Education & Credentials:
- BS Social Work
- Master in International Studies
- Registered Social Worker
Expertise:
- VoIP
- Unified Communications
- B2B Marketing
- Customer Service
Highlights
- 13+ years in technical writing
- 11+ years in international relations and partnerships
- 10+ years small business operations and management
- 9+ years digital content and research
Experience:
Silvana is a professional development worker and experienced writer. She’s worked with the Philippine government and non-government organizations for technical documents and reports. Silvana’s been engaged by various businesses to produce content ranging from current events, technology, lifestyle, business, social development, and wellness.
Hobbies:
She enjoys spending time with family, traveling, cooking/baking, playing basketball, and reading, while consuming copious amounts of coffee.
February 1, 2023
Davinci Virtual Review: Features, Alternatives & Pricing for 2023
Davinci Virtual offers live receptionist services and virtual business office solution well-suited for teams that need a physical business address with comprehensive administrative support. This Davinci Virtual review gave the provider high scores for its extensive features and ease of use, thanks to its user-friendly interface, extensive support, and call management services. However, it received a lower pricing score as it lacks free trials and charges one-time fees starting at $50.
Davinci Virtual Review: At a Glance
Davinci Virtual Deciding Factors
provides call communication services and global business addresses to companies and solopreneurs. It is an excellent option for small teams and home-based businesses needing a physical address without the need to use it daily.
Davinci Virtual Alternatives
offers a wide variety of virtual office and live receptionist services for small businesses and freelancers who need back-end support and meeting spaces. Its solutions still lack integration options, internal collaboration features, 24/7 call answering services, and a month-on-month subscription option.
If you are looking for a provider with these features, here are the three of the best answering services and Davinci Virtual alternatives to consider:
When it comes to pricing, we gave the provider a score of 3 out of 5 because it does not offer a free version or a free trial. It was given higher points for its competitive business address fee, base plan pricing, and robust optional add-ons.
Davinci Virtual offers four paid plan options for live answering services beginning at $129 per month for 50 live answer minutes. Its live receptionist and virtual office assistants screen calls, take messages, check your availability, make outbound calls, and field customer queries.
Click on the drop-down menu below to see the rates for the other services offered by Davinci Virtual:
Davinci Virtual Features
offers various services, from virtual offices to live receptionists, live web chat, and event and co-working spaces. Gain access to professional business addresses worldwide to receive clients and conduct meetings with skilled services, such as live receptionists, mail forwarding, and unlimited long-distance dialing.
It also has a mobile app, which allows clients to place voice-over-internet-protocol (VoIP) calls from their mobile phone over Wi-Fi. Customers receive and send faxes, listen to voicemail messages, and make conference calls from their mobile phones via the Davinci Virtual platform from anywhere, at any time.
stands out for its features because it offers a full suite of office services—from global professional business addresses, complete with mail receipt and forwarding, to incorporation services and business support center amenities. All plans come with registered business addresses, auto-receptionists, and voicemail management.
Its office support improves productivity by managing mail, offering day office and meeting rooms with internet, presentation tools, and catering services. With core and additional services varying between its 1,600 locations, it helps small businesses reduce operational costs by supplying back-end support.
Here is a list of Davinci Virtual features and solutions:
Professional business address
Mail receipt and forwarding
Lobby directory listing
Incorporation and registered agent
Lobby greeter
Offices, co-working spaces, and meeting and conference rooms
Free local or toll-free numbers
Live call answering and auto-receptionist services
Online fax and voicemail management
Call forwarding and call screening
Administrative assistant tasks
Live web chat
We gave a 5 out of 5 for its niche features because it offers unlimited long-distance calling and advanced call routing services. However, users must upgrade to the Premium Plans to access appointment scheduling, bilingual receptionists, and administrative task support. These services are worth the upgrade if you have or are expanding to accommodate bilingual customers.
Click on each feature below to learn more about Davinci Virtual’s top niche offerings:
score for customer service is 4.13 because its main channels for support include live chat, phone support during business hours, and email communication. It offers a comprehensive Frequently Asked Question (FAQ) section on its website, which is great for potential and new customers.
Some customers have reported that while it offers excellent service, reaching a representative is challenging as the phone lines get busy throughout the day.
was given a perfect score on ease of use because its mobile applications for Apple and Android are intuitive and easy to set up. Furthermore, the back-end dashboard requires little to no technical expertise to operate.
Feedback on the services of has been relatively positive, thanks to its convenient locations and extensive options for meeting spaces. Based on actual customer experience, its call agents and lobby greeters are friendly. Small business owners appreciate its excellent locations, which build a startup’s credibility and offer access to big office spaces that impress.
At the time of publication, Davinci Virtual has earned the following scores on popular user review sites:
Consumer Affairs: 4.5 out of 5 based on 34 reviews
Trustpilot: 4.1 out of 5 based on 1,698 reviews
Clutch: 4.5 out of 5 based on 20 reviews
There were concerns raised regarding billing, which were promptly handled by the customer service team. A few customers noted that Davinci Virtual does not have a service that notifies customers if any mail has been received for pickup.
How We Evaluated Davinci Virtual
To complete this review, we considered critical factors important to small businesses, including pricing, general features, niche features, customer service, ease of use, and expert score. Learn how we evaluated Davinci Virtual by clicking on the tabs below:
Bottom Line
is a flexible virtual office solutions provider that allows small businesses to pick and choose the services needed to enhance office operations and call answering services. It does an excellent job of providing comprehensive business support and answering services that are easy to use. Visit the Davinci Virtual website today and choose from thousands of locations complete with full-service amenities and auto- and live receptionists.
February 1, 2023
Kixie Review: Features, Alternatives & Pricing for 2023
Kixie is a full-service communications platform that enhances customer support and internal collaboration through power dialer solutions, contact center services, and voice and text automation. Based on our Kixie review, it earned top marks for niche features, such as international calling and interactive voice response (IVR). However, its pricing score was lower because it lacks a free version and volume or annual pricing discounts.
Kixie Review: At a Glance
Kixie Deciding Factors
is a sales engagement platform that boosts sales team performance with automated calling and texting services. It’s best for small teams looking for a business phone system with integrated, multi-channel sales engagement features, such as powerful auto-dialers and integrations. Its highest-tier plan comes in at under $100 and supports custom integrations.
Kixie Alternatives
is a full-service small business voice-over-internet- protocol (VoIP) service provider with an intelligent auto-dialer, allowing sales reps to instantly connect with prospective clients and trigger calls directly from your customer relationship management (CRM) system. This platform is ideal for sales engagement and business messaging but lacks omnichannel services, internal collaboration tools, and monthly billing. For other options for your small business needs, here are some Kixie alternatives:
pricing received a lower score, as it does not offer a free plan or annual and volume discounts. Its base plan also comes in at $35 per user, paid monthly, which is higher than the basic plans of other providers offering similar services. All plans come with business phone services, an IVR auto-attendant, call recording, and a sales leaderboard for performance management.
Customers in the U.S. and Canada have the option to add unlimited minutes to any plan for $30 per user. Kixie offers a seven-day free trial to explore the phone system and software. The Enterprise plan provides an extended trial, and those interested may schedule a demo. Credit cards are not required to register for a free trial.
*Kixie requires a minimum of three users to qualify for quarterly billing.
