11 Best VoIP Service for Home

VoIP solutions for home use, often referred to as residential VoIP, leverage your existing internet connection for communication instead of traditional telephone lines.?

This system is more cost-effective than the Plain Old Telephone System (POTS) and can be quickly installed thanks to its plug-and-play technology. Users can transfer their existing phone numbers to this new service seamlessly. Some systems even allow the use of current telephones for calling.?

Additionally, during internet downtimes, these services can switch calls from the internet to the traditional phone network. Key features typically include three-way calling, voicemail, emergency 911 services, caller identification, and call waiting.

Best Residential VoIP Phone Service Providers

1) Ooma Telo

2) RingCentral

3) VoIP.ms

4) Vonage

5) Nextiva

6) 8x8

7) Axvoice

8) Google Voice

9) 1-VoIP

10) Phone Power

11) CallCentric

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1) Ooma Telo

Ooma Telo offers top-tier residential VoIP services, requiring a direct connection to your internet router for setup. This system must be connected directly to your internet router. The service package includes features such as three-way conference calling, call forwarding, and voicemail capabilities. This feature-rich communication platform offers international calling options for global reach. With the basic package, customers enjoy low-cost international calls, complimentary domestic calls, and an integrated answering machine feature.

Features:

• Enhanced Video Conferencing: Host video meetings with up to 25 participants effortlessly.
• Advanced Call Blocking: Automatically filters out robocalls and spam calls before your phone rings.
• Simultaneous Ringing: Multi-ring functionality ensures you never miss critical calls by ringing multiple devices at once.
• Additional Numbers: Secure up to nine local or toll-free secondary numbers.
• Call Forwarding During Outages: Automatically redirects calls to a preset number if your internet connection fails.
• Secure Voicemail: Set up a password-protected voicemail with private extensions.
• Real-Time Alerts: Receive instant notifications for missed calls and messages.
• Enhanced Caller ID: Identify callers by name, even if they aren't stored in your contacts.
• Smart Home Integration: Works seamlessly with Google Home and Amazon Echo.
• Cross-Platform Compatibility: Supports Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows devices.
• Unlimited North American Calling: Available with the Premier Plan.
• Comprehensive Support: Access to email, instant chat, FAQs, video tutorials, and e-guides.
• Flexible Voicemail Access: Check your voicemail online or via phone.

Pros:

• Free Ooma-to-Ooma calls globally, ensuring crisp and clear communication.
• Includes free mobile minutes and unlimited texting with affordable plan options.
• Compatible with all traditional landline phones and simple to install.
• Provides round-the-clock customer support.

Cons:

• Requires an additional purchase of a Wi-Fi adapter for wireless use.
• Offers limited features for call reporting and analytics.

Pricing:

• Device cost: $79.
• Free Trial: 30-day money-back guarantee, allowing you to try Ooma Telo risk-free.

2) RingCentral

RingCentral offers a versatile cloud-based communication platform suitable for both small and large enterprises. Although primarily designed for business environments, RingCentral serves as an effective VoIP phone system for home use as well. Users can access voice calling and virtual fax management via dedicated mobile and desktop applications. The entry-level subscription provides limitless calls within the U.S., a high-end messaging interface, and call forwarding. The Standard plan enhances capabilities with team messaging, document sharing through chats, a company directory, multiple extensions, task management, and integrations with various programs, plus unlimited internet fax.

Features:

• Professional greeting options, including custom and automated responses, ensure every call begins on the right note.
• On-hold music feature to keep callers engaged while waiting.
• Customize caller journeys with a multi-level auto attendant.
• Real-time voice-to-text transcription of voicemails thanks to advanced voice AI technology.
• Receive instant notifications for messages and missed calls, ensuring you're always in the loop.
• Integrated robocall blocking feature to maintain a focus on important communications.
• Extensive third-party integrations include Microsoft Teams, Salesforce, Google Workspace, and more.
• Compatible across multiple platforms such as Android, iOS, macOS, Linux, and Windows.
• Global service availability in over 30 countries, including the US, Canada, Australia, and several European nations.
• Enjoy unlimited calling within the US and Canada.
• Robust customer support framework offering phone assistance, webinars, emails, instant chat, FAQs, video tutorials, and e-guides.
• Voicemail accessibility via an online account, phone, or email enhances flexibility and connectivity.

