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Virtual numbers give users access to working phone number with an area code of their choice.
Users can gain access to a virtual number from many different VoIP providers. In fact, any number that is provided by a company not affiliated with a traditional service provider is considered a virtual number. Unlike traditional phone numbers, virtual numbers aren't associated with a physical location. This is one of the primary differences between virtual and traditional phone numbers.
Virtual phone number providers allow users to obtain a new number that can be used on their personal cell phone or company landline. This article examines seven different virtual number providers to determine the best available options. Each of the following providers has been proven to outperform a majority of the competition. These providers have been evaluated based on their available features, services, and overall cost.
With a virtual number, users can differentiate between personal and business calls that are received via a mobile device or landline phone. Users accomplish this goal by obtaining a separate number that can be used on the same device as a traditional number. Voicemail, multi-line management, and call routing are also available options for users. Before choosing a provider, it is important to ensure that their service is affordable, convenient, and reliable.
The following list is a detailed evaluation of each provider to determine the best overall service for virtual phone numbers.
Grasshopper is a well-known and popular platform for obtaining virtual numbers. This platform offers high-quality features to small business owners who don't require the installation of equipment in their homes, offices, or on their mobile devices. Grasshopper offers users a host of features including call forwarding, an automated attendant, and unlimited calling for a relatively low starting price. This package is best for business owners and remote workers who want to stay in touch with clients and customers. Grasshopper provides new users with a complimentary week long trial. You can click here to get a Grasshopper free trial including a $75 discount.
Each of the three service plans provided by Grasshopper is priced competitively. With the Solo plan, business owners can receive a phone number with three extensions for just $29 per month, or just $26 per month if paid annually. The second plan offers users three business numbers along with six different extensions. This Partner plan starts at $49 per month, or just $44 per month if paid annually. The business plan provided by Grasshopper tops off at $89 per month, or just $80 per month if paid annually. Through this plan, users can receive five numbers with an unlimited amount of extensions.
Grasshopper provides users with a long list of special features that can help any business owner. Most of the features provided by Grasshopper compete with the services provided by conventional phone companies. Furthermore, Grasshopper's prices are more affordable.
Here are some of the key features included in all Grasshopper plans:
Auto-Attendant - With the auto-attendant feature, all inbound calls will be automatically forwarded to the relevant department or individual. These calls can be programmed to route to any number. This feature is provided to company's who use mobile phones, landlines, or other business phones.
Call Management - Grasshopper offers a series of call management solutions including call blocking, call forwarding, call transfer, and other customizable features. There is also a call screening function that will alert the user to the phone number and name of every caller. This makes it easier for users to determine whether the call is worth answering.
Call Extensions and Routing - With the use of extensions, users have more control over where the inbound calls are being routed. Users can create extensions, determine where a call will be routed, identify an order in which the numbers will ring, and determine the number of rings allowed before a call is rerouted to another number.
Related: Grasshopper Review
Grasshopper services don't require any additional equipment other than the landline or cell phone to be used by the client. The platform's user interface is ergonomic and easy to navigate. Each configuration option is divided into a separate tab. Users have the ability to choose between a toll-free or local number. Users are also provided with unique extensions for features such as call routing. At the Grasshopper homepage, users will be alerted of any inbound calls that have been missed.
Grasshopper's list of available features isn't as long as their main competitors. Grasshopper doesn't offer users some key features such as video conferencing, auto-attendants, or call recording.
Grasshopper has a loyal fan base that praises the affordability and reliability of the platform. In fact, these are the main reasons that customers choose to renew their contracts with the company. Loyal clients also cite Grasshopper's customer service representatives as a reason to work with the platform. A majority of the complaints made by customers were in reference to difficulties with the configuration and management of call forwarding services.
Grasshopper is a great option for business owners or individuals who need access to a virtual number with basic options and a solid list of features. Interested clients can use the service for free by taking advantage of the week long trial period. The company's website can be consulted for more information.
You can click here for Grasshopper and get a $75 discount.
Although GoToConnect is known for its VoIP systems, the company also provides virtual phone numbers. Through GoToConnect, users can obtain phone numbers that have call forwarding, unlimited calling, and a host of business-grade features at a fixed and reasonable monthly rate. This provider is perfect for organizations that operate with many remote workers.
GoToConnect has a straightforward pricing system that is charged per user. Here are the following prices offered by the company:
GoToConnect offers bespoke pricing for plans that exceed 100 users.
Related: GoToConnect Review
GoToConnect offers more than 80 different business-grade features that can help with any organization's operations. GoToConnect provides the best selection and highest number of business features out of all the VoIP providers in the industry.
Here are some of these key features:
Custom Schedules - With GoToConnect, you can make a customized schedule with a personal dial plan. Users also have the ability to program bespoke greetings into these schedules.