Kixie Features
is a VoIP service provider for sales teams. Its menu includes intelligent auto-dial for lead engagement, live call coaching for agent training, and voicemail and text notifications for timely action. CRM integration provides greater functionality, such as automatically syncing calls and text to your CRM. These features help streamline sales and support and improve customer service.
received a high score for this category as it offers standard VoIP phone features for routing callers, transferring calls, and handling high call volumes. However, it failed to achieve a perfect score because it does not have video conferencing. Kixie users can access communication features, including CRM integrations, ring groups, call recordings, live call boards, and missed call alerts.
Here are some top features offered by Kixie:
Text messaging
Click-to-call
IVR auto-attendant
Ring groups
Call recording
Live call board
Sales leaderboard
Reporting dashboard
Missed call alerts
New lead creation
Onboarding resources
Call disposition logging
Mobile app (iOS/Android)
Email support
received a perfect score for its niche features because it offers international calling with international numbers, a comprehensive IVR system, and robust integrations. These features are available in the standard and advanced plans, so users don’t need to pay premium prices to avail of these solutions. However, customers need to upgrade to the Professional with Power Dialer plan to access its Multi-line PowerDialer and automatic answer detection features.
Click on each feature below to learn more about Kixie’s top niche offerings:
Reach customer support through phone, chat, and email, but its phone lines are only available during business hours. In addition, Kixie has an established resource center with FAQs, setup guides, and tutorials. All user accounts have an assigned account manager as soon as they start using Kixie.
In this review, the provider was given a perfect score on ease of use because the platform is intuitive and user-friendly. Kixie requires no additional hardware, and users simply connect Kixie to their cell phones or landlines. Kixie PowerCall is completely cloud-based. After downloading the software and signing in, it is ready to use on your device.
Most reviews focus on its power dialer features. Small businesses preferred features include local presence, voicemail drop, click-to-call, and SMS follow-up. Further, multiple customers remarked Kixie’s customer service is excellent, the integration with CRMs is robust, and the interface is relatively intuitive.
At the time of publication, Kixie has earned the following scores on popular user review sites:
GetApp: 4.7 out of 5 based on 258 reviews
G2: 4.6 out of 5 based on 315 reviews
TrustRadius: 8.3 out of 10 based on 10 reviews
Capterra: 4.7 out of 5 based on 257 reviews
Of the negative Kixie reviews, some users reported that they encountered functionality issues with app crashes, glitches, and lags that affect call quality. Based on our own experience and the feedback of other users, while the interface is intuitive, its texting platform could use an update.
How We Evaluated Kixie
To assess and see how well its solutions help small businesses streamline their communication systems, we identified major criteria points we deemed most crucial in choosing a communication tool. We also read through third-party reviews to learn about existing users’ experience with Kixie.
Learn how we evaluated Kixie by clicking on the tabs below:
Bottom Line
is a cloud-based contact center with artificial intelligence-powered voice and SMS designed to give sales teams advanced outreach capabilities. While it lacks unified communication features and monthly billing options, Kixie is an excellent option for small businesses that want to improve their sales performance and customer interactions.
Overall, we recommend this solution for those who want to stay on top of sales leads and quality customer engagement. If you’re interested in exploring Kixie’s features, sign up for a free trial today.
January 31, 2023
Slack Review: Features, Alternatives & Pricing for 2023
Slack is a team chat app offering businesses a centralized platform for messaging, file sharing, and task management. Its virtual spaces enable users to collaborate and share updates in real time. Based on our Slack review, it’s a good fit for businesses looking for extensive third-party integrations for team-based communications and remote collaboration. Overall, it’s a popular messaging app—thanks to its free plan and easy-to-use features.
Slack Review: At a Glance
Slack Deciding Factors
is a workplace favorite that boasts extensive integrations that suit businesses of all sizes. It’s highly customizable, allowing users to personalize alerts, pin favorites, and change statuses. Slack has an excellent selection of features, but its free version could offer more capabilities. For example, offers unlimited searches on its free plan, while Slack limits its searches to the last 90 days.
Slack Alternatives
is an excellent team messaging app that offers extensive third-party integrations and a unified platform for team collaboration. However, Slack’s audio and video conferencing capabilities need improvement, and paid plans are too expensive for businesses on a tight budget. If you’re looking for a team chat app other than Slack, here is a list of the top alternatives:
received a score of 4 out of 5 because it offers a free plan, affordable subscription packages, and annual billing discounts but lacks volume-based discounts. There are three Slack pricing plans—a free version and three premium plans, starting at $8.75 per active user on a monthly basis. The freemium version includes 10 integrations and audio and video clips but is limited to 90-day message and file history, one-on-one huddles and messaging, and standard support.
Upgrading to high-tier plans offers core Slack functionality, such as customizable sections, Workflow Builder, screen sharing, and unlimited message history. The Enterprise Grid's cost depends on the organization's size, needs, and complexity.
Slack Features
is a team messaging app that brings all of your work communication into one place. It offers centralized spaces for conversations and comes with automated tools to take charge of routine and repetitive tasks. Plus, it’s easy to use and offers unified communication capabilities, such as messaging, voice, and video. The platform also integrates with thousands of third-party applications, allowing you to save time and streamline daily tasks.
comes with various team collaboration tools that help facilitate online communication. These include channels, built-in file uploads, audio conferencing, and video conferencing. The platform also integrates with industry-leading business applications, such as Trello, Zendesk, and Google Workspace.
Here is a Slack features list for you to consider:
Collaboration channels
Slack Connect for external partners
Team messaging and chat
Accessibility
Extensive integrations
Workflow builder
File and message search
File sharing
Enterprise key management
Data encryption
In this review, the provider received a nearly perfect score because of its unlimited file and message search, guest access, and robust integrations. It failed to get a perfect score because advanced task management features are only available through third-party integrations. Slack’s security features, which include data encryption at rest and in transit, are available in all plans, and users on the enterprise plan get support for HIPAA compliance.
Click on each feature below to learn more about Slack’s top niche offerings:
We rated a 4.69 out of 5 on customer service because it operates multiple support avenues, such as phone, email, and chat. It offers customer support during extended business hours—Monday to Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Central Time. Slack also has a knowledge base and help center where users can access articles and videos for tailored support.
Each plan has different levels of support, and 24/7 support with a response time of fewer than four hours or less only unlocks at the top two tiers.
earned a score of 4.13 out of 5 for ease of use because it’s easy to set up and does not require technical know-how to operate. Its mobile application works much like the desktop version. It missed out on a perfect score because while it’s simple to set up, users indicate that the simultaneous conversations are sometimes difficult to keep up with, especially if you’re a part of multiple channels.
Most reviews reveal that it’s an easy-to-use and reliable team messaging platform for remote and hybrid work environments. Many users appreciate its ability to integrate with several industry-leading apps and project management systems, eliminating the need to switch windows. Users also praised the platform’s conversational channels for keeping team communication organized and distinct.
At the time of publication, Slack earned the following scores on popular review sites:
Capterra: 4.7 out of 5 based on 22,818 reviews
Gartner: 4.5 out of 5 based on 6,356 reviews
TrustRadius: 9 out of 10 based on 6,965 reviews
GetApp: 4.7 out of 5 based on 22,800-plus reviews
G2: 4.5 out of 5 based on 30,881 reviews
On the downside, some users complained about its storage limitations and the lack of control over the notifications settings. Others also mentioned they encountered connection problems and audio issues using the Slack Huddles feature. Despite these drawbacks, many businesses continue using Slack because of its simplified messaging platform and built-in collaboration tools like file sharing.
