OpenPhone Alternatives | OpenPhone vs OpenPhone Competitors
OpenPhone Alternatives | OpenPhone vs OpenPhone Competitors

Top OpenPhone Competitors and How to Find the Right OpenPhone Alternative for You

OpenPhone offers fantastic voice, text messaging, and calling features wrapped in a shared team inbox. 

It’s a popular choice among early-stage teams, businesses, and organizations. 

But OpenPhone might not check every box.

So in this article, I cover:

  1. What OpenPhone is (pros, cons, who it’s best for, etc.)
  2. OpenPhone Reviews: positive and negative OpenPhone customer feedback
  3. 6 reasons why you might need an OpenPhone alternative
  4. How to migrate your OpenPhone phone number to an OpenPhone alternative
  5. The top 12 OpenPhone alternatives
  6. Answers to frequently asked questions when switching to an OpenPhone alternative

By the end, you’ll know what OpenPhone alternative fits the best for you and your team.

Read on for more.

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OpenPhone features:

  • Dedicated Business Phone Numbers: OpenPhone offers separate business phone numbers for professional communication. It helps you separate your personal and business interactions.
  • Shared Team Inboxes: OpenPhone helps teams manage and collaborate on calls and texts from a single inbox.
  • Voicemail Transcription: OpenPhone automatically converts voicemails into text, for quick review and action without listening to the full message.
  • Call Recording: OpenPhone gives you the option to record calls for quality assurance and record-keeping.
  • SMS/MMS Support: You can use OpenPhone to send and receive text messages and multimedia.
  • Integrations: OpenPhone integrates with HubSpot, Salesforce, Slack, Google Contacts, and other business tools.
  • VoIP Calling: You can make and receive calls over the internet on multiple devices, using OpenPhone.
  • International Calling: OpenPhone offers Affordable rates for global communication.
  • Call Forwarding & Routing: You can direct calls with OpenPhone to the right person or number to improve customer service.
  • Auto-Attendant: Helps you manage and direct calls in higher volumes. This reduces the need for a live receptionist.
  • Analytics & Reporting: You can track call activity and performance with OpenPhone’s detailed reports to optimize your communication strategies.
  • Number Porting: You can seamlessly transition and port your existing business phone numbers to OpenPhone.
  • Multi-Device Access: OpenPhone works on smartphones, tablets, and desktops.
OpenPhone pros OpenPhone cons
👍 User-Friendly Interface: OpenPhone is easy to navigate, even for non-tech customers 👎 Call Quality Issues: Customers report inconsistent call quality, especially on mobile devices
👍 Affordable Pricing: OpenPhone’s pricing is competitive 👎 Some Limited Advanced Features: OpenPhone lacks some advanced calling features like power dialer
👍 Comprehensive Features: Includes call forwarding, voicemail transcription, SMS/MMS 👎 Scalability Concerns: OpenPhone may not scale well if your business is larger due to limited integrations
👍 Seamless Integration: Integrates well with several tools like Slack, HubSpot and Salesforce 👎 Minor Glitches: Customers report occasional issues after updates, such as call log problems

Who is OpenPhone best for?

OpenPhone is best suited for techy small to medium-sized businesses, startups, and individual entrepreneurs.

OpenPhone is for you if your business or organization prioritizes simplicity. It’s cost-effective and helps teams manage communications across multiple devices and channels. Its why OpenPhone is best for the following:

Entrepreneurs and solopreneurs

OpenPhone works well for individuals running their own businesses or side projects. These types of people find OpenPhone particularly affordable and useful as a dedicated business phone number​.

Small business owners

OpenPhone is great for small businesses, especially those that focus on customer service. This includes those with local shops providing local services. These types of businesses benefit from OpenPhone’s straightforward features and functionality for small to mid-sized teams​.

Remote teams and distributed workforces

Companies with remote or distributed teams appreciate OpenPhone’s shared team inbox. It’s a great way for all team members to access and manage customer communications from anywhere​.

Consulting and professional services

OpenPhone helps people in professional services and consulting manage multiple business numbers and shared inboxes. OpenPhone’s voicemail transcription also makes it ideal for consultants, legal professionals, and accountants. It's great for separating client communications from personal texts and calls​.

Real estate agents and brokers

Real estate agents and brokers benefit from OpenPhone's SMS/MMS messaging, call forwarding and voicemail transcription features. These tools help them manage client inquiries around property listings and more.

Health and wellness coaches

Small health and wellness businesses, like fitness coaches or wellness centers, use OpenPhone. They use it for client scheduling and communications, taking advantage of its affordability and ease of use​.

Small marketing and advertising agencies

Marketing agencies and freelancers like how OpenPhone integrates with tools like Slack and HubSpot. OpenPhone helps them manage client communications and project coordination​.

Small E-commerce and retail businesses

Small e-commerce businesses and retail shops use OpenPhone to manage customer service inquiries, order confirmations, and updates. OpenPhone makes it easier for them to handle customer interactions via text and calls​.

OpenPhone Reviews: Positive and Negative OpenPhone Customer Feedback

Positive OpenPhone reviews:

User-Friendly Interface

Customers consistently praise OpenPhone’s intuitive and easy-to-navigate interface. One user mentions, “The UI is great and really intuitive” ​(TrustRadius). Another highlighted that “OpenPhone's platform is intuitive, reliable, and can scale with you”​(TrustRadius).

Strong messaging features

Customers appreciate how they can use OpenPhone to send and receive texts, including multimedia in the app. One customer says, “It’s great for texting and making phone calls. You get a new, unique phone number and can text/call from phone or desktop” ​(TrustRadius).

Collaboration tools

OpenPhone’s shared team inbox, contact management, and call routing features work well for teams. A customer notes, “The ability to share call answering responsibility in our law office is invaluable”​ (TrustRadius).

Ease of setup

Many customers highlight how easy it is to get started with OpenPhone. One review states, “It was very easy to set up. We were up and running with a new business phone number almost immediately”​ (TrustRadius).

Affordable pricing

OpenPhone is cost-effective, particularly for small businesses. A reviewer said, “For the price of OpenPhone, there are no competitors. I like it”​ (TrustRadius).

Negative OpenPhone reviews:

Call quality issues

Some customers report inconsistent call quality, particularly on their mobile devices. One customer commented, “Call quality is terrible on mobile devices, whether you are on WiFi or data”​ (TrustRadius).

Limited advanced features

Other customers criticize OpenPhone for lacking some advanced features that other phone systems offer. A reviewer notes, “It would be very helpful for sales if they provided a power dialer”​(TrustRadius). Another customer mentions the limitation of the analytics feature, stating, “Analytics is only on the top two plans”​(TechRepublic).

Scalability concerns

While OpenPhone works well for small teams, some customers say it doesn’t scale for their needs. One customer says, “Not much room to scale”​ (TechRepublic). Another points out that it might not be the best fit for larger enterprises. They write  “I can’t really say if OpenPhone would be a good fit for an enterprise team”​ (TrustRadius).

Integration limitations

There are also reports of limited integration capabilities. One customer expresses frustration. They say, “The integration with HubSpot is one-way, limiting our ability to fully utilize OpenPhone’s capabilities” ​(TrustRadius).

Occasional glitches

Customers also mention minor glitches. This includes issues with call logs and delays after software updates. One review states, “Whenever an update occurs, there is usually a minor inconvenience that comes along with it”​ (TechRepublic).