Find Me/Follow Me - With the Find Me/Follow Me function, users have the ability to route inbound calls to several different numbers to decrease the likelihood of a missed call.
Call Management - GoToConnect offers several features regarding call management including call blocking, call forwarding, and call transfers. All of these features can be customized to meet the requirements of the user.
GoToConnect has an easy and quick set up process. The company will mail customers VoIP phone numbers that are already programmed. All users have to do is plug the numbers into their chosen devices.
GoToConnect may offer too much for small business owners. Grasshopper offers standard features without the need for equipment or any extra hassle.
GoToConnect has some of the best reviews in the entire VoIP industry. A majority of customers seem very pleased with their services.
GoToConnect is a great option for an IT manager or business owner who is interested in a comprehensive and feature-rich phone system which also has virtual phone numbers.
VirtualPBX is the most dynamic provider of virtual numbers. This company has devised a series of plans to accommodate every business type. Whether you're a startup with five employees or an international conglomerate with hundreds of employees, VirtualPBX has a virtual phone plan that will fit your company's needs.
VirtualPBX offers three main packages that start with the Dash Basic Plan at 12.00 per month. The Dash Pro Plan is the next package with a price tag of $29.99 per month. The Dash Unlimited Plan can be purchased for a total of $37.99 per month. VirtualPBX offers significant discounts depending on the number of users associated with one plan. With just three or more users, customers can save a few extra dollars per month. The next discount starts at 100 users per plan. These standard prices aren't part of any contract, and the payment plans can be canceled without any hassle. For an additional discount, users can opt to pay monthly with an annual contract. Furthermore, users can gain an even greater discount by paying yearly.
Related: VirtualPBX Promo Code
With the platform's three-tiered Dash Plans, users have access to a wide variety of features and services. Here are some of the best features offered through the VirtualPBX platform:
Dash Basic - The most basic plan offered by VirtualPBX still contains a host of features that would benefit any business owner. The Dash Basic Plan provides users with 1,000 toll-free minutes for calls made within the continental United States and Canada. Users are provided with two toll-free or local numbers. System users have an unlimited number of VoIP minutes to use on the Dash Basic Plan as well.
Dash Pro - The Dash Pro Plan is a step up with 2,500 toll-free minutes for calls made within the U.S. and Canada. System users are provided with unlimited VoIP minutes when calling other users within the same system. One VoIP device and user is included for free.
Dash Unlimited - VirtualPBX's Unlimited Plan is the best option for larger companies who don't want any restrictions on their virtual phone number's features. Users are granted unlimited calls within the U.S. and Canada. Companies who opt for this plan are also given three different toll-free or local numbers.
VirtualPBX boasts a straightforward and simple setup process that has an ergonomic and intuitive user interface. If users have any trouble with the installation process, customer service representatives are ready to answer any relevant questions 24/7.
VirtualPBX offers an excellent combination of features and pricing for virtual numbers. However, VirtualPBX's pricing categories could provide more detail about each offer. Many users don't understand the precise differences between each plan. The price increases are mysterious without these clear explanations.
VirtualPBX users have reported high satisfaction with the platform's customer service representatives. Reviews indicate that VirtualPBX is quick to respond to issues and offers reasonable solutions. Many users also cite the reliability of VirtualPBX's services as a major advantage of working with the provider.
VirtualPBX is the perfect option for entrepreneurs who need a private phone system without wanting to pay a lot of money for traditional providers. Interested companies are encouraged to contact a VirtualPBX representative to discuss different plans and varying options.
Unlike many other providers, VirtualPhone offers customers international numbers without charging any extra fees. Customers will also enjoy a long list of features including fax capabilities, unlimited extensions, voicemail customization, and an automatic attendant. This company provides clients with a starting package at a reasonable price. VirtualPhone is chosen by many independent business owners who desire to expand into global markets without compromising their domestic presence.
With VirtualPhone, customers can opt for pay as they go. There are also three fixed payment plans available. The starter package can range from $0 to $19 each month depending on the user's choice of available features. The medium plan starts at $39 and can reach $99 in some cases. The highest-rated and most expensive service offered by VirtualPhone starts at $149 and reaches $499 per month.
These three plans allow customers to customize their allotted amount of texts or minutes for the month.
Related: Best Business VoIP Providers
VirtualPhone offers much more than a load of different texts. This provider offers plans which include SMS capabilities, voicemail, call forwarding options, auto-attendant abilities, international and domestic numbers, and much more.
Automated Attendant - With the automated attendant feature, users can route calls to different landline or mobile numbers. Users can also create their own messages for certain inbound callers.