How We Evaluated Slack
To evaluate , we focused on the six critical considerations of small businesses when choosing a team messaging and collaboration platform, which include pricing and general features. The feedback of verified users on third-party sites was part of our research to understand better how Slack works.
Learn how we evaluated Slack by clicking on the tabs below:
Bottom Line
is a feature-rich team messaging app that allows users to share files, collaborate with teams, and automate routine tasks. Overall, Slack is the best fit for hybrid and remote work environments to help teams stay in sync wherever they are. Its channels provide a dedicated space to speed up communications with coworkers and people outside your company. Sign up for Slack’s free version today and see if it suits your business needs.
January 31, 2023
6 Best VoIP Conference Phones for Small Businesses in 2023
The top voice-over-internet-protocol (VoIP) conference phones offer crisp audio and background noise suppression, allowing users to communicate clearly in virtual meetings. When choosing a conference phone, critical elements to look for include their call management capabilities, display screen size, speaker and microphone clarity, and price. We compared dozens of wireless VoIP conference phones and identified the six best options for small businesses:
: Best overall VoIP conference phone for high-quality audio and robust volume controls
: Top VoIP conference phone for existing Skype users
: Best compact VoIP conference call phone for on-the-go teams
: Best wire-free conference phone with up to 60-hour talk time
: Best entry-level conference phone with high-quality audio
: Most affordable VoIP conference phone
Best VoIP Conference Phones at a Glance
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Polycom RealPresence Trio 8800: Best Overall VoIP Conference Phone
The is the best overall VoIP conference phone providing the highest acoustic clarity with a frequency response of 100 hertz (Hz) to 22 kHz, compared to the 200 Hz to 14 kHz. Handle meetings and adjust volume settings easily using its gesture-based, multi-touch-capable capacitive screen and three multicolored capacitive-touch mute indicators.
The 8800 includes Wi-Fi network connectivity, Bluetooth, and NFC (near-field communication), fit for larger meetings with eight or more people, and has a 20-foot pick-up range. However, if your space is smaller and you have fewer people in the room, consider the less expensive or models. The full-featured 8800 offers more than you need.
Polycom RealPresence Trio 8800 Features
Call management: Access your corporate directory and transfer, forward, or put calls on hold from your VoIP conference phone. It also has a one-touch speed dial, call waiting, and a do not disturb (DND) function.
Sound: The Polycom RealPresence Trio 8800 offers the best acoustic range of all the phones on this list. It allows listeners to hear the highs and lows of most voice conversations. It also has echo cancellation and noise reduction with intelligent processing.
Expandable: Connect up to three other conference phones and add a camera for video conferencing and content sharing. It works with Visual+ and VisualPro, accessories that enable video and content sharing—enabling you to create inclusive, collaborative experiences for on- and off-premises staff.
Polycom Trio 8500: Best for Businesses Using Skype Services
The headline feature of the is that it’s Skype for Business-certified, making it an excellent choice for businesses looking for a connection between desktop and conference phone. The Trio 8500 was designed to maximize Skype for Business, Teams, and Office 365. When used with Skype for Business, the Trio displays the familiar Skype interface and supports the features of Skype, ensuring a seamless user experience.
Poly is a conference phone designed for small to medium-sized conference rooms of about six to eight people, making it ideal for small teams needing VoIP conference phones with top-tier audio quality. However, if you’re looking for a conference phone to service a large conference room, you’re better off with the . Its specially tuned mics capture conversations within a 20-foot range.
Polycom Trio 8500 Features
RealPresence Resource Manager: Oversee all Poly devices and configure standard or custom setups for each. In addition, integrate your conference scheduling tools for simplified meeting management from your desktop.
Call handling: Manage up to three lines and use the local five-way audio conferencing tool to connect with additional huddle spaces.
Multi-format sharing: Share audio, video, and content using your device. It supports Bluetooth for wideband speech and multimedia streaming.
Konftel 55Wx: Best Compact VoIP Conference Phone for Mobile Teams
The is a mid-priced compact VoIP conference phone perfect for huddles of up to 12 people. Aside from its wireless audio feature, it can stay live for up to nine hours on rechargeable batteries. Its portable design allows users to hold meetings anytime, anywhere, and it connects to computers, mobile phones, tablets, and desktop phones. Expansion microphones enable you to conduct conference calls with up to 20 people.
It’s compatible with several VoIP providers, including Avaya, Skype for Business, Cisco, and Mitel. However, it does not have video capabilities. If this is a must for you, our top pick—the —is expandable, enabling you to add a camera for video conferencing and content sharing.
Konftel 55Wx Features
Scalable: As your meetings get larger, update your software using a USB-connected, Windows-based computer for free. Add expansion microphones and conference cameras for large meeting support and easily connect your tablet, smartphone, computer, or desk phone.
Touchscreen: Use the display to switch or combine connections, record calls to an optional memory card, and use VoIP call management tools.
Omnisound: Konftel’s audio technology is full-duplex, which supplies clear sound in both directions. The 360-degree microphones feature automatic echo suppression and static reduction to keep background noise at a minimum.
Konftel 300Wx: Best for Its 60-hour Talk Time
The is a wireless VoIP conference phone system that works with an elective DECT base station. Like the Konftel 55Wx, it’s a portable phone, but it beats out the in talk time. The battery lasts up to 60 hours, 51 more hours than the Konftel 55Wx or 270 hours on standby. It’s backed by a two-year warranty and supports an optional standard definition (SD) memory card of up to 2GB.
Even with the features offered by Konftel, it only provides ticketing and help center services for customer support. If you’re looking for extensive after-sales customer support, opt for the Grandstream or Cisco phones. Both providers offer live chat, phone support, help centers, and email ticketing.
Konftel 300Wx Features
Konftel Unite app: Add the Unite adapter to your Konftel 300Wx for ultimate portability. It transfers control of your conference phone to a mobile device, allowing one-touch conferencing from a smartphone.
On-screen menu: Your base station has six main functions viewable on the display, and you can toggle between them using the keypad. It includes a call list, phone book, conference guide, recording, settings, and status.
Conference groups: If you regularly meet with the same people, the Konftel 300Wx makes it easier by allowing preset categories with up to six individuals. Press one button to pick a group, see who’s in it, and make a call to everyone. Once they answer, they’re automatically connected to the conference call.
Cisco 7832 IP: Best Entry-level Conference Phone With High-quality Audio
*This is a Power over Ethernet (PoE)-enabled device. If you don’t have a PoE, you will need to purchase a separate power supply unit.
The phone is an excellent choice for small conference rooms and private office desktops, given its superior audio quality and 360-degree room coverage with four-microphone pickup. Even with its monochrome LCD, the 7832 still offers standard call services, such as voicemail, caller ID, call waiting, call forwarding, call transfer, and call hold.
While the 7832 suits businesses looking for a basic conference phone, the next best thing for those needing advanced features is the . This is the most affordable device on our list and comes with a colored 4.3-inch display and built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth.
