential to consider several key factors such as the range of features, reliability, quality, security, customer reviews, level of customer support, and pricing.

1. Range of features: The range of features offered by a provider can have a significant impact on the functionality and performance of your business. It is important to obtain a VoIP phone number provider that offers a comprehensive set of features that cater to your specific business needs and requirements. This includes features such as data storage, integrations, scalability, and ease of use.
2. Reliability: A reliable phone company is crucial for the success of your business. It is essential to choose a provider that has a good track record of uptime, ensuring your business runs smoothly without any downtime. A reliable provider will also ensure that you have access to your data and information at all times, even during technical difficulties.
3. Quality: The quality of service provided by a provider is critical in maintaining the high standard of your business. It’s key to choose a VoIP phone number provider that has a good reputation for quality and is known for delivering high-quality services to its customers. Quality service is essential to ensure that your business runs smoothly, and you have access to the support you need when you need it.
4. Security: Making the best choice on how to get VoIP absolutely has to include this point. The security of your business data and information is of utmost importance, and choosing a provider that prioritizes security should be a top priority. It’s essential to choose a provider that has strong security measures in place to protect your data, including encryption, firewalls, and regular backups.
5. Customer reviews: Customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the provider’s performance and service quality. Reading customer reviews can help you understand the provider’s strengths and weaknesses, and make an informed decision based on the experiences of others.
6. Level of customer support: Good customer support is essential for the success of your business, and it’s essential to choose a provider that offers a high level of customer support. This includes 24/7 support, live chat, and prompt response times to ensure that you receive the help you need when you need it.
7. Pricing: The pricing of a provider’s services can significantly impact the profitability of your business. It’s essential to choose a provider that offers competitive pricing and ensures that the services they provide are worth the cost. Make sure to compare the pricing of different providers and choose one that offers a good value for money.

Main Differences Between Traditional and VoIP Numbers

Transmission Method:

Voice over IP phone numbers use the internet to transmit calls, while landline numbers use traditional telephone lines. This means that with such a number, you can make and receive calls using your internet connection. This provides benefits such as lower costs, increased flexibility, and improved call quality.

Location Association:

VoIP phone numbers can have area codes from anywhere, while landline numbers are tied to specific geographic locations. This means that with a VoIP, you can choose an area code that makes sense for your business or personal life.

Pricing:

VoIP phone service is often cheaper than traditional landline service and many providers offer unlimited calling and features. This can further reduce costs compared to landline service.

Portability:

VoIP can be used on multiple devices and can be easily transferred. This means that with a VoIP phone number, you can use it on your computer, smartphone, or other device.

International Reach:

VoIP usually has lower international calling rates, making it easier and more affordable for individuals and businesses to stay in touch with friends, family, and customers around the world. Whether you are traveling abroad or working with international clients, a VoIP phone number can provide the connectivity you need.

What Can A VoIP System Do For You?

• Location Independence: Web numbers allow businesses to have a phone presence in any location, regardless of their physical location. This enables businesses to choose and get local VoIP phone numbers or toll-free numbers that align with their target market, improving their professional image and making them more accessible to customers.
• No Hardware Requirements: With web numbers, there’s no need for additional hardware such as telephone lines or PBX systems. This means businesses can make and receive calls using their existing devices, making it a more convenient and cost-effective solution.
• Cost-Effective: Virtual business numbers are often more affordable compared to traditional landline services as they don’t require the installation and maintenance of physical telephone lines. Many web number providers offer unlimited calling and other features as part of their service, further reducing costs for businesses.
• App Integrations: Many web number providers offer integrations with popular business apps such as CRMs, email, and calendars. This allows businesses to manage all their communications from a single platform, streamlining their operations and improving their customer service.
• Enhanced Call Quality: Web numbers often provide enhanced voice quality compared to traditional landline services as calls are transmitted over the internet instead of telephone lines. This results in clear, consistent call quality and reduces the risk of dropped calls or other call quality issues.

What Features Can I Get With VoIP Phone Number?

So how to get VoIP with a quality feature package? Voice over Internet Protocol numbers offer advanced features for enhanced business communication. Here are some of the most useful features:

1. Auto-attendant: Automatically answers and routes calls to the correct department or extension, providing a professional and efficient experience for callers.

1. Call Forwarding: Allows calls to be forwarded to any desired number, even outside the office, making it easier for businesses with remote workers or employees in different locations to stay connected.
2. Virtual Meeting Rooms: Enables businesses to host virtual meetings with screen sharing and collaboration tools, enabling teams to work together more effectively, regardless of location.
3. Call Recording: Records calls for quality control, training, and compliance purposes, making it easier to monitor and improve the performance of business communication.

1. IVR (Interactive Voice Response): Provides automated menu options for callers to reach desired departments or information, streamlining the call process and improving efficiency.
2. Call Blocking: Blocks unwanted numbers or spam calls, reducing interruptions and improving the overall call experience.
3. SMS: Allows texting from the same number as calls, providing businesses with a unified communication platform.
4. Business Hours: Specifies the hours of operation for the business and routes calls accordingly, improving call management and customer service.
5. Call Parking: Puts a call on hold and transfers it to any available line, making it easier for businesses to handle multiple calls at once.
6. Call Queuing: Holds incoming calls in a queue and routes them to the next available agent, improving call management and customer service.

Pros and Cons of Getting a VoIP Number for Your Business

Pros

1. Improved Mobility and Accessibility: Web numbers offer significant advantages to businesses, particularly in terms of mobility and accessibility. Employees can make and receive calls from any location with an internet connection, allowing for flexibility and reliability even for remote workers. This means that no matter where an employee is located, they will always be reachable and can remain productive even when away from the office.
2. Cost-Effective Communication: Another major advantage of web numbers is their cost-effectiveness. Unlike traditional phone lines, web numbers are typically billed based on usage, making it an attractive option for businesses with variable or unpredictable call volumes. This can result in significant cost savings for businesses compared to maintaining traditional business phone lines.
3. Enhanced Productivity: The advanced features offered by internet numbers, such as vanity phone numbers, call forwarding, IVR (Interactive Voice Response), and call recording, can help improve call management and increase productivity. IVR, for example, can automate certain processes, such as routing calls to the appropriate department or providing information to callers. Call recording can be useful for training and quality control purposes. These features can help streamline communication, improve customer service, and ultimately boost the productivity of the business.

