Internet Phone Service Reviews
When it comes to Internet phones, determining the best can be based on a variety of features. After all, one company may have the best service package while another may have the best audio quality. However, to help you decide what Internet service (VoIP) provider will best meet your needs here are some of those cited by Consumer Search.com as being among the best available.
If you are looking for the Internet phone provider with the most features the Vonage is the clear winner. Vonage VoIP Premium Plan customers enjoy long distance calls to Canada, Puerto Rico and 5 European countries, call waiting, caller ID, visual voice mail, weather alerts, and even unlimited virtual phone numbers, to name just a few, all for $25 a month. Perhaps the biggest drawback with Vonage is the 2 year contract; however, there is a paid ($40) 30 day trial period you can select before signing a contract.
If you are looking for a Internet phone connection without a monthly fee, then the best choice is Ooma. Ooma ‘s only fee is the $250 initial purchase which covers 1 extension and 1 adapter, with additional extensions averaging $70 each. Ooma offers all domestic calling for free with calls to Western Europe and Canada for around $0.02 a minute. Reviewers have compared it to Vonage. Also, Ooma is scheduled to release an upgrade to their service later this year that will make the Ooma hardware seem obsolete.
For the best free Internet phone software, you can’t beat Skype. This free download allows users to make VoIP calls, send IMs, use video conferencing, and many other add on features. For extra features such as international calls there is a $30 annual fee. However, it should be noted that Skype requires a computer that is powered up in order to be used and that Skype doesn’t offer 911 services or local number portability.
For Internet phone service as part of a bundled service the top providers are Cox Communications, Bright House Networks Wow! Cable and Comcast. They offer a variety of features and by being bundled with your cable and internet connection you could save as much as $25 a month, depending on your current plan. Keep in mind, that just because a company does well in one part of the country does not meant that it will be just as effective in another. Take some time to talk to those you know, to confirm what provider works best in your area.
Sources: Consumer Search.com, The New York Times, and galttech.com
