The Comprehensive Guide to VoIP Technology in 2024
Last update: May 25th, 2024.
Welcome to the comprehensive VoIP guide for 2024. Whether you're searching for the best VoIP solutions for your home or business, our expert insights, drawn from over 20 years of industry experience, will help you make informed decisions. Discover the top VoIP providers, the latest services, and essential products to meet all your VoIP needs effectively.
Best VoIP Providers
Aircall is Best For Small, Medium and Large Businesses
OVERALL RATING
4.7/5
INCLUDED
- Free Trial
- Cancel Anytime
- 24/7 Support
FEATURES
Softphone for desktop, Android, iOS
PRICING
- Essentials: $120 / 3 licenses / monthly
- Professional: $210 / 3 licenses / monthly
- Custom: must call Aircall for pricing / 25 licenses minimum / monthly
Note: All prices in our reviews are based on monthly subscriptions. For information about annual subscription prices, visit the Aircall website.
CallHippo Is Best For Medium, and Large Businesses
OVERALL RATING
4.6/5
INCLUDED
- Free start
- Cancel Anytime
- 24/7 Support
FEATURES
Power & Predictive Dialer | DID Auto Rotate | Smart DID Routing | Live Call Monitoring | Powerful reporting (Call Analytics)
PRICING
Office Phone System
- Starter: $25 / user / monthly
- Professional: $40 / user / monthly
- Ultimate: $55 / user / monthly
Call Center Solution
- Bronze: $20 / user / monthly
- Silver: $30 / user / monthly
- Platinium: $50 / user / monthly
Note: All prices in our reviews are based on monthly subscriptions. For information about annual subscription prices, visit the CallHippo website.
VirtualPBX Is Best For Small, and Medium Businesses
OVERALL RATING
4.6/5
INCLUDED
- Free Trial
- Cancel Anytime
- 24/7 Support
FEATURES
Essential Features On All Plans | Text Messaging Features | Productivity Options For Users | VoIP Features For Team Management | VoIP Service Integrations
PRICING
- Starter: $11 / user / monthly
- Pro: $21 / user / monthly
- Ultra: $35 / user / monthly
Note: All prices in our reviews are based on monthly subscriptions. For information about annual subscription prices, visit the VirtualPBX website.
Zadarma Is Best For Medium, and Large Businesses
OVERALL RATING
4.5/5
INCLUDED
- Free Trial
- Cancel Anytime
- 24/7 Support
FEATURES
Cloud storage for call recordings | Speech recognition | Integrations with popular CRM systems
PRICING
- Standard: $0/5 users/mo
Office: $44/10 users/mo
Corporation: $88/20 users/mo
Note: All prices in our reviews are based on monthly subscriptions. For information about annual subscription prices, visit the Zadarma website.
VoIPStudio Is Best For Small Businesses
OVERALL RATING
4.5/5
INCLUDED
- Free Trial
- Cancel Anytime
- 24/7 Support
FEATURES
Virtual Switchboard | Collaboration tools
PRICING
- Pay-as-you-go: $4.99 / user / monthly
- 2K Bundle: $16.99/ user/ monthly
Note: All prices in our reviews are based on monthly subscriptions. For information about annual subscription prices, visit the VoIPStudio website.
Voiply is the best for unlimited home VoIP line service
OVERALL RATING
4.7/5
INCLUDED
- No Setup Fees
- Plug and Play Setup
- Keep Your Existing Number
- Cancel Anytime
- 20+ Features
- 24/7 Support
FEATURES
- Call Forwarding
- Call Waiting
- HD Voice
- Voice to Email
- Simoultaneous Ringing
- Mobile App (Android/iOS)
PRICING
- Monthly: $11.85/user
- Annual: $124.32/user
Note: All prices in our reviews are based on monthly subscriptions. For information about annual subscription prices, visit the Voiply website.
Our Top 3 Best VoIP Providers
Each distinguished for its unique features, user-friendly interfaces, and commitment to excellence, Aircall, CallHippo, and VirtualPBX redefine the standards of connectivity. Join us as we explore the exceptional offerings that make these providers stand out in the competitive landscape of VoIP services, ensuring your communication experience reaches new heights.