Cisco 7832 IP Features
Call management: Have at your disposal a range of call features, including access to the corporate directory, message waiting indicator, and adjustable ringtones and volume levels. It also lets users see their call history and comes with an auto-answer feature.
Directories: One of the standout features of this phone is its ability to identify incoming messages and categorize them on the screen. This makes it fast and easy to return calls using direct dial-back capability. The corporate directory integrates with the Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP) standard directory.
Speakerphone: The Cisco 7832 comes with a full-duplex speakerphone, allowing you to place and receive calls hands-free.
Grandstream GAC2500: Best Budget-friendly, Full-featured VoIP Phone for Small Businesses
Noting that the prices listed in our review are based on both brand websites and third-party sellers, the offers the best bang for your buck with six lines, seven-way calls, and six SIP accounts. Like other VoIP conference phones, the Grandstream GAC2500 has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to connect headsets and mobile phones.
However, it’s less scalable than other equipment, as it supports daisy chains of two devices versus three with the , and you can’t expand the voice range with additional microphones. Likewise, the 86 dB volume is less than Konftel and Poly devices, making it harder to hear in larger spaces. If you’re looking for advanced call quality and functionality, you’re better off with our top pick, the .
Grandstream GAC2500 Features
Call scheduler: Use your desktop to schedule a VoIP phone conference call or view upcoming or previous events. You can also organize conferences via your Google Calendar, which will sync with your device.
VoIP functions: Save up to 2,000 contacts in a downloadable phone book, create personalized ringtones, and park calls. Other VoIP capabilities include call waiting, music on hold, and call logs.
Third-party apps: Customize your phone by downloading apps from the Google Play Store, such as Skype for Business or Google Voice.
How We Evaluated the Best VoIP Conference Phone
VoIP business phone systems are only as good as the conference phone you use. Phones for your conference spaces should deliver high-definition audio and provide a user-friendly interface, whether that’s via a keypad or touchscreen. Additionally, your VoIP meeting phones should fit your budget and room size. We assessed several Wi-Fi VoIP conference phone models based on pricing, general and advanced features, and our expert score.
Learn how we evaluated the best VoIP conference phone by clicking on the tabs below:
Bottom Line
Adding a phone for VoIP conference meetings improves collaboration between your on-premise and remote workforce. A device with clear audio and Bluetooth-enabled connectivity lets your teams share multimedia for more productive conferences. But meeting consoles can be pricey, so it’s best to consider your room size before buying a new phone.
The earned a 4.43 out of 5 rating, making it the best overall VoIP conference phone. It’s suitable for small to large spaces with its high-quality frequency response of 100 Hz to 22 kHz. Conduct meetings with efficiency using its 5-inch screen and voice activity detection. Contact Poly’s sales team or buy your phone through the website today.
January 31, 2023
CallRail Review 2023: Pricing, Features & Pros & Cons
CallRail is a call tracking software with trackable phone numbers, local minutes, and text message credits. In this CallRail review, we gave the provider high scores for its user-friendly platform and robust features, such as call attribution and whisper messages. It is rated lower in pricing since it does not offer a free plan with relatively higher subscription fees. Overall, it’s recommended for small marketing teams for its call tracking capabilities and free local numbers.
CallRail Review: At a Glance
CallRail Deciding Factors
is a phone and message tracking and analytics solution that marketing teams use to gain a better understanding of campaigns and drive leads and conversions. It tracks key campaign metrics across online and offline channels.
CallRail Alternatives
While helps businesses understand their sales channels, there are cloud business phone system capabilities that it does not offer. If extensive international calling and inclusive call routing are essential to your operations, consider some of the alternatives below:
In our pricing review, the provider received a low score because it lacks a free plan and volume discounts. Its plans are also on the higher end of the spectrum, ranging from $45 to $145 monthly. However, the service packages are full-featured, and all plans come with monthly credits, including local numbers, local minutes, and text messages. Additional fees apply for excess use.
Users have the option to add more features to their plans, which include:
Local numbers at $3 each number, regardless of plan
Local minutes priced at 5 cents per minute across all plans
Toll-free numbers that cost $5 each number
Toll-free minutes at 8 cents per minute
Text or short message service (SMS) with a rate of 1.6 cents per message, available after the trial period
Form submissions with a price tag of 3 cents per form, available for those registered under the Call Tracking + Form Tracking and Call Tracking Complete plans
Call Transcription minutes with a price of 2 cents per minute, available for those in the Call Tracking + Intelligence and Call Tracking Complete plans
CallRail Features
is a comprehensive call tracking software with marketing analysis capabilities. It is designed for businesses wanting to analyze the results of their campaigns conducted through calls, texts, forms, and chat. It combines tools, such as call recording, transcription, and lead tagging, for accurate lead tracking and advanced analytics.
CallRail received a 5 out of 5 because it has all the standard call tracking features, such as free phone numbers, call routing capabilities, reporting and analytics, and text messaging. As a call tracker, it enables users to match incoming calls and texts to your marketing efforts and channels. This capability allows you to measure your campaign’s effectiveness for more optimized strategies.
CallRail utilizes dynamic number insertion (DNI) to monitor online activity, such as keywords, emails, social media posts, and pay-per-click (PPC) ads. Track offline marketing pieces, such as brochures, mailers, and billboards, and discover information like a call’s source and your lead’s name, number, and location.
The CallRail features listed below are included in all plans:
Five local numbers
250 local minutes
100 text messages
Offline and online call tracking
Keyword-level attribution
Localized DNI
Email summary reports
Call recording
Call and text message scoring
Call forwarding
Standard call flow builder
Robust integrations
We gave CallRail a 5 out of 5 for niche features with its complete suite of analytics, robust integrations, and advanced routing capabilities. Users on higher tiers can access 10,000 call transcription minutes, multi-touch attribution modeling and reporting, and automated lead tagging. It offers powerful integrations with Google Ads, Salesforce, WordPress, HubSpot, Facebook, Webhooks, and Slack.
Click on each feature below to learn about CallRail’s top niche offerings.
In terms of customer service, CallRail was rated 3.44 out of 5 because it offers most customer service channels, such as phone, ticketing, and chat support. Based on its website, its email support is focused on sales, not customer support. We recognized that CallRail’s support channels offer extended business hours but not 24/7 support. Another option is to research its help center and community network.
is reportedly easy to use as it requires minimal technical knowledge to maneuver. Upon review and assessment, setting up and configuring the system is easy, and its apps are intuitive, but users have reported the overall feel is “clunky.” Still, the CallRail online resources offer plenty of references and guides to maximize the software.
reviews have been generally positive. Most CallRail user reviews commend it for being an excellent call tracking software for monitoring leads and campaigns. Those not focused on price appreciate its value as it provides inclusions that other providers don’t.
TrustRadius: 6.9 out of 10 based on 70 reviews
GetApp: 4.5 out of 5 based on 161 reviews
HubSpot: 3.5 out of 5 based on 24 ratings
G2: 4.6 out of 5 based on 1,217 reviews
Many users like its platform’s ease of use and comprehensiveness. They appreciate that it has various tools they need, including integrations, lead and conversion tracking, and detailed reports. There are mixed reviews on its customer support, where the majority mentioned that its team is very knowledgeable and helpful in addressing their needs. A few others complained that not all agents are skilled in handling issues.