Pros:

• Call recording capability allows for archival and future reference.
• Simplified call routing and number porting are available directly through your account.
• Superior HD audio and video quality ensure clear communications.
• Comprehensive call logs for easy tracking of all calls and faxes.

Cons:

• Customer support response times can be slow, potentially delaying issue resolution.

Pricing:

• Plans begin at $20 per month, with annual payment options.
• A 15-day free trial is available to test the service before making a commitment.

3) VoIP.ms

As a Canadian VoIP provider for residential use, VoIP.ms promotes a comprehensive bring-your-own-device strategy, allowing users to manage both inbound and outbound communication with tools like call hunting and voicemail options. The platform is equipped with several utilities, including email notifications for voicemails, call waiting, automatic replies, and the ability to hold calls. VoIP.ms stands out by offering no-cost porting services for local and toll-free direct inward dialing numbers across North America. Users have the flexibility to customize features like ring groups and mailbox quantities and can connect a virtual phone number to Live Agent for seamless integration, facilitating direct calls, call routing via IVR, and video communications.

Features:

• Automatic Call Distribution: Manage large volumes of calls efficiently with voice prompts and automated call routing.
• Email Alerts: Receive notifications for API changes, emergency calls, or security updates like password changes.
• Call Management: Set up callback options and reroute incoming calls to alternate numbers.
• Customizable Hold Music: Personalize the on-hold experience with custom messages or promotional content.
• Caller ID Prefixing: Add prefixes to incoming caller IDs to identify callers before answering.
• Real-time Monitoring and Reporting: Track call activities instantly through a comprehensive dashboard.
• Robocall Blocking: Protect your line from unwanted robocalls and telemarketers.
• Wide Coverage: Provides VoIP services across Canada, the USA, and Mexico.
• Multi-platform Support: Compatible with Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows.
• Extensive Customer Support: Access support through various channels, including phone, webinars, emails, instant chat, FAQs, video tutorials, and e-guides.

Pros:

• VoIP.ms is known for its competitive pricing and no mandatory contracts, making it an affordable choice.
• Enables audio conferences using both toll-free and local numbers.
• Easily access call logs and share media files during communications.
• Allows the creation of extensions and call recording sequences for enhanced call management.

Cons:

• The costs can accumulate over time, making it more expensive than some flat-rate plans.
• Service disruptions require a router restart to reconnect, which can be inconvenient.

Pricing:

• Starting at $0.85 per month, offering one of the most competitive rates in the VoIP market.

4) Vonage

Vonage , a leading home VoIP service provider, offers a simple device that plugs into a router for instant connectivity. Partnering with Amazon Chime, Vonage provides comprehensive access to video and web conferencing tools. The home phone service from Vonage includes features such as file sharing, three-way calling, screen sharing, and sophisticated voicemail capabilities. Enjoy unlimited SMS and call services across Puerto Rico, the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Vonage's free mobile apps allow users to manage calls on the move. Enhanced service plans feature unlimited international calling to 60 countries from landlines, with services available in the U.S. and Canada.?

Features:

• Follow-Me Functionality: Routes incoming calls to alternate devices seamlessly.
• Do Not Disturb Mode: Automatically replies to callers when you are unavailable.
• Auto-Attendant: directs callers and manages messages efficiently.
• Call Forwarding: Allows calls to be redirected to different devices.
• Calendar Synchronization: Facilitates scheduling by syncing with your calendar.
• Caller ID: Displays the name of incoming callers before you pick them up.
• Audio Playback and Custom Hold Music: Enhance the caller experience during wait times.
• Robocall Blocking: Prevents spam, robocalls, and telemarketer disturbances.
• Extensive Third-Party Integration: Compatible with Office 365, Salesforce, ConnectWise, Zoho, NetSuite, and G Suite.
• Cross-Platform Support: Works across Android, iOS, macOS, Windows, and Linux.
• Unlimited Calling: Offers unlimited calls in the US and Canada under the World Plus plan.
• Comprehensive Customer Support: Available via phone, email, chat, FAQs, video tutorials, and e-guides.

Pros:

• High scalability for text-to-speech features.
• Cost-effective international calling rates.
• Automated conference call joining at meeting start.
• Provides 99.999% quality of service for global reliability.

Cons:

• Steep learning curve and requires technical acumen.
• Accessing customer support can sometimes be a challenge.

