If you’re looking for the best VoIP service for your small business or want to learn more about VoIP, you’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we cover the ins and outs of Voice over  Internet Protocol, from what it is, the benefits these services offer, and how to choose a VoIP provider best suited to your needs. 

We also review ten of the best VoIP services to make it easier for you to narrow down a provider that best suits your home or small business needs. So, keep reading to find out which providers we recommend.

 

The Top VoIP Providers for 2022 Reviewed 

While a list of the best VoIP services is handy, knowing what makes them great is even more helpful. So to provide you with insight into what each of these providers offers, we have reviewed all ten below:

1. Vonage – Best VoIP Phone Service for 2022

 

When looking for the best VoIP service, Vonage is an excellent place to start. In addition to being a pioneer of VoIP services, it provides exceptional solutions for residential and small to medium business needs and is popular across the world, including being one of the best VoIP providers in Australia,

As a result, users will find Vonage offers an extensive selection of features that they can easily customize to suit their individual needs. In addition to a 99.999% uptime and unlimited calls and SMS, users can include several add-ons to their package, like toll-free numbers, call recording, advanced IT support, and voicemail to email functionality.

Regarding customer support, Vonage offers around-the-clock support seven days a week. So, if you need assistance, the team is always there to help you out. 

While these customizable features come in handy, they can be costly. Although Vonage’s base package remains relatively well-priced, additional functions like on-demand call recording only come with the top-tier packages. So, if that’s a service you need, you may find yourself having to pay a little extra. However, users will find that the base package still provides a comprehensive selection of features, including unlimited SMS messaging and calls and team messaging, making it the perfect solution for small businesses or residential use. 

Another key feature of Vonage is its ease of use. As a result, users will find it simple to get set up, with the included guided setup a breeze to navigate. 

So, if you’re looking for a customizable package with comprehensive features and aren’t too concerned about budget, Vonage is the way to go.

Pros:

• Excellent mobile and desktop apps
• Customizable packages
• Unlimited team messaging on all plans

Cons:

• Additional features can be pricey

 

 

2. Ooma – Top VoIP Service for Small Businesses

When looking for the best VoIP for small businesses, Ooma is the way to go. In addition to a low entry price on packages, Ooma doesn’t require businesses to sign an annual contract, making it an excellent choice for companies on a budget. 

While Ooma lacks more fancy features like AI, it has everything necessary for businesses wanting a fuss-free and easy-to-use VoIP solution. Further, Ooma constantly updates its selection of features and adds new options like contact syncing and SMS messaging support. 

Although Ooma doesn’t offer the option for automatic callbacks, it provides features like voicemail to email transcription, call monitoring, toll-free options, SMS messaging, software phone, ring groups, and video conferencing. 

When looking at the provider’s basic package, users will find various features, like voicemail, call forwarding, a virtual receptionist, and call logging. As a result, users can get a relatively good deal for an affordable price. 

Another aspect of Ooma that left us impressed is the customer service. In addition to a knowledge base that answers most FAQs, Ooma provides 24/7 over-the-phone support and a live chat option. 

Besides a desktop app, Ooma provides an easy-to-use mobile app that offers convenience and keeps your workforce connected. Further, this feature assists in instances where part of the staff complement works remotely. 

While Ooma may not offer the flashiest of features, it gets the job done at an affordable rate. As a result, we recommend this provider for small businesses looking for simple solutions or those on a budget.

Pros:

• No fixed contract required
• Easy to use
• Offers ring groups

Cons:

• Phones must be configured by Ooma

 

 

3. 8×8 – Excellent VoIP Service Providers for Those with a Budget

Another best VoIP service for businesses looking for excellent features that won’t cost them a leg and an arm is 8×8. In addition to offering affordable packages, 8×8 provides a simple user interface that makes it quick to learn and easily understandable, making it a popular choice among users. 

When it comes to packages, users will find the basic version starts at only $15 per month. Besides being reasonably priced, this package offers a host of features most other VoIP providers reserve for their second or third-tier offerings. For instance, users can enjoy unlimited messaging, voice calling, video calling, high-level support, and multi-level auto-attendant. However, those looking at the second-tier package will find it includes unlimited voice calling to 14 international countries and video or audio conferencing. But, this package comes at nearly ten dollars more. 