Call Management - VirtualPhone offers a host of call management options including call forwarding and the ability to have different phones ring in a timed manner. All of the available features are configured within the company's mobile app or website.
Call Extensions and Routing - VirtualPhone provides clients with an unlimited number of extensions in order to give each agent their own line. Every extension comes with call routing, customizable greetings, and voicemail options. Users also have the ability to call clients and customers with the softphone app. When this softphone is in use, virtual numbers will be revealed on the recipient's caller ID.
VirtualPhone has a quick and simple setup process. The user interface is straightforward and easy to navigate. It only takes around ten minutes for the average user to create an account. New users are provided with in-depth tutorials explaining how to use the platform's main capabilities. All available options can be toggled and selected via the dashboard available through the user interface.
VirtualPhone provides clients a direct and simple platform with a host of reliable and dynamic features. Many of these services are available for free as well. It is important to keep in mind that this service doesn't offer many features that other companies provide. Businesses in need of several local numbers may need to look into other providers.
VirtualPhone receives applause from loyal users who appreciate the international calling functionalities. Some clients have reported delays in customer service responses. These delays appear to be associated with billing problems. This issue should be considered when choosing between providers.
VirtualPhone offers many features for clients who require international calling functionalities. Many users also appreciate the pay-as-you-go platform. You can access a complete demo if you're interested in testing the service for free.
Related: Non-Fixed VoIP Phone Numbers
Google Voice is the perfect choice for people in need of a virtual phone service for no cost. Google Voice virtual numbers can be used on mobile phones and landlines to answer voicemails and take calls.
Google Voice doesn't charge individual users for business or personal calls that are made within the U.S. and Canada. There are minor fees attached to international calls. Each call will incur a different fee depending on the duration and location. Unlike most other providers, Google Voice doesn't charge a monthly fee.
Related: Best Google Voice Alternatives
Google Voice provides users with a standard list of features including call screening, blocking capabilities, and voicemail options. There are no advanced features offered through this service. This platform is designed for users who only require basic functions. Here are some of the key features that users can enjoy:
Automated-Attendant - Google Voice doesn't have an automatic attendant to greet and route inbound calls to different lines. Instead, the platform offers a simple screening feature that requests callers to provide their name prior to the connection.
Call Management - Google Voice will use your existing address book and contact list in order to provide caller information. This service also provides users with various options regarding the method in which each call is handled. Users can choose between answering a call, sending the call to voicemail, or listening to a voicemail after it has been placed.
Call Extensions and Routing - Google Voice doesn't provide extensions in a manner with which users would be familiar. Instead, this service allows users to direct some calls to a certain voicemail or phone number. This feature is only accessible via the advanced settings menu. Users who rely on call routing, extra extensions, and additional numbers should consider alternative providers.
Google Voice is the simplest platform to navigate and can be set up within minutes of installation. Users can add work, mobile, and home phones within a few minutes as well. Once these phone numbers are linked to the platform, SMS messages and calls can be sent to any phone selected by the user. Additionally, users can use their web interface or phone to answer certain messages. Google Voice will transcribe voicemails automatically to notify users about the contents of their missed calls.
Google Voice is excellent for forwarding calls, but this service doesn't offer many standard features found on other platforms. Google Voice is lacking multi-user extensions and automatic attendant features among other services.
Satisfied clients cite Google Voice's voicemail capabilities, SMS features, routing functionalities, and screening capabilities as the primary reasons for choosing the service. Other users complain about Google Voice's inherent lack of advanced features and customer support.
Small business owners and freelancers can benefit greatly from the basic features offered by Google Voice. Users will love the lack of monthly fees and straightforward platform. In fact, G-mail users don't even have to create a separate account in order to access Google Voice features.
Related: Google Voice vs. Grasshopper
eVoice integrates virtual phone services with fax abilities. Users will also appreciate a host of other features including call forwarding, call blocking, automatic attendant capabilities, text abilities, and more. eVoice is an affordable option for customers who would prefer to receive and send sensitive information via fax instead of text or email.
eVoice users will be able to choose between four different service plans. The pricing of these plans is derived from the total number of minutes, extensions, and phone numbers required by the user. These plans start at $12.99 per month and can reach $79.99 per month. Customers can also pay an extra fee for outbound faxing abilities.
Each eVoice plan comes with inbound fax, call forwarding, auto-attendant, and voicemail capabilities. Users have access to outbound faxing abilities for around two dollars each month. This platform also offers a mobile application with which users can make calls, create schedules, check voicemails, receive calls, and toggle call settings. Here are the main features offered by eVoice.
Auto Attendant - eVoice offers auto-attendant capabilities which provide a greeting and then route certain calls to a predetermined extension. Users of this platform can choose from a number of different greetings or even record their own voicemail greeting.
