Goodbye Landline, Hello VoIP: 12 Examples to Call From The Future
For businesses demanding sophisticated telephone services and capabilities, or individuals hoping to save on long-distance calls, VoIP is increasingly the answer. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) sends voice and multimedia data over the internet rather than traditional phone lines.
This guide will explain the types of VoIP systems and how they work, highlight how VoIP is used in home and business, and review the best VoIP products and services available today.
How Does VoIP Work?
VoIP converts analog voice signals into digital data, sending them over the internet in a process called "packetization." The data is reassembled into a complete voice signal at the receiver's end. Unlike traditional phone services, VoIP does not require separate phone lines for voice and data. Both travel over the same network simultaneously. This means VOIP tools function on a totally different plane as traditionnal phone services.
Types of VoIP
There are several types of VoIP systems available, each depending on a user's primary purpose and preferred hardware. These configurations include:
IP Phones
IP phones are hardware-based VoIP systems that look and function like traditional desk phones. They require physical connections to the internet, either through an Ethernet or Wi-Fi connection. IP phones have physical buttons and display screens, making them easy to navigate. They offer high-quality voice calls, advanced features, and security, making them a popular business choice.
However, IP Phones can be more expensive than other VoIP hardware solutions, requiring setup and configuration to work correctly.
Softphones
Softphones are software-based VoIP applications installed on computers, laptops, or mobile devices. They require a stable internet connection for use, however. Softphones power many unique features, including video conferencing, instant messaging, and screen sharing.
Since softphone services are available anywhere with a handheld device and internet, their mobility makes them ideal for remote workers or individuals who travel frequently.
However, softphones may offer slightly lower-quality connections than hardware-based solutions. Because they rely on a computer or mobile device's processing power, call quality hinges on internet speeds and network congestion.
Mobile VoIP
Precisely as it sounds, Mobile VoIP systems allow a mobile device to make and receive VoIP calls over a Wi-Fi or cellular network. Mobile VoIP, or mVoIP, is an excellent choice for people and businesses requiring on-the-go connectivity.
One of the primary benefits of mVoIP is its affordability compared with traditional mobile phone plans, especially when calling internationally. mVoIP typically uses data instead of minutes, making it much cheaper for global phone users.
However, mobile VoIP may offer lower call quality than traditional mobile phone plans, especially in areas with poor internet connectivity. Also, unlike other systems, mVoIP use depends on battery life and data usage.
Who Is Using VoIP Services?
VoIP is popular with businesses, especially those with remote workers or multiple office locations. VoIP allows employees to stay connected and collaborate from anywhere through inexpensive conferencing and instant messaging services. And VoIP is more cost-effective than traditional phone systems, especially for companies making long-distance or international calls.
VoIP is also prevalent among freelancers and entrepreneurs working from home or in the field. VoIP gives them a professional phone number without a physical office or landline. This mobility helps create a more professional and established presence, vital for building credibility with potential clients and customers.
Additionally, VoIP is an excellent choice for individuals and families to save money on phone bills. Those placing frequent international calls can do so without incurring long-distance charges. VoIP is also an excellent option for travelers, providing phone service from anywhere worldwide with an internet connection.
VoIP Technology Enhances Communication
VoIP technology is a game-changer for communication, offering potent features and benefits unavailable via traditional phone systems. A few are:
- High-Quality Voice: VoIP technology offers high-quality voice calls more reliable than mobile or analog phones. This dependability is due to improved internet speeds, better network infrastructure, and advanced audio codecs that optimize voice quality.
- Progressive Features: VoIP technology offers many features, such as call management, messaging, and file-sharing, which automates communication and improves workplace efficiency.
- Video Conferencing: VoIP technology enables conferencing between numerous individuals in multiple locations. Face-to-face communication is valuable for engaging remote workers and businesses with multiple sites.
- Integration: VoIP technology can be integrated with other business tools, such as CRM and email applications, chat programs, and collaboration platforms, to streamline workflows and speed communication and productivity.
- Mobility: VoIP technology delivers mobile communication, allowing users to make and receive calls from anywhere with an internet connection. This aspect benefits remote workers or people frequently traveling for business or pleasure.