#1. AirCall
AirCall has positioned itself as the optimal VoIP solution for businesses of all sizes. Aircall stands out as a cloud-based communication platform tailored for sales and support teams.
Whether a business is just starting, in a phase of expansion, or already a large enterprise, AirCall's tailored approach positions it as the best VoIP option for small, medium, and large businesses alike.
Aircall is Best For Small, Medium and Large Businesses
OVERALL RATING
4.7/5
INCLUDED
- Free Trial
- Cancel Anytime
- 24/7 Support
FEATURES
Softphone for desktop, Android, iOS
PRICING
- Essentials: $120 / 3 licenses / monthly
- Professional: $210 / 3 licenses / monthly
- Custom: must call Aircall for pricing / 25 licenses minimum / monthly
Note: All prices in our reviews are based on monthly subscriptions. For information about annual subscription prices, visit the Aircall website.
INTRODUCTION: From the idea of four entrepreneurs to a valuation above $1 billion in just seven years. Aircall was founded in 2014 and has seen constant growth since then. Currently, the company employs around 800 employees from 40 nationalities spread over eight offices around the globe. The company offers its services worldwide, and it has more than 85,000 customers. The latest report says, Aircall hit $154.9M in revenue in 2023.
PROS:
- Worldwide presence
- Integration with popular CRM
- Easy to use
- Unlimited calling in the United States and Canada
- Praised by salespeople
CONS:
- MMS not supported
- Requires a minimum of three users to sign up for service
#2. CallHippo
CallHippo is a cloud-based VoIP system, tailored to suit businesses of every size. Trusted by over 5000 companies worldwide, CallHippo stands as a reliable choice for businesses seeking efficient communication solutions. The platform offers local and toll-free phone numbers spanning over 50 countries.
One of the notable aspects of CallHippo is its affordable pricing plans, positioning it as a cost-effective choice for businesses seeking reliable VoIP services.
CallHippo Is Best For Medium, and Large Businesses
OVERALL RATING
4.6/5
INCLUDED
- Free start
- Cancel Anytime
- 24/7 Support
FEATURES
Power & Predictive Dialer | DID Auto Rotate | Smart DID Routing | Live Call Monitoring | Powerful reporting (Call Analytics)
PRICING
Office Phone System
- Starter: $25 / user / monthly
- Professional: $40 / user / monthly
- Ultimate: $55 / user / monthly
Call Center Solution
- Bronze: $20 / user / monthly
- Silver: $30 / user / monthly
- Platinium: $50 / user / monthly
Note: All prices in our reviews are based on monthly subscriptions. For information about annual subscription prices, visit the CallHippo website.
INTRODUCTION: Founded in 2016, CallHippo swiftly secured its place as one of the top VoIP service providers in the market. While the precise numbers remain undisclosed, information indicates that CallHippo and two affiliated sister companies collectively generate an annual revenue of 20 million. The exact employee count is undisclosed, but it is approximated that CallHippo has a staff ranging between 100 and 200. The company operates in over 100 countries, boasting a dedicated customer base exceeding 5000.
PROS:
- Free package for Startups and SMBs
- Cost-Efficiency
- Phone system set up in less than 3 minutes
- Available Mobile and Desktop app
- All-in-One solution
CONS:
- Integration process
- Subscription charges non-refundable
#3. VirtualPBX
VirtualPBX is an Award-Winning VoIP Solution for Small Businesses. It is a VoIP provider that believes in providing its community with the best-emerging technology communications. VirtualPBX gives you the best business VoIP communications possible at the best price.
This commitment to providing superior services at a reasonable price makes VirtualPBX a standout choice in the competitive VoIP market.
VirtualPBX Is Best For Small, and Medium Businesses
OVERALL RATING
4.6/5
INCLUDED
- Free Trial
- Cancel Anytime
- 24/7 Support
FEATURES
Essential Features On All Plans | Text Messaging Features | Productivity Options For Users | VoIP Features For Team Management | VoIP Service Integrations
PRICING
- Starter: $11 / user / monthly
- Pro: $21 / user / monthly
- Ultra: $35 / user / monthly
Note: All prices in our reviews are based on monthly subscriptions. For information about annual subscription prices, visit the VirtualPBX website.