6 Reasons Why You Might Choose an OpenPhone Alternative

Here are six reasons why you might consider an OpenPhone competitor:

1. Limited features

OpenPhone provides essential VoIP features, but some customers find it lacking. OpenPhone doesn’t offer video conferencing, extensive call analytics, or comprehensive CRM integrations.

This might limit your business or organization, especially if you need more robust tools for your communications​.

2. Scalability concerns

OpenPhone works well for small businesses and startups, but it may not scale effectively for larger companies and organizations. If you’re growing rapidly, you might need a more scalable text-and-call solution. Specifically, you might need one with enterprise-level capabilities, like Nextiva or RingCentral​.

3. Call quality and connectivity issues

Some customers report connectivity problems with OpenPhone. They report dropped calls and poor audio quality. If you need consistent call quality, you will find a significant drawback​ with these issues.

4. Customer support challenges

Other customers report slow response times and long issue resolution times. If you rely heavily on timely communication with your tech partners, then you might find OpenPhone’s support frustrating​.

5. Geographical Limitations:

OpenPhone focuses its business in the U.S. and Canada. Do you need international support, local numbers in other countries, or extensive international calling options? If the answer is yes, then need an OpenPhone alternative.

6. Pricing 

OpenPhone is affordable, but at different scales, some customers find OpenPhone’s pricing less competitive. This is the case when comparing OpenPhone to alternatives. Some alternatives offer more features or better scalability for a similar or slightly higher cost​.

How to Migrate Your OpenPhone Phone Number to an OpenPhone Alternative

OpenPhone is a VoIP provider. This means your OpenPhone phone number is a voice-over-IP (VoIP) phone number.

VoIP phone numbers are easy to host or port to another service. So switching to an OpenPhone alternative is relatively easy.

Here’s how to port or host your OpenPhone phone number with an alternative. 

1. Check your OpenPhone contract and terms of service

You’ll want to check your OpenPhone contract before you migrate your OpenPhone phone number. 

Be sure you understand any termination fees or obligations. You’ll also need to know your contract’s end date and any cancellation policies.

2. Request number hosting or number porting

Contact your OpenPhone alternative: 

Reach out to your new solution’s customer support team to initiate the phone number hosting or porting process. They will guide you through their specific requirements, like the following.

Step 1: Gather necessary information

Prepare all necessary documentation and information required for number hosting or porting, such as:

  • Your current OpenPhone account details
  • Your business’s billing address and authorized contact person
  • A copy of your most recent OpenPhone bill (to prove ownership of the phone number)

Step 2: Submit a number hosting or porting request 

There’s a difference between number hosting and number porting

If you’re just moving your SMS functionality to a new provider, then you’ll want to complete a phone number hosting request.

If you’re moving your SMS AND voice functionality, then you’ll need to submit a phone number porting request. 

In both cases, your new OpenPhone alternative will help you to choose the right option. They’ll help you submit the right documents and business information.

👀 Note: Business texting platforms like MessageDesk also work with VoIP providers like RingCentral. You can configure texting and your VoIP calling features separately.

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3. Schedule a phone number disconnection date with OpenPhone

Step 1: Notify OpenPhone

Next, you’ll need to schedule a disconnection date with OpenPhone. This releases your phone number and allows a new service to port or host your existing voice service, text messaging, or both. 

Step 2: Avoid canceling OpenPhone prematurely 

Don’t cancel your OpenPhone account until the number porting process is complete. Cancelling early can lead to losing your phone number.

Releasing your OpenPhone number before moving it to a new service could result in a snapback. This is where your previous provider automatically snaps back your phone number, leading to lapses in service.

Step 3: Sign a letter of authorization

What is a letter of authorization (LOA)? An LOA is a letter to a phone number provider or carrier. LOAs grant a different provider access to your phone number. 

In some cases, an LOA authorizes a full number port, in other cases it authorizes just phone number hosting.  

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4. Wait for hosting or porting to complete

Porting timeframe: 

The porting process can take 1-2 weeks. But this timeframe can vary depending on your location and provider. During this time, make sure customers can still reach you via other communication channels.

Monitor for updates:

Keep in touch with both OpenPhone and your OpenPhone alternative on your porting status. Your new provider should notify you once the porting is successful.

5. Test and verify your phone number

Test your phone number’s voice and texting:

Test your phone number after you confirm your host or port is complete.

Configure your OpenPhone alternative:

Set up your new communication workflows in your OpenPhone alternative. This might include automated text responses, custom ring groups, and campaigns. You can also take this time to import any data you backed up from OpenPhone.

6. Get approved by carriers for business text messaging

Have you already registered your OpenPhone phone number with telecom providers and the TCR for carrier compliance? If yes, then you can skip this step - your new provider will help you transfer your active campaign.

If not, then read on.  

All telecom carriers in the U.S. require businesses and organizations that text to complete A2P 10DLC carrier registration

They do this to prevent phishing scams and SPAM messaging from bad actors.

To register with carriers you have to use an OpenPhone alternative, like MessageDesk. 

You also have to adhere to various standards like opt-in and TCPA regulations

But there’s good news. Most OpenPhone alternatives come with features that help you manage opt-in, compliance, and registration.

Every service has its way of managing opt-in and carrier registration. But here’s how we do it at MessageDesk:

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Step 1: Submit and validate organization info with carriers through MessageDesk

We start the carrier registration process by validating that your organization is legitimate. We do this simply by submitting a form that collects the following information:

  1. Business identification: You need to provide proof of your business's existence and legality. This includes your Employer Identification Number (EIN) or other tax identification numbers.
  2. Business address: The official address registered with your organization.
  3. Contact Information: A primary contact within the business, including name, phone number, email address, and website.
  4. Messaging purpose and examples: Explain why and how your business uses SMS messaging. This involves providing message examples.
  5. Opt-in and opt-out processes: Describe how your contacts opt-in and out of receiving messages. This includes how you collect consent and how you manage and honor opt-out requests.
  6. Message content and volume: Carriers need to know about the volume and content of the messages you’ll send. This helps carriers understand your messaging patterns. It also ensures that your messages align with anti-spam policies.

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Step 2: Publish a carrier-compliant business text messaging policy on your website

You submitted and validated your information. Next, the compliance team at MessageDesk will work with you or your web developer. 

Carriers require that you have a website and that you publish a business text messaging privacy policy on it.

Your privacy policy must explain the following:

  1. The type of contact and personal information your organization collects
  2. How your organization collects information from contacts
  3. How your organization uses any information collected
  4. How your organization protects contact data
  5. That your organization does not share information
  6. How contacts can opt out of receiving text messages
🚨 Note: having a website with a privacy policy is an absolute must for business text messaging. Without it, carriers will not approve your organization for texting. 
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Top 12 OpenPhone Alternatives

I covered what OpenPhone is, detailed its features, and reviews, and showed you how to migrate your OpenPhone number.

Next, is a list of the best OpenPhone alternatives.

1. MessageDesk | MessageDesk vs OpenPhone

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MessageDesk and OpenPhone serve different communication needs. MessageDesk is ideal for small to medium-sized businesses that rely heavily on SMS. It offers a shared team SMS inbox, text message broadcasts, and A2P 10DLC compliance tools. This makes it perfect for service-oriented teams.

In contrast, OpenPhone combines voice and text into one platform. It’s best if you just need a straightforward, unified phone system. 