Cons

1. Security Concerns: One of the potential disadvantages of virtual numbers is the increased risk of fraud. As virtual phone numbers rely on internet connectivity, it can be relatively easy for scammers to mimic the number to deceive individuals. Businesses need to be vigilant in their use of virtual numbers and take steps to minimize the risk of fraud, such as verifying the identity of callers and implementing security measures such as multi-factor authentication.
2. Limited Call Volume Capabilities: Another potential drawback of virtual phones is their limited call volume capabilities. These numbers may not be suitable for businesses with high call volumes or businesses that require a large number of lines, as the technology may not be able to handle the volume of calls effectively. In these cases, traditional phone lines may be a more appropriate solution.
3. Reliance on Internet Connectivity: Virtual phone service numbers rely on a stable and fast internet connection to make and receive calls, so a slow or unreliable connection can impact call quality and performance. This means that businesses must ensure that their internet connection is stable and fast enough to support their communication needs, or else consider alternative solutions. In areas with limited or unreliable internet connectivity, virtual VoIP phone numbers may not be the most appropriate solution.

VoIP Number Portability

When changing providers, there is a risk of losing customers due to a change in business phone number. However, this can be avoided through number porting. This allows you to keep your current phone number, even if you change providers. This can greatly reduce the impact of the switch on your business and customer base.

Will I need to change my number?

• Your current VoIP company is too expensive
• Your current VoIP system lacks key features for your business
• You are experiencing unfair treatment from your current VoIP company (e.g. hidden fees)
• Other reasons specific to your business needs
• Your business has outgrown the capabilities of your current VoIP service
• The quality of your current VoIP is inadequate (e.g. poor audio quality)
• You are not satisfied with customer support from your current provider

How long does it take?

In MightyCall, number porting is a straightforward process that happens in under 15 workdays. Our support team will guide you through the process and ensure a smooth transition after you get a new VoIP number provider. The exact time it takes will depend on the complexity of your current phone system and your provider’s processing time, but our team will work to minimize any disruption to your business.

How much do VoIP Numbers cost?

The cost of a VoIP number can vary depending on the provider and the type of plan you choose. On average, a basic number plan can cost anywhere from $10 to $30 per month. More comprehensive plans with additional features and services can cost anywhere from $30 to $100 or more per month. Additionally, some providers may charge per-minute fees for calls, while others have unlimited call plans. With MightyCall, prices start at just $15 per user.

How many VoIP Phone Numbers can I get?

After answering “How do I get a VoIP number?” you may wonder how many you can get. The amount you can get depends on the provider and the type of plan you choose. Some providers offer only one phone number per account, while others allow you to have multiple numbers under the same account. With MightyCall, you get 2 numbers per plan and will be able to add additional numbers as your business grows or as you expand into new markets.

Who exactly owns VoIP Numbers after purchase?

After purchasing a VoIP number, the ownership of the number depends on the terms and conditions of the provider. In general, the number is assigned to the customer who purchases it and is typically considered the property of the customer for the duration of the contract. The customer has the right to use the number for the purpose it was purchased for and has the option to transfer or port the number to a different provider if desired.

Free VoIP Phone Numbers: What are they?

Free VoIP numbers are telephone numbers that are provided for free by various online services and VoIP service providers. These numbers can be used for a variety of purposes, including making and receiving calls and sending and receiving text messages. The main advantage of using a free VoIP is its cost – as it is free, there are no monthly fees or hidden costs associated with its usage.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that there are several disadvantages to using a free VoIP. For example, they often come with limited functionality and may not have all of the features that are available with paid numbers. Additionally, free numbers may not be as reliable as paid numbers, and the quality of the call may be lower. This can be a significant drawback, especially for businesses that need to make and receive calls with clients and customers.
Another disadvantage of free numbers is the limited customer support. With free numbers, it’s often difficult to get help with technical issues or to resolve any problems that may arise. Additionally, the security of free numbers is often less robust than paid numbers, which can increase the risk of fraud or hacking.

Grow Your Business & Celebrate Success

MightyCall provides a comprehensive and reliable VoIP phone system for businesses of all sizes. With MightyCall, businesses can enjoy the benefits of having a professional phone number, such as mobility, flexibility, scalability, and a range of advanced features. The platform offers easy-to-use call management tools, such as call forwarding, call screening, and call recording, that help businesses increase productivity and provide a professional image to customers. Additionally, MightyCall’s affordable pricing, user-friendly interface, and exceptional customer support make it an ideal choice for businesses looking to upgrade their phone system.

The post How to Get a VoIP Number? first appeared on MightyCall.

G2 Leader Spring 2023:

G2, the world’s largest tech marketplace, recognizes top-performing companies in various categories based on user reviews and ratings. The “G2 Leader” award signifies MightyCall’s dominance in its niche, as well as the trust and confidence it has earned from its users.

“The features and service, coupled with the cost, have made MightyCall a perfect fit for our small nonprofit organization. Its offerings give us a more professional appearance and make us look larger than we really are. We especially enjoy the ability to use our conference phones as well as their mobile app.” – Yvo M., Small-Business

“The customer service is world class, anytime I have a question of how to improve the usability of my service help is a chat or call away.” – Corey L., Small-Business

“If something is wrong, I email them, and it gets fixed or added as a new feature” – Melody W., Small-Business

G2 Easiest to Use Spring 2023:

In addition to being a leader in the virtual phone system industry, MightyCall has also been awarded the “G2 Easiest to Use” title for Spring 2023. This accolade serves as a testament to the company’s dedication to creating an intuitive and user-friendly interface that simplifies the communication process for businesses. Additionally, MightyCall’s elegant Dark Mode will suit the most exquisite styles.

“Most helpful is the ability to route phone calls wherever I need them. Also, the ability to upload different greetings is great. I love the widget for the website.” – Melody W., Small-Business

“I really like how easy the text messaging system is. Really good integration.” – Matthew H., Small-Business

“I really like how easy the text messaging system is. Really good integration” – Gabriela G., Small-Business

MightyCall: User-Centric Virtual Phone System

MightyCall’s success in winning these awards stems from its commitment to offering user-oriented solutions, providing key advantages:

1. Intuitive Interface: MightyCall’s user-friendly interface enables efficient and enjoyable communication processes for users across businesses of all sizes.
2. Robust Features: A comprehensive suite of communication tools, including call routing, call forwarding, and custom voicemail greetings, empowers businesses to connect effectively with their customers.
3. Scalability: Flexible and scalable solutions ensure MightyCall adapts to the evolving needs of growing businesses.
4. Affordable Pricing: Cost-effective solutions cater to small and medium-sized businesses’ budgets, granting access to a powerful communication system without financial strain.
5. Reliability: MightyCall’s cloud-based infrastructure provides high-quality, reliable communication services, fostering a professional image and seamless customer connections.
6. Exceptional Customer Support: Responsive support and regular updates guarantee a smooth and satisfying user experience.
7. Integration Capabilities: Integration with various CRM platforms and productivity tools streamlines communication processes and boosts overall efficiency.

