Seamless communication is important in running a successful business. Thanks to Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP), staying connected no longer means being tethered to a traditional landline.

Google Voice is a popular VoIP service that has revolutionized call management for many businesses by facilitating calls via the internet. Although an invaluable tool, it isn't without limitations — particularly for growing organizations seeking advanced communication capabilities or industry-specific customization.

In this post, we look beyond Google Voice to explore alternatives that may better suit your business needs.

What Is Google Voice?

Google Voice is a cloud-based VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone service offered by Google that enables users to make and receive calls, send text messages, and manage voicemail over the internet. Originally launched in 2009 as a consumer product, Google Voice has evolved into a business communication tool integrated within the Google Workspace ecosystem.

Google Voice assigns users a dedicated phone number that can be used across multiple devices — smartphones, tablets, computers, and even desk phones. Calls are routed through the internet rather than traditional phone lines, allowing users to make and receive calls from anywhere with an internet connection.

The service syncs seamlessly with other Google products like Gmail, Google Calendar, and Google Meet.

Google Voice is particularly popular among:

• Freelancers and solopreneurs who need a separate business number without the cost of a dedicated phone line
• Small businesses already using Google Workspace who want integrated communication tools
• Remote workers who need to make business calls from personal devices while maintaining professionalism
• Startups looking for an affordable entry point into business phone systems

While Google Voice offers a solid foundation for basic business communication, many organizations eventually outgrow its capabilities as they scale or require more advanced features.

Why business owners are looking for Google Voice alternatives

While Google Voice offers an accessible entry point into VoIP, many business owners find themselves seeking alternatives as their needs evolve. Understanding these pain points can help you determine whether it's time to explore other options.

Limited advanced features

Google Voice's Starter plan limits users to 10 and lacks essential business features, including automated attendants, ring groups, and advanced call routing. For growing teams that need sophisticated call management, these limitations can quickly become bottlenecks that hinder operational efficiency.

Narrow integration ecosystem

Google Voice integrations are primarily confined to the Google Workspace ecosystem. Businesses that have invested heavily in CRM platforms such as Salesforce, HubSpot, or Zendesk often find that competing VoIP providers offer more robust native connectivity, enabling seamless workflows without workarounds or third-party tools.

No built-In video conferencing

Unlike competitors such as Zoom Phone, RingCentral, and Dialpad, Google Voice lacks integrated video capabilities. For businesses that rely on video meetings as part of their communication strategy, this means juggling multiple platforms and potentially paying for separate video conferencing services.

International calling constraints

Google Voice's international calling options are more limited than those of providers like 8x8 (47 countries) or Zoom Phone (40+ countries). Businesses with global clients or remote teams abroad may face higher costs or reduced call quality when communicating internationally.

Scalability concerns

As businesses grow beyond the 10-user Starter plan limit, per-user pricing quickly escalates on the Standard ($20/user/month) and Premier ($30/user/month) plans. Some alternatives offer more predictable fixed-rate pricing, making them more cost-effective for expanding teams.

Product longevity uncertainty

Google has a history of discontinuing products, which can create unease for businesses building long-term communication infrastructure. While Google Voice continues to receive updates, some organizations prefer providers with longer track records of commitment to their core business phone offerings.

1. Smith.ai

Best for: Client-facing businesses needing 24/7 call handling without managing a phone system

Smith.ai is a virtual receptionist service that combines AI technology with live human agents to handle incoming business calls on your behalf. Rather than providing another phone system, Smith.ai answers calls, qualifies leads, collects intake information and schedules appointments.

The AI Receptionist handles high-volume routine calls using conversational AI with custom prompts, unlimited parallel call handling and CRM integration with over 7,000 platforms. The Virtual Receptionist service provides trained live agents who become familiar with your business, handling payments, scheduling and customer service inquiries. When situations require human judgment — complex conversations, sensitive client matters or caller preference — live virtual receptionists are available through seamless escalation.

You can port your existing business number or get a new one, with calls transferring directly to your cell phone when needed. Setup takes minutes with a custom call flow built around your specific instructions.

Cost: Contact Smith.ai for current rates on both AI Receptionist plans  and Virtual Receptionist plans. No contracts, no setup fees, and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Key features:

• Complementary AI and live receptionist services: AI receptionists handle routine calls 24/7/365 while live virtual receptionists manage complex conversations, sensitive situations and caller requests for a human — both working as part of a unified system.
• Lead qualification and intake: Both service options screen callers, collect essential information and qualify leads before they reach your team.
• 7,000+ integrations: Connectivity with CRM platforms, scheduling tools and business systems — including every VoIP provider listed in this article.
• Bilingual support: English and Spanish call handling across both AI and live receptionist options.

2. RingCentral

Best for: Larger businesses and enterprises requiring a scalable, feature-rich platform

RingCentral is a unified communications platform that combines voice, video, messaging and contact center capabilities in a single solution. It's designed for mid-size and enterprise teams that need advanced call management alongside collaboration tools, with over 500 prebuilt integrations connecting to CRM platforms, productivity suites and custom business applications.