If SMS is central to your operations, then MessageDesk excels. OpenPhone is better for those needing a balance of voice and text communication.

MessageDesk overview:

MessageDesk is a powerful shared team inbox for texting. It simplifies and helps you automate customer interactions via SMS messaging. It also enables teams to manage conversations, schedule text messages, and automate text responses from one, user-friendly inbox. 

With MessageDesk, you can centralize your communication to more efficiently track, manage, and respond to customer inquiries.

Specifically, MessageDesk works well for:

MessageDesk features:

  • Shared Team SMS Inbox: MessageDesk centralizes all text message conversations into one shared team SMS inbox.
  • Website Chatbot: Install MessageDesk’s website chatbot on any site or landing page to start text conversations.
  • Text-Enable Existing Numbers: MessageDesk makes it easy to use your current phone number for sending and receiving texts.
  • Bulk Text Messaging: Unlike OpenPhone, MessageDesk makes it possible to send personalized bulk text messages to multiple recipients simultaneously.
  • Scheduled Text Messages: Send scheduled text messages at optimal times for timely communication with contacts.
  • Message Templates: Use pre-saved text message templates for common customer service responses to save time.
  • Automated Messages: Schedule texts and automate SMS messages for reviews, reminders, updates, and notifications.
  • MMS Support: Send and receive images and media.
  • Contact Management: Organize and segment contacts for targeted messaging.
  • Compliance: MessageDesk ensures compliance with A2P 10DLC carrier regulations and improves your message delivery rates.
MessageDesk pros: MessageDesk cons:
👍 User-Friendly Interface: Customers say MessageDesk is easy to navigate, with a clean and intuitive design 👎 Limited Voice Features: MessageDesk focuses on SMS. This may not be ideal if you need a voice solution
👍 Scalable for SMBs: MessageDesk is Ideal for small to medium-sized businesses with growth potential 👎 No Free Trial: You have to talk to sales to get started with MessageDesk
👍 Strong SMS/MMS Capabilities: MessageDesk works as a reliable and efficient for text-based communication 👎 A2P 10DLC Required: MessageDesk’s service depends on carrier registration and approval
👍 Automation and Templates: MessageDesk helps streamline repetitive tasks, improving efficiency 👎 Geographical Limitations: MessageDesk only services customers in the United States and Canada
👍 Compliance Tools: MessageDesk helps you with compliance and ensures your messaging adheres to regulations

MessageDesk reviews from customers:

Sylvia L.

Programmatic Account Manager

"MesageDesk is great for sending mass texts for the staff or communicating with returning clients. We have sent promotional deals to our returning clients. We can also group clients if need be based on categories."

Joylyn O.

Marketing Consultant

"MessageDesk is an effective texting app with excellent customer service. The templates are customizable with tagging features to personalize messages. MessageDesk also has fantastic customer service where real people answer your questions."

2. Google Voice | OpenPhone vs Google Voice

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Google Voice and OpenPhone both offer business phone solutions. Google Voice is best for individuals, freelancers, and small businesses. It’s a straightforward, cost-effective solution that gets you basic calling and texting features for domestic use. 

Google Voice integrates seamlessly with Google's ecosystem. However, it lacks advanced business features like CRM integration and a truly shared team inbox. 

OpenPhone, on the other hand, is a more robust platform for small businesses and startups. It’s shared inboxes, voicemail transcription, and CRM integrations give it a leg up. 

Google Voice is simpler and more budget-friendly. But in a Google Voice vs OpenPhone situation, choose the latter if you need to manage calls and texts as a team.

Google Voice overview:

Google Voice is a cloud-based communication service. You can send texts with Google Voice and make and receive calls through a single phone number. 

It’s versatile, you can use it across multiple devices. It makes it possible to separate your personal and professional communication without needing a separate device. 

Google Voice also integrates nicely with Google Workspace. The added convenience works well if you already work in the Google ecosystem. It’s simple, has basic text and call features and it’s affordable. 

All of these qualities make Google Voice an attractive OpenPhone alternative for individuals and small businesses. Especially those that need just the essential communication tools.

Google Voice features:

  • Single Phone Number: Use one number for calls, texts, and voicemail, accessible across multiple devices.
  • Call Forwarding: Forward your phone calls to any device.
  • Voicemail Transcription: Automatically transcribe voicemails into text.
  • Integration with Google Workspace: Seamlessly integrates with other Google services like Gmail and Google Calendar.
  • Free Calls and Texts (US & Canada): Make and receive unlimited calls and texts within the United States and Canada.
  • International Calling: Google Voice offers affordable rates for international calls to over 200 countries.
  • Custom Voicemail Greeting: Set personalized greetings for different callers or situations.
  • Do Not Disturb Mode: Control your availability to receive calls and text messages for a more balanced work-life.
  • Spam Filtering: Automatically filter out spam calls and text messages for a clean and simple inbox.
Google Voice pros: Google Voice cons:
👍 Google Workspace Integration: Google Voice seamlessly integrates with Google services 👎 No Longer Free: Google Voice used to be a free OpenPhone alternative. It now starts at $10/mo. per user
👍 User-Friendly Interface: Google Voice is easy to set up and use, particularly for those familiar with Google products 👎 Limited Features for Businesses: Google Voice lacks many advanced features such as CRM integrations and robust analytics
👍 Multi-Device Access: You can use the same number on your smartphone, tablet, and desktop 👎 No Native Support for MMS: Google Voice comes with limited multimedia messaging capabilities
👍 Voicemail Transcription: Convert your voicemails to text, enhancing accessibility and efficiency 👎 Limited Scalability: Google Voice doesn’t scale for teams - better for individual use
👍 Spam Filtering: Google Voice helps you filter out spam calls and messages to reduce interruptions 👎 Geographical Limitations: Google Voice works best in the US and Canada
👎 No Team Collaboration Features: Google Voice lacks shared inboxes or team management capabilities

Google Voice reviews from customers:

Emma M.

Teacher

"I like using a Google Voice number to contact people without giving my cell phone number. It is also very convenient to access phone calls from a variety of devices."

Brittany V.

School Counselor

"Sometimes there are some technical issues, including not always ringing or sending a notification to my phone when someone messages me. I often won't know until I check my email."

3. Dialpad | OpenPhone vs Dialpad

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Dialpad and OpenPhone are both great communication solutions. But Dialpad is a more advanced platform for businesses that need a unified communication system. It offers AI-powered features, including real-time call transcription, advanced analytics, and seamless integration with CRM tools. 

For these reasons, Dialpad works well for larger teams, especially those in sales and support roles. In this context, Dialpad’s robust call management and collaboration features shine. 

OpenPhone is far simpler and much more affordable. It gears itself towards startups and small businesses looking for a straightforward way to manage voice calls and texts. OpenPhone also comes with essential features like shared inboxes and voicemail transcription. 

In the Dialpad vs OpenPhone debate, choose Dialpad if you need advanced communication tools and AI-driven insights. OpenPhone on the other hand works better for smaller teams.

Dialpad overview:

Dialpad is a comprehensive cloud-based communication platform. It combines voice, video, messaging, and AI-driven insights into one unified solution for remote teams and modern businesses. 

Dialpad’s standout feature is its AI-powered Voice Intelligence (Vi) technology. This provides you with real-time transcription, call summaries, and actionable insights that enhance your productivity and decision-making. 