VoIP technology has dramatically improved communication by delivering high-quality voice calls, video conferencing, integration with business tools, and mobility. These benefits make it easier for businesses to communicate effectively and efficiently, improving productivity and customer satisfaction.
VoIP Telephone System Comparison: 12 Tools to Communicate Better
Here are some of the best VoIP phone systems and their features available today:
1 of 11
 Nextiva Call Center |  Aircall |  8x8 |  Grasshopper |  Ooma |  Dialpad |  Skype |  |  Mitel |  Viber |  ZoiPer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| For all companies | For companies with more than 1 employees | For companies with 2 to 5000 employees | For all companies | For all companies | For all companies | For all companies | For all companies | For all companies | For all companies | For all companies |
| See software | See software | See software | See software | See software | See software | See software | See software | See software | See software | See software |
| Learn more about Nextiva Call Center | Learn more about Aircall | Learn more about 8x8 | Learn more about Grasshopper | Learn more about Ooma | Learn more about Dialpad | Learn more about Skype | Learn more about Whatsapp | Learn more about Mitel | Learn more about Viber | Learn more about ZoiPer |
RingCentral
RingCentral is a complete business VoIP solution offering customizable IP Phone and Softphone options. At the forefront of innovation, RingCentral provides professional support and services to help companies achieve.
Main features
RingCentral provides impressive solutions, including:
- Voice and video calling.
- High-definition (HD) voice.
- Visual voicemail and voicemail-to-email.
- Team messaging.
- Video conferencing.
- File sharing.
- Webinars.
- Integration with Salesforce and Microsoft Office 365.
- Rental options.
Our Opinion
RingCentral is a great choice for businesses requiring a feature-rich, scalable phone system. While there are more affordable options, RingCentral's features and flexible pricing plans make it a solid choice for any business.
Nextiva
Nextiva is an IP Phone system popular for businesses seeking affordable and reliable solutions. Nextiva's focus on innovation and customer service has earned it numerous industry awards.
Main features
Despite Nextiva's advanced components, it remains easy to configure and use. Available functions:
- Unlimited HD voice.
- Call routing, queuing, and recording.
- Voicemail-to-email transcription.
- Send and receive text and picture messages from the Nextiva Mobile App.
- Manage voicemails from mobile app or email.
- Local & toll-free numbers.
- Voice & video conferencing.
Our Opinion
Nextiva's product is a trustworthy choice for businesses needing a reliable and customizable phone system. While more affordable options exist, its advanced features and flexible pricing make it a top contender.
Nextiva Call Center
Aircall
Aircall, a Softphone product, is favored by businesses looking for a flexible communication solution with internet-connected devices.
Main features
Aircall's user-friendly platform design offers over 100+ business tools:
- SMS business text messaging.
- Conference calls to five participants.
- Integrated voicemail.
- Interactive Voice Response to classify and route callers.
- Blocklist Numbers to eliminate spam & bots.
- Call Commenting & Assignment with notes.
Our Opinion
Aircall VoIP is an excellent option for businesses requiring an easy-to-use phone system. And with Aircall's marketing integrations, ease of use, and scalability, it's a top contender in the business VoIP market.
Aircall
8×8
8x8, with IP Phone and Softphone options, is a pioneer in the VoIP industry. Their solutions have been used by businesses since 1987.
Main features
8×8 provides businesses demanding a cutting-edge platform with elements like:
- Communication APIs with SMS, voice, video, and chat.
- Automated receptionist.
- Role-Based Account Control Features.
- Analytics to identify key trends across employees, teams, and customer behaviors.
- Call monitoring of phone conversations for quality control and training.
- Unlimited calling, call routing, and call recording.
- Call center solution that provides features like IVR, skill-based routing, and analytics.
Our Opinion
8x8's VoIP system is an excellent choice for businesses seeking an innovative and customizable phone system. Advanced features and scalability make 8x8 a leading choice for businesses of all sizes.
8x8
Grasshopper
Grasshopper has become a popular mobile VoIP choice for businesses seeking a professional phone system without expensive hardware.