In addition to continually improving existing features, 8×8 frequently adds new options, including its latest offering, and easier integration with services like Microsoft Teams, ZenDesk, and Salesforce. 

In offering support, 8×8 provides an extensive knowledge base and a live chat option. While the live chat can be helpful, waiting for an available support member can sometimes prove frustrating. 

While 8×8 may need to work on its support efforts, one area the provider excels in is its mobile app. In addition to being easy to use, the platform goes a long way in keeping teams across the globe connected and makes it simple for businesses to continue remote working efforts.

Pros:

• Extensive features
• Easy setup
• Competitive Pricing

Cons:

• Support is lacking

 

 

4. RingCentral MVP – Popular VoIP with Diverse Features

Occasionally, a VoIP provider comes along and offers an astounding assortment of impressive features. So, for the best VoIP service like that, try RingCentral MVP. 

Unquestionably considered the best VoIP business service, RingCentral provides users with features like AI-enhanced video captioning and various third-party integrations. Further, users could view the provider as a Unified Communications-as-a-Service (UCaaS) provider since it offers a host of features. As a result, users can access video conferencing, toll-free options, voicemail transcription, voicemail to email, automatic callback, electronic fax, SMS messaging, and call monitoring. 

When exploring the plans RingCentral MVP provides, users will find four tiered plans. While the basic plan comes in at $19.99 per user per month on an annual basis, it is somewhat overpriced for what it offers. As a result, users will find this plan rather basic, offing standard VoIP features, unlimited voice calls in the US and Canada, and voicemail-to-text. However, the more pricey plans come with some outstanding features, and understandably, at a cost. 

Besides its extensive features, RingCentral MVP offers the best VoIP app for iPhone and Android. Since the RingCentral app is easy to download and install and is compatible with various devices, it is also one of the best VoIPs across Europe, including being one of the best virtual landlines in the UK.

Pros:

• Mobile app
• AI capabilities
• Excellent integration

Cons:

• Lower plans are basic

 

 

5. Mighty Call – Best Residential VoIP Service for Third-Party Integration

In addition to being another best VoIP service, Mighty Call provides users with a host of features that make it simple to make more calls for less and scale up effectively. Further, these offerings are ideal for both a VoIP phone service for home and a business VoIP phone service.

While users can be sure that their calls will never drop, thanks to Mighty Call’s 99.999% uptime, several impressive features are also available. For instance, Mighty Call provides toll-free, international, and vanity phone numbers. Further, Mighty Call operates on various devices, including a softphone app to enable computer dialing and an app for mobile use when you’re not in the office.

Besides these excellent options, users can enjoy call recording, CRM integration with software like Salesforce and Zoho, voice-to-text, voicemail transcription, and unlimited calls and messages.
Mighty Call offers users three packages for small teams, businesses, and enterprises, each increasing in features and price according to the number of individuals catered for.

Finally, customers have an expansive support division to draw from when clarifying queries. In addition to an in-depth knowledge base that includes FAQs and self-help videos, Might Call provides a 24/7 phone-in helpline, live chat, and a ticketing system. However, keep in mind that the live assistance only forms part of the two upper-tier packages.

Pros:

• Excellent auto-attendant
• Impressive softphone and mobile app
• Impressive virtual number offering

Cons:

• No virtual faxing offered

 

 

6. Nextiva – Best VoIP Service for New Users

Whether you’re looking for the best residential VoIP service or a provider that meets all the needs of your small business, Nextiva is worth trying. 

When looking for a system that is easy to use and simple to navigate, Nextiva is at the fore, making it an ideal platform for new users. Additionally, Nextiva makes cloud-based communication a pleasure for employees to work with, allowing for fluid integration into any workforce. 

In addition to being user-friendly, Nextiva provides various impressive features, including unlimited calling in Canada and the US, unlimited e-fax, screen-sharing, toll-free numbers, and integration of Google and Outlook contacts. Further, the provider is known for its 99.999% uptime, ensuring calls always go through and the HD call quality that provides crisp, clear communication. 

