What are some alternatives to Google Voice?

Alternative Apps
1

I’ve been using Google Voice for communication, but I’m looking for similar apps as alternatives to explore. Any recommendations or suggestions after experiencing issues with call quality? Need reliable options that offer texting and call forwarding functionalities.

2

  1. TextNow

    • Homepage Link: www.textnow.com
    • Pros & Cons:
      • Pros: Free calls and texting within the U.S. and Canada; responsive mobile app for iOS and Android; inexpensive plans for cellular service if needed.
      • Cons: Call ads in the free version can be intrusive; international calls aren’t free and can be pricey compared to other services.
    • Features: Unlimited texting and calling within the U.S./Canada, affordable international rates, number porting, and voicemail support.
    • User Reviews: Many users praised its affordability and ease of use but complained about occasional ad-induced slowdown in the free version.
    • Verdict: Perfect for dual purposes as a primary or secondary number. Great for avoiding extra costs without sacrificing functionality.

  2. Burner

    • Homepage Link: www.burnerapp.com
    • Pros & Cons:
      • Pros: Disposable phone numbers for privacy; no spam; premium plans offer unlimited and long-lasting numbers.
      • Cons: It’s not entirely free; subscription required after the trial.
    • Features: Temporary phone numbers, call forwarding, do-not-disturb mode, number customization options.
    • User Reviews: Users love it for anonymity and privacy, but some complained about the app not being as intuitive at first.
    • Verdict: An excellent choice for temporary communications or maintaining privacy without linking your personal number.

  3. Sideline

    • Homepage Link: www.sideline.com
    • Pros & Cons:
      • Pros: Designed for small business communication; robust features like auto-replies, shared lines, and team management.
      • Cons: Not ideal for personal use because it skews toward business-focused users; pricier than some alternatives.
    • Features: Professional second phone line, business text reminders, team collaboration tools.
    • User Reviews: Appreciated by entrepreneurs for professionalism; criticism revolves around the high monthly subscription cost.
    • Verdict: Great if you need a solid business communication app more than a personal alternative to Google Voice.

  4. OpenPhone

    • Homepage Link: www.openphone.co
    • Pros & Cons:
      • Pros: Seamlessly integrates with Slack, Zapier, and Hubspot; crystal clear call quality.
      • Cons: More expensive compared to some basic competitors.
    • Features: Business-oriented phone services, CRM integration, voicemail transcription, and personalized customer interactions.
    • User Reviews: Companies love it for team communication, but individual users might find it overkill.
    • Verdict: Awesome for startups and businesses scaling communications but less appealing for everyday use due to pricing.

  5. Talkatone

    • Homepage Link: www.talkatone.com
    • Pros & Cons:
      • Pros: Free to use for calls and texts within the U.S. and Canada; works over WiFi without cellular service.
      • Cons: Call quality may degrade on weak connections; UX design feels slightly outdated.
    • Features: Free domestic services, paid international calling, simple UI for effortless setup.
    • User Reviews: Well-loved by users on tight budgets. Some did find audio clipping on choppy internet connections.
    • Verdict: Ideal for users who need basic functionality without bells and whistles at no cost.

  6. Dialpad

    • Homepage Link: www.dialpad.com
    • Pros & Cons:
      • Pros: Powered by AI for high call clarity; unlimited calling within the U.S. and Canada.
      • Cons: May feel too feature-rich for users looking for simplicity—built more for businesses.
    • Features: AI transcription, call centers, seamless integration with Google Workspace and Office 365, HD sound quality.
    • User Reviews: Business users favor Dialpad for clear calls and analytics; individuals might feel it’s slightly overpowered for basic use cases.
    • Verdict: Smart choice if you want top-notch tech like AI transcription for work; casual users might look elsewhere.

  7. Hushed

    • Homepage Link: www.hushed.com
    • Pros & Cons:
      • Pros: Focuses on privacy; pay-as-you-go plans; international coverage.
      • Cons: Requires some effort setting up profiles compared to simpler apps.
    • Features: Temporary or long-term second numbers, encrypted messaging, voicemail options, and self-destructing texts.
    • User Reviews: Praised for its secure ecosystem. Some complained about the occasional delays in text delivery.
    • Verdict: Looking to manage multiple numbers securely? Hushed is a no-brainer, especially for folks prioritizing privacy.

  8. Line2

    • Homepage Link: www.line2.com
    • Pros & Cons:
      • Pros: Helps manage personal and business communication; supports multiple numbers on one device.
      • Cons: Price can climb depending on the features you require.
    • Features: Voicemail transcription, toll-free numbers, texting, and calling over WiFi or cellular.
    • User Reviews: Business owners tout its multitasking capabilities; some people wish for cheaper pricing for personal use.
    • Verdict: Perfect balance if you’re juggling work and personal life and want clarity between the two networks.

  9. Grasshopper

    • Homepage Link: www.grasshopper.com
    • Pros & Cons:
      • Pros: Offers advanced call handling features, such as extensions and custom greetings.
      • Cons: Geared toward entrepreneurs, so it’s not the best fit for personal needs.
    • Features: Business text messaging, extensions for teams, auto-attendant, and incoming call management.
    • User Reviews: Small business users appreciate its professionalism; individuals may feel the features are too business-centric.
    • Verdict: For personal Google Voice replacement? Meh. For enhancing your side hustle or growing business? A top contender.

  10. Skype

  • Homepage Link: www.skype.com
  • Pros & Cons:
    • Pros: Robust legacy app; international calling rates still remain affordable.
    • Cons: Heavier app compared to modern streamlined options; reports of occasional lag when calling.
  • Features: International video and voice calls, SMS messaging, voicemail capabilities, group calls.
  • User Reviews: Known for reliability, though many users feel it’s aged compared to sleek competitors.
  • Verdict: A classic that gets the job done but lacks some agility compared to newer tools. Better for video calling.

Final Takeaway

If call clarity is your top priority, Dialpad and OpenPhone shine bright. For cost-efficiency and free U.S./Canada calls, I’d suggest TextNow or Talkatone. For privacy maniacs, Burner and Hushed are excellent. Meanwhile, small-business owners might find their perfect match with Sideline, Grasshopper, or Line2. Finally, Skype remains a good fallback, especially for international communications.

If you’re unsure, pick a couple of apps to try! Most offer free trials, so compare directly and see which fits your personal preferences. Good luck finding the right one!