How We Evaluated CallRail
In this review, we evaluated the platform considering various factors, from pricing and general and niche features to customer service and ease of use. We also checked online reviews from verified CallRail users and customers to assess CallRail’s critical areas that matter to small businesses.
Learn how we evaluated CallRail by clicking on the tabs below:
Bottom Line
This review finds it’s an excellent option for small businesses looking for robust call tracking software. Its all-inclusive, subscription-based packages capture the results of marketing efforts across channels, such as calls and online forms. It also provides phone numbers, call minutes, and text credits in their plans.
If your business needs a straightforward platform for analyzing calls, conversations, and marketing efforts, CallRail is worth checking out. Sign-up for its 14-day trial today.
January 30, 2023
6 Best VoIP Phones for Business in 2023
High-quality voice-over-internet-protocol (VoIP)-enabled phones allow for clear, uninterrupted conversations and efficient call management. The top VoIP phones offer touchscreen or liquid-crystal displays (LCD) and user-friendly interfaces. We evaluated dozens of options to identify the six best VoIP phones for businesses by comparing available features, talk time, interconnectivity, and ease of use to determine the best value for the price.
: Best VoIP phone system overall for businesses needing up to 16 lines
: Best phone for VoIP systems needing built-in video conferencing features
: Best full-featured business VoIP phone for agents handling high call volume
: Top choice for Ooma home office users needing wireless connectivity to base consoles
: Best low-cost cordless VoIP business phone for teams needing unrestricted mobility within the office
: Best VoIP phone for eco-conscious businesses looking for an energy-efficient option
VoIP Phones at a Glance
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Polycom VVX 601: Best Overall VoIP Phone With 16 Lines
The is the overall best VoIP phone for small business—connecting up to 16 lines and offering an advanced touchscreen display. Navigation is intuitive, and the device comes with four soft keys, making features like call transfer and call park easy to find. This is why the Polycom VVX 601 is our top pick for the best device for multi-line phone systems. The phone has a 4.3-inch touchscreen, a hard numeric keypad, and integrated Bluetooth.
While the Polycom VVX 601 works with Google Voice, RingCentral, Nextiva, and 8x8, it lacks a built-in video camera. The Polycom VVX Camera installs in seconds and lets users join video conferences directly from their desks. However, if you need a built-in camera, choose the , which accommodates up to 12 phone lines.
Polycom VVX 601 Features
Call handling: Enhance the way your phone system operates with the Polycom VVX 601’s extensive call handling features, such as a busy lamp field, one-touch speed dial, and its do not disturb function. This device includes features like call waiting, transfer, hold, forward, and divert.
Acoustic technology: Enjoy crystal-clear conversations with Poly’s Acoustic Clarity technology. The HD audio supports full-duplex sound with background noise suppression and echo cancellation.
Unified communications: Use your desk phone to view and manage calendars, receive reminders, and see the presence status of your team members.
Grandstream GXV3275: Best for Its Video Conferencing Capabilities
The is the best option for video conferencing, thanks to its sizable 7-inch touchscreen and tiltable camera. Easily host and record three-way video calls and use the privacy shutter to block the camera when it’s not in use. It has a tablet-like console with three dedicated Android keys (Home, Menu, and Back), allowing you to perform essential VoIP functions like call forwarding and call park or pickup.
This desk phone suits a variety of uses because it has integrated Bluetooth and Wi-Fi for connecting external devices. However, the Grandstream GXV3275’s Music on Hold feature requires an MP3 upload. If you want an easier way to upload music, opt for the , which gives users two ways to add a file. They can select a file from their PC or desktop or enter a uniform resource locator (URL) link.
Grandstream GXV3275 Features
Video conferencing: The on-screen display has a video resolution of up to 720p and uses auto-focus, auto-exposure, and anti-flickering tools to provide top-notch video quality.
Call management: The capacitive touch interface lets you add contacts to a downloadable phone book and see which employees are on a call before transferring a customer.
Tablet functionality: Customize your phone by downloading third-party applications for the weather, social media, or calendars. Stream internet radio, use the built-in web browser, or create custom tools with Grandstream’s application programming interfaces (APIs) and software development kits (SDKs).
Grandstream GXP2170: Full-featured VoIP Phone for Handling High Call Volume
The is the best-in-class business VoIP desk phone for agents handling high call volume, with its integrated Bluetooth, seamless mobile phone, and headset sync. It features six SIP accounts allowing users to receive calls on multiple lines throughout the day, making it one of the best call center phones. The GXP2170’s full-color LCD screen and the gigabit ports ensure a reliable high-speed connection.
However, the Grandstream GXP2170 doesn’t have a 3.5mm jack or a built-in camera like the . Also, some staff may prefer a desk phone that feels more like a tablet or smartphone. In this case, consider a touchscreen model like the Grandstream GXV3275 or .
Grandstream GXP2170 Features
Audio conferencing: Host a five-way conference call on your VoIP phone or skip the handset and put your meeting on speakerphone. You’ll get full duplex sound and HD audio for maximum clarity.
Call handling: Five programmable soft keys and 11 dedicated function keys enable VoIP phone features on your office phone. Park or transfer calls and set up personalized ringtones.
Contact management: View up to 500 call log records or press the dedicated Phonebook function key to access a downloadable phone book with up to 2,000 items.
Ooma DP1-T: Best for Ooma Home Office Users
The is ideal for existing Ooma users looking for compatible VoIP phone devices. The DP1-T pairs wirelessly with the Ooma Office base station (sold separately), allowing you to make and receive calls without fiddling with an Ethernet cable. Its DECT (digital enhanced cordless telecommunications) technology works within 150 feet of the base unit.
Its rechargeable battery has a 36-hour standby time and seven-hour talk time, allowing for portability between your office and the conference rooms without needing an outlet. However, it has a smaller LCD than Grandstream and Polycom phones. It’s also not a good fit if you need to answer or monitor more than two phone lines. If your business needs a full-screen display with advanced call management features, the is a better choice.
Ooma DP1-T Features
User interface: The Ooma DP1-T shows the status of your lines with lights. Red means a call is on hold, green indicates a busy line, and no lights signal an open line. Hard buttons let you access the contact directory, call logs, and 16-speed dial contacts.
Voicemail: A red light appears at the top of the Ooma DP1-T phone if you have voicemail messages waiting, and the LCD screen shows the number of new voicemails you have (up to 99). Simply press the voicemail button and follow the prompts to hear your messages.
Call flip: The Ooma DP1-T lets you quickly switch devices. Dial *44 on your desk phone, and it’ll automatically ring all devices for your extension simultaneously.
Grandstream DP720: Best Low-cost Cordless VoIP Business Phone Option
The is an affordable cordless phone that uses DECT wireless standard, maximizing mobility and call efficiency for greater productivity. This is an excellent option for professionals constantly on the phone, such as salespeople, stock brokers, liaisons, and administrative staff. It has a 300-meter range outdoors and a 50-meter range indoors from the base station, allowing unimpeded mobility.
The Grandstream DP720 is the most cost-efficient device on this list, with a starting price of $50 on Amazon. At this price, it features two soft keys and four dedicated function keys to answer, park, or transfer calls. The DP720 supports three-way audio conferencing, has provisions for a 3.5mm headset jack, and comes with full HD audio on both the speakerphone and handset.