Additionally, Dialpad integrates well with popular CRM tools and productivity apps. This makes it easier for your organization to streamline your workflows and improve customer interactions.

Dialpad features:

  • AI-Powered Voice Intelligence (Vi): Real-time transcription, automated call summaries, and actionable insights enhance communication efficiency.
  • Unified Communications: Combines voice, video, messaging, and conferencing in a single platform.
  • Seamless Integrations: Integrates with popular CRM and productivity tools like Salesforce, Slack, and Google Workspace.
  • Multi-Device Support: You can access Dialpad on desktop, mobile, and web platforms.
  • Call Recording and Analytics: You can record calls and access detailed analytics to track performance and improve decision-making.
  • Voicemail Transcription: Dialpad converts voicemails to text for easy review and follow-up.
  • Customizable Call Routing: You can direct calls based on predefined rules for efficient call handling.
  • Team Collaboration Tools: Dialpad gets you in-app messaging, shared contacts, and call transfer features.
  • International Calling: Dialpad offers competitive rates for international calls.
  • Visual Voicemail: You can view and manage voicemails in a list format with transcription options.
Dialpad pros: Dialpad cons:
👍 AI-Driven Insights: Dialpad’s real-time transcription and actionable insights from Voice Intelligence are a game changer 👎 Integration Limitations: Some customers report challenges with specific integrations, limiting their utility for certain workflows
👍 Unified Platform: Combine your voice, video, and messaging, into one platform 👎 Navigation Issues: Some customers find the interface navigation cumbersome, particularly when accessing contacts or call logs
👍 Excellent Mobile Support: Dialpad offers mobile-centric design with strong iOS and Android apps great for remote teams 👎 Technical Glitches: Occasional issues such as blurry screens during video calls or dropped connections can disrupt communication
👍 Strong CRM Integrations: Works well with Salesforce, HubSpot, and other CRM systems 👎 Pricing: Higher-tier plans cost, especially when you add features like international numbers or advanced analytics

Dialpad reviews from customers:

Stephanie B.

Office Manager

"We've had a wonderful experience so far with Dialpad. We love the Ai options provided with our service as well as the ability for all users to utilize the advance services and SMS messaging. The implementation process was easy and painless. "

Nicole S.

Executive Assistant

"Dialpad is quite costly, it runs about 4x what I would pay for typical phone service, but you do get 4+ times the features you would usually have with standard landlines. So you have to weigh your pros and cons to see if it is worth it at the end of the day. There have been some issues with calls dropping before they make it through to the lines, but it is rare and not something I typically have to worry about."

4. RingCentral | OpenPhone vs RingCentral

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Scope and target audience differentiate RingCentral and OpenPhone. RingCentral is an all-in-one, enterprise-level platform. 

It’s great for medium to large businesses with complex communication needs. This is because it combines voice, video, messaging, and team collaboration tools into one scalable platform. 

RingCentral also offers extensive integrations, advanced call management features, and robust customer support. 

OpenPhone, on the other hand, targets those who need a simpler, more affordable solution for calls and texts. 

You get essential features like shared inboxes and voicemail transcription with OpenPhone. But  RingCentral offers a broader, more powerful set of tools. It’s well-suited for larger teams and businesses that need all-in-one solutions.

RingCentral overview:

RingCentral is robust. It’s a cloud-based unified communications platform that solves complex business communication needs. It comes with voice, video conferencing, team messaging, and even fax. And all of it integrates into one platform. 

RingCentral’s reliability, security, and scalability are plusses as well. For these reasons, it’s a popular choice among enterprises that need versatile solutions that scale.

RingCentral features:

  • Unified Communications Platform: RingCentral combines voice, video, messaging, fax, and more in one platform.
  • Advanced Call Management: RingCentral comes with call routing, call queues, IVR (Interactive Voice Response), and call recording.
  • Team Collaboration: You get integrated team messaging, task management, and file-sharing tools with RingCentral.
  • Video Conferencing: RingCentral offers HD video meetings with screen sharing, meeting recording, and host controls.
  • Mobile and Desktop Apps: Access RingCentral from any device with robust mobile and desktop apps.
  • CRM and App Integrations: Integrate with over 200 popular business tools, including Salesforce, Microsoft 365, and Google Workspace.
  • Global Phone System: RingCentral supports international calling and offers local numbers in over 100 countries.
  • Security and Compliance: You get industry-leading security measures and compliance with regulations like GDPR and HIPAA.
  • Analytics and Reporting: Get real-time analytics and detailed reporting to track communication performance and optimize workflows.
  • 24/7 Customer Support: Round-the-clock support is available via phone, chat, and email.
RingCentral pros: RingCentral cons:
👍 Comprehensive Feature Set: You get a wide range of communication tools in one platform 👎 Higher Cost: RingCentral vs OpenPhone or MessageDesk’s pricing is far higher
👍 Scalability: Suitable for larger businesses that need to scale with growth 👎 Complex Setup for Beginners: There’s a learning curve for new customers
👍 Strong Integration Capabilities: Integrates with over 200 apps, enhancing productivity by connecting with existing business tools 👎 Occasional Customer Support Issues: Some customers report inconsistent experiences with customer support
👍 Reliable and Secure: Known for its reliability and robust security features, making it a trusted choice for enterprises 👎 Overkill for Small Businesses: RingCentral’s extensive feature set is overkill if you have simpler communication needs
👍 Global Reach: RingCentral supports international communication with local numbers in over 100 countries, ideal for global businesses 👎 Resource-Intensive: Requires more system resources, which can impact performance on older devices

RingCentral reviews from customers:

Aquib K.

Delivery Manager

"We can send messages to our candidates, its very easy to use, we can implement this in any team, Customer support is also good. I use daily and it has many other features."

Rose C.

Bookkeeper

"The TCR is taking some time to be approved."

5. Mightycall | OpenPhone vs Mightycall

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Looking for a comprehensive VoIP system with call center capabilities? Then MightyCall might be your solution. 

MightyCall offers a more VoIP feature-rich solution than OpenPhone. It’s ideal for small to medium-sized businesses that need a comprehensive VoIP system with call center capabilities.

MightyCall offers multi-level IVR, call monitoring, and intelligent call routing. It’s great for those with more complex communication requirements. 

In contrast, OpenPhone is simpler and more affordable. It's the more straightforward way to manage your calls and texts on a smaller scale.

MightyCall overview:

MightyCall is a cloud-based VoIP for small to medium-sized businesses. It combines a business phone system and a call center to handle inbound and outbound calls. 

With MightyCall, you get an intuitive interface and a comprehensive set of features. This includes call recording, multi-level IVR, and toll-free phone numbers. 

Like OpenPhone, the platform also supports integrations with CRMs like HubSpot and Salesforce. You get the same utility for customer-facing teams. 

Considering MightyCall vs OpenPhone? Go with MightyPhone if you need a reliable and scalable VoIP solution. It even comes at a lower cost compared to enterprise systems.

