Best Virtual Phone Number Apps in 2024
Now, let’s dive into the top five virtual phone number apps that are making waves in 2024.
1. Ooma – Best for Small and Medium Businesses (SMBs)
If you run a small or medium-sized business, Ooma is a great choice. I like it because it’s easy to set up, and the features are top-notch. You get everything from call forwarding to advanced analytics, all in one platform. It even includes a virtual receptionist to help manage calls when you’re busy.
Key Features:
- Call forwarding
- Voicemail transcription
- Advanced call analytics
- Mobile and desktop apps for managing calls on the go
Pricing: Ooma starts at $19.95 per user/month, which is reasonable considering all the features you’re getting. And if you need a toll-free number, Ooma’s got you covered there too.
2. Nextiva – Best for Unified Communications
If you need more than just a phone system—think video conferencing and team messaging—then Nextiva is the way to go. It’s like having all your communication tools in one place, which is super convenient if you’re managing a team or multiple clients.
Key Features:
- AI voicemail transcription (no more deciphering garbled messages!)
- Video conferencing for team meetings
- CRM integration with tools like Salesforce
- Call recording and analytics
Pricing: It starts at $20 per user/month. Considering all the extras Nextiva offers, it’s a solid investment for businesses that need more than just a phone line.
3. Grasshopper – Best for Small Businesses
For small businesses, Grasshopper is a no-fuss solution. You can set up local, toll-free, or vanity numbers in minutes, and the app is super user-friendly. Plus, you can keep your business and personal calls separate, which is a huge bonus if you use the same phone for both.
Key Features:
- Local and toll-free numbers
- Call forwarding and voicemail management
- Mobile and desktop apps for easy access
- Virtual fax and business texting
Pricing: Grasshopper starts at $26 per month. It’s simple, effective, and affordable—everything a small business needs in a virtual phone system.
4. Google Voice – Best Free Option
If you’re on a budget (or just like free stuff), Google Voice is probably your best bet. While it’s not as feature-packed as some of the paid services, it does a great job for basic call management. Plus, if you’re already using Google Workspace, it integrates seamlessly.
Key Features:
- Google Workspace integration
- Voicemail transcription
- Free calling within the US and Canada
- Call forwarding to multiple devices
Pricing: It’s free for personal use, but business plans start at $10 per user/month. If you don’t need all the bells and whistles, Google Voice gets the job done.
5. OpenPhone – Best for Affordable Business Numbers
OpenPhone is one of the newer kids on the block, but it’s quickly making a name for itself thanks to its low prices and robust feature set. You can get international numbers, set up group messaging, and even create auto-replies for when you’re out of the office.
Key Features:
- Group messaging and auto-replies
- International calling and messaging
- Call tracking and reporting tools
- Integration with apps like Slack and Zapier
Pricing: At just $10 per user/month, OpenPhone offers a lot of value, especially if you’re working with an international team.
Free vs. Paid Virtual Phone Number Apps
Now, let’s talk about the big question: should you go for a free or paid virtual phone number app? Here’s what I suggest based on your needs:
When Free Makes Sense:
- If you’re a solopreneur or freelancer who just needs a basic phone number to keep business and personal calls separate, a free option like Google Voice will probably work fine.
When Paid is Worth It:
- If you’re running a small or medium-sized business and need features like call recording, analytics, or team management, I’d recommend going with a paid option like Nextiva or Ooma. You’ll get way more flexibility and features that can scale as your business grows.
How to Choose the Right Virtual Phone Number App for Your Needs
Ultimately, the right virtual phone number app for you depends on your specific needs. Think about the size of your team, your budget, and the features you can’t live without. For example, if you do a lot of international business, OpenPhone might be your best bet. If you need all-in-one communication tools, Nextiva is hard to beat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I port my existing phone number to a virtual number service? Yes! Most services, like Grasshopper and Ooma, allow you to bring your existing number with you.
Are virtual phone numbers secure? Absolutely. Most providers use encryption to ensure your calls and data are safe.
Can I use virtual numbers internationally? Yes, many services, like OpenPhone and Google Voice, offer international calling features.
Conclusion
Finding the right virtual phone number app doesn’t have to be a hassle. Whether you’re looking for a free solution like Google Voice or need a more robust system like Ooma or Nextiva, there’s something out there for every business size and budget. Take a few of them for a spin, and see which one fits your needs best.