The breadth of features may require a learning curve for smaller teams. Businesses that need straightforward call handling without managing a full UCaaS platform may find it more than necessary.

Price: $20/user/month for Core; $25/user/month for Advanced; $35/user/month for Ultra (annual billing). Monthly billing runs higher: Core $30, Advanced $35, Ultra $45.

Key features:

• 500+ integrations: Native connections with Salesforce, HubSpot and other major CRM platforms, plus custom integrations via Workato for 1,000+ applications. Smith.ai integrates with RingCentral for combined call handling.
• Video conferencing: HD video meetings with screen sharing, live transcription and AI-generated summaries on any device.
• Advanced call routing: Route calls based on customer priority, IVR inputs, time of day and agent expertise.
• AI-driven analytics: Live sentiment analysis, call purpose detection and automated quality assurance scoring.

3. Dialpad

Best for: Companies that want AI capabilities built into their phone system

Dialpad is a cloud-based business communications platform that embeds AI features — real-time transcription, coaching and sentiment analysis — into every plan tier. The platform covers audio and video calling, conference calling, screen sharing and team messaging through mobile and desktop apps, with autonomous AI agents available for scheduling and routine request handling.

The Standard plan limits integrations to Salesforce, HubSpot, Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace. Businesses needing broader connectivity should evaluate higher tiers.

Price: $15/user/month for Standard; $25/user/month for Pro; contact for Enterprise pricing.

Key features:

• AI at every tier: Call transcription, sentiment analysis and live coaching through AI Live Coach are available on all plans. Smith.ai integrates with Dialpad for businesses that want receptionist services alongside these capabilities.
• Unlimited calling: Standard and Pro plans include unlimited domestic calls.
• Call queue management: Efficient high-volume call distribution for customer-facing teams.
• Call recording: On-demand recording on Standard; automatic recording on higher tiers.

4. Nextiva

Best for: Businesses prioritizing CRM integration from day one

Nextiva is a business phone and customer communication platform that offers native CRM integrations with Salesforce, HubSpot, Zendesk and Microsoft Teams starting at its entry-level Core plan. The platform includes omnichannel digital customer service, AI-powered voicemail transcription, smart call routing and unlimited audio conferencing, with 24/7 customer support included across all plans.

Price: Core from $15/user/month (annual); Engage from $25/user/month (annual); Power Suite $75/user/month. Pricing varies by user count, with annual billing providing approximately 20% savings.

Key features:

• CRM integration at entry level: Salesforce, HubSpot, Zendesk and Microsoft Teams connectivity starts on the Core plan. Smith.ai integrates with Nextiva to add receptionist services on top of these workflows.
• AI-powered voicemail transcription: Smart voicemail features with AI transcription for efficient message management.
• Omnichannel support: Unified customer interactions across voice, digital and messaging channels.

5. Phone.com

Best for: Startups and businesses on a budget

Phone.com is an affordable cloud-based VoIP provider that offers flexible, scalable phone service for small and midsize businesses. Even its basic plan includes call routing, transferring and scheduling, with optional add-ons for live receptionist support, AI-powered call routing, desk phone hardware and international calling packages — so you pay only for the capabilities you need.

Price: Basic plan starts at approximately $15/user/month with annual billing ($18/user/month billed monthly). Volume discounts and a 30-day money-back guarantee are available.

Key features:

• À la carte flexibility: Add-ons like ProSIM for eSIM mobile integration ($10/month), live answering services and global numbers let you pay only for what you use. Smith.ai integrates with Phone.com for businesses wanting dedicated receptionist services alongside their phone system.
• Multi-device access: Use your account from mobile apps, web browsers and desktop applications for remote and hybrid work.

6. Grasshopper

Best for: Solopreneurs, small teams, and mobile-centric users

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Grasshopper is a virtual phone system built for simplicity, giving small businesses and solopreneurs a professional business number without the complexity of a full VoIP platform. It focuses on core calling strengths — unlimited calls, business texting and mobile-first functionality — rather than advanced features like video conferencing, multi-level IVR or call queuing. Setup runs through mobile and desktop apps with no hardware required.

Recent updates include a unified conversations view, a redesigned admin portal and AI-powered call recording and transcription.

Key features:

• Fixed pricing model: Plans start at $14/month for solo users and $25/month for up to three extensions, with unlimited users starting at the Solo Plus plan. Smith.ai integrates with Grasshopper for businesses that want professional call handling without upgrading their phone system.
• Instant Response: An auto-text feature that sends a text to callers when you miss their call.
• Quick setup: Choose a business number and start receiving calls on your current devices within minutes.

7. Verizon

Best for: Businesses already using Verizon services

Verizon is a major telecommunications provider that offers VoIP through its Business Digital Voice service. The primary advantage is the ability to bundle voice service with existing Verizon internet or TV plans for discounted pricing, making it a convenient option for businesses already within the Verizon ecosystem rather than those starting fresh.

