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HOMEVoIP Faq
What is VoIP?
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) refers to voice calls being made over a high-speed internet connection as opposed to a traditional landline. VoIP calls can be made from either a computer or a regular VoIP enabled phone (the regular phone also connects to the internet).
Why is VoIP relatively inexpensive?
VoIP is just another computer application running on existing systems. This makes it no different to email, Instant Messaging (IM) and any other internet-based communication medium.
If VoIP is similar to email and IM, why isn’t it free?
Connecting via VoIP to another user with VoIP is free because this is just two users connecting to each other via the internet. However, using VoIP to call someone on a normal landline or cell phone requires a connection outside of the Internet and for this reason costs money—although it’s still very cheap.
What are the advantages of VoIP?
Primarily, home and business users switch to VoIP due to the significant cost reduction in using the service. However, there are also many other benefits of using VoIP. For instance, because VoIP is an internet based service—it means that you can take your number with you wherever you go. VoIP also allows for more flexibility with phone numbers whereby an individual may be based in the UK but have a local NYC phone number (this is a powerful feature for many businesses).
What are the disadvantages of VoIP?
The majority of VoIP services don’t work during power outages. Although it’s possible to purchase backup systems, and many large companies do so, the majority of VoIP services don’t have this feature. Also, some providers don’t offer phonebook listings in the white pages with their services.
Top VoIP Providers Compared
We've hand picked three premium VoIP providers (Lingo, Packet8 and Vonage) and compared them side by side. All three companies listed below are premium US based VoIP Providers predominately serving the US & Canadian markets. The ratings below are based on a summary of dozens of reviews and professional write-ups which have been pulled into one place for your convenience. Click on the logos to visit the official company websites.
Rating
 |
Features: |
Lingo is the best overall choice, with a decent range of features at a reasonable price. They are also the only VoIP companies to offer video phone. |
 |
Features: |
Packet8 |
 |
Features: |
Vonage is the leader in VoIP. Unfortuantely, popularity doesn't make it the best option. It's been known to have substandard customer support. |
Features
FEATURE |
|
|
|
Entry Level Home Plan |
$7.95/month |
$19.95/month |
$14.99/month |
Premium Home Plan |
$34.95/month |
$19.95/month |
$24.99/month |
Entry Level Business Plan |
$39.95/month |
$19.95/month |
$39.99/month |
Premium Business Plan |
$79.95/month |
$49.95/month |
$49.99/month |
Activation & Shipping Cost |
$40 |
$30 |
$30 |
Voicemail |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Caller ID (Number) |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Caller ID (Name) |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
Call Waiting |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Speed Dial |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Missed Call Return |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Caller ID Block (One Call) |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
Caller ID Block (All Calls) |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
Call Waiting with Caller ID |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
3-Way Calling |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Call Transfer |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
Call Forwarding |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
911 Service |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Enhanced 911 (E911) |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Virtual Phone Number |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Softphone Hardware |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Toll Free Number |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Do Not Disturb |
Yes |
No |
No |
Number Portability |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Distinctive Ring Tones |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
411 information |
Yes |
No |
Yes |
Video Phone |
No |
Yes |
No |
Conclusion
All three companies offer great deals on VoIP for both business and residential customers. But unless you desperately require Video Phone (offered by Packet8) or you want a popular brand (Vonage), your best choice here is Lingo. Don't let the above price comparison scare you, it may seem like the more expensive option, but you get far more for your money.