MightyCall features:

  • Unlimited Calling and Messaging: Provides unlimited calls and texts, even at the basic plan level.
  • Multi-level IVR: Advanced call routing options to manage inbound calls efficiently.
  • Call Recording: Available across all plans for quality assurance and training purposes.
  • Toll-Free and Local Numbers: Includes two numbers, with the option to add more.
  • Call Monitoring and Analytics: Tools to track and optimize call performance.
  • Agent and Supervisor Workspaces: Specialized features for call center management.
  • International Numbers: Availability of local numbers in select international locations.
  • Integration with CRMs: Supports integration with HubSpot, Salesforce, Zoho, and more.
  • Custom Caller ID: Allows branding with your business name on outbound calls.
  • Role-Based Access: Manage user permissions based on roles within your organization.
MightyCall pros: MightyCall cons:
👍 Includes advanced call management and call center features even at lower pricing tiers 👎 Limited Integrations: The range of integrations is not as extensive as some competitors
👍 Affordable Pricing: Offers competitive pricing with a wide range of features included 👎 Priority Support Only in Enterprise Plan: Priority support is only available with the most expensive plan
👍 Easy Setup: Customers say the interface is user-friendly and easy to set up 👎 Limited Customization: Lacks some of the advanced customization options found in other VoIP solutions
👍 Unlimited Calling: Includes unlimited calling and messaging across all plans 👎 Minimum User Requirement: Requires a minimum number of users for most plans

MightyCall reviews from customers:

Lauren P.

Small Business Owner

"The auto attendant, call flow and options for individual user mailboxes, is my favorite part of Mighty Call. This helps to make sure that we can get calls routed to the right people seamlessly when we are busy working with our clients in person. Mighty Call is a great option for a virtual phone system on a small business budget. I have researched so many other companies, and Mighty Call has been the right fit for us for sure! The easy to use mobile app has also been great and allows us to never miss a call!"

Michael T.

Small Business Owner

"My least favorite thing is the iphone app. Is it clunky to me. It's card to navigate and understand the different when i'm looking at 'Journal" vs "recents". I don't really understand the difference or why its parsed out like that. Also, I treid answering calls (or placing calls) directly in the app and it just doesn't seem as seemless as answering a call directly from my phone. I tried answering calls from the app, and a few of them dropped as soon as I answered. I don't know if this is due to having WIFI, 5G or what.....Our team is on the go, so we use our phones most of the time instead of desktop. I ended up removing the phone app as part of the call flow and have it ring as if someone is calling my phone completely. -- It seems to work just fine like this."

6. Line2 | OpenPhone vs Line2

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Line2 vs OpenPhone: here we go. Both Line 2 and OpenPhone offer VoIP. However, Line2 works best for individuals, freelancers, and super-small businesses. If all you need is a second phone line for personal or business communications on the same device, then Line2 is for you. 

Note that Line2 relies on existing carrier networks. This is to ensure consistent call quality, but it lacks advanced business features.

OpenPhone, on the other hand, offers a far more robust solution. OpenPhone’s shared inboxes, CRM integrations, and voicemail transcription make it better suited for teams than Line2. 

While Line2 is more basic and cost-effective, OpenPhone offers greater functionality for teams.

Line2 overview:

Line2 is a cloud-based VoIP service. It provides you with a second phone number for managing your professional communication on your existing device. 

Line2 offers a full-featured virtual phone system. This includes voice calling, texting, and call management tools. 

Line2 is particularly appealing if you need to keep your personal and professional communications separate. With Line 2 you can also manage your communications from any device.

Line2 features:

  • Dual Phone Lines: Line 2 helps you manage two separate phone lines on a single device.
  • Unlimited Calling and Texting: Enjoy unlimited calls and texts within the US and Canada with Line2.
  • Call Screening and Blocking: Line2 manages incoming calls to screen and block spam.
  • Voicemail to Email: You can automatically forward voicemails to your email with Line2.
  • Advanced Auto-Attendant: Use customizable auto-attendant features to route calls and play personalized greetings with Line2.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: Access Line2 across multiple devices, including desktops, laptops, and smartphones.
  • Group Conferencing: Add up to 20 participants to a call from any device for group meetings and discussions.
  • WiFi Calling: You can make and receive calls over WiFi with Line2.
Line 2pros: Line2 cons:
👍 Affordable and Scalable: Offers cost-effective plans that scale with your business needs 👎 Persistent Bugs: Some customers report issues like unintended calls when connecting to Bluetooth devices
👍 Easy to Use: User-friendly interface that is simple to set up and manage, even for non-technical customers 👎 Customer Support Issues: Reports of long hold times and unhelpful customer service have been noted by some customers
👍 Cross-Platform Access: Compatible with multiple devices, allowing for flexible communication management 👎 Billing Concerns: Some customers have experienced confusing billing practices and unexpected charges
👍 Good Call Quality: Provides clear and reliable call quality, even in areas with less-than-ideal internet connectivity 👎 Limited Advanced Features: Lacks some advanced functionalities found in more robust VoIP systems, like extensive CRM integrations

Line2 reviews from customers:

John L.

Health Insurance Agent/Broker

"One device , two lines makes it a lot easier to communicate with clients that have different lines of products. I sell for multiple companies and Line2 makes it seem that there is a dedicated line for THAT business."

Simon W.

Small Business Owner

"There are some downsides. Texting is glitchy and it only allows one photo (attachment) per text, Not great if, like me, you need to send multiple photos, you end up needing to send multiple texts."

7. Grasshopper | OpenPhone vs Grasshopper

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Grasshopper works best for small businesses and entrepreneurs. It's a simple, virtual phone system for managing calls and texts without additional hardware.

Comparatively, OpenPhone works better if you need a more integrated communication platform. 

Grasshopper doesn’t support more advanced features like shared inboxes, CRM integrations, and comprehensive team management tools. It’s more focused on providing a straightforward and easy-to-use solution for basic business communication.

Evaluating Grasshopper vs OpenPhone? Go with OpenPhone if you need more robust tools for your team​. Go with Grasshopper if you need a simple, easy voice and text solution.

Grasshopper overview:

Grasshopper is another VoIP phone system for small businesses. With Grasshopper you get the professional communication tools you need without additional hardware. 

Grasshopper’s platform allows you to manage calls and texts on an existing smartphone, business landline, or desktop app. No matter your device, you get a range of features that streamline communication. 

Grasshopper also supports key features like multiple extensions, call forwarding and voicemail transcription. All of which makes it easy to keep communications professional. 

It is especially useful for those who need to manage calls and separate their personal and business communications.

Grasshopper features:

  • Business Phone Numbers: Choose from toll-free, local, or vanity numbers for your business.
  • Call Forwarding: Forward calls to your mobile phone or any other number.
  • Voicemail Transcription: Receive transcriptions of your voicemails via email.
  • Business Texting: Send and receive text messages from your business number.
  • Simultaneous Call Handling: Handle multiple calls at once.
  • Extensions: Provide different extensions for departments or team members, each with its own call-forwarding rules.
  • Custom Greetings: Record professional greetings to welcome callers and provide them with options.
  • Virtual Fax: Receive faxes as PDF attachments directly in your email inbox.
  • Mobile and Desktop Apps: Manage calls, texts, and voicemails from your phone or computer with Grasshopper’s apps.
  • Instant Response: Automatically send a text response to missed calls, ensuring you never miss a business opportunity.
Grasshopper pros: Grasshopper cons:
👍 Affordable Pricing: Plans start at just $14 per month, making Grasshopper a cost-effective OpenPhone alternative 👎 Limited Advanced Features: Lacks some of the more advanced inbox-style features that OpenPhone offers
👍 Easy Setup and Use: No additional hardware required; Grasshopper’s setup is straightforward 👎 Basic CRM Integration: Integrations with other business tools are limited compared to OpenPhone
👍 Professional Image: Use toll-free and vanity numbers, custom greetings, and professional voicemail options 👎 Customer Support Limitations: Some customers report slower response times from customer support, particularly for complex issues
👍 Mobile Flexibility: The mobile app makes it easy to manage your business communications on the go 👎 Not Ideal for Large Teams: While great for small teams, Grasshopper may not scale well for larger organizations

Grasshopper reviews from customers:

Amber S.