Pricing:

• Starting Rate: Plans begin at $19.99 per month.
• Free Trial: The option to sign up and try the service for free.

5) Nextiva

Nextiva , a VoIP provider, equips small and large businesses with cloud-based phone services for inbound and outbound calling initiatives. Users can secure local and international phone numbers and leverage automatic feedback mechanisms from clients. Businesses can centrally oversee all communications and customer engagements.

Features:

• Instantly access customer profiles upon receiving calls.
• Seamlessly gather client feedback automatically.
• Centralized management of all communications and data.
• Comprehensive tracking of customer interactions with your business.
• Receive instant notifications for messages and missed calls.
• Offers a detailed, real-time snapshot of client activities at the individual level.
• Ability to block robocalls directly from the contact list.
• Provision of local numbers in Canada, the UK, the US, and Puerto Rico.
• Diverse customer support options include live chat, webinars, ticketing systems, telephone support, and educational guides.

Pros:

• Includes ready-to-use templates for enhancing business branding.
• Sends automated surveys after client interactions.
• Features integrated reminders to keep track of important tasks.
• Supports unlimited audio conferencing for up to 40 participants.

Cons:

• Some users experience frequent crashes with the Nextiva app.

Pricing:

• Starting at $18.95 per month with annual billing.
• Offers a complimentary live demonstration.

6) 8x8

8x8 fosters collaboration through a unified platform featuring video conferencing, instant messaging, and screen-sharing tools. Known for its superior internet telephone services with HD voice quality, 8x8 is accessible across all devices and locations. Its packages feature integrated voice services and comprehensive backend analytics to track efficacy. In addition to core functionality, the system provides call recording, call screening, and voicemail conversion to text format. With its fully operational contact center that supports omnichannel customer interactions, 8x8 extends unlimited international calling, cost-effective rates, and brief contract durations.

Features:

• Speech Analysis: Monitors and identifies key phrases frequently used during calls, enhancing communication insights.
• Auto-Attendant: Customizes caller interactions, offering a seamless experience without human intervention.
• Call Forwarding & Transfer: Seamlessly direct calls to another cellphone or landline, ensuring no missed opportunities.
• Actionable Call Tracking: Provides comprehensive call metrics that are crucial for optimizing sales strategies.
• Large-scale video conferencing accommodates up to 500 participants in a single session, making it ideal for large meetings.
• Call Management: Supports advanced features like call parking and queuing to streamline call handling.
• Robocall Filtering: Allows users to effectively block unwanted calls, ensuring a disturbance-free environment.
• Extensive Integration: Compatible with major platforms like Microsoft Teams, HubSpot, Zoho, and Salesforce, enhancing workflow.
• Global Reach: Available in over 100 countries, including New Zealand, France, Ireland, and more, facilitating international operations.
• Cross-platform Support: Fully functional on iOS, Android, macOS, Linux, and Windows.
• Unlimited Calling: Offers unlimited calls within the US and Canada.
• Robust Customer Support: Includes an array of support options such as online courses, instant chat, and video tutorials.

Pros:

• Easy switching from text chat to video meetings enhances communication fluidity.
• Allows personalization to manage multiple phone numbers efficiently.
• Available across all service tiers, ensuring team connectivity.
• Provides round-the-clock customer support via an intelligent online chatbot.

Cons:

• The platform can be intricate for new users to navigate and set up.
• It does not support importing contacts directly from Google, which could be a drawback for some users.

Pricing:

• Starting Price: Plans begin at $15 per user per month.
• Discount Offer: A 25% discount is available for annual payments.
• Free Trial: A 30-day free trial is available to test the services before making a commitment.

7) Axvoice

Tailored for home users and small businesses, Axvoice offers a specialized VoIP phone service through the AXvoice device, which connects seamlessly with your internet router and home VoIP phones. It emphasizes easy access to local and international calls via toll-free numbers, and all its service plans include unlimited Internet calling. To counteract any disruptions in internet phone services, a redirection feature ensures continuous phone availability. Axvoice stands out in the USA and Canada with its affordable pay-as-you-go pricing for outgoing calls, complemented by advanced features like call logs, speech-to-text conversions, customizable call filters, and voicemail management through email.