When it comes to webinars and video conferences, Nextiva has you covered, offering a live-stream video function that makes communication across the globe a cinch. Further, video conferencing is a feature included in all of Nextiva’s packages. 

Besides impressive features, Nextiva has several fantastic plans, from a basic package to more comprehensive offerings. Further, Nextiva makes these packages relatively flexible, so you can get what you need from the services without breaking the bank.

Pros:

• Unlimited voice and video calling across all plans
• Voice-to-email notifications
• HD-quality calls

Cons:

• Call recording only available for high-tier plans

 

 

7. DialPad – Best VoIP Phone Service for Voice Intelligence

Another of the best VoIP providers, Dialpad, makes remote working simple by offering a user-friendly interface compatible with many desk-based phones. So, wherever your employees are located, they can communicate freely with the rest of the team.

Additional features Dialpad provides include unlimited calling, unlimited SMS and MMS, call forwarding, voicemail transcription, custom voicemail greetings, and integrations with third-party services like Microsoft Office 365, Slack, and Google Workspace. 

In terms of plans, Dialpad has a few, with its base plan starting at only $15 per user per month. However, the pro plan offers advanced customization using API or Webhooks. Further, it provides voice intelligence, a handy little feature that takes notes during your call and prompts you to follow up on tasks afterwards. Additionally, voice intelligence can generate call clips and highlights and identify unknown numbers. However, one pitfall is that Dialpad charges extra for toll-free numbers. 

Besides this comprehensive integration and AI functionality, Dialpad is relatively easy to use and is one of the best VoIP phone providers. While its support options are somewhat limited, offering only a knowledge base and live chat, the systems are responsive and provide feedback instantly, making Dialpad ideal for home or office use.

Pros:

• Voice Intelligence
• Integrates with systems like Slack and Google Workspace
• Unlimited calling

Cons:

• Toll-free numbers come at an extra cost

 

 

8. Intermedia Unite – A Leading VoIP Service in High Reliability

 

In addition to providing the best VoIP app, Intermedia Unite sits on our list of the best VoIP services for its leading cloud PBX service that makes VoIP and video conferencing a breeze. Further, Intermedia Unite designs its service to integrate seamlessly with productivity software like those provided by Microsoft and Google. 

While Intermedia Unite’s call monitoring abilities are limited, the VoIP provider makes up for this with a selection of other features, including voicemail transcription, electronic fax, automatic call back, SMS messaging, voicemail-to-email, and video conferencing. Further, the provider offers toll-free numbers. However, keep in mind that these come at an additional cost. 

When considering interaction with third-party software and apps, Intermedia Unite ensures its system functions seamlessly with several platforms, including Microsoft Office and Teams, as well as Google Suite and Slack. Further, the platform features capabilities that make scheduling meetings on all of these productivity platforms easy.

However, one area that could use improvement is the syncing of contacts from Microsoft applications or Google, as a mobile app is required to perform this function.

Finally, Intermedia Unite offers competitively priced plans, with the basic option starting at $19.99 per user per month.

Pros:

• Integrates with third-party software
• Free unlimited calling
• Features a mobile app

Cons:

• Does not offer call monitoring

 

 

9. 4Com – Best VoIP Service for a Selection of Support Packages

In addition to being a leading VoIP service, 4Com provides some of the best VoIP phones, including its own HiHi Phone Series. However, since the platform only works through these phones, it is not well-suited to remote working environments in terms of using employees’ own devices. However, these are well-priced enough for businesses to provide each employee with a softphone of their own. 

The features offered by 4Com leaves users with various options, including VoIP calling, video calling, call recording, instant messaging, and call reporting. Additionally, these HiHi devices make it easy for businesses to upload their CRM (Customer Relationship Management) and social media apps making it easy to manage these functions from just about anywhere. However, remember that these devices do not have the same processing power as Android or iOS devices, making them a little on the slow side. 

Further, 4Com offers apps that include HiHi Connect and HiHi There, which enable employees to instant message and make it easy for teams to stay connected. 

Lastly, 4Com doesn’t offer fixed pricing on packages. Instead, the provider works with the client to create a quote based on the features required and business needs.