Customer Support Rep

"Grasshopper allows me to use my very own cellphone as a work phone day in and day out. It can plug in and work with slack and Hubspot to channel all the call information to our CRM to collect the data too. What I love most is that every voicemail comes with a written transcription so that I do not have to listen to every voicemail if I do not have the time. It also allows texting with customers, as well as several lines to be added for our support team. My supervisor is also able to monitor the texts and calls that come through."

Greg P.

Small Business Owner

"No Security. All anyone needs to steal your account and phone number is your credit card information. They will not return the service or business phone number back to you without a court order.They send an email to inform you that your information and account email was changed, but never sent one prior to authorization. Move your number while you can!"

8. Aircall | OpenPhone vs Aircall

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Aircall is designed for larger teams, particularly in sales and customer support. It offers advanced features like AI-powered call transcriptions, real-time analytics, and extensive CRM integrations. 

Aircall excels in environments where detailed call management and team collaboration are crucial. 

When looking at Aircall vs OpenPhone, OpenPhone is more suited for those needing a simpler, more affordable solution. Specifically, a solution that integrates voice and SMS communication into one platform.

Aircall provides robust tools for complex communication needs, but OpenPhone focuses on ease of use and affordability. This makes OpenPhone ideal for smaller teams or businesses with more needs​.

Aircall overview:

Aircall is a cloud-based VoIP phone system for sales and support teams. 

It offers key features that streamline operations and improve productivity. One of Aircall’s strongest features is integration with over 100 CRMs, help desks, and productivity tools. 

Customers appreciate Aircall’s easy setup, scalability, and ability to manage communication across multiple channels. For these reasons, it’s an ideal choice for teams that require robust call management and real-time analytics. 

Additionally, Aircall supports hybrid and remote work environments. This enables teams to stay connected and maintain efficiency from anywhere.

Aircall features:

  • Power Dialer: Automate outbound calling tasks to increase efficiency and productivity - great for sales teams.
  • Call Recording and Monitoring: Record calls and monitor them live for quality assurance.
  • AI-Powered Analytics: Access AI-generated call summaries, transcription, and real-time performance insights.
  • CRM and Help Desk Integrations: You can integrate Aircall with over 100 tools, including Salesforce, HubSpot, Zendesk, and more.
  • Interactive Voice Response (IVR): You can set up smart IVR menus to direct callers to the right team member quickly.
  • Call Queuing and Routing: Aircall manages incoming calls with advanced call queuing and customizable routing rules.
  • Business Text Messaging: Like OpenPhone, you can manage SMS and MMS communications from the same platform.
  • Shared Call Inbox: With Aircall you get a centralized inbox for tracking and managing all customer interactions.
  • Voicemail Drop: Send pre-recorded voicemails to save time on repetitive tasks.
  • International and Toll-Free Numbers: Use local, international, and toll-free numbers to text and call.
Aircall pros: Aircall cons:
👍 Extensive Integrations: Aircall supports over 100 integrations, making it more versatile than OpenPhone 👎 Three-License Minimum: Requires a minimum of three licenses
👍 AI-Powered Features: Advanced AI features like call transcription and conversation analytics enhance productivity 👎 Higher Pricing: More expensive compared to some OpenPhone alternatives
👍 User-Friendly Interface: Customers say Aircall’s interface is easy to set up and use 👎 Limited Advanced Features in Basic Plan: Some advanced features are only available in higher-tier plans
👍 Global Scalability: You can instantly create phone numbers in over 100 countries - great for international teams

Aircall reviews from customers:

Parveen M.

Managing Director

"I really like how easy it is to use and how powerful and unparalleled the lead source tracking and phone tracking systems are. It's great for consumers to be able to track quotes and sales values, and it's even better to be able to send notification emails when you identify online and offline channels that are generating calls. In addition, the chat log provides insight into marketing efforts and keywords."

Eva J.

Small Business Owner

"But Aircall has some restrictions. This platform is rather restricted in live user monitoring and real time updating, which is vital in the management of live client calls. In addition, the call flow possibilities are rather limited, so sometimes we cannot modify the features to suit our requirements."

9. Zoom | OpenPhone vs Zoom + Zoom Phone

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Most people know Zoom for its video conferencing capabilities. But many don’t know that Zoom offers additional features including VoIP through Zoom Phone. 

This makes Zoom a comprehensive platform for businesses that need integrated video, voice, and team collaboration tools. 

For these reasons, Zoom is ideal for companies with remote or hybrid workforces. Specifically, those that rely heavily on video meetings.

Comparing Zoom vs OpenPhone? You’ll find that OpenPhone offers a simpler more affordable unified phone system combining voice and SMS. 

In this way, OpenPhone vs Zoom Phone is a better choice if you need a straightforward voice/text integration. However, OpenPhone doesn’t offer Zoom’s world-class video conferencing and collaboration features​.

Zoom overview:

Zoom is a versatile, cloud-based communication platform best known for its video conferencing capabilities. But with Zoom Phone, you can also get a robust VoIP phone system. 

In fact, Zoom Phone integrates seamlessly with the broader Zoom ecosystem.  It allows you to manage calls, video meetings, and team chats from a single interface. 

Zoom’s platform is particularly beneficial for organizations with remote or hybrid work environments. It does a great job of smoothing transitions between voice calls and video conferences. 

Zoom's ease of use, extensive integration options, and scalability make it a top choice. Choose Zoom if you need to unify all of your communication tools across multiple channels and devices.

Zoom features:

  • Unified Communication Platform: Zoom as a platform combines video, voice, and chat.
  • Global Coverage: Zoom supports phone numbers in over 45 countries with international calling capabilities.
  • Voicemail Transcription: You can automatically transcribe voicemails and deliver them via email with Zoom.
  • Call Recording: Zoom offers on-demand and full-time recording with playback and transcription options.
  • Salesforce Integration: The native Salesforce integration works well for click-to-dial and automated call logging.
  • Call Routing and Queues: Zoom offers advanced call management features like auto attendants, call queues, and intelligent routing.
  • Elevate to Video: You can seamlessly transition from a voice call to a full Zoom video meeting.
  • Shared Line Groups: Zoom allows multiple customers to share a line and access shared voicemail.
  • Analytics and Monitoring: Provides detailed analytics and real-time monitoring.
  • Device Flexibility: Zoom works on a wide range of devices, including desktops, smartphones, and traditional desk phones.
Zoom pros: Zoom cons:
👍 Comprehensive Platform: Zoom integrates video, voice, and chat 👎 Higher Cost: Zoom’s pricing is much higher compared to OpenPhone
👍 Global Reach: Zoom offers phone numbers and calling capabilities in over 45 countries 👎 Learning Curve: May require time to learn all features, particularly for those unfamiliar with Zoom's broader ecosystem
👍 Seamless Integration: Zoom works well with existing Zoom products and other business applications like Salesforce 👎 Overhead for Small Teams: Zoom’s extensive feature is overkill if you have simpler needs
👍 Flexibility for Hybrid Work: Zoom offers excellent support for remote and hybrid work environments with easy transitions between devices 👎 Resource Intensive: Zoom demands system resources, especially during video calls and conferences

Zoom reviews from customers:

Griselda R.