Features:

• Advanced call forwarding allows the redirection of calls to any cell phone or landline.
• View call logs easily to manage your VoIP account effectively.
• Simultaneous ringing on up to three devices ensures no important calls are missed.
• The caller ID displays the name and number of all incoming calls.
• Engage callers with AXvoice’s on-hold music feature.
• "Do Not Disturb" mode sends custom messages to callers when you're unavailable.
• Three-way calling feature to add a third participant to an ongoing call seamlessly.
• Blacklist function to prevent unwanted callers from reaching you.
• Full support for both Android and iOS platforms.
• Offers unlimited calling within the US and Canada.
• Comprehensive customer support includes email, FAQs, e-guides, and online ticket submissions.

Pros:

• The Softphone app allows you to use your cell phone for VoIP services from anywhere.
• BYOD support helps you set up any unlocked VoIP device with ease.
• Free AXvoice hardware reduces initial setup costs.
• Unlimited free calls to other AXvoice numbers enhance communication within the network.

Cons:

• High costs for international calls can be a limitation for global users.
• Lack of CRM integration may not suit all business needs.

Pricing:

• Competitive plans start at just $4.99 per month.
• Includes a 15-day money-back guarantee to ensure customer satisfaction.

8) Google Voice

Google Voice provides a complimentary residential phone service to individual users. With Google Voice, individual account holders can enjoy a free home phone service, making use of features such as calling, texting, and voicemail on both mobiles and landlines. This VoIP service grants a local number that allows users to make and receive calls for free within certain countries, relying on Wi-Fi or mobile data for connectivity. Our upgraded plan provides a cost-effective solution for households with multiple users (up to ten).

Features:

• Advanced voice AI to filter and block unwanted calls, categorizing Robocalls as spam automatically.
• Real-time data analytics provide comprehensive insights into call logs and durations.
• Supports conference calls with up to four participants.
• The call screening feature announces callers' names before the phone rings.
• Integrated address book and contact management for streamlined communication.
• Flexible call routing directs calls to designated voicemails or phones.
• Customizable messages and greetings can be set for different callers.
• Available across multiple countries, including the UK, Netherlands, Sweden, France, Portugal, USA, Canada, Switzerland, Spain, and Denmark.
• Seamless integration with Google Drive, Calendar, and Meet enhances productivity.
• Compatible with multiple platforms, including Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows.
• Offers unlimited calling within the US and Canada.
• Comprehensive customer support with instant chat, FAQs, video tutorials, and e-guides.

Pros:

• Ability to record calls for future reference.
• Affordable international calling rates.
• Provides a free landline number without additional costs.
• Easy management of incoming calls across multiple numbers once configured.

Cons:

• Lacks options for vanity or toll-free numbers.

Pricing:

• Google Voice plans to start at $10 per month.
• A 30-day free trial is available, allowing users to explore features without initial investment.

Link: https://voice.google.com/

9) 1-VoIP

1-VoIP is a residential VoIP service provider leveraging cloud technology to offer low-cost phone solutions. Partnering with Nomorobo, it provides top-tier call filtering. Connection to the internet router is made simple with an Analog Telephone Adapter (ATA). Its Value plan includes 500 free minutes to North America and unlimited incoming calls, with upgrades that provide virtual fax, international dialing, and multiple phone numbers. Additionally, users can enjoy limitless calls to North America and 30 other countries, call forwarding, email-delivered voicemail, and extra extensions.

Features:

• Enjoy seamless call management with options to reject unknown callers anonymously and block automated robocalls.
• Elevate caller on-hold experiences with customizable on-hold music, perfect for when you're momentarily unavailable.
• Never miss a crucial call thanks to the simultaneous ringing feature across multiple devices.
• Utilize the “Do not disturb” mode to send tailored messages directly to callers when you need undisturbed time.
• Filter incoming calls effectively with a whitelist feature, ensuring only selected contacts can reach you.
• Advanced caller ID settings allow for pre-screening of calls, adding an extra layer of privacy.
• Benefit from an integrated auto-attendant system that handles messages and directs callers efficiently.
• Set wake-up calls and schedule specific times for receiving calls, optimizing your availability.
• Comprehensive device compatibility supports Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows platforms.
• The service is primarily based in the USA, and it has unlimited calling to the US and Canada.
• Extensive customer support options include email, FAQs, and detailed e-guides.