Looking Ahead: Prioritizing User Needs

MightyCall’s growth strategy includes introducing innovative features, expanding global reach, and reinforcing its position as a top virtual phone system provider. The company’s unwavering commitment to users ensures they consistently receive optimal solutions and support for their communication needs.

The post MightyCall Wins G2 Spring 2023 Awards: “G2 Leader” and “Easiest to Use” first appeared on MightyCall.

It seems like the market’s massive pool of products offers endless options. But in fact, this overwhelms our ability to know where the best-fitting product is. Meanwhile, a product that’s not scalable to your needs will both drain your time and your wallet.

Below, we’ll offer a comprehensive phone system features checklist for an SMB-centric business phone system. Simply underline the most important aspects for your business and grab this list with you when comparing and contrasting several providers. Let’s go!

What to Ask Before Getting a Business Phone System

Before reading the list below, get a pen and paper and note down the answers to the following questions.

• How big is my team?
• Is your team distributed?
• What communication tasks do you need a hand with?
• Are you a growing business?

We’ll answer all of these questions in the course of the post, so be sure to check our specific recommendations below each feature!

12 Essential Business Phone System Features

1. High-quality business calls from any place and any device

For anyone working out of office, out of state, or even out of country, Voice over IP (VoIP) technology has made business communications as smooth and simple as ever. Thanks to a VoIP business phone system, you can take your business calls from anywhere in the world with WI-FI or Internet connection, without being stuck to a landline or mobile service provider.

When your business communications aren’t tied to a specific device, your hands are untied and you can effectively multi-task. A business phone system unties your hands by routing your business calls to as many (or as few) devices as you wish. For example, you can route it to your IP desk phone, laptop, PC, mobile phone, iPad or tablet — or just one or two devices. This means that you are in charge of when and where to receive important calls — and this goes for your whole team! Each employee will be able to choose which devices to route their calls to.

Not being tied to locations and devices means not only mobility and versatility but safety as well. Small business owners can move to anywhere in the country or the world,  while their business communications continue to sail as smoothly as if you lived next door to the office.

This feature is ideal for:

Solopreneurs and teams of all sizes

All communication tasks

Distributed teams

2. Call recording

Call recording is an essential business phone system feature for companies that do a lot of sales and get a fair amount of customer feedback via the phone. Instead of writing notes during the conversation, you can now just write down essentials, and always go back to a conversation to listen to anything you’ve missed. Call recording is also a great way to safeguard yourself against any possible legal disputes. Learn more about how to benefit from call recording as a small business.

This feature is ideal for:

Sales teams and specific industries

Managers and supervisors

Growing businesses

3. Voicemail to text

Listening to voicemail may seem like a small thing, but a small business spends 2-3 hours per week on average listening to voicemails. Don’t you have better use for that time? Exactly! This is why voicemail to text is such an important business phone system feature. It lets you save precious time by transcribing your voicemails into text format and sending them to you as emails. As a result, you can run over a text voicemail in a few seconds and react to it appropriately instead of listening for several minutes.

This feature is ideal for:

Busy solopreneurs and teams of all sizes

Businesses with medium to heavy voicemail loads

Growing businesses

4. Modern voice menu

A voice menu, or speaking technically, IVR (Interactive voice response) is what people hear when they call any professional business. But unlike in past times, when it cost a business solid money and only big companies could afford it, even a solopreneur can have a professional voice menu today. If you’re not a fan of auto-attendants and prerecorded messages (press 1 for x …press 10 for y), don’t worry. A small business’s voice menu should be simple, informative, and quickly allow transfer to the right person on your team.

A business phone system has all of those features on the voice menu: call routing to any team member, appropriate extensions, and an auto-attendant that can answer during after-hours, or to provide important information such as hours/location of your business. Need more advice? Check out our 5 steps to a perfect voice menu.

This feature is ideal for:

Solopreneurs and teams of all sizes

All communication tasks

A professional touch for solopreneurs and very small business

5. After-hours call routing

We all know the adage: to work well, one needs to rest well. But if a regular person can afford to not pick up the phone after a certain time (or just when you’re not feeling into it), a business person can’t. Each time you miss a call, you miss a lead, and a potential customer. So how does one ensure privacy in a small business setting, where you’re more often than not short not only on time but on hands as well?

That’s where after-hours call routing comes in. This business phone feature lets you decide when to take business calls, when to route them to another team member’s device, and when to direct a call to voicemail. You can also set up different settings for different folks. For example, if you have several VIP callers that you want to be available for 24/7, you can adjust settings so those numbers always get routed to your phone. Meanwhile, calls from other numbers will be routed to a different team member or voicemail.

This feature is ideal for:

Solopreneurs and teams of all sizes

All communication tasks

6. Text to voice greetings

Many of us wish we could have professional voicemail greetings but just don’t have the extra money to pay a professional voice artist, or the skills to do it ourselves. Some people downright hate the sound of their voice when recorded, so this may not be an option you’re exploring for business.

Nevertheless, for a small business, it’s nice to have greetings that sound professional. This is where a service like Amazon Polly comes in handy. Even though it’s an auto-generated text-to-voice transcription service, Amazon Polly is a stable alternative for those businesses that need custom voice and auto-attendant greetings, but have no opportunity to pay a professional voice artist to record them.

When you get a business phone system like MightyCall, you don’t need to spend time setting up Amazon Polly by yourself.  Just drop us the text for your voice greetings, and we’ll send you the transcribed audio files from Amazon Polly — for free.

This feature is ideal for:

Solopreneurs and teams of all sizes

Businesses with an economy-sized budget

7. Team availability

One of the questions we often hear with entrepreneurs who have 3-5 team members is: why can’t we use a free second phone number, or a second SIM card, and just use that as our business number?

If you’re just a freelancer or solopreneur with a handful of clients, that might work for you, as long as you’re willing to forego all of the above professional features. But if you’re a team of 2 or more people, you also need a business phone solution that keeps you on the same page.

A virtual phone system for business has many amazing team features that automatically sync to all of your employees’ devices. Your team can work from a beach chair in Hawaii, and still answer business calls as “Jack’s landscaping from Montana”!