Sr. Operations Manager

"There's always new updates that come in so handy when hosting virtual events. The ease that comes with being a host and co-host when facilitating virtual events diminishes the cognitive overload from facilitating content. One of the most valuable things is sending participants automatically to breakout rooms, especially when we have a mix of joining via laptop, tablet, and phone - this also lifts the burden from the participants and enhances their experience."

Ali A.

IT Support Specialist

"While Zoom Workplace has many strengths, there are a few areas where users might find room for improvement: Bandwidth Requirements: High-quality video and audio can consume a lot of bandwidth, which might be challenging for users with slower internet connections. Security Concerns: Despite improvements, some users still worry about privacy and security, especially with the rise of “Zoombombing” incidents in the past. Cost: For larger organizations or those needing advanced features, the cost can add up quickly."

10. Sideline | Sideline vs OpenPhone

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Sideline is a great tool for individuals, freelancers, and small business owners. If you just need a second phone number for business vs personal communications, then Sideline is for you.

Sideline uses your existing carrier network to provide reliable call quality. However, Sideline limits its features to basic calling and texting. In this way, it’s more of a Google Voice alternative.

OpenPhone vs Sideline, on the other hand, is more robust. OpenPhone’s inboxes do a better job of unifying your voice and SMS. It even does this alongside your CRM, improving team collaboration. 

Sideline offers simplicity and affordability, but OpenPhone provides a more comprehensive solution for growing teams with more complex communication requirements​.

Sideline overview:

Sideline is a mobile app that provides you with a second phone number. Like Google Voice, Sideline allows you to manage your business and personal communications separately on the same device. 

Unlike traditional VoIP services, Sideline works with your existing carrier network. This is to ensure call quality remains consistent with your primary line. For this reason, Sideline works well if you experience unreliable internet connections but still need a dedicated business line.

Customers also report that Sideline is easy to set up and use. It offers features like custom caller ID, voicemail, and auto-reply. You can also port existing phone numbers and access texting from the web.

Sideline features:

  • Second Phone Number: Sideline works well as an additional phone line for calls, texts, and voicemail.
  • Carrier Network Integration: Sideline uses your existing carrier network, not VoIP, for reliable call quality.
  • Voicemail Management: You can customize voicemail greetings and manage messages separately from your primary line with Sideline.
  • Auto-Reply: Sideline makes it easy to set up automated text responses for missed calls.
  • Web Texting: You can send and receive texts from your computer using the Sideline web portal.
  • Spam Detection: Sideline automatically filters out spam calls and potential fraud.
  • Custom Caller ID: Custom caller ID settings make it easy to distinguish between personal and business calls.
  • Unlimited Messaging: You can send unlimited SMS, MMS, and group messages.
  • Number Porting: You can bring your existing phone number to Sideline.
  • Team Number Feature: You can assign a phone number to multiple devices. This allows team members to share responsibilities for answering calls and texts.
Sideline pros: Sideline cons:
👍 Easy to Set Up: Customers say Sideline is quick and straightforward to setup 👎 Limited VoIP Functionality: Since Sideline relies on carrier networks, it lacks some VoIP features
👍 Reliable Call Quality: Sideline uses your existing network, ensuring consistent call quality without relying on Wi-Fi 👎 Subscription Cost: Sideline isn’t free - not ideal if you’re looking for an OpenPhone free alternative
👍 Separate Business Line: Sideline separates your business and personal communications on one device 👎 Limited Advanced Features: Sideline doesn’t offer CRM integrations or extensive analytics
👍 Web Texting: Sideline allows you to text from a desktop 👎 Consumes Carrier Minutes: Sideline uses your carrier’s minutes for calls

Sideline reviews from customers:

Joseph M.

Computer Technician

"The ability to have a secondary phone number makes this app extremely useful."

Brad T.

Independent Insurance Agent

"The cost has gone up but still a good value."

11. Nextiva | OpenPhone vs Nextiva

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Nextiva is a feature-rich, enterprise-level platform for medium to large businesses. It offers advanced tools like multi-level IVR, detailed analytics, and extensive CRM integrations. 

OpenPhone is a better choice if you need a simpler, more affordable solution for managing voice and SMS communications. 

When evaluating Nextiva vs OpenPhone, know that Nextiva provides more robust and scalable VoIP solutions. If you’re a small team, go with OpenPhone.

Nextiva overview:

Nextiva is one of the most comprehensive VoIP platforms. It provides businesses with a unified communication solution that integrates voice, video, and messaging into one seamless experience. 

Nextiva also offers superior call quality and reliability. They advertise an impressive 99.999% uptime, ensuring you’ll stay connected at all times.

Nextiva’s platform is also highly customizable. It even comes with a visual call flow builder and detailed analytics dashboards. Both can help you optimize your communication processes. 

Nextiva also offers a range of integrations with popular CRMs and helpdesks. This makes it a versatile choice for companies looking to enhance their customer service and sales operations. 

With scalable pricing plans, Nextiva can grow with your business. It offers additional features and capabilities as your needs evolve.

Nextiva features:

  • Unified Communication: Combines your voice, video, and messaging in one platform.
  • Visual Call Flow Builder: Nextiva has intuitive tools for setting up and managing call routing.
  • Advanced Analytics: You can customize dashboards for tracking call metrics and performance.
  • Integrations: Connect Nextiva with popular CRMs like Salesforce, HubSpot, and Zendesk.
  • Call Pop: Provides real-time customer data on incoming calls for personalized service.
  • 99.999% Uptime: Nextiva offers industry-leading reliability.
  • VoIP Hardware Availability: You can purchase or lease compatible VoIP hardware through Nextiva.
  • Team Collaboration Tools: Nextiva comes with built-in messaging and file-sharing capabilities.
  • Scalable Plans: Nextiva’s flexible pricing options suit businesses of different sizes.
  • 24/7 Customer Support: Round-the-clock assistance via phone, email, and live chat.
Nextiva pros: Nextiva cons:
👍 Feature-Rich: Nextiva offers a wide range of communication tools including voice, video, and chat 👎 Premium Features on Higher Tiers: Nextiva locks advanced features behind more expensive plans
👍 Superior Call Quality: You get high-quality voice calls with minimal downtime using Nextiva 👎 Not Ideal for Small Businesses: Nextiva is overkill for smaller companies with simpler needs
👍 Scalable Solutions: You can grow Nextiva with your business as needed 👎 No AI Features: Currently, Nextiva lacks AI-driven tools that some competitors offer
👍 Strong Integrations: Seamlessly integrates your CRM and helpdesk platforms with Nextiva 👎 Setup Can Be Time-Consuming: Some customers find the setup process more involved than expected
👍 Excellent Customer Support: 24/7 support with dedicated teams 👎 International Calling Costs: Rates for international calls can vary and may be higher than some Nextiva alternatives

Nextiva reviews from customers:

Whitney S.

Legal Assistant

"Customer Service is great! And the set-up is so easy and they walk you through instead of handing you a guide. Whenever you run into an issue, which so far for us it is hardly ever, you can rely on technical support to fix the issue immediatley. Also, our phones have never been down which is something we had experienced frequently with our last provider. We happy with the switch! Update: Still awesome customer service. No outages or major problems!"

