VoIP Vonage Review: VoIP Review

VoIP Review:Vonage Review
Vonage is one of the largest and most popular VoIP or Voice Over Internet Protocol providers. What follows is a balanced report on the pros and cons of choosing Vonage's VoIP Solution.

With the recent explosion of VoIP into the average consumer’s home, a few VoIP providers have come to the forefront of the Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) industry. Vonage is arguably the most popular VoIP solution and for good reason. With features and quality that surpass most competitors, the program is unparalleled. The product does have some limitations, however, that make it not the best choice for every consumer.

How it Works

Like all VoIP programs, Vonage requires a DSL or Cable internet connection. Unlike IM based VoIP providers like Skype, Vonage comes with one of two actual handsets that look identical to traditional land based telephones. Both models work quite well, although we found that the Motorola VT1005v offered clearer voice quality than the Linksys RT31P2 model.

Vonage also differs from competitors like Skype in its cost structure. Vonage offers a number of monthly packages, offering allotted minutes or unlimited use. These allotted minutes can be used for calling anyone throughout the US. For calls outside the US, however, there is a long-distance charge applied per minute. Just like with land lines, the rate depends on the location called. But unlike landlines, the rates are always clearly posted, and are much cheaper.

Features

Unlike many of its competitors, Vonage is in the unique position of being able to offer complete land line replacement. With extensive features like 911, call waiting, call forwarding, voice mail, and repeat dial, the service comes with all the features your land line did but at a much lower price. In addition, because Vonage comes with handsets, there is no need to connect your computer to the internet and then start up the program before talking, like there is with IM based programs like Skype. And upon testing, the voice and sound quality was really quite excellent. In my opinion it compares to that of a solid cellular phone connection.

But the biggest benefit of Vonage is its complete compatibility with traditional telephony land lines. Vonage, unlike Skype and others, does not require that you pay or do anything extra to call or receive a call from someone outside the Vonage network. You are given a regular phone number (or can transfer over your own) and can make and receive calls just as if it was a regular phone.

The Downside

So where does Vonage come up lacking. The biggest downside to Vonage is the price. Monthly payments were what drove many people away from land lines in the first place. And though the costs are still quite a bit cheaper than traditional telephony, the prices of its competitors, namely Skype are definitely better. That goes for international calls as well where the prices through Vonage are often 20 to 50% more than competitors.

Taking its limitations into account, however, Vonage is still the best VoIP option out there. The prices at Vonage are a bit higher, but for a reason. Some users may find that Vonage does not meet their needs. However, if you are someone who makes a lot of calls to land line users, which are cheaper through Vonage, or if you are someone who feels more comfortable with a telephone than a computer, then Vonage is definitely for you.

Pros: Clear service, handset included, Toll Free Plus- which turns your Vonage phone number into a toll-free number. Offers enhanced 911 service, and 411 directory assistance, call waiting, call forwarding, 3-way calling, technical support by phone, and free in-network calling.

Cons: Is more costly than alternatives like Skype. Does not offer free domestic long-distance calling.