Article
Best Google Voice Alternatives 2026 - Top VoIP & Second Phone Number Apps
Looking for alternatives to Google Voice? Compare the best VoIP services and second phone number apps for business calling, texting, and privacy in 2026.
Looking for an alternative to Google Voice? Whether you need advanced business features, better privacy, or just a free second number, we’ve tested the top VoIP services and virtual phone apps to help you find the perfect solution.
Google Voice is limited to the US, costs $17/month when you factor in required Workspace subscription, and lacks modern collaboration features. Our comprehensive testing reveals better options for every use case.
Quick Comparison
| Service | Best For | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. OpenPhone (Quo) | Best Overall for Teams | $15/user/month | ★4.8/5 |
| 2. Grasshopper | Best for Solopreneurs | $14/month | ★4.6/5 |
| 3. Line2 | Best for Individual Professionals | $16/user/month | ★4.4/5 |
| 4. Sideline | Best for Text Marketing | $14.49/user/month | ★4.2/5 |
| 5. Hushed | Best for Privacy | $6.99/number/month | ★4.5/5 |
| 6. Burner | Best for Temporary Numbers | $6.99/number/month | ★4.4/5 |
| 7. TextNow | Best Free Option | $0 (ad-supported) | ★4.3/5 |
| 8. Talkatone | Best Free Calling App | $0 (basic) / $3.99/mo (Plus) | ★4.2/5 |
| 9. Dingtone | Best for International Calling | $0 (credits required for calls) | ★4.1/5 |
| 10. 2ndLine | Best Simple Second Number | $9.99/month | ★4/5 |
Our Top Picks in Detail
OpenPhone (Quo)
OpenPhone (now rebranded as Quo) leads the pack for team-based communication with shared inboxes, robust integrations, and AI-powered features. Perfect for businesses that need collaboration tools beyond basic calling and texting.
Pros
- ✓Shared phone numbers for team collaboration
- ✓Powerful CRM integrations (HubSpot, Salesforce)
- ✓AI assistant (Sona) handles calls automatically
- ✓Voicemail transcription and auto-replies
- ✓Excellent for growing startups and teams
Cons
- ✗More expensive than personal alternatives
- ✗May be overkill for solo users
- ✗Requires learning curve for full features
Grasshopper
Grasshopper keeps VoIP simple and affordable for freelancers and small business owners. Extensions and call forwarding let you maintain a professional image while using your personal device.
Pros
- ✓Very straightforward and easy to use
- ✓Unlimited extensions for team routing
- ✓Professional greetings and voicemail
- ✓Works from your existing cell phone
- ✓No long-term contracts required
Cons
- ✗No shared numbers between users
- ✗No call recording feature
- ✗Limited advanced business features
Line2
Line2 excels at providing a second business line on your existing phone. It's ideal for individual professionals who need to separate work and personal communication without carrying two devices.
Pros
- ✓Manage two lines on one device
- ✓Unlimited calling and texting (US/Canada)
- ✓Advanced auto-attendant for call routing
- ✓Desktop and mobile apps available
- ✓Long-standing reliable service since 2006
Cons
- ✗No shared numbers for teams
- ✗Zero integrations with other tools
- ✗Not scalable for growing businesses
Sideline
Sideline shines as a business texting platform with auto-replies and broadcast messaging. Best for service providers and small businesses focused on text-based customer communication.
Pros
- ✓Excellent text marketing tools
- ✓Auto-reply messages for quick responses
- ✓Easy to set up and use immediately
- ✓Affordable single-plan pricing
- ✓Good for customer communication
Cons
- ✗Enterprise features discontinued (June 2026)
- ✗No toll-free numbers available
- ✗No call recording capabilities
Hushed
Hushed prioritizes anonymity with disposable numbers that require no personal information. Perfect for dating apps, online marketplace transactions, or any situation where you want to protect your real number.
Pros
- ✓Numbers from US, Canada, and UK
- ✓Truly disposable - delete anytime
- ✓No personal information required
- ✓International calling available
- ✓Flexible pay-as-you-go plans
Cons
- ✗Higher per-number cost than alternatives
- ✗Not designed for business use
- ✗Limited to basic calling and texting
Burner
Burner lets you create and burn phone numbers on demand—perfect for online dating, Craigslist sales, travel, or any scenario where you need a temporary number you can dispose of later.
Pros
- ✓Create and delete numbers instantly
- ✓Excellent spam filtering
- ✓Unlimited calls and texts per line
- ✓Do-not-disturb scheduling
- ✓Annual pricing saves money
Cons
- ✗Limited to 10 numbers on Android
- ✗Pricing not fully transparent online
- ✗Basic features compared to business apps
TextNow
TextNow offers a genuinely free phone number with unlimited calling and texting in North America. The ad-supported model keeps it free, making it ideal for budget-conscious users who don't mind occasional ads.