This feature is ideal for:

Teams of all sizes

Distributed teams

All communication tasks

8. Built-in CRM

A small or very small business doesn’t have the same needs as a large business. That’s why it needs technology that scales to its size while offering the same kind of powerful reliability as large business demands.

A super useful feature of MightyCall’s VoIP is its very own Contact Book Plus with Built-in CRM. This CRM functionality allows you to save leads and share comments and details with all your team members. This contact book is nowhere near the one on your phone.

It automatically syncs on all of your team’s devices, and a new lead and comment added by one team member is instantly visible to your whole team — be it 2 or 200 people! And if you need more help on choosing CRM for your business phone system, check out this post on how to choose a CRM solution for small business.

This feature is ideal for:

Solopreneurs and teams of all sizes

Growing businesses with an increasing client base

9. CRM integrations

The hallmark of great technology today isn’t just being a standalone product. It’s the ability to integrate with other apps for an ultimate user experience. While it’s possible to have a dozen different apps open on your computer, constant multitasking will either make you forget an important task when it comes or constantly overthink.

The best small business phone systems go this extra step and build integrations with other apps. For example, MightyCall natively integrates with top CRM platforms like Salesforce and HubSpot, allowing you to manage your business contacts and make calls from one place.

This feature is ideal for:

Solopreneurs and teams of all sizes

Managers and supervisors

All communication tasks

Growing businesses

10. Multi-level IVR

In addition to our regular IVR (described above in the section “Voice menu”, MightyCall now supports the multi-level version of this feature. Multi-level IVR is a voice menu with additional “levels” or sub-menus. This phone system feature for business is useful for companies that have several offices operating under one business number — for example, you can prompt the caller to “Press 1 for the Manhattan office”, “Press 2 for the Long Island office”, and then, following the caller’s input have a second sub-menu like “Press 1 for Support, Press 2 for Sales”, etc. The max number of sub-menus you can have is 10, but for customer usability reasons we don’t recommend overdoing it.

This feature is ideal for:

Bilingual companies

Companies with two or more office locations under one number

National/ international companies

Call centers

11. Texting and MMS

MightyCall’s texting feature allows to send and receive business SMS from your local or toll-free business number. This business phone feature is very convenient since you don’t have to get a special short-code number for business texting. You may also send MMS or multimedia messages with MightyCall. The multimedia format is used for sending images, GIFs, audio, video, and document attachments, and supports a variety of formats.

This feature is ideal for:

Companies of all sizes

SMS and MMS marketing

Quick information delivery and follow-up

12. Privacy and security

In recent years, we’ve seen how with its fast-paced development, technology is often ahead of the curve, and sometimes, (hello, Facebook) privacy and security lag behind the service itself.

This is why modern phone systems for small business focus a lot of their efforts on user privacy. Features such as anti-spam, robocall protection, and encryption, guarantee that the users’ privacy is important for the VoIP company and it constantly works on improving privacy and security.

A virtual phone system like MightyCall also has special privacy features with caller ID. For example, you can instantly know whether an incoming call is someone dialing your MightyCall business number, or it’s a friend calling your private mobile number. This way, you can choose to respond to the call accordingly, and know if it’s OK to skip or call back.

This feature is ideal for:

Solopreneurs and teams of all sizes

All communication tasks

Distributed teams

Get the Phone System Features for Business That Keep on Growing

Above, we’ve covered the key business phone features that any business needs. Each of these features will give you a professional, competitive, and engaging presence in the market and are essential to cover business communication needs.

Meanwhile,  if you’re in the process of looking for a reliable, award-winning business phone system at an attractive price, MightyCall can help you set up business communications from scratch or take over your existing solution. You’ll have all of the above functionality, plus 30+ communication features that we designed for small and medium-sized businesses. We also have a free trial on all plans — check it out today!

The post 12 Essential Business Phone Features first appeared on MightyCall.

Business professionals agree that apart from being an affordable high quality service, MightyCall performs especially well in the following categories:

Ease of use. Spend time talking to customers rather than wasting lengthy hours figuring things out. Everything you need is in one place with MightyCall and its professionally crafted user interface.

Quality of support. Enjoy the best business-level customer support on the market for all plans. MightyCall is here for you 7 days a week. Chat, submit a ticket, call us, book a live onboarding session, or send us a feature request to receive the response in the shortest time.

Ease of set-up. Experience the intuitive design starting from the very first moments. MightyCall will be there for you with the multiple tutorials and a free live onboarding session with one of our support operators.

What is G2?

G2 is known among the industry professionals as the biggest and most reliable tech marketplace in the world, where companies can research and find software. Through user evaluations, G2 Crowd enables clients to select the top tech services on the market. G2 creates a remarkable and unique B2B marketplace by offering over 300,000 verified user evaluations to more than one million purchasers each month.

What is MightyCall?

One of the nation’s fastest-growing VoIP service providers, MightyCall, has won numerous prestigious industry recognitions, including the Inc. 5000 list, IT World Awards, Fastest Small Business Implementation by G2 Crowd, Top Performer Award from SourceForge, and more. Over 25,000 organizations worldwide are grateful for MightyCall’s role in the most effective consumer communication.

The post MightyCall Receives G2 Leader VoIP Award for Fall 2022 first appeared on MightyCall.

In this article we cover:

• What is Google Voice?
• How Does Google Voice Work?
• The Two Plans Comparison
• Pricing & Plans Overview
• Features Difference Between Two Options
• Users and Locations Comparison
• Pros & Cons of the Business Plan
• Pros & Cons of the Personal Plan
• Making the Right Choice

What is Google Voice?

Google Voice is a wireless phone service provider, giving its customers from select countries a phone number for local calls, texts, and voicemail. Naturally, it can be synced across the devices of choice: computers or smartphones. It has all the basics covered: spam filters, black list function, call forwarding, back-ups, voicemail transcriptions, alongside extra features available for purchase, such as international calling.

How Does Google Voice Work?

Being a VoIP service, Google Voice uses Voice Over Internet Protocol to transfer calls and messages. It is a tie-free fully virtual calling system that allows you to call from wherever you are. In VoIP, voice is transformed into a digital signal that is passed over the internet, connecting people with other users. All you need is:

• A device: computer, smartphone or tablet;
• Stable internet connection: the Wi-Fi or a data plan.

Google Voice account provides free PC-to-phone calling within the US and Canada and free PC-to-PC audio and video calls worldwide. Depending on the plan, the customer gets a virtual phone number, allowing for a full replacement of a sim card. There are two main options you will be choosing from; read more about them below.

