Skype

Skype may be best known for its free video chat, but the company is also a provider of inexpensive VoIP services. While its pricing is hard to beat, Skype’s affordability is indicative of the service’s overall functionality and very basic set of calling features. You are also limited to making internet calls using your computer as a softphone, or installing the app on your smartphone.

The quality of sound with VoIP isn't as good as on a landline or mobile. If you are using a webcam the sound quality deteriorates. There is frequently background noise and the service can be subject to drop-outs. It’s light on features, lacking call return, call blocking and most important, 911 calling ability.

But despite its bare-bones feature set, Skype’s service plans include all the features we looked for in the best VoIP providers. You can keep your current phone number or select a new one with an area code of your choosing, even if you don’t reside there. This VoIP service provides select international calling and unlimited minutes, depending on which of its plans you choose. You can also purchase minutes at a reduced rate.