Pros:

• Pricing is determined by usage
• Provides good scalability
• Comes with in-office training

Cons:

• 24-hour support comes at an additional cost

 

 

10. BT – A VoIP Service that Provides Convenient Automatic Upgrades

 

Undoubtedly one of the best VoIP service providers for businesses of all sizes, BT offers several cloud voice packages. While BT provides three packages, each aimed at enterprises of different sizes, users can customize them to include only the necessary features. As a result, BT only charges for the services used, making their packages more budget-friendly. However, users will need to sign up for their chosen package over a 12 or 24-month period. 

BT offers a few features, including 3-way calling, automatic call routing, hot-desking, voicemail transcription, audio conferencing, video conferencing, CRM integration, call monitoring and recording, and mobile device integration.

Another of BT’s more impressive offerings is the option for virtual geographical numbers, which allows a business to appear as though located in the US, even if it is geographically based in the UK. 

In its support offering, BT features an in-depth FAQ section, along with the option for a live chat with a technician. Further, you can call their service team, but this option is only available during business hours throughout the week. Similarly, if you have a complaint, you’ll need to log it on the BT complaints page, and getting a response could take some time.

Pros:

• Large selection of phone options
• Ideal for remote workers
• Easy to use

Cons:

• No fixed prices on packages

 

 

11. Enreach – Best VoIP Service Providers for Customer Support

Since recently rebranding as Enreach, this VoIP company has become one of the best VoIP service providers around. In addition to being a leading VoIP provider, customers recognize Enreach for its outstanding customer service, effective and responsive support, and fast solutions to even minor problems. Further, over 2 million users can’t be wrong, placing this as one of our top ten providers.

Regarding features, Enreach offers several impressive telephony services, including mobile plans, CRM integration, virtual agents, cloud calling, and collaboration and integration with several third-party providers like Microsoft 365, Microsoft Teams, and Mobile Cloud PBX. Since the system is so simple to use and set up, Enreach’s product is ideal for remote workers who may work from home or a mobile office. 

While Enreach offers several packages, the pricing is not fixed since the provider allows clients to customize their packages according to individual business needs. Although some may find this handy, particularly companies with a strict budget, others may not find the quote-based system suitable for their needs. 

When looking for a VoIP provider that makes working from the office or home simple, Enreach is at the top of the list.

 

 

Best VoIP Services Compared

While looking for the best VoIP service, comparing the features and pricing of each is helpful. So we created the table below to help you out:

What is VoIP?

So, what is VoIP? Voice over Internet Protocol is a unique technology that removes the need for a traditional telephone network. Instead, it enables voice and multimedia communications over an internet connection. As a result, individuals or groups can make telephone calls from a computer, special VoIP phones called softphones, smartphones, web-RTC devices, and other mobile devices.

In addition to typical phone calls, VoIP provides several other features like call recording, automatic callback, voicemail-to-email, and voicemail transcription. Further, the best VoIP service will make it easy for businesses to streamline and fine-tune employee communications.

How do VoIP Services Work?

A VoIP process works similar to that of a traditional telephone except, instead of using a telephony provider’s network, the VoIP uses an internet connection (hence the name internet phone service) company local area networks (LANs), and wide-area networks (WANs).

In this case, the VoIP service converts a user’s voice from an audio signal into digital data before sending it through the internet to the person on the other end of the call. Additionally, suppose the person on the other end of the line is using a traditional telephone. In that case, the VoIP software converts the data back into a telephone signal before reaching them.

Benefits of VoIP

When using the best VoIP service providers, users will find they all provide several universal benefits. So, let’s take a closer look:

Work from Anywhere

Undoubtedly, one of the most significant advantages of VoIP is that it makes it easy to work from just about anywhere, as long you have an internet connection. When you have a VoIP connection, it makes it easy to make and receive calls, freeing you up to work from home, the office, or even from a mobile office. Unlike a typical phone line, you’re not tied to a desk or specific venue. Further, this makes remote or hybrid-style working possible.