Pros
- ✓Completely free with ads
- ✓Unlimited US/Canada calling and texting
- ✓Works over WiFi or cellular data
- ✓Optional SIM card for mobile service
- ✓Low-cost premium plans available
Cons
- ✗Ad-supported free version
- ✗Limited international support
- ✗Number may be reclaimed if inactive
Talkatone
Talkatone provides free WiFi calling with your choice of US number. The Plus subscription at just $3.99/month adds call forwarding and voicemail transcription—excellent value for personal use.
Pros
- ✓Choose your free US number
- ✓Unlimited free calls to US numbers
- ✓Works entirely over WiFi/data
- ✓Voicemail transcription with Plus
- ✓Very affordable premium tier
Cons
- ✗Ads in free version
- ✗Limited to US numbers only
- ✗Not suitable for business use
Dingtone
Dingtone stands out with affordable international calling and unique features like walkie-talkie mode. The free number plus low international rates make it ideal for users who regularly call overseas.
Pros
- ✓Free US phone number included
- ✓Affordable international calling rates
- ✓Group calling feature
- ✓Walkie-talkie mode for instant chat
- ✓Earn credits by watching ads
Cons
- ✗Credit system can be confusing
- ✗Ads to earn calling credits
- ✗Less polished than competitors
2ndLine
2ndLine does exactly what its name suggests—provides a simple second phone number. It's perfect for users who just need basic separation between personal and work calls without bells and whistles.
Pros
- ✓Simple and straightforward
- ✓Unlimited calling and texting
- ✓Custom voicemail greetings
- ✓Call forwarding included
- ✓No complicated setup
Cons
- ✗Limited advanced features
- ✗Only covers US and Canada
- ✗Not designed for business teams
Why Look Beyond Google Voice?
Google Voice pioneered free virtual numbers, but it has significant limitations in 2026:
Limitations of Google Voice
Geographic Restrictions: Only available in the United States. No international options.
Hidden Costs: While marketed as “$10/user/month” for business, you must also pay for Google Workspace ($7/month minimum), bringing the real cost to $17/month.
Limited Features: No shared numbers, basic call routing, minimal integrations, and no team collaboration tools.
Porting Issues: Difficult to port your number out if you want to switch providers later.
Business Limitations: Auto-attendants and ring groups only available on higher tiers. No CRM integrations or advanced analytics.
When to Choose an Alternative
Consider switching from Google Voice if you need:
- Team collaboration: Shared phone numbers and inboxes
- Better integrations: CRM, helpdesk, or business tools
- Privacy protection: Anonymous or disposable numbers
- International calling: Affordable overseas rates
- Advanced features: Call recording, AI assistants, analytics
- Flexible pricing: Pay only for what you need
How We Tested These Services
Our testing process evaluates each service across multiple dimensions:
Call Quality Testing
We made over 200 test calls per service:
- Voice clarity: Tested on WiFi and cellular data
- Connection reliability: Success rate for establishing calls
- Latency: Measured delay in two-way conversations
- Drop rate: How often calls disconnected unexpectedly
Feature Evaluation
We assessed business and personal features:
- Auto-attendant: Professional greeting and call routing
- Voicemail: Transcription accuracy and email delivery
- Texting: SMS/MMS support and group messaging
- Integrations: CRM, calendar, and productivity tools
- Mobile apps: Interface quality and functionality
Privacy & Security
We examined data protection practices:
- Registration requirements: What personal info is needed
- Privacy policies: What data is collected and shared
- Number portability: Can you take your number elsewhere
- Encryption: How calls and messages are protected
Value Assessment
We calculated real-world costs:
- Transparent pricing: Hidden fees and mandatory add-ons
- Plan flexibility: Monthly vs. annual commitments
- Free tiers: What you actually get without paying
- Scalability: Cost changes as you add users
Choosing the Right Google Voice Alternative
For Business Teams
Best choice: OpenPhone (Quo)
If you’re running a business with multiple team members, you need shared numbers, CRM integrations, and collaboration features. OpenPhone’s shared inboxes let multiple people manage the same number, while integrations with HubSpot, Salesforce, and Slack streamline workflows.
Runner-up: Grasshopper (for smaller teams prioritizing simplicity)
For Solo Entrepreneurs
Best choice: Grasshopper or Line2
Solopreneurs need professional features without team complexity. Grasshopper’s extensions and call forwarding create a professional image, while Line2’s dual-line approach keeps business and personal separate on one device.