INTRODUCTION: A true pioneer in VoIP technologies, VirtualPBX was founded in San Francisco in 1997 but has remained a small-sized company compared to competitors who entered the market much later. With staff ranging from 50 to 100 within one office location in San Jose, California. Latest reports show VirtualPBX has an annual revenue of $24 million from around 2000 customers in only 10 countries.
PROS:
- Long market presence
- Easy-to-use phone system
CONS:
- Small-sized company in comparison to the long-time market presence
What is VoIP?
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is a groundbreaking technology that has reshaped voice and video communication. Instead of relying on conventional phone lines, VoIP leverages the internet's power to transmit voice data in digital form.
VoIP technology offers numerous advanced features that enhance communication efficiency. Key features include video calling, automated attendants, and seamless integration with other applications. Voicemail-to-email, call forwarding, and conference calling provide added flexibility and convenience. Using a single network for voice and data transmission reduces costs and simplifies infrastructure management. These features make VoIP a versatile and cost-effective communication solution for both personal and business use.
This innovative approach offers a plethora of benefits, including substantial cost savings and unparalleled flexibility, enabling users to make calls from virtually any location with an internet connection. Furthermore, VoIP services often boast advanced features such as video conferencing, voicemail, and call recording, making them an appealing choice for both personal and business communication.
In the table below, you can find a division between General VoIP Features and Additional VoIP Features:
VoIP Features
| General VoIP Features | Additional VoIP Features |
| Custom Hold Music | Softphone Integration |
| Video Calls | Dynamic Caller ID |
| Conference Calling | Web Conferencing |
| Call Routing | Advanced Call Analytics |
| Voicemail to Email | Integration with Virtual Assistants |
| Call Recording | CRM Integration with Click-to-Call |
| Auto Attendant | VoIP Mobile Apps |
| Mobile Integration | Web Conferencing |
| Instant Messaging | Advanced Call Analytics |
| Presence Management | Integration with Virtual Assistants |
| Integration with Business Tools | CRM Integration with Click-to-Call |
| Call Analytics | VoIP Mobile Apps |
| VoIP over Wi-Fi | Real-time Language Translation |
| Speech-to-Text Transcription | API for Smart Device Integration |
| Call Whispering and Barging | Automated VoIP Health Checks |
| Fax Over IP (FoIP) | Enhanced Security Protocols |
| Hot Desking Support | Security Features |
| Virtual Faxing | Scalability |
| Emergency Services Integration | |
| Quality of Service (QoS) Controls |
In essence, VoIP is a game-changer, revolutionizing how we connect with others by harnessing the internet's potential to deliver efficient and cost-effective communication solutions.
In our VoIP library, you can explore a comprehensive repository of information covering every aspect of VoIP technology.
Residential VoIP
Residential Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) represents a modern communication solution that empowers individuals and families to make voice calls over the Internet.
By replacing traditional landline connections with a more cost-effective and flexible alternative, Residential VoIP offers a wide array of features, including voicemail, caller ID, and call forwarding, often accompanied by unlimited domestic calling plans.
This practical choice allows individuals to trim their phone expenses while enjoying the convenience of internet-based calling within the comfort of their homes.
In essence, Residential VoIP provides the technology for making voice calls over the internet, utilizing components such as Internet phones, VoIP phones, softphone applications, VoIP adapters, and headsets to facilitate this communication.
Business VoIP
Business Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) embodies a cutting-edge communication solution tailored to businesses of all sizes.
Packed with advanced features like auto-attendants, call routing, and video conferencing, Business VoIP enhances productivity and professionalism within organizations. Furthermore, its scalability makes it an ideal choice for growing businesses. The ability to seamlessly integrate with other business software streamlines workflows and bolsters efficiency.