Google Voice Personal vs Business Comparison

Google Voice Personal

This type of account is available on Android, iOS, and the web, providing its customers with free limited phone call functionality. Meanwhile it cannot provide you with a virtual number, it includes an integration with mail and calendar, making it best for:

• Individuals who like to have the option of calling others via the internet or a computer for individual convenience reasons;
• Freelancers who need to handle and organize multiple calls from clients on the device of their choice;
• Small businesses that do not have a large volume of calls;
• Solopreneurs who manage their orders and customers on a tight schedule;
• Anyone who enjoys the freedom of calling via the internet and multiple devices rather than being attached to the cell phone and cell service.

What are the main uses for the Personal account

1. Economy: Making a free phone call within the US. For example, if you need to talk to some customer support that will leave you hanging for an hour and you do not want to pay for it;
2. Scheduling: making a call schedule through integrating it into the calendar: if you want to make a few calls at once;
3. Privacy: making sure that your own phone number remains private and unknown;
4. Back-up: being able to use any phone or computer, so if you lose your phone and need to make a call from your laptop, you will be able to.
5. Travel: when you go from one state to another, your service quality will depend on the internet connection, not cellular service.

Google Voice Business (Google Workspace)

The Google Voice for Business is a paid subscription-based service that provides you with a free phone number (or multiple for an extra fee) and an extensive functionality (voicemail, SMS ability, and other), which is its greatest advantage. The users can communicate on any internet-enabled web-linked phone line, making it an excellent option for companies and the professional Google Voice service.

This option is best for:

• Growing small businesses: manage the small client base and other business communications in an organized way;
• Middle size businesses: have your team members handle the communication with the clients via multiple devices within one system;
• Solopreneurs: handling a large volume of communication in an organized manner (this option also includes text messages);
• Small research projects that require data collection via surveys.

What are the main uses for the Business option?

• Texting and calling: communication with customers or other services;
• Having a custom area code and privacy for your telephone numbers: being able to contact others without revealing your location or having to use your private non-business phone number;
• Keeping records of business calls for documentation and follow-up purposes.
• Organization: being able to have everything in one place and not get lost in the multitude of contacts;
• Answering service for your telephone numbers: having an automated answering option that interacts with callers to prevent loss of clients.

Google Voice Personal vs Business Account: Pricing & Plans

When comparing the two Google Voice plans, it is important to note that the personal plan is absolutely free. It is not meant for large volumes of communication, rather than that, it is more of a feature for individual use. That means you are choosing between Google Voice free vs paid.

The Google Voice for Business option was developed specifically for companies that need to manage a larger volume of calls. It is divided into 3 different tariffs:

* Only calls from the GVoice app will show up as your Google number, dials from your mobile phone touchpad will use your caller ID.
All private data shared with Google.

MightyCall Solution

The Google phone system is good, but it has flaws, since unlike MightyCall, it has never been an independent business communication service specializing in virtual calls. MightyCall, however, has originally been focused solely on VoIP phone numbers and telephony (for over 15 years), which is why it offers more features (free on all the plans), such as toll-free/vanity phone numbers, extensions/call flows and HD audio quality.

It also has helpful customer support: daily 8 am to 8 pm EST phone, chat, 1-1 onboarding sessions and web customer support for anyone who needs assistance or wants free help with the set-up, which is why G2 named MightyCall the top VoIP customer support this year.

Features Difference Between Google Voice Personal and Business

The set of available features depends on the option you choose. Take a look at the table comparing the features of these options.

	Personal	Starter	Standard	Premier
Mobile apps: iOS and Android
Toll-free/vanity numbers
Call forwarding
International locations				Unlimited
SMS		Unlimited in the US	Unlimited in the US	Unlimited in the US
Voicemail-to-text
Do not disturb based on calendar working hours
Desk phone compatibility
Auto attendants
Caller ID (Google Meet Calls)
Ring groups
Conferencing calls
Call menus
Integrated web widgets
Extensions/call flows

MightyCall Solution

MightyCall clients have access to many features that GVoice is lacking. Choosing MightyCall (over GVoice) allows you to:

• Try toll-free/vanity numbers – included on all the plans;

• Jump on conference calls – MightyCall knows how important to have team calls to ensure everyone stays up-to-date;
• Check out HD audio quality – Google Voice doesn’t support top-notch HD audio for callers and relies on Wi-Fi, sometimes resulting in a faulty connection that will give your company an unprofessional reputation;
• Experience call flows and extensions – since GVoice was not originally developed as a wireless phone service provider, it does not have an option to have structured call flows or organization for telephone numbers;

• Enjoy the hands-down best customer support out there.

Google Voice Business vs Personal: Users and Locations

The difference between Google Voice Personal and Business is also in the number of users and locations. The Personal Plan is exclusively for the United States, meanwhile the Business plan has available telephone numbers in 13 countries/regions for callers:

• Belgium
• Canada
• Denmark
• France
• Germany
• Ireland
• Italy
• Netherlands
• Portugal
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom

*Depends on the subscription type

MightyCall Solution

If you did not find the location you are interested in in the Google Voice list, MightyCall is your choice.

MightyCall provides a choice of 25 countries for international business phone numbers, including all countries from GVoice. You will get a choice from: Argentina, New Zealand, Australia, Philippines, Brazil, Portugal, China, Russia, Egypt, Singapore, France, South Africa, Germany, South Korea, India, Spain, Indonesia, Switzerland, Italy, Thailand, Japan, Turkey, Mexico, United Kingdom, Netherlands, and the United States of America.

Pros & Cons of Google Voice Business

When choosing between Google Voice paid vs free options, it is important to look at the multiple factors to be taken into consideration when choosing your professional communication platform:

Pros

• Price – the service is affordable and is within one of the best price offers within virtual phone providers;
• Port your phone number – for an additional $20 USD you can port your own number or use your Google Voice Number for free;
• Simple interface – the service has an amazing at UI;
• Growth – your business will grow once you switch from a sim card to a universal plan;
• G Suite – an integration will be intuitive and easy for companies using Google;
• Call screening – requiring vocal identification from your callers;
• Switch devices – devices can be switched during a call.

Cons

• Cannot port landline – if you want to port a landline number, you will have to transfer it to a mobile operator first;
• Privacy concerns – all the information will be stored on Google servers;
• No analytics – this service is yet to offer analytics to its clients;
• Limited features: requires Google Workspace for use, which is an additional purchase, so in a way it is an addition to the GWorkspace rather than an independent service;
• Hard-to-access customer support – the forum is the main means for communication between the customer support team and clients;
• Limited communication channels – only voice and text services offered, no conference calls or additional features.