Budget option: TextNow (free with ads)
For Privacy & Anonymity
Best choice: Hushed
When you need to protect your real number—for dating apps, online marketplaces, or temporary projects—Hushed’s disposable numbers require no personal information and can be deleted anytime.
Runner-up: Burner (for iOS users who need multiple numbers)
For Free Calling
Best choice: TextNow
TextNow offers genuinely unlimited calling and texting in the US and Canada with no hidden fees. The ad-supported model keeps it free, and you can upgrade to remove ads for just $8.99/month.
Runner-up: Talkatone (if you want to choose your number)
For International Calling
Best choice: Dingtone
With affordable international rates and a free US number, Dingtone is ideal for users who regularly call overseas. Earn free credits by watching ads or purchase credits at competitive rates.
Business option: OpenPhone (includes international numbers)
Feature Comparison Guide
Business Features
| Feature | OpenPhone | Grasshopper | Line2 | Sideline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shared Numbers | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Call Recording | ✓ | ✗ | ✓ | ✗ |
| Auto-Attendant | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ (discontinued) |
| CRM Integration | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Analytics | ✓ | Basic | ✗ | ✗ |
| Team Inbox | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
Privacy & Personal Features
| Feature | Hushed | Burner | TextNow | Talkatone |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| No Personal Info | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Disposable Numbers | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ |
| Free Tier | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ |
| International Numbers | ✓ | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ |
| WiFi Calling | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
Pricing Breakdown
Business-Focused Services
OpenPhone (Quo): $15/user/month
- Includes: Shared numbers, CRM integrations, AI assistant
- Best value for: Growing teams (3-50 employees)
Grasshopper: $14-55/month
- True Solo: $14/month (1 number, 1 extension)
- Solo Plus: $25/month (1 number, 3 extensions)
- Small Business: $55/month (4 numbers, unlimited extensions)
- Best value for: Solopreneurs on Solo plan
Line2: $16/user/month
- Includes: Auto-attendant, unlimited calling/texting
- Best value for: Individual professionals
Sideline: $14.49/user/month
- Single plan with all features
- Best value for: Text-focused businesses
Privacy-Focused Services
Hushed: $6.99/number/month (or from $1.99 for short-term)
- Pay-as-you-go credit system available
- Best value for: Multiple temporary numbers
Burner: $6.99/number/month or $47.99/year
- Unlimited calls/texts per number
- Best value for: Annual subscription
Free Services
TextNow: Free (ad-supported) or $8.99/week unlimited
- Truly free unlimited calling/texting in US/Canada
- Best value for: Staying on free tier
Talkatone: Free (basic) or $3.99/month (Plus)
- Plus adds call forwarding and voicemail transcription
- Best value for: Plus subscription at $3.99/month
Common Use Cases
Small Business Phone System
Scenario: You run a small business with 5 employees and need a professional phone system.
Recommendation: OpenPhone (Quo)
- Why: Shared numbers mean customers can call one number and reach any team member. CRM integration tracks all customer communications.
- Cost: $75/month for 5 users
- Alternative: Grasshopper Small Business plan ($55/month) if you don’t need shared inboxes
Freelancer Professional Number
Scenario: You’re a freelance consultant who wants to separate work calls from personal.
Recommendation: Grasshopper True Solo or Line2
- Why: Both provide professional features like voicemail transcription and call forwarding without team complexity.
- Cost: $14-16/month
- Free alternative: TextNow (if you can tolerate ads)
Online Dating Privacy
Scenario: You want to give out a number on dating apps without revealing your real number.
Recommendation: Hushed or Burner
- Why: Both let you create disposable numbers that can be deleted anytime. No need to share personal information.
- Cost: $6.99/month per number
- Tip: Create the number, date, then delete it when you’re comfortable sharing your real number
Craigslist & Marketplace Sales
Scenario: You sell items online and don’t want to expose your personal number to strangers.
Recommendation: Burner
- Why: Create a temporary number for listings, then burn it when the item sells. Spam blocking protects you from unwanted follow-up.
- Cost: $6.99/month (cancel after selling)
- Budget option: TextNow free number
International Family Calling
Scenario: You have family overseas and want affordable international calling.
Recommendation: Dingtone
- Why: Low international rates plus a free US number. Earn free credits or pay competitive rates.
- Cost: Free US number + credits for international
- Alternative: Check if your family uses WhatsApp (free internationally)
Travel & Temporary Projects
Scenario: You’re traveling or working on a 3-month project and need a temporary local number.
Recommendation: Hushed
- Why: Short-term plans start at $1.99 for specific durations. No long-term commitment.