Unfortunately, the price doesn’t include the required Grandstream DP750 base console, and the 1.8-inch color LCD is smaller than other devices on this list. This device supports up to 10 SIP connections, but if you need more, supports up to 16 lines. Our top pick has a 4.3-inch touchscreen and integrates with a computer softphone app.
Grandstream DP720 Features
Mobility: The Grandstream DP720 has a range of 50m indoors and 300m outdoors. The rechargeable battery provides 20 hours of talk time and 250 hours of standby time.
Call management: Create direct inward dialing (DID) call groups or download your phone book from the Grandstream cordless phone. It also supports three-way conferencing, call transfer, call park, and on-hold features.
Multi-language: The Grandstream DP720 supports 19 languages, more than the 16 on Polycom models. In addition, the Grandstream DP720 includes languages not offered by other phone vendors, including Czech, Hebrew, Turkish, Arabic, and Serbian.
Cisco 7841: Most Energy-efficient VoIP Phone
The is the most energy-efficient VoIP phone option in this list. All phones in the 7800 Series are eco-friendly and Energy Star-certified. Energy Star-certified devices use less energy to perform and meet energy efficiency standards. The 7841 model supports Cisco EnergyWise, a green computing technology designed to measure and optimize power consumption.
The model has a standard power-save option on the Cisco 7841 that reduces power consumption during off-hours, saving money and maximizing energy efficiency. However, despite its high-efficiency level, it does not have a colored display, a feature available with most VoIP phones.
For larger, colored displays, try the or . The GVX3275 has a 7-inch touchscreen, and the GXP2170 has a 4.3-inch color LCD.
Cisco 7841 Features
Fixed function keys: Easily access services with Cisco’s one-touch functionality, including messaging, directory, hold/resume, transfer, and conference features. Boost team productivity by programming keys for speed dialing and directory access.
Hearing aid-compatible: Cisco’s 7800 series meets Federal Communications Commission (FCC) loudness requirements for the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Also, the device’s dial pad is ADA-compliant for greater inclusivity and user comfort.
Directory: The phone identifies incoming messages and categorizes them for users on the screen, making it a breeze to return calls using direct dial-back capability.
How We Evaluated the Best VoIP Phones
To come up with this list, we looked at several VoIP phones to understand their differences and how they stack up against each other. We assessed several top-ranked and best VoIP phone models based on phone costs and feature sets. Plus, we looked at the ease of use and overall value for the money.
Learn how we evaluated the best VoIP phones by clicking on the tabs below:
Bottom Line
To be considered a valuable VoIP phone to be used with the best VoIP phone services, it must be able to support multiple SIP accounts, phone lines, and audio conference participants. When choosing which of the best VoIP phones for business suits you, it’s vital to establish the features and capabilities essential to your operations. The decision is based on prices, flexibility, ease of use, and call functionality, such as cameras and screen displays.
The earned a 4.25 out of 5 rating, making it the best VoIP phone system for small businesses. It has a robust feature set, such as 16 phone lines, a touchscreen display, and softphone integration that you’ll need for long-term business growth and expansion. Contact the Poly sales team to learn more about how to maximize your team’s productivity today.
January 27, 2023
How Encryption At-rest and In-transit Works
There are two types of data encryption: at-rest and in-transit, also known as data in motion. Data at-rest refers to inactive data not moving between devices or networks and tends to be stored in data archives. On the other hand, data in-transit is moving between devices or two network points. Data in-transit tends to be more vulnerable and requires additional security protocols to ensure data security.
To maintain the privacy and safety of data at-rest and in-transit, companies rely on data encryption, which translates a piece of data into seemingly meaningless text that unauthorized entities cannot decipher. Each type requires specific encryption techniques for optimized protection, which we break down in detail below.
Data Encryption: At-rest vs In-transit
Data at-rest refers to data residing in computer storage in any digital form. At-rest data encryption protects data during storage, whether on a mobile device, computer, tablet, data warehouse, or in the cloud. Data at-rest is a target for hackers because of its static data storage and logical structure. Data at-rest typically houses valuable, private information, such as financial documents, contracts, intellectual property, and supply chain details.
Encryption for at-rest data entails encrypting stored data to prevent unauthorized access. The encryption scrambles the data into ciphertext and requires a decryption key to unscramble it into its initial state. Hackers who steal and attempt to access the encrypted data without the decryption key must override the encryption (a difficult task) to decipher the data. Without at-rest encryption, hackers load the data onto their computers and access everything.
On the other hand, encryption in-transit protects data in motion or while it’s being transferred. Data is more vulnerable during this time and needs additional security protocols to protect it. For instance, many in-transit encryption services also include steps to authenticate the sender and receiver before decrypting the information upon arrival using Transport Layer Security (TLS).
This added security layer then helps to protect data when uploading or downloading a document or media file. It is also used to protect your business when you send an email or data packets using voice-over-internet-protocol (VoIP) business calling solutions.
In both cases, encryption doesn’t necessarily make data theft impossible—it makes it more complex and resource-consuming. That’s why data encryption in-transit and at-rest is just one of many security layers businesses can use to protect their information. However, if best practices aren't observed, both types of encryption have drawbacks and risks.
At-rest: Benefits, Drawbacks & Best Practices
It’s important to know how to protect and secure data at-rest, which is typically stored in one location, such as hard drives, flash drives, or cloud storage. When data at-rest is encrypted through hardware-based software and devices, personally identifiable information and sensitive content are protected from unauthorized people trying to access or steal the data.
Data at-rest is generally less vulnerable to hacking; hackers tend to find the data more valuable than data in-transit because at-rest data often has higher levels of sensitive information. Some best practices when using at-rest encryption include the following:
In-transit: Benefits, Drawbacks & Best Practices
To give a clearer picture of what data in-transit is, some examples of a file in-transit include sending an email over the internet, colleagues exchanging files over a corporate network, and transferring data from a USB to a co-worker’s laptop. Data in-transit is more vulnerable than static or at-rest data kept in an offline database. Moving data has unique risks, such as snooping intermediaries intercepting moving data or sending errors leading to data leaks.
The best practices when using an in-transit encryption service include the following:
How VoIP Encryption Works
The availability and functionality of VoIP business phones have streamlined how businesses of all sizes communicate. Teams coordinate and share personal or privileged information with clients and colleagues through internet-based solutions. Therefore, all conversations over VoIP channels must be encrypted and modified into cluttered voice data packets to prevent them from being intercepted while in transit.
Call and phone system encryption prevents terrible actors from intercepting messages and using the information for malicious purposes. Our VoIP statistics article details that more companies are switching from traditional phone systems to VoIP because VoIP solutions increase productivity and provide cost-effective benefits.
There are three basic steps to VoIP encryption: first, creating a secure connection during a call, and then your audio is broken down into data packets sent through an SRTP (Secure Real-time Transport Protocol). The third step entails unpacking the packets once your message arrives at the destination. This entire process happens milliseconds between when you speak and when the caller hears you.
Here’s the summary of what happens during each step:
VoIP Providers With Both Types of Encryption
VoIP services, like other business phone systems, have certain security threats and risks. However, companies mitigate risks by choosing a provider offering secure and encrypted services. When choosing a provider, select one that provides VoIP and UCaaS security features and encryption. Additionally, there are government regulations for handling personal information, like the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 (HIPAA).