Pros & Cons of Google Voice Personal

It is important to remind ourselves that this plan is absolutely free for individual use when looking at the pros and cons:

Pros

• Variety – this plan gives you an additional option on top of your cell phone;
• Professionalism – having the ability to keep all your calls dubbed on your computer will help you organize your work communication;
• Price – this version is completely free;
• Voicemail transcription – Google AI is a powerful tool that ensures quality in voicemail transcription;
• Calendar – adds your communication on your calendar;
• Flexibility – allows to work from any device or operational system;
• Security – provides you with a tool to protect your number from people you are calling.

Cons

• No emergency calls – you will not be able to reach 911;
• Limited locations – the feature only works in the US and with US telephone numbers;
• No virtual number – people will not be able to call you;
• Limited users – only one person can be using it;
• No organization – you will not have access to a put together hub with all the features and all call history;
• Limited communication channels – only voice services offered, no texting, MMS, conference calls or additional features.

Making the Right Choice: Google Voice Business vs Personal

Google Voice is an affordable and functional solution for both business communication and personal use, so depending on your needs, you can make the decision based on comparison. The VoIP solution provides a solid set of basic features for making virtual calls, but it lacks a few options you might need. If you do find yourself missing a few features or if you did not find what you need in the functionality of the phone service, we recommend trying the MightyCall solution.

MightyCall was created and perfected over the years specifically to meet the needs of small and medium companies when it comes to virtual telephony. It is also one of the most affordable options on the market of over 25 countries and is known to provide over-the-top customer support. Try it and see for yourself.

The post Google Voice Personal vs Business: Full Pricing & Feature Comparison first appeared on MightyCall.

Why is a virtual phone number such a great benefit, such a provider of both flexibility and stability for your business? Is this hyperbole? Absolutely not.

A virtual phone number allows you to take full advantage of the amazing flexible technologies of the twenty-first century in order to transition your business model from the stale version cooked up in the 1980s to one fully prepared to deal with modern-day challenges. A virtual phone number allows you to fundamentally restructure the way you and your employees interact.

How? Well, read on to find out!

A What’s-What of Virtual Phone Numbers

 Nothing in this post is going to be too technical or difficult to understand. That said, we know that tech moves fast, and some folks have not caught up with all the lingo that we may be using throughout the piece. To avoid any chance of you not fully being able to take advantage of our tips on the best possible virtual phone number apps and types you can get, we figured we would briefly go over a couple of the most commonly used words which are least commonly used elsewhere.

Firstly, let’s hit on the obvious one: “virtual phone number.” Here are a couple of things a virtual phone number is NOT:

• It is NOT a “fake” phone number, nor is it any less than a “normal” phone number. It’s a number which works just like any other telephone number you’ve used in the past- except you can do a lot more with it.
• It is NOT something which can be taken away at a moment’s notice. When you buy a virtual phone number, it is yours to do with what you will.
• It is NOT something to be skeptical of. Just because you are not buying one from a giant phone company you’ve seen a million ads for doesn’t mean it’s something dangerous- that’s sort of what the big phone companies want you to think, after all.

So what IS a virtual phone number? It’s a phone number you can purchase from a telephony company which you can then use on different internet-connected devices, and can be used with things like a free virtual phone number app. It is not connected to one phone, like how probably most of your previous phone numbers were. Some of this all depends on the company you are buying it from and/or currently using it with, but many, like MightyCall, but a premium on flexibility.

Another term to be aware of is VOIP. VOIP is an acronym which stands for “Voice over internet protocol.” Basically, to cut a long and somewhat technical story short, it means being able to speak over the internet. Many virtual phone number companies bill themselves as VOIP companies- because they are!

Your Virtual Phone Number is YOU

 So why is a virtual phone number so incredibly useful in these turbulent times?

Well, look: here’s a sad fact. You may have the most efficiently run business. You and your employees may have a big smile every time a customer walks through that door. Your service may be second to none.

But when someone is first looking you up, they’ll only know two things: your name, and your phone number. Over time, as word of mouth spreads about how awesome your business is, so too will your number. Your number over time becomes almost inseparable from your business name; it becomes your business’ identity.

What this means is that you want a telephone number which can be more than just a telephone number. You want, for starters, something that sticks out, something that is readily memorable. And in a virtual phone number, you can find that solution. Companies like MightyCall allow you to purchase what is known as a vanity phone number.

Vanity phone numbers are phone numbers which employ the use of the number pad on your phone to create words- so 1-800-4847 would become 1-800-HUGS. The benefit is, of course, instantly obvious: a driver is far more liable to remember seeing 1-800-HUGS on the side of the bus that they passed driving to the store than they are to remember seeing 1-800-4847. Plus, it immediately defines your kind of business to the reader. It’s easy to remember, gets your message across succinctly, and is something you can build your brand around easily- which means that already, your virtual phone number is working for you instead of the other way around.

But that is not the only way your telephone number can be put to work for you. With MightyCall’s CNAM feature, you can register your business in a database which will then allow your business’ name to show up as an outbound caller ID, making it far more likely your call will be picked up.

How VoIP Can Restructure Your Business Plan (and Save you Cash)

 What you may not realize yet is that a virtual phone number can even restructure the entire way your small business is run. It opens up new doors and enables you to maximize your potential.

How? Well, as we mentioned above, a virtual phone number is not tied to any sort of single device- they’re accessed over the internet. Getting a virtual phone number from MightyCall enables you to use your number over virtually any internet-accessible device, so long as it has a way to input and output sound. With MightyCall’s web panel, you can control which employees can use which number and can set up call forwarding trees for each number you have. Plus, MightyCall also allows for unlimited extensions, which means that you can have as many users as you want using your numbers, from wherever they are logged in.

This has a huge benefit: it saves money on office phones, on office space, on bulky physical set-ups. If you want to run a sleek and lean business—something which might be useful in a time of economic uncertainty—a virtual phone number allows you to shed a lot of dead weight which once sagged down companies in the past.

Plus, with MightyCall’s free app, you and your employees can have a designated and easy to use spot on your phone to conduct your business with. This further cuts costs: no more needing to buy yourself or your employees a second work phone (and no more needing to carry two phones around).

This flexibility is so important. If the pandemic spreading around ends up tanking the economy, it’s the businesses which are not tied down with a bunch of extra costs that will survive and flourish once the bull economy comes back. If you think ahead, that can be you.