With an unwavering focus on quality and reliability, Business VoIP ensures crystal-clear communication while effectively reducing communication costs, positioning it as a strategic choice for modern enterprises.
Business VoIP leverages advanced components like Internet Phones, DID (Direct Inward Dialing), Toll-Free Numbers, Cloud Phone Systems, Hosted Phone Systems, SIP Trunks, Contact Centers, Unified Communications, Gateways, Routers, Session Border Controllers (SBCs), Digital and Analog Telephony Cards, VoIP Phones, Adapters, and Headsets to optimize communication and efficiency within organizations.
VoIP Products & Services
The segmentation of VoIP products and services assists users and businesses in selecting the most suitable tools and solutions tailored to their specific communication needs.
The main categories of VoIP products and services are outlined in the two tables below:
VoIP Products
| VoIP Products | Description |
| IP Phones | Physical devices designed for VoIP, enabling users to make voice calls over the internet. |
| Analog Telephone Adapters (ATAs) | Devices facilitating the connection of standard analog telephones to VoIP networks. |
| Cameras and Microphones | Equipment enhancing the quality of video and audio communication in VoIP services. |
| SIP Trunking Solutions | Enabling businesses to seamlessly integrate their existing phone systems with VoIP networks. |
| VoIP Adapters for Mobile Devices | Equipment simplifying the use of VoIP services with mobile phones. |
VoIP Services
| VoIP Services | Description |
| VoIP Calling Services | Services enabling users to make voice calls over the internet, including both free and paid VoIP services. |
| Video Conferencing | Services supporting the organization of video conferences and virtual meetings via the Internet. |
| VoIP Business Solutions | Tailored VoIP services for businesses, equipped with advanced features such as auto-attendants, voicemail, and seamless integration with business tools. |
| Cloud-Based VoIP | VoIP services delivered through cloud infrastructure, promoting scalability and efficient management. |
| Mobile VoIP Apps | Applications designed for mobile devices, granting users the capability to make VoIP calls from their smartphones. |
How does VoIP work?
VoIP operates by converting analog audio signals, such as your voice, into digital data packets and transmitting them over the internet to the recipient's device, where they are reconverted into sound. In a simplified process:
- Analog-to-Digital Conversion: Your voice, captured by a microphone or phone, is transformed into digital data. This data is fragmented into small packets, each carrying a portion of the audio.
- Packetization: The digital data is divided into packets, each labeled with source and destination information.
- Transmission: These packets are transmitted over the internet, traversing various networks, including public and private.
- Routing: VoIP data packets reach their destination, which could be another VoIP device, a traditional phone (if supported), or a VoIP service server.
- Digital-to-Analog Conversion: At the receiving end, the digital data packets are reconstructed into analog audio, enabling the recipient to hear your voice.
- Two-Way Communication: This process unfolds in real-time, facilitating two-way communication with minimal delay, often referred to as latency.
VoIP relies on a range of protocols and technologies, like the Real-time Transport Protocol (RTP) for audio transmission and the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) for call setup and management. Quality of Service (QoS) mechanisms are in place to prioritize VoIP traffic, ensuring a seamless and clear conversation.
VoIP operates across diverse devices, including IP phones, computers, smartphones, and tablets. Call quality hinges on factors such as the speed and reliability of your internet connection, the chosen VoIP service provider, and the equipment quality.
Advantages and disadvantages of VoIP
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) offers a myriad of advantages, including cost savings through reduced long-distance calling charges, scalability for businesses, and unparalleled flexibility in connecting remote teams. VoIP services also often come with advanced features such as video conferencing and seamless integration with other software.
However, VoIP is dependent on a stable internet connection, and call quality can be affected by network issues. Additionally, emergency services may be less reliable through VoIP, and security concerns, such as the potential for data breaches, must be carefully addressed.
Benefits of VoIP
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) offers numerous benefits, making it a popular choice for both personal and business communication:
- Cost Savings
- Scalability
- Flexibility
- Advanced Features
- Integration
- Mobility
- Quality of Service
- Professional Image
- Collaboration Tools
- Environmental Impact
- Global Reach
- Simplified Billing
Overall, VoIP delivers a cost-effective, feature-rich, and flexible communication solution suitable for various needs, from personal to professional.