The three providers listed offer data at-rest and data in-transit encryption, are HIPAA-compliant, and have protocols like physical data protection, secure communications, and breach notifications in place. This is particularly important for businesses in the healthcare industry as you need a HIPAA-compliant VoIP business phone system. Read this to learn more about different types of compliance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How do small businesses avoid getting hacked?
Develop a cybersecurity plan and work with phone system providers that offer quality encryption services. Measures that must be included in your data privacy protocols include using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, security protocol training, and banning the use of public connections to access sensitive information.
Does GDPR require encryption of data at-rest?
The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is a European Union law that protects an internet user’s privacy and security while browsing websites online. However, it doesn’t necessarily require at-rest data encryption. Encryption is more than a regulatory compliance issue. It reduces the probability of a successful breach—protecting your business, employees, and clients. Protecting your data also helps you avoid costly fines and damaged trust.
How do I secure my VoIP network?
Choose a VoIP provider with extensive security protocols and encryption in-transit and at-rest in addition to other essential VoIP business phone features. Furthermore, your organization is responsible for safeguarding passwords, monitoring access, reviewing call logs, deactivating inactive accounts, and using a virtual private network (VPN) for remote staff.
If you’re looking for a VoIP provider with a 99.999% uptime guarantee and a secure calling environment, consider . Its security features include 24/7 monitoring, biometric checkpoints, and an audited data center based on ISO certification. Read our comprehensive Nextiva review to learn about the pricing plans and features.
What are the most secure encryption techniques?
Whether you’re securing data at-rest or data in-transit encryption, AES and Rivest-Shamir-Adleman (RSA) are the most common and trusted encryption techniques. AES encryption is used for in-transit and at-rest encryption, while RSA is typically used for transmitting data between two endpoints.
Bottom Line
Now that you know about data at-rest vs data in-transit, you know security is essential to every business. Data is a great asset, and once you are entrusted with private information, you have a responsibility to clients and employees to safeguard their data. Any disruption to your system, including your business phone—misuse, breaching, or theft—could be one of your greatest liabilities, which is why data protection and privacy are non-negotiable.
Data encryption at-rest and in-transit is a must-have security protocol for all online business communications, including VoIP services. Having both data at-rest and data in-transit encryption strengthens data protection. Before choosing a provider, ensure it has the encryption standards your business demands, including specific industry regulations, such as HIPAA compliance.
January 25, 2023
7 Best VoIP Apps for Small Businesses in 2023
There are several voice-over-internet-protocol (VoIP) apps capable of making and receiving phone calls and messages, but the best options offer advanced features, such as video conferencing, team messaging, and extensive software integrations. The best VoIP apps work seamlessly with softphones and iOS and Android devices—which are essential tools small businesses use to stay connected with clients and team members.
Based on our research of dozens of software providers, here are the top seven best VoIP apps for small businesses:
: Best overall VoIP app provider for teams needing multidevice support
: Ideal VoIP option for teams using Android devices
: Excellent choice small companies with several iPhone users
: Best for small teams looking for softphone solutions
: Best for businesses with simple call management needs
: Great for teams with global clients needing unmetered international calls
: Best for heavy Google Workspace users wanting seamless integration
Best VoIP Apps Compared
Take the quiz to find out which VoIP app suits your business needs.
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RingCentral: Best Overall VoIP App for Multidevice Support
*Prices are based on one to 20 users. Discounts of up to 33% are available for users who opt for annual billing.
is one of our recommended providers offering the best business phone system and the best overall VoIP app for users and accounts using different devices to access the platform. RingCentral’s desktop and mobile applications are seamless and full-featured. Coupled with the call flip feature, users transfer ongoing calls between linked devices with one click, offering mobility.
RingCentral’s app is straightforward, intuitive, and carries full platform functionality on its applications. However, for those who want simple calling features, it might take some getting used to. If this is the case, is a simple application with straightforward controls enhanced by its Google Workspace integrations. Google Voice is available only to active Google Workspace users, and plan options include a free personal plan or paid subscription packages.
RingCentral Features
Built-in customizability: Organize your display tabs and personalize your RingCentral app interface in the most helpful way. For example, your team members can select up to five tabs with calendars, tasks, videos, or other functions. This makes the app experience very convenient for each user.
Call flip: Seamlessly transfer between softphone, mobile phone, and desk phone devices during ongoing calls. The call is placed on hold during the flip until the transfer is complete. This is particularly useful when you wish to continue a call on a different phone number or will be mobile mid-conversation.
Extended voicemail options: There are multiple ways to check your voicemail using the RingCentral app. Users can listen to audio recordings, use voicemail-to-text (which allows you to read through your inbox), or read using voicemail-to-email (which compiles everything into your inbox).
Learn more about RingCentral in our comprehensive RingCentral review to determine if its services are right for your business.
Nextiva: Best VoIP App for Android Users
*Monthly pricing is based on one to four users. Save up to 27% with annual billing.
came out on top of the list of VoIP apps for Android devices with its intuitive interface and features like MP3, WAV, and M4A file support when texting colleagues and customers on Android devices. Users easily place calls by tapping the dialer, locating a contact and placing the call, or clicking on the call or video icon and selecting contacts. Nextiva’s app allows you to transfer calls, add contacts, and screen share during meetings—all from your mobile device.
However, Nextiva users will find it has limited third-party integrations compared to other providers like , which integrates with over 300 applications. Unfortunately, some important integrations are locked behind more expensive tiers. RingCentral is the mobile VoIP app with the most integrations and a robust API (application programming interface).
Nextiva Features
Call pop: Call pop provides your agents detailed information about each caller. Your agents will see basic information, including the number used, the name of the caller, the priority level, and the details of their last interaction.
Mobile screen share: Share any of your mobile tabs when you’re on a call. Android users will be able to screen share even if they’re using Android’s mobile split-screen feature.
High attendee video conferencing: Nextiva’s video conferencing features enable you to host video conferences from the app with up to 250 participants.
Check out our full-fledged Nextiva review to determine if this business phone system fits your business' specific needs.
Vonage: Best VoIP App for iPhone Users
*Pricing is based on one user. Vonage has a one-year minimum contract with cancellation subject to early termination fees.
offers the best VoIP app for iPhone users because it recently upgraded its features allowing users to make and receive home phone calls on up to two iPhones over the internet. Make calls wherever you are using your Vonage internet calling plan that comes with unlimited international calling to 60-plus countries. It lets you keep your mobile number private with its Caller ID feature that will show your Vonage number.
While Vonage offers great call features for those who want customizable call management plans, Vonage lacks key video conferencing features, such as virtual backgrounds, and only accommodates a maximum of 100 participants. If your business needs robust virtual meeting capabilities, offers high-definition video and audio conferencing for up to 500 participants.
Vonage Features
Call block: This feature allows users to pre-determine calls and phone numbers that are blocked from making both inbound and outbound calls for extensions, including fax. Incoming calls from a blocked number will hear a fast busy, while outgoing calls to a blocked number will hear, “I’m sorry, Calls to this number have been blocked by your Administrator.”
Vonage boomerang: Move all your calls from specific numbers to your Vonage number. Vonage automatically connects calls from your boomerang contact with all phone charges applied to your Vonage account.
Receptionist console: The console views all call activity and uses call control tools, such as call park, call transfer, and call queue. Handle up to 50 concurrent calls and play a custom greeting or music to incoming callers.