Why MightyCall is the Virtual Phone Number Company for You

 More than anything else, however, the best thing about having a virtual phone number is that it is not just a virtual phone number. It isn’t just something someone dials. With the right company, a virtual phone number can be so much more.

MightyCall wants its clients to take full advantage of what a virtual phone number can offer. At MightyCall there are three tiers of plan pricing, and each one is packed with incredible features– features which are not just there to fill up a page, but which are actually usable by and helpful for small business owners. Some, like unlimited calling and call forwarding to any internet-connected device, will help you be able to organize your different employees more easily, without having to constantly count how many minutes you have used.

Vanity numbers we’ve already talked about, but MightyCall also offers toll-free virtual phone numbers, which can entice people to call you, safe in the knowledge that they won’t have to pay for it. To save you from any liability or to help train your employees to conduct better calls, MightyCall offers easily usable call recording. For your record-keeping, there’s visual voicemail and transcription.

And there is a whole lot more. The point is, right now you basically use your telephone number to make and receive calls. You probably haven’t thought twice about it in years. Maybe it’s time that you did.

To wrap up…

 Having a virtual phone number can help you weather the storms which are already hitting all of us (and if they haven’t hit you yet, they soon will). It enables you to build your entire business around something you previously barely used for any purpose other than calling and can save you time and money.

What we’re trying to say is…why wouldn’t you get one?

The post Why A Virtual Phone Number Can Be the Foundation of Your Small Business first appeared on MightyCall.

Selecting a VoIP provider in a market that’s booming with eye-catching offers can be tough. Will this VoIP service be productive to business growth? Which product is better for your business size? And most importantly: is the offer really no strings attached?

Before you take a step in the direction of any VoIP service, learn about key aspects many VoIP providers don’t talk about. We promise the information below will save you time, money, and futile regrets!

Navigation:

• Business VoIP vs free VoIP
• Key questions to avoid being duped
• Privacy, security, and robocall prevention
• Optional (but cool) features
• Key takeaways

Business VoIP vs Free VoIP

There’s nothing more tempting than free products, samples, and tidbits. And VoIP isn’t an exception. With the emergence of free services like Google Voice and budget VoIP apps (under $10/month), many small business owners looking into VoIP start off with the main question: does free/budget VoIP really work?

Great question! But as a matter of fact, it can only be answered through another. And that is: What challenges am I expecting VoIP to solve for my business? As you’ll see, it’s the difference in the offered solutions that will vary greatly with a budget vs pro plan.

Here’s what you should expect with a business-level, paid VoIP plan vs. a free service:

A complete business image vs. an “extra” number for personal use

Imagine a small business with a toll-free number, thoughtful custom greetings, and an informative after-hours call menu. Now, imagine a similar business with a cell phone number and generic “leave a message after the beep” response. Which would give off more trustworthy vibes for you as a customer? Customer care and credibility is the standout difference between business VoIP versus free/budget VoIP.

Team access vs. single-user access

Free VoIP solutions work by routing calls from the virtual phone number to the registered user’s personal cell phone. A business phone system extends those capabilities to a team level and adds call management. Employees who’re part of your team will be able to make and receive business calls on the go, access features in the dashboard and mobile app, and delegate communication tasks.

Omnichannel cloud platform vs. a basic app

Free VoIP usually comes in the form of an app downloaded to your phone. Instead of analytics, you get basic call logs. Instead of a dashboard for your team, an app with basic functions. Business-level VoIP offers both a desktop dashboard and a mobile app. It turns into a single platform for you and your team to work with call history, delegate follow-up tasks, listen to recorded calls, get voicemail transcripts, and access advanced analytics.

Don’t forget that with all these cool features, you’ll still save up to 60% with VoIP compared to landline costs!

Key questions to avoid being duped

The last time I got an offer from my cell phone provider, it was a shiny package “AI-tailored” to my communication needs. After the initial excitement died down, I realized that I was being duped into getting a plan with a huge amount of minutes I’ll never use.

With VoIP phone systems, businesses encounter many of the same problems. Most leading VoIP providers offer three or more plans for businesses of different sizes. However, it’s what is not written on the page as much as what is written, which makes a huge difference in the battle for customer attention.

To avoid overpaying, make sure to check off this questionnaire (and bookmark it) when comparing VoIP plans:

What’s my call load?

The number of minutes you need depends on your call load and the number of employees using the phone system, not the deal being thrown at you. To hit the mark but avoid overpaying, select your plan based on personal stats, available from your previous provider. If you don’t have those available and are a very small team with low calling activity (your communication gravitates towards social media/internet) start with a basic plan of around 1000 minutes.

Does it cost money to port a phone number?

If you’re shopping for a new VoIP provider, you may have a virtual phone number that you’ll want to keep. Most providers will allow you to port in a number, but with some services, this can cost up to $30. Choose a VoIP provider that ports in your number for free.

Is this VoIP service for unlimited users?

Pricing per user is the beloved catch of many VoIP providers. Keep in mind that this little trick will ring up a considerable bill for even a small team. Examples of VoIP systems priced per user: RingCentral, Vonage, Nextiva, 8×8, Jive; Examples of VoIP priced for unlimited users: MightyCall, Grasshopper.

Is the plan no-contract and billed monthly?

Tempting users into an annual commitment through mouth-watering discounts (RingCentral offers up to 33% off on annual plans) is a beloved tactic of SaaS providers. Don’t fall for it! Unless you’ve been using this system for several months and know it inside-out, don’t make an annual commitment with any provider. Opt for an optimally-priced monthly subscription instead.

Will I need extra hardware?

With a comprehensive virtual phone system, you can route calls to as many devices as you like: a mobile phone, tablet/iPad, laptop or desktop softphone/IP desk phone (hard phone). You can even get an IP adaptor to use with your regular desk phone. However, some VoIP services like Ooma Office work only with bundled hardware. If you’re into using IP desk phones, consult the VoIP provider if your brand is compatible.

Learn more:  Does your team need an IP desk phone?

Privacy, security, and robocall prevention

A virtual phone system is primarily a communication channel with your customers and team. As with any internet-connected device, this channel needs to be as secure and private as possible. A reliable VoIP provider must prioritize your personal privacy, eliminate the problem of spam/robocalls, and provide a secure cloud platform for your whole team.

Here are the privacy and security features of VoIP that you may appreciate. Depending on your industry and needs, ask about these when contacting a new VoIP provider.