Disadvantages of VoIP
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) offers numerous advantages in modern communication, but it's essential to be aware of its disadvantages as well.
Here are some key drawbacks to consider:
- Dependence on Internet Connection
- Emergency Services Limitations
- Power Outages
- Call Quality Variability
- Security Concerns
- Limited Functionality During Internet Outages
VoIP History: Transforming Communication
The history of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is an exciting journey through the evolution of telecommunications. Let's explore the key milestones that have shaped VoIP's history.
Early Beginnings (1970s-1990s)
VoIP's roots trace back to early computer networking experiments in the 1970s and 1980s, laying the foundation for what would become VoIP. However, these early systems had limitations in quality and accessibility.
Internet Telephony Breakthrough (1990s)
The 1990s marked a significant moment for VoIP with advancements in internet technology. VocalTec Communications introduced the first commercial VoIP application, "InternetPhone," in 1995, enabling long-distance Internet calls.
Regulatory Challenges and Growth (Late 1990s-2000s)
VoIP faced regulatory hurdles as it gained momentum, particularly in the United States. The FCC opted for a lighter regulatory framework, fostering VoIP's growth.
VoIP in the Modern Era (2010s-Present)
The 2010s brought substantial advancements. Mobile VoIP apps, improved call quality, and cloud-based VoIP solutions became prevalent, transforming communication and collaboration for businesses.
Today, VoIP is an integral part of our communication landscape, offering cost-effective, feature-rich, and flexible solutions for individuals and businesses. It continues to evolve, enhancing communication across industries.
In Conclusion: VoIP's history reflects the power of innovation in telecommunications, reshaping the way we connect. Its cost-effectiveness and adaptability make it an essential tool for modern communication.
1973
The concept of Internet Protocol (IP) telephony was first introduced by Danny Cohen, who developed the first real-time transmission of digital audio over the ARPANET.
1986
The IETF was established to standardize various aspects of the internet, including VoIP protocols. This laid the foundation for standardized VoIP communication.
1991
VocalTec introduced the first commercial Internet phone, which allowed users to make voice calls over the internet using a computer and a microphone.
1999
Asterisk released, an open-source private branch exchange (PBX) software that allowed businesses to set up their own VoIP phone systems.
2004
The adoption of Voice over Internet Protocol started to grow significantly, especially in the business sector, due to cost savings and improved technology.
2013
Microsoft acquired Skype for $8.5 billion, further solidifying its position as a major player in the VoIP market.
How do I choose the best VoIP?
When it comes to choosing the ideal VoIP service, making an informed decision is paramount.
We've mastered the process with our provider testing protocols and editorial guidelines, ensuring objectivity. We offer a range of providers, and the choice depends on your specific needs. Your decision is simple select from our pre-selected (best VoIP Providers) and rigorously tested options. As VoIP experts, we streamline the process to make it hassle-free for you.
The right VoIP service can not only boost productivity but also reduce communication costs while equipping you with the essential tools to stay connected in our digital age.
To guide you through this process, follow these steps to ensure that you make the right choice:
- Identify Your Communication Requirements
- Set a Clear Budget
- Assess Provider Reliability
- Create a Feature Checklist
- Choose Scalability
- Understand Pricing Structure
- Consider VoIP Products
- Evaluate Customer Support
As professionals, we understand the importance of easily accessible comprehensive information. Fortunately, at voipguide.me, we are committed to providing you with all the resources you need. Our dedicated team ensures that you can effortlessly access the information you require. Our commitment is to offer you unbiased and valuable resources, simplifying the process of finding exactly what you need.
Are you ready to make an informed decision? Explore our resources at VoIPGuideMe and discover the best VoIP service that suits your unique needs today.
Our Testing criteria
When we review VoIP providers, we consider several criteria to ensure that users receive a comprehensive and unbiased assessment of the services. Here are the criteria we use in our reviews:
- Pricing and Plans: We delve into the various pricing options and plans offered by the providers, providing information about monthly or yearly rates, any additional services, and any free minutes included.