Call Management - These features provided by eVoice allow users to forward calls, screen inbound calls, transfer calls, and block calls. There are many features which can be added to the system for an extra fee.
Call Extensions and Routing - Users can choose from three different kinds of extensions in order to utilize call routing. eVoice's standard extension allows inbound callers to directly connect to their intended contact. An automated directory is offered to the caller from which he or she can choose the appropriate department or person. There are sub-attendants that can be provided to offer callers more menu options within any given department. The third type of extension only provides information. This kind of extension will provide a caller with standard company information.
eVoice offers a straightforward and simple setup process. The user interface can easily navigated and controlled. After choosing from a list of toll-free or local numbers, users can start the setup process. Next, users will be able to create a custom greeting. Users are then able to configure more detailed settings regarding call routing. This process is simplified with an eVoice menu that is easy to navigate.
Unlike many other providers, eVoice doesn't offer any special discounts or deals for companies with several users or clients willing to cover the cost of annual subscriptions. EVoice also doesn't offer plans with unlimited data. This might be a potential issue for companies that require a significant amount of calls and messages to operate smoothly.
Users applaud eVoice's standard features and ease of use. However, there are many complaints regarding the service's lack of minutes and extensions. Some eVoice clients have also complained about the company's customer support efforts.
eVoice is a great option for users who require fax capabilities along with a virtual number. Interested customers can test out the service for a 30-day trial without being charged.
Related: How To Get a Toll-Free 800 Number for Business
Phone.com is an excellent virtual phone number provider that takes top honors in many categories. The company provides users with customizable payment plans and auto-attendant features. Phone.com is the best option for users who need a custom number that is easy for customers and clients to remember.
Phone.com offers a pay-as-you-go service that can range anywhere between $12.99 and $39.99 per month. Users who go for the Phone.com's unlimited payment plan can end up paying $22.99 for each additional extension.
Phones.com offers users a host of different features including a fully customizable automated attendant, texting and faxing services, voicemail to email functionality, and unlimited extensions. Here are some specific features that are offered by Phone.com:
Automated Attendant - Phone.com offers an auto-attendant feature that utilizes Interactive Voice Response. These capabilities are easy to control and operate. Users can program the auto-attendant with custom greetings and messages that include music and voice recordings. These attendants can also list a directory from which callers can choose their intended recipient.
Call Management - Phone.com offers a host of call management tools including call blocking capabilities, call forwarding, and call transfer abilities. This company also offers users the option to screen phone calls in order to obtain some caller information. These options can be toggled to work on calls from certain clients or customers.
Call Extensions and Routing - Phone.com offers unlimited extensions to each user. Each extension comes with call routing options, call logs, a conference bridge, and different boxes for voicemails. These routing and extension options are more impressive than many other providers on this list.
Phone.com's platform is self-service and can be used immediately following the signup process. All functionalities inherent to the platform can be activated with a few clicks. Additional equipment or adapters are to be purchased from the Phones.com website to meet the growing needs of the company.
Phone.com provides customer support via email, live chat, and phone. However, the support isn't necessarily operating 24/7. Additionally, some users will pay extra for conferencing features and CRM integration. There are many other providers that offer these extra services without charging an additional fee.
Phone.com users celebrate the platform's flexibility and reliability. Customers have also expressed gratitude for the service's affordable prices. There are some users who complain about the lack of quality customer support and long waiting times. Overall, users seem to be very pleased with the services that are offered through this provider.
Phone.com is a good choice for users who need a straightforward virtual phone number provider. Interested buyers can try these services for a whole month without paying a dime.
Virtual numbers can be used for a wide variety of business practices. These virtual phone numbers offer business owners the ability to create a professional image to possible clients for an affordable cost. Users also have the ability to access features that would be only accessible via professional phone systems for a much more expensive rate. Additionally, a virtual number provides business owners with the ability to separate personal calls and messages from business-related contacts.
Transferability and accessibility are some other major benefits of using virtual numbers. If your company ever changes location, it is quick and easy to adjust virtual phone numbers to match a new setting. These virtual phone numbers don't have to change.
With a virtual number, users can successfully keep their personal calls and texts separate from their business calls and texts. Many virtual numbers come with a long list of helpful features including fax capabilities, voicemail options, auto-attendants, and more. These features can help a small business owner manage an entire company without having to hire additional support or invest in expensive software. Virtual phone numbers also help to add some credibility and authenticity to a small company.
The seven companies mentioned in this article are the crème de la crème of virtual number providers. Any small business owner or freelancer should choose one of these providers when making the switch to a virtual number. When considering all of the most important features, Grasshopper stood out from the rest of the competition as the best all-around virtual number provider.
Grasshopper offers a complimentary trial for business owners who are interested in testing the company's services.
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