Pros:

• Compatible with any traditional phone using an RJ-11 cable.
• Access to a digital softphone application allows for using VoIP services from any location.
• Robust customer support is available through email, live chat, and social media channels.
• Control expenses with the option to limit international calls on the Nationwide plan.

Cons:

• Lacks support for group calling, web-based SMS, and video conferencing features.

Pricing:

• Affordable plans begin at just $8.97 per month.
• Risk-free with a 30-day money-back guarantee.
• A free 30-day trial is available to test the service without commitment.

?Link: https://www.1-voip.com/

10) Phone Power

Phone Power provides a broadband home phone service through an analog telephone adapter (ATA) that connects directly to your internet and phone systems. This device can also operate as an independent router.

Standard services include limitless calling to both mobiles and traditional phones in the USA and Canada, plus a softphone app for making calls from a computer without extra fees.

Phone Power's enhanced options feature call screening, email notifications for voicemails, and call waiting services. You can manage your voicemails online, and benefits such as no-cost activation and free calls to other users in the Phone Power network are included.

Features:

• Simultaneously connect with three individuals via the 3-way conference call feature.
• Activate the outbound caller feature to make private calls securely.
• Effortlessly direct incoming calls to specified destinations with advanced routing options.
• Quickly reach frequently contacted numbers using one- and two-digit speed dialing.
• Reduce your phone bills with the operator call block feature, which prevents cellular network usage.
• Shield yourself from interruptions with anonymous caller rejection to avoid spam and unwanted calls.
• Set your phone to “Do Not Disturb” mode to automatically forward all calls to voicemail.
• Identify incoming calls easily with caller ID, which displays names and numbers.
• Block robocalls, spam, and telemarketing disturbances efficiently.
• Enjoy VoIP services across the USA and Canada.
• Seamlessly integrate with Microsoft Outlook for enhanced productivity.
• Compatible with Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows platforms.
• Access comprehensive customer support through email, instant chat, and a detailed FAQ section.

Pros:

• Complimentary international calls to over 75 countries, enhancing global connectivity.
• Benefit from a free second line on the same phone, offering added value.
• Receive notifications via email for every incoming call, ensuring you never miss important contacts.
• Monitor call activities with real-time call logs accessible through a web-based account.

Cons:

• A cancellation fee of $99, which may be considered steep by some users.
• The mobile and web interfaces may feel outdated compared to contemporary alternatives.

Pricing:

• Monthly plans commence at $24.95, inclusive of a 30-day money-back guarantee, providing peace of mind and flexibility.

?Link: https://www.phonepower.com/

11) CallCentric

Serving North America, CallCentric offers VoIP services tailored for residential and commercial customers. The service framework utilizes an analog telephone adapter (ATA), an IP phone, and a broadband internet connection. Customers benefit from complimentary local numbers for unlimited calling, and features like web management, voicemail, call hunting, and fax reception are included.

Features:

• Enable "Do Not Disturb" to automatically send calls to voicemail when unavailable.
• Utilize 4-way calling to engage up to three additional numbers simultaneously.
• Access complimentary directory assistance for any U.S. phone number lookup.
• Identify incoming callers with the Call Waiting ID during active calls.
• Quickly reconnect with the last dialed number using the "Last Number Redial" feature.
• Efficiently block spam and telemarketer calls with a single-click filtering option.
• Configure incoming calls to ring simultaneously on up to eight different devices.
• Available services across the USA and Canada.
• Compatible with Android, iOS, macOS, and Windows platforms.
• Enjoy unlimited calls within the US and Canada through the North America Unlimited and World Select plans.
• Comprehensive customer support is available via email, FAQs, and electronic guides.

Pros:

• Manage contacts efficiently with speed dial capabilities for up to 100 numbers.
• Benefit from free, high-quality, unlimited in-network calls.
• A flexible system allows for the creation of sub-accounts on multiple devices.
• Enhanced security for users connecting via static IP.

Cons:

• Setup fees are required, and pricing remains constant regardless of call volume.

Pricing:

• Plans begin at $1.95 per month, with an initial setup fee of $1.50.

Link: https://www.callcentric.com/

Verdict

From my experience, the top VoIP services for home use deliver cost-effective and feature-rich solutions. Whether you're seeking affordability, advanced features, or reliable performance, there's a VoIP provider that will meet your needs.