- Free Plans and Trial Periods: We inform users about the availability of free plans or trial periods, allowing them to test the services before committing to a subscription.
- Features: We assess the range of features available, including voicemail, call forwarding, video conferencing, and integrations with other tools, such as CRM systems.
- Customer Support: We rate the quality and speed of customer support, considering availability through various channels like phone, email, or chat.
- Scalability: We consider the providers' ability to adapt and grow with users, as scalability is crucial.
- Global Availability: If the services are available worldwide, we check their presence in different countries and regions.
- Reliability: We evaluate the providers' reliability, looking at factors like uptime and service stability.
- Call Quality: We thoroughly evaluate the call quality, paying close attention to sound clarity, the absence of interference, and any noticeable latency.
- Security: We assess the security features the providers offer to safeguard users' communications.
- Mobile Support: We look into how well the services support mobile devices and whether they provide dedicated apps for Android and iOS platforms.
- User Feedback: We incorporate user feedback into our assessment, as they provide valuable insights into real user experiences.
These criteria ensure that our reviews cover all essential aspects of VoIP providers, offering users a comprehensive overview of each service.
In addition to these general criteria, we acknowledge that each VoIP product or service possesses its distinctive characteristics. As a result, we implement more specialized criteria in our evaluations. We comprehend that not all products and services are identical, and a uniform approach does not suffice.
It is imperative to customize our assessments to suit their individual attributes to offer the most precise and enlightening evaluations. You will encounter these specific criteria in dedicated texts for various VoIP services or products, depending on their unique qualities.
Conclusion
To unlock the full potential of VoIP technology, consider reputable providers like Aircall, CallHippo, and VirtualPBX. With the right choice, you'll save money while gaining access to powerful communication tools. VoIP has transformed connectivity for businesses and individuals alike.
Remember, the best VoIP service varies based on your unique needs. Take your time to evaluate your requirements, explore options, and select the solution that aligns perfectly with your needs. Embrace VoIP for cost-effective, feature-rich communication and propel your business forward.
VoIP FAQs
What is VoIP and how does it work?
VoIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol, is a technology that enables voice and video communication over the internet. It converts voice signals into digital data packets for transmission, replacing traditional phone lines. VoIP is cost-effective and flexible, suitable for personal and business use.
What are the benefits of VoIP?
Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) offers several key benefits:
- Cost Savings
- Scalability
- Flexibility
- Advanced Features
- Integration
- Mobility
- Quality of Service
- Professional Image
- Collaboration Tools
- Environmental Impact
- Global Reach
- Simplified Billing
What are the disadvantages of VoIP?
VoIP offers numerous advantages in modern communication, but it's essential to be aware of its disadvantages as well. Here are some key drawbacks to consider:
- Dependence on Internet Connection
- Emergency Services Limitations
- Power Outages
- Call Quality Variability
- Security Concerns
- Limited Functionality During Internet Outages
What is the best VoIP providers?
For top-notch VoIP services and products, consider renowned providers like Aircall, CallHippo, and VirtualPBX. These providers have earned their reputation for delivering reliable and feature-rich VoIP solutions, making them excellent choices for individuals and businesses alike.
Is there a free VoIP phone service?
Yes, some VoIP providers offer free services for personal use. Keep in mind that free services often come with limitations on features and call durations. For more advanced or business-oriented VoIP features, a paid plan may be necessary.
What are the 2 types of VoIP?
The two main types of Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) are Residential VoIP and Business VoIP. Residential VoIP is designed for personal use and offers cost-effective calling for individuals and families, while Business VoIP is tailored for companies, providing advanced features, scalability, and professional communication tools.
How to choose the best VoIP?
Choose a service that aligns with your needs and budget. To choose the best VoIP service, follow these steps:
- Identify your needs (residential or business).
- Set a clear budget.
- Research provider reliability.
- Make a feature checklist.
- Ensure scalability.
- Understand pricing.
- Consider VoIP products.
- Evaluate customer support.