Main features
Grasshopper's entry-level product offering includes:
- Business phone number with custom greetings and extensions.
- Mobile and desktop apps.
- Voicemail transcription.
- Simultaneous call handling.
- Call tracking metrics.
Our Opinion
Grasshopper's platform is a basic-level choice for small businesses and entrepreneurs needing affordable, easy-to-use phone services. While not offering video conferencing or team messaging, its simplicity and affordability make it an excellent option for those just starting out.
Grasshopper
Ooma
Ooma offers hardware and software VoIP solutions. Its hardware-based system, Ooma Office, is designed explicitly for small businesses..
Ooma also offers a software-based system, Ooma Telo, designed for residential customers.
Main features
Ooma is ideal for those who want a phone system with features such as:
- HD Audio.
- Virtual Receptionist.
- Free Local Numbers.
- Toll-Free Number.
- Low International Rates.
- Mobile business App.
- Virtual Fax.
- Hot Desking..
Our Opinion
Ooma is a decent choice for small businesses needing an affordable phone system with advanced features. Less scalable than some, its affordability and selection of IP Phones make it a top contender among VoIP providers.
Ooma
Dialpad
Dialpad offers both Softphone and IP Phone options. It has become popular for companies looking for a modern and flexible communication solution.
Main features
Dialpad sports highly evolved features like:
- Unlimited calling.
- Global SMS & MMS.
- AI-powered call and voicemail transcriptions.
- Google Workspace & Microsoft 365 integrations.
- Unlimited video meetings.
- Local number support in 70+ countries
- CRM integrations.
Our Opinion
Dialpad's VoIP system is a superior business choice for its all-in-one communication and collaboration platform. With advanced features and integrations, Dialpad provides an efficient and streamlined communication solution.
Dialpad's scalable services, pricing plans, and flexible usage options make it an outstanding choice for growing businesses.
Dialpad
Skype
Skype's softphone system was first released in 2003 and has become one of the world's most widely used VoIP applications. Skype is available for desktop and mobile devices and offers free and paid plans. Owned by Microsoft, Skype is integrated with other Microsoft products, such as Office 365, making it a popular choice for businesses and individuals looking for an easy-to-use and reliable VoIP solution.
Main features
- Audio and HD video calling.
- Smart messaging.
- Screen sharing.
- Call recording and live subtitles.
- End-to-end encryption.
- Skype Numbers available in 25 countries/regions with a flat fee for unlimited incoming calls.
- Send SMS text messages directly from Skype.
- Real-time translation of voice calls, video calls, and instant messages.
Our Opinion
Skype is a superior option for personal use. And, it's worth a look by smaller businesses, especially those with international communication needs. While it may not offer the advanced features of other business-oriented VoIP systems, its user-friendly interface and affordable pricing are worth strong consideration.
Skype
WhatsApp is a mobile VoIP system allowing users to make free voice and video calls over Wi-Fi or mobile data. Available for desktop and mobile devices - and free to use - WhatsApp is a simple communication solution for individuals and smaller businesses.
Main features
In addition to free calling, WhatsApp For Business offers:
- Order confirmations and shipment updates.
- Easy customer browsing of products and order placement within WhatsApp.
- Smart routing from customer conversations when live agent support is needed.
- Multi-factor authentication or one-time passwords to verify accounts and users.
- End-to-end encryption for secure communications.
Our Opinion
While WhatsApp is primarily used for personal communication, its features make it a viable option for small businesses or teams needing a simple and free communication platform. However, there are better options for larger companies with more advanced communication needs.
Mitel
Mitel is an IP phone system and a global leader providing communication and collaboration solutions for businesses of all sizes. Mitel's solutions enable companies to choose the deployment model that best fits their needs.
Main features
Mitel is ideal for businesses requiring a robust and scalable phone system, with optional premium services like:
- Hot desking.
- Auto-Attendant.
- Flexible day/night mode.
- Call routing.
- Unified messaging.
- Flexible music options on hold.
- Enhanced call screening.
- Embedded Meet Me conferencing.