Melissa E.

Director of Human Resources

"The service is very unreliable. It is not the most intuitive or user-friendly. Often, training others with its capabilities is very cumbersome and confusing. For example, transferring calls can be tricky and takes time to master. The app often crashes and is not reliable at all. Whenever there is an update, prepare for Nextiva to have lots of issues for a period of time. Customer Service is absolutely awful and unhelpful. Some of the features are ones we would never use due to our line of work."

12. Fongo | Fongo vs OpenPhone

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If you’re a cost-conscious individual or freelancer in Canada, then Fongo is for you. 

Fongo comes with basic calling features. It offers free calls within Canada, a local Canadian phone number, and basic features like voicemail and call display. It’s a no-frills, low-cost OpenPhone alternative. 

On the other hand, OpenPhone is a more comprehensive communication platform. It combines voice, SMS, and advanced features like shared inboxes, CRM integrations, and team collaboration tools. 

While Fongo focuses on affordability and simplicity for Canadian users, OpenPhone offers more robust functionality suitable for teams.

Fongo overview:

Fongo is a Canadian-based VoIP service that offers low-cost and sometimes free phone services. 

Fongo operates primarily in Canada and provides small businesses and individuals with a local phone number. It enables you to make free calls to most Canadian cities. 

Fongo works best for those who want to reduce their phone bill without sacrificing voicemail, call display, and text messaging. 

You can also access Fongo via mobile apps and use it as a home phone service if you purchase additional hardware.

Fongo features:

  • Free Canadian Phone Number: You get a local Canadian phone number for making free calls within Canada with Fongo.
  • Unlimited Text Messaging: you can send unlimited SMS messages to other Fongo customers.
  • Voicemail: Fongo includes voicemail service with customizable greetings.
  • Call Display and Blocking: Shows caller ID and allows customers to block unwanted numbers.
  • Call Forwarding: You can forward calls to another number using Fongo.
  • Conference Calling: You can host group calls directly through the Fongo app.
  • Visual Voicemail: View and manage voicemails directly through the Fongo app.
  • Number Porting: You can transfer your existing phone number to Fongo.
  • Emergency Services (911): Access to 911 services, though with some limitations due to VoIP.
Fongo pros: Fongo cons:
👍 Affordable Pricing: Very low-cost or free basic plans, making it ideal for budget-conscious customers 👎 Limited to Canada: Primarily available for Canadian numbers
👍 Free Calling Within Canada: No charge for calls to most Canadian numbers 👎 Reliance on the Internet: Call quality varies depending on your internet connection stability
👍 No Long-Term Contracts: You can cancel Fongo at any time without penalties 👎 Basic Features: Fongo lacks advanced features found in more comprehensive OpenPhone alternatives
👍 Mobile App Access: Fongo is available on both iOS and Android 👎 911 Limitations: Emergency services may not be as reliable as traditional phone lines due to VoIP constraints
👍 Easy Number Porting: Simple process to bring your existing number to Fongo 👎 Limited Customer Support: Support options may be limited compared to larger providers

Fongo reviews from customers:

Rodrey J.

Small Business Owner

"I like that Fongo works over Wi-Fi and can be downloaded onto any mobile device."

Khurram M.

Consultant

"Only drawback is that for freemium plan a Fongo advertisement message plays at the end of the call."

Frequently Asked OpenPhone Alternative Questions

Below is a list of questions frequently asked when migrating to an OpenPhone alternative.

What steps should I take before canceling my OpenPhone account?

Back up your customer and conversation data and export it before you cancel your OpenPhone account. Also, be sure to review your OpenPhone contract and cancellation terms.

How do I ensure that I don’t lose any customer data when switching platforms?

Export all relevant data from OpenPhone. You want to ensure you don’t lose any customer data when switching to an OpenPhone alternative. 

This data might include customer contact information, conversation histories, and review records. Use OpenPhone’s export tools to download this data in a .csv file.

How long does it typically take to transition from OpenPhone to an OpenPhone alternative?

Transitioning from OpenPhone to an OpenPhone alternative typically takes a few days to several weeks. 

Your transition time depends on data migration complexity, phone number configuration time, and setting up your new system.

You can complete a simple transition in a few days. Other more complex setups may require additional time to ensure everything is fully operational.

Can I run both OpenPhone and my OpenPhone alternative simultaneously during the transition period?

Yes, you can run both OpenPhone and your new platform simultaneously during the transition period. This approach can help you make sure your data is correct and that your new platform works as expected.

Will my customers experience any downtime during the phone number hosting or porting process?

Your customers may experience some downtime during the phone number hosting or porting process. This process is largely seamless since the transfer occurs behind the scenes. 

However, there might be a brief period—usually just a few minutes—where your phone number isn’t available.

To minimize any potential disruptions, inform your customers in advance and provide alternative contact methods if needed.

Most service providers will work to ensure minimal downtime, often scheduled during off-peak business hours.

Can I keep all my existing customer conversations and messages when switching platforms?

Yes, you can keep all of your existing customer conversations and messages when switching to OpenPhone alternatives like MessageDesk. For others, it depends on the capabilities of your selected OpenPhone alternative platform. 

Before the switch, export all of your conversation data to a .csv from OpenPhone using its data export tools. 

Make sure your new platform supports importing your data.

What are the terms for canceling my OpenPhone contract?

The terms for canceling your OpenPhone contract can vary depending on your specific agreement with OpenPhone. 

Generally, you should review your contract for details on the cancellation policy. This includes any required notice period, potential early termination fees, and obligations you must fulfill before canceling. 

Some OpenPhone contracts may require a 30-day notice, while others might have specific terms tied to your contract’s length. 

If you're still under a fixed-term contract, you might face penalties for early termination. Be sure to contact OpenPhone’s customer support team to clarify the cancellation process. You’ll want to ensure that you understand any financial implications before proceeding.

How do I ensure OpenPhone won’t charge me after I switch?

To keep OpenPhone from charging you after switching, cancel your account through customer support. You’ll also want to obtain written confirmation of your cancellation date. 

Be sure to review your final bill for accuracy and monitor your bank statements for any unexpected charges. You’ll also want to keep records of all communications in case you need to dispute any charges.

What should I do if OpenPhone tries to enforce early termination fees?

Review your contract terms and conditions regarding early termination if OpenPhone tries to enforce fees.

Does the contract state any termination fees? If yes, then you’ll most likely need to pay them. 

However, you can try negotiating with OpenPhone. Explain your reasons for canceling, and request a waiver or reduction of the fees. 

Think your fees are unfair or not clearly outlined in the contract? You might consider disputing them through OpenPhone's customer support or seeking advice from a legal counsel to explore options. 

Be sure to document all communications for reference.

Can I transfer my OpenPhone contract or services to another business if needed?

Transferring your OpenPhone contract or services depends on the terms of your OpenPhone contract. Most service agreements include clauses about moving or assigning your contract.

If your contract allows, you might be able to transfer your agreement to an OpenPhone alternative. If you can’t transfer, you may need to revise the contract or explore other options.

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We’re here to help you find the best ways to communicate. Especially to maintain a strong and positive online presence with your contacts and customers.

Ready to get started? Your next step is to meet with a MessageDesk messaging expert.

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