• Business/private call display- When you get both business and personal calls routed to one mobile phone, how do you know if an incoming call is to your business number or regular cell number? (In other words, is it a pal or a client calling?) With privacy features like Caller ID, you can instantly understand if the caller is dialing your business or personal number, and answer accordingly.

• Anti-robocall measures– A great option is to have both a Black List feature and a call menu in place. A simple call menu can stop robocalls at the root since automated calls get literally stuck at the auto-attendant stage. Moreover, a call menu will guard your privacy by providing callers with general info on request (store hours, location, announcements), saving you time on general inquiries.

• Call recording — In some industries, call recording isn’t just a handy feature, but a useful privacy tool for managing customer interactions. Find out more about doing call recording the legal way in the USA and Canada.
• HIPAA compliance (USA) — HIPAA compliance is mandatory only for the medical industry in the USA, including mental health professionals. If you’re in this industry, find a list of HIPAA compliant VoIP providers here.

Important: Like any internet-connected device, VoIP is a two-way street. To ensure the privacy and safety of VoIP on your own side, as with all internet/IoT devices make sure your internet connection is safe. If using VoIP over Wi-Fi, take care that all the Wi-Fi networks you and your team use are encrypted. Use VPN where needed.

Optional (but cool) features

Above, we’ve tackled vital questions and features to know about when choosing a VoIP provider for small business.

Depending on your industry, team needs, and client communication channels, virtual phone systems have many additional perks to offer business owners. These usually include customer care, team management, and web features numbering from around a dozen to a hundred.

Below, I’ll highlight 3 of my favorite “sideline” VoIP features (out of many). While these are optional for some businesses, they will definitely boost productivity and save time for others.

Mini-CRM

Using your phone system as a mini customer relationship management (CRM) tool makes great sense since you’re getting phone leads all the time. MightyCall’s VoIP leads the innovation by making the Mini-CRM feature regular on all its plans. Business Contact Book Plus auto-syncs on all your team’s devices. Once any user has imported new business contacts, commented, or requested a follow-up, lead nurturing is a breeze for the whole team.

Integrations

A professional VoIP phone system makes connecting messengers, web widgets, CRM platforms, and other services really simple. A great way to do this is via Zapier, so if you’re into automation to save time, find our whether the VoIP system of your choice supports it. While integrations often aren’t listed in the main features of VoIP providers (or take a while to find on the website), you can google “[name of the VoIP service] integrations” for more info (or just look here).

Live customer support

Last but not least, choose a VoIP provider that offers live support. You will find this a key feature of professional vs basic or free virtual phone systems. While chatting to a bot can work for a fast inquiry, when you need help fast (as in setting up some feature or solving a challenge ASAP), human support is priceless.

Key takeaways:

• Free VoIP products are designed as second phone numbers for personal use and freelancers. For a business image that projects your trustworthiness, choose a professional VoIP provider. You’re still saving up to 60% compared to landlines!
• Don’t commit before understanding and testing your call load. For first-time VoIP users, testing is best done through a free trial. Don’t fall for discount annual plans unless you’ve been a satisfied user for several months. (If a deal sounds too good, it likely isn’t.)
• Avoid VoIP plans that go with their own hardware. This will prove high-maintenance in the long-run. Opt for a service that supports all platforms (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android) and devices (mobile phone, tablet, PC/laptop, IP phone). This way, your team can connect extra devices as needed.
• Prioritize security, both on your VoIP provider’s end and on your own. Always use a safe (encrypted) connection if using VoIP over Wi-Fi.
• When comparing different VoIP features/plans, take out a pen and paper and make two lists. One for the communication features you/your team is currently using every day (i.e. extensions, call forwarding, custom voicemail, after-hours call routing, call menus, texting, etc.) and another for those you plan to implement for business growth. If you are just launching a business, start with a transparent VoIP service with a free trial and no contract obligations.

Let’s go!

Ready to dive into the options? Now, save this info and check out the Mega-Giant Guide to the Most Popular VoIP Providers.

The post How to Select the Best VoIP for Your Small Business first appeared on MightyCall.

What is VoIP? 

VoIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol, uses the internet and broadband to make phone calls rather than telephone lines. Gone are the days where only circuit-switch networks can transmit phone calls from party to party. Now companies can utilize broadband, or internet service, to make and send phone calls. 

The benefits are numerous. Users can not only talk but can text, send pictures, video chat, and have access to voicemail- all through one system. Traditional phone lines only give you access to two of these highlights, specifically talking and voicemail. 

How is VoIP a Benefit for Small Businesses? 

There are many reasons why VOIP is good for your business. For starters, VoIP is more cost-effective to set up. While you need to have a VoIP capable phone to take phone calls, most businesses invest in phones regardless. Then, simply connect the phone to an ethernet cable, and you’re up and running.  

From there, a user only needs to purchase a broadband service; again however, when they are already subscribing to an internet service, as most all businesses do, there is no need for additional companies to work with. The need for a separate phone carrier has been washed away. This means that a good deal of money is saved by not being forced to utilize a phone company, and one less bill needs to be paid each month. 

This is extremely ideal when you have satellite employees that work from multiple locations throughout the country or even the world. Each employee doesn’t have to have their own phone service to work. They just need access to the internet. 

There are almost always different plans and structures, varying from company to company, as with any service. Full-service VoIP phone companies provide both inbound and outbound service, domestic calling, international calling, voicemail services, and a variety of other add-ons. Some charge a flat fee for things like international calls, while others have different fee structures. 

What are the Down Sides of VoIP? 

One substantial downside is that if an emergency call is made from a circuit switch phone, a physical address is linked to the connecting number. With VoIP, this is not the case. While an IP address can be tracked down to some degree of accuracy, the time delay is significant. If you are using a VoIP system and need to call 911, it needs to be understood that there may be a delay in response time if no one can give an exact address. 

Other than this hurdle, VoIP services only have positive attributes. 

MightyCall for Small Business Owners

One company that is a stand out in the world of small business phone systems is MightyCall.

MightyCall is a company that sets up VoIP systems for small businesses. They offer services like:

• Greetings
• Call recording
• Voicemail
• Contact book
• Texting

MightyCall has made it its mission to be user-friendly, affordable, and effective. They don’t make you purchase specialized hardware or bill you per user on your team. If you have a business need that relates to your phone or the internet, they can help. 

MightyCall won Silver in the 14th Annual 2019 IT World Award® in IT Products & Services for Small and SOHO Business | for 1 – 10 Employees

The post Is VOIP Really Good for Your Small Business? first appeared on MightyCall.