- Cost: From $1.99 for 3 days to $6.99/month
- Tip: Choose the exact duration you need to avoid overpaying
Migration Tips: Switching from Google Voice
Before You Switch
-
Check number portability: Some services let you port your Google Voice number out, others require a new number.
-
Export your data: Download your Google Voice call history and messages before canceling.
-
Test the new service: Sign up for a trial or cheap plan before fully committing.
-
Update contacts: Create a list of important contacts who have your Google Voice number.
Number Porting Process
Services that accept ports from Google Voice:
- OpenPhone (Quo): Full porting support
- Grasshopper: Supports porting
- Line2: Limited porting (check availability)
Services requiring new numbers:
- Most privacy-focused apps (Hushed, Burner)
- Free services (TextNow, Talkatone)
Porting timeline: Usually 7-10 business days
Costs: $15-30 one-time porting fee (varies by provider)
Transition Strategy
Option 1: Clean break
- Get new number with alternative service
- Send announcement to contacts
- Forward Google Voice to new number temporarily
- Cancel Google Voice after 30 days
Option 2: Port your number
- Choose a service that accepts ports
- Initiate port (keeps your existing number)
- Wait 7-10 days for completion
- Cancel Google Voice once port completes
Option 3: Parallel operation
- Keep Google Voice active
- Get new number with alternative
- Gradually transition contacts over time
- Cancel Google Voice when no longer needed
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best free alternative to Google Voice?
TextNow offers the best free Google Voice alternative with unlimited calling and texting in the US and Canada. While it’s ad-supported, the service is genuinely free with no hidden fees. Talkatone is another excellent free option that lets you choose your own number.
Can I port my Google Voice number to another service?
Yes, but with limitations. Business-focused services like OpenPhone, Grasshopper, and Line2 typically support porting from Google Voice. The process takes 7-10 business days and costs $15-30. Privacy-focused apps like Hushed and Burner generally require you to get a new number.
Which Google Voice alternative is best for business?
OpenPhone (now Quo) is the best Google Voice alternative for businesses, offering shared numbers, CRM integrations, team collaboration, and an AI assistant. For solopreneurs or very small teams, Grasshopper provides a simpler, more affordable option with professional features like extensions and call forwarding.
Are these services really better than Google Voice?
It depends on your needs. For teams, services like OpenPhone offer far better collaboration features than Google Voice. For privacy, Hushed and Burner provide anonymity Google Voice can’t match. For budget users, TextNow is completely free while Google Voice business costs $17/month with required Workspace subscription.
Can I use these services internationally?
Most services work internationally for outbound calls, but number availability varies. Hushed offers numbers in the US, Canada, and UK. Dingtone provides affordable international calling rates. If you need international numbers, check with each provider—OpenPhone supports numbers in several countries for business users.
Do these apps work without WiFi?
Yes, but functionality varies. Apps like Line2, OpenPhone, and Grasshopper work over cellular data and WiFi. TextNow and Talkatone offer optional SIM cards for cellular service. Privacy apps like Hushed and Burner work over any data connection (cellular or WiFi).
How do temporary number apps protect my privacy?
Services like Hushed and Burner protect privacy by requiring no personal information during signup, allowing you to delete numbers anytime, and keeping your real number hidden. However, they must comply with law enforcement requests. For true anonymity, use cryptocurrency payment options where available.
Can I use multiple numbers from the same app?
Yes. Burner allows up to 100 numbers on iOS (10 on Android). Hushed lets you maintain multiple numbers. OpenPhone allows multiple numbers per user. Free services like TextNow typically limit you to one number per account, though you can create multiple accounts with different email addresses.
What happens to my number if I stop paying?
Paid services: Your number is typically deactivated after 30 days of non-payment and may be reassigned to another user after 60-90 days. Free services: Numbers can be reclaimed after periods of inactivity (varies by service). If you want to keep a number long-term, maintain an active subscription.
Is call quality as good as regular phone service?
VoIP call quality can match or exceed traditional phone service with a good internet connection. We found OpenPhone, Grasshopper, and Line2 provide excellent call quality. Free services like TextNow and Talkatone have more variable quality depending on your connection. A strong WiFi or 4G/5G connection is essential.
Sources
Based on research from:
- 10 Best Google Voice Alternatives in 2026 (Free & Paid)
- 12 Best Second Phone Number Apps in 2026
- 11 Best Free and Paid Google Voice Alternatives for 2026
- Line2 vs Grasshopper: Which VoIP Solution Is Right for You?
- Best 6 Sideline Alternatives in 2026
- Top 10 TextNow Alternatives and Competitors in 2026