Free Calls

In addition to enabling users to make calls from anywhere, the best VoIP service providers offer free call packages. For instance, some providers, like Nextiva, offer unlimited calling in the US and Canada. Similarly, other providers may offer a set amount of free minutes for calling each month. For example, the provider may offer 2000 free minutes for calling US landlines each month.

Scalability

Since VoIP uses an internet connection to deliver voice data, scaling up the system when the company expands is much simpler than calling a telephone network provider to install cables, telephone lines, and handsets and then setting the system up. When using the best VoIP service providers, all you need to do is order a few new handsets online when your business grows.

Crystal Clear Voice Quality

When using a traditional telephone line, you may often experience crackling sounds on the line, people’s voices may sound softer, or the call may break up, causing you to miss half of what the person you’re talking to is saying. However, the best VoIP software provides crystal clear call quality so that you can easily hear each word. Further, VoIP calls using a good internet line with plenty of bandwidth shouldn’t experience latency, lag, or drop.

Additional Features

While a telephone line only enables a user to make and receive calls, a VoIP service offers much more. For instance, some providers like BT offer virtual geographic numbers, which allows a business to get a phone number with a dialing code from a different geographic location, giving customers the idea that your business is local, even though it may not be. So, for instance, a UK-based company can obtain a US number with an Oregon dialing code. 

Another feature offered is voicemail transcription, which turns your voicemails into text, making it easier to access and respond to your messages. 

Further, some of the best VoIP service providers offer voice intelligence, which listens to your call, takes notes, and makes reminders of elements to action or follow up on afterward.

Another feature is video and audio conferencing, so whether you are using the best VoIP for home or office, you can easily connect to a video conference. However, if your devices do not offer video options, audio conferencing works just as well.

Low Service Costs

Although VoIP works through an internet network, the costs of setting up and installing the system are much less than calling in a telephone network. Further, the cost of calls is much less and can be up to 60% cheaper than traditional phone calls. Lastly, maintaining these systems is cost-effective and much cheaper than old-school phone networks.

How to Choose a VoIP Provider

When choosing the best VoIP service provider, there are several factors to consider to help you find the one that most meets your needs. So, let’s look at some of the best ways to find the right provider:

Consider Pricing

Although most VoIP providers charge a monthly fee per user, some tie this to a 12 or 24-month contract. However, others offer a month-to-month basis or custom quotes depending on the features you opt for. Further, some providers charge additional fees for add-ons like toll-free numbers, voice intelligence, and video conferencing. So, always read the fine print and ensure you’re getting everything you need for a reasonable price.

Look at the Features

While most VoIP providers offer select features in each package, often, a basic option comes with unlimited calls and voicemail. However, these usually don’t offer features like call recording, voice intelligence, virtual geographical numbers, and video conferencing. So, make sure the package you opt for has all the features you need before signing up.

Determine Ease of Use

The best VoIP service is always easy to use and set up. So, make sure that the provider you opt for provides clear instructions or offers a service to come in and set the system up for you.

Evaluate the Customer Service

Lastly, and most importantly, read a few reviews to find out how well the customer service of your chosen provider functions. Additionally, look for a provider that provides several methods for getting in touch to work through any issues. Further, live chat and 24-hour phone lines are the most helpful and enable you to get answers and assistance relatively quickly. However, a provider that requires you to fill in a complaint page or send an email isn’t the greatest option, as these methods often mean you’ll wait a few days before hearing back.

How Much Does VoIP Cost?

Generally, VoIP comes in different packages, each with unique features. As a result, the pricing on VoIP ranges from as little as $12 a month for the most basic packages and can head towards a couple hundred dollars for a more comprehensive option with all the features. However, an average price for a basic package per user per month typically sits between $15 and $20.

Conclusion: What is the best VoIP phone service for 2022?

When looking for the best VoIP service, there are several things to consider, including features, pricing, and ease of use. Besides offering all these aspects and more, the top VoIP services improve communication in a business and provide opportunities for greater efficiency and remote working. 

While any of the VoIP providers highlighted in this guide are worth investigating further, we recommend RingCentral as the best VoIP for 2022. In addition to excellent features, it offers impressive packages that won’t break the bank. So, head over to Vonage and sign up for your VoIP package.

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