Our Opinion
Mitel is a decent prospect for businesses needing a scalable communication solution. While its pricing is somewhat murky, Mitel is an innovative and experienced player in the industry.
Mitel
Viber
Viber is another popular, free VoIP application. Viber is available for desktop and mobile devices, and its focus is on privacy and security.
Main features
Viber is perfect for individuals and entrepreneurs needing a software-based phone system for:
- Voice calls and instant messaging.
- Messaging and group chat.
- End-to-end encryption for secure communication.
- Integrations with popular business tools like Dropbox and Giphy.
- Communities for exploring shared passions and interests.
- Options for Unlimited Worldwide Calls.
Our Opinion
Viber is a suitable option for personal and small business use, especially for those making international calls. While it doesn't offer advanced features or services like other VoIP systems, its user-friendly interface and affordable pricing make it a decent choice for smaller enterprises or entrepreneurs.
Viber
Zoiper
ZoiPer is a VoIP software for desktop and mobile devices providing both free and paid plans. ZoiPer's focus on ease of use and compatibility with various VoIP providers and hardware devices has made it a popular choice for users who enjoy flexibility and choice.
Main features
Zoiper provides free calling between Zoiper users and business tools like:
- Microsoft Outlook, Teams, Google Contacts, and Salesforce.
- Click-2-dial CRM integration and number recognition.
- Customizable interfaces.
- Military-grade end-to-end encryption for voice and video.
- Support for multiple platforms, including desktop and mobile devices.
- C++ SDK for developers.
Our Opinion
Zoiper is an exciting alternative for individuals and companies seeking a feature-rich and versatile VoIP solution. Its customizable interface, advanced call management features, and support for multiple platforms make it an attractive option for tech-savvy users.
ZoiPer
How VoIP technology is used
VoIP and its high tech features are used for a variety of purposes, including:
Voice and video calling
VoIP systems allow users to make voice and video calls over the internet, providing an affordable and convenient way to communicate with others. It's particularly valuable for businesses making high-volume long-distance calls.
Messaging
Many VoIP systems offer instant messaging and chat capabilities, allowing users to exchange text messages, images, and other files.
For businesses, messaging creates quick and easy communication between team members, regardless of location. Messaging is also valuable for customer interaction by handling inquiries, support requests, and other issues via chat.
For individuals, messaging is an easy way to stay in touch with friends and family, especially those far away.
File sharing
VoIP systems often provide sharing capabilities, enabling users to send and receive documents, images, and other files quickly and easily.
For businesses, file sharing can be critical for collaborating amongst teams and sharing documents and files for projects.
For individuals, file sharing is a convenient method to exchange documents, images, and other files with friends and family.
Conference calling
VoIP systems are perfect for conference calls with multiple participants, making it easy to connect with clients, colleagues, and partners.
Conference calling allows for real-time collaboration, providing a more efficient and productive way to conduct meetings and presentations. It reduces the need for travel - saving time and money - while maintaining engagement among team members.
Individuals who want to communicate with multiple family or friends simultaneously can also leverage conference calling's benefits.
Integrations with business tools
Many VoIP systems offer integrations with popular third-party tools like Salesforce, HubSpot, and Microsoft Teams. Combining VoIP with popular business applications allows seamless communication and collaboration among remote teams.
Mobile VoIP
mVoIP systems let users make calls and send messages from their smartphones or tablets using a Wi-Fi or mobile data connection.
For businesses, mobile VoIP allows employees to stay connected with colleagues and clients while traveling or working remotely. It can also reduce international calling costs and simplify communication with global partners.
Mobile VoIP is a cost-effective way for individuals to communicate with family and friends, especially when traveling internationally or making long-distance calls.
VoIP: Cost-effective, sophisticated communication options
VoIP is excellent for businesses and individuals seeking cost-effective, feature-rich phone services. Access to sophisticated options for better communication and enhanced commercial activities is now available to everyone through free or paid VoIP solutions.
Whether you're a small business, a remote worker, or an international company, VoIP can help you stay connected with your customers and colleagues, streamline communication, and improve your bottom line. So why not give VoIP a try? With so many great options, you will find a VoIP phone system that meets your needs and exceeds your expectations.