Voice Over IP Reviews

The most recent VoIP reviews (JD Power, CNet.com, PC Magazine) say CallVantage outdistances Vonage and other competitors for its consistently high call quality and customer support.

Unlike the VoIP services offered by cable-TV providers, you don't have to get your Internet service from AT&T to subscribe -- CallVantage works with any broadband Internet service.

The CallVantage service offers a rich menu of features, such as call logs, fax support, speed dial and three-way calling. Also, most CallVantage subscribers now have E911 service (which automatically transmits your address to emergency personnel).

Although Cox Digital Telephone and Optimum Voice get slightly higher ratings for sound quality, AT&T CallVantage is much less expensive. AT&T is currently charging $24.99 / month with the first month free and unlimited calls within the US and to Canada & Puerto Rico.

For more info, visit the AT&T CallVantage page.

Compared to other VoIP services, reviews say Cox Digital Telephone has the best call quality and reliability. However, it's only available in areas served by Cox Communications, and it's more expensive than services like AT&T and Vonage.

Extra benefits of Cox include call forwarding, priority ringtones, selective call rejection, caller ID and three-way calling.

By bundling digital phone with other Cox services, you can reduce monthly rates; Cox Digital Telephone makes the most sense for those with other Cox services. Cox says that all of its 2 million subscribers have E911 service.

Skype is a free download that allows you to make no-cost VoIP calls to anyone with the same software through your computer. In addition, you can conference up to nine Skype users concurrently.

If you want to call a regular phone number, Skype has add-on plans that let you call through your computer for about 2¢ per minute anywhere in the world.

Skype is a favorite in reviews for its ease of setup and good sound quality, though voice quality can be spotty. Your computer needs to be turned on to make or receive Internet phone calls.

Skype isn't meant to replace your regular phone, however -- it doesn't offer any 911 service or local number portability.

download Skype

Consider how many and what type of calls you make. Most VoIP services cost between $20 and $40 per month for unlimited local and long-distance calls in the U.S., and many include Canada and Puerto Rico. You'll need to assess what you're currently spending on local and long distance calls to determine whether VoIP will save you money.

Decide whether to keep your landline, and be sure to include that cost in your calculations. Because E911 service isn't yet universally available, experts say you should consider keeping a basic landline for emergencies. Be sure to include that cost in your usage estimates. In addition, a land line will still work during a power outage -- the majority of VoIP service will not. E911 availability depends on your location, so you'll have to verify availability with the VoIP company.

Hidden costs. Most VoIP services include an adapter, but not all do, so be sure to check when comparing plans. Many services charge fees up-front for set-up and/or shipping equipment.

Local number portability. Most companies allow customers to keep their original phone number, although sometimes it is not possible depending on the local service.

Alternate numbers. By choosing an area code separate from the one you live in, you may be able to save out-of-state friends and relatives some money. Keep in mind, however, that local calls will no longer be local, if you have a different area code than your neighbors.

Calling features. Additional features normally cost extra through your local phone company. But with VoIP services, these goodies are usually free. Features include call waiting, call forwarding, conference calling, voicemail, caller ID, an online call log, do-not-disturb setting and more.

Compatibility with other equipment and services. For now, not all home security systems, TiVo boxes and satellite TV receivers work with VoIP, so you may not be able to retire your phone line if you use it for these purposes.

Multiple Lines. Multiple-line options are limited, since most services only allow one line per converter box, but some services have multi-line offers.

Fax compatibility. Not all services support adding a fax machine. AT&T CallVantage, for example, does support fax machines. Vonage, however, charges an extra $10 a month for a separate fax line.

Read the fine print. Check the cancellation policy. You will be refunded your money if you cancel within a specifie

Check out the VoIP swicki at Eurekster.com. Use it to find more interesting info or sites about Voice over IP solutions.