Our Vonage review walks you through the elements and service offerings of this VoIP business communications provider.
Phone.com: Best for Softphone Users
*Save 20% with annual billing
feature-rich VoIP phone app, Communicator, is excellent for businesses that predominantly use desktops for software-based dialing. Its softphone application supports both voice and video calling with customizable call management settings. It’s important to note that Communicator’s Mac desktop version has a few more on-screen features, while on Windows, you can access all available features under the “More Call options” drop-down menu.
Beyond these features, Phone.com doesn’t offer team messaging. If you need team chat for internal coordination, try , which offers unlimited team messaging. Stay constantly connected with colleagues through team messaging available via the Vonage Business Communications desktop and VoIP phone apps.
Phone.com Features
Video conferencing: During video meetings, users of Phone.com applications share screens and documents, chat, use whiteboards, and are able to change their backgrounds. Choose the Plus package for HIPAA-compliant services.
Types of phone numbers: Phone.com offers different types of business phone numbers, such as local, toll-free, and vanity numbers, in every plan. This helps small businesses improve customer service and establish legitimacy.
Mix-and-match features: Budget-conscious small businesses benefit from Phone.com’s customizable plans. Phone.com allows customers to choose packages for each user and add specific features as needed.
Read all about Phone.com’s features and pricing details in our comprehensive Phone.com review.
Grasshopper: Best for Teams With Basic Call Management Needs
*Grasshopper offers flat-rate pricing, not per user pricing; save 10% with annual billing
is the best voice-over-IP app for small businesses needing simple and easy-to-use virtual phone and call management systems. Its services, like calls, text messaging, custom greetings, extensions, and inbound fax, are all available with every plan. Make and receive calls and text messages anywhere and anytime with Grasshopper’s apps for desktop and mobile. Grasshopper offers 24/7 support access via phone, email, social media, and chat.
Unfortunately, Grasshopper allows international calling but lacks international numbers, which offers. If you’re expanding and entering new global markets, this alternative would be a better fit for you. International numbers are available for all Phone.com plans starting at $4.99 per month for select countries. If you want more options, check out our list of the best services for VoIP international calls.
Grasshopper Features
Unlimited extensions: Grasshopper’s monthly flat rate allows for shared minutes and pooled messages, which is ideal for budget-conscious startups. Unlimited extensions mean your entire sales team shares a single phone number, with each agent assigned a specific extension allowing you to save on account fees.
Instant response: Instant response reduces the risk of losing potential customers. When you cannot answer an incoming call, Grasshopper automatically sends an SMS message advising that you are unavailable, effectively informing your customer they’ve reached the correct number and you’ll get back to them.
Voicemail: Voicemail is a feature included in all Grasshopper plans that allow your callers to leave you a message. Set up your voicemail so callers can leave you messages. Receive your recorded messages via MP3 recordings.
Our Grasshopper review walks you through the essential services and features this VoIP business communications provider offers. You can also check out our full video review of the provider here:
8x8: Best VoIP App for International Calls
*Users subscribed to the X2 and X4 plans will save up to 23% with annual billing.
is our overall best VoIP calling app for international calls, with its comprehensive offering of unmetered calling in up to 48 countries. 8x8 offers a clear and reliable internet connection for businesses that make regular international calls and establishes a reputable virtual presence in regions where you have customers but no physical office.
While 8x8 offers comprehensive features, solopreneurs and freelancers often don’t need as many advanced features. is an excellent option for professionals that use Google Workspace and need a virtual phone number and call management system. For those with low call volumes, avail of its free plan and upgrade as you scale. Unlike 8x8, Google Voice doesn’t provide international numbers and charges per-minute rates for calling outside the U.S.
8x8 Features
Call flip: 8x8’s different compatible applications let you seamlessly move ongoing calls between your desk, mobile phone, or desktop phone app. Your calls will instantly transfer to another device in just one click.
HD audio and video: 8x8’s HD-quality audio and video capabilities ensure that teams communicate without interruptions, making tasks more efficient. Meet up to 500 people in a video or audio conference with no time limits or restrictions.
Mix-and-match plans: Enjoy plan flexibility with 8x8’s mix-and-match options that allow you to create an ideal plan for your business needs. This means you only pay for services you need and use.
If you want to learn more about 8x8, read our 8x8 review to find out if it’s the best VoIP number app and phone solution for your business.
Google Voice: Best for Google Workspace Users
*Requires active Google Workspace accounts to avail of Google Voice
Google Workspace users needing a virtual phone number for calls, texts, and voicemail can use to make domestic and international calls from browsers and mobile devices. For users in the U.S., you can choose your number. This easy-to-use, free VoIP app is a simple add-on to active Google Workspace accounts.
At present, Google Voice does not support toll-free and vanity numbers. , on the other hand, offers local, toll-free, vanity, and international phone numbers. Using different business numbers is a great way to make yourself more accessible to your customers and, in turn, boost sales and lead conversions.
Google Voice Features
Workspace integration: Google Voice seamlessly integrates with other Google applications. Expand Google Voice’s capabilities by connecting it with Google Meet, Drive, Calendar, and Gmail.
Multilevel auto-attendant: Set up an automated menu to transfer callers to the right people or departments. It also lets you create multiple submenus depending on how you want to handle specific calls.
BigQuery advanced reporting: Subscribers in the Premier plan have access to Google’s BigQuery, which helps generate valuable business insights. Google Voice users receive usage and activity reports in all paid plans.
For more information on this platform, head to our Google Voice review for details on pricing and features.
How We Evaluated the Best VoIP Apps
To come up with this list, we reviewed several VoIP phone service providers with desktop and mobile softphone apps. From there, we narrowed the list of providers to the top seven based on pricing, simplicity of use, general and advanced features, and value for money.
The specific criteria we used to determine which of the best VoIP apps are strongest for small businesses include:
Pricing: Budget is a significant consideration for small businesses when looking at service providers. Each provider offers different packages and pricing discounts. We analyzed the various plans, inclusion at each level, and whether free trials and VoIP mobile apps are available.
Platform: VoIP apps vary significantly based on where you’re using them. For example, a softphone used on a laptop might have a completely different interface when used on an Android smartphone. For this reason, we evaluated each VoIP app based on the platform where it has its best performance.
General features: Comparing service providers based on features enables us to measure whether the features offered at each level offer the best value for money. The best VoIP app for businesses provides mobile functionality and clear call quality. We also reviewed providers based on communication channels like business messaging and phone calls.
Advanced features: The best mobile VoIP app for businesses are aligned with the features offered by web and desktop browsers. We only included VoIP calling apps that provide mobile and desktop apps with niche features, such as call reports and auto-attendants. We scored platforms' unified communication (UC) features and international calling solutions.
Expert score: We took time to explore and test the applications to determine how they compare. We based our expert score on personal use of the systems while considering user ratings. Each software provider is rated according to its standout features, popularity, and overall ease of use.
Bottom Line
VoIP apps are great for small businesses because of their lower cost, increased accessibility, and clearer voice quality. VoIP apps are easy to use, simple to set up, and have advanced communication features that modernize a small business’ phone system. Based on our criteria, the best overall VoIP app is . Besides its higher cost, it comes with comprehensive business calling features and a robust application.
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