Price: Contact Verizon for current pricing. Rates vary based on service configuration, bundle options and business size.

Key features:

• Bundle discounts: Cost savings when combining VoIP with other Verizon business solutions. Smith.ai integrates with Verizon for businesses that want receptionist services alongside their Verizon phone setup.
• Network reliability: Enterprise-grade infrastructure with documented uptime guarantees.

8. Zoom Phone

Best for: Remote teams already using Zoom for video conferencing

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Zoom Phone is a VoIP service integrated within the Zoom communications ecosystem, allowing businesses to add voice calling alongside their existing video conferencing and chat tools. Users get HD voice calls, auto-attendant, call delegation and third-party integrations in a platform they may already use daily — eliminating the need for separate phone and meeting tools.

Price: Starting at approximately $10/user/month with multiple tiers and regional variations; Power Pack add-ons available at approximately $25/month.

Key features:

• Zoom ecosystem integration: Voice, video and chat in one platform with integrations for Salesforce, Microsoft 365 and Google Workspace. Smith.ai integrates with Zoom Phone for businesses that want professional call answering added to their Zoom setup.
• AI-powered features: Automated call summaries, real-time voicemail transcription and AI-assisted call handling.
• Global coverage: PSTN coverage spanning 40+ countries for businesses with international operations.
• Shared line groups: Incoming calls distribute among available members for faster response times.

9. 8x8

Best for: Businesses with a global team or audience

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8x8 is a unified communications platform that provides cloud-based voice, video, chat and contact center solutions with international calling capabilities that few competitors match. Certain plans include unlimited calling to up to 47 countries, with global coverage in 50+ countries. The platform also includes compliance credentials for HIPAA and FCC requirements, making it suitable for regulated industries.

Price: 8x8 no longer publishes public pricing. All plans are quote-based with mix-and-match options for Unified Communications, Contact Center and API capabilities. A 30-day free trial is available.

Key features:

• Unlimited international calling: Global coverage in 50+ countries with unlimited calling to up to 47 countries on certain plans. Smith.ai integrates with 8x8 for businesses that want receptionist services handling their international call volume.
• Omnichannel contact center: Voice, email, SMS, live chat and social media integration with speech analytics.
• CRM integrations: Native connections with Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, Zendesk and NetSuite.
• Compliance: Enterprise-grade security suitable for organizations with regulatory requirements.

10. Talkroute

Best for: Small businesses and solopreneurs

Talkroute is a virtual phone system that provides small businesses and solo entrepreneurs with professional call management through local, toll-free or vanity numbers. The platform offers unlimited calling to the U.S. and Canada, SMS/MMS messaging and video meetings, with higher-tier plans adding customizable call routing, call recording and reporting. Month-to-month subscriptions with no contracts make it accessible for small businesses that want flexibility.

Price: $19/month for Basic (1 user); $39/month for Plus (up to 3 users); $59/month for Pro (up to 10 users); contact for Enterprise. These are flat monthly rates, not per-user pricing. Setup fees vary — Basic requires a $19 local number registration fee, while Pro and Enterprise include registration.

Key features:

• Smith.ai integration: Through a partnership with Smith.ai, Talkroute customers can access AI receptionists for automated call handling or live virtual receptionists for human-led service — both available 24/7 for call answering, appointment setting and lead qualification.
• Phone number options: Local, toll-free or vanity numbers with existing number porting and area code customization.
• Reporting: Call history tracking with data filtering, statistics, resolution status and CSV export.

11. 1-VoIP

Best for: Small teams with low to moderate call volume

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1-VoIP is a cost-effective VoIP provider that gives small businesses access to 40+ features — call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, call recording, auto attendant, call queues, music-on-hold, virtual fax and softphone apps — on every plan, with no feature gating between tiers. The service includes anti-spam capabilities via Nomorobo integration and a 99.999% uptime guarantee. It lacks video conferencing and is best suited for cost-conscious businesses with variable call volumes. No contracts or cancellation fees.

Price: $14.97/extension/month for Metered (plus 2¢/minute); $24.97/extension/month for Corporate (unlimited calling); $34.97/extension/month for Professional (phone number included).

Key features:

• Pay-as-you-go option: The Metered plan at 2¢/minute suits businesses with unpredictable call volumes. Smith.ai integrates with 1-VoIP for businesses that want professional call handling without committing to a fixed-rate phone plan.
• Anti-spam: Nomorobo integration blocks telemarketer and blocklisted calls.
• Full feature parity: All 40+ features available on every plan regardless of tier.
• Existing hardware support: Use your current VoIP-compatible equipment to reduce setup costs.

Features to look out for in a Google Voice alternative

When evaluating VoIP providers to replace or supplement Google Voice, consider the features that will have the greatest impact on your business operations.

Call management and routing

Look for providers that offer sophisticated call-handling features, such as automated attendants (auto-receptionists), ring groups, call queues and skills-based routing. These tools ensure calls reach the right person quickly, reducing wait times and improving customer satisfaction. Multi-level IVR (Interactive Voice Response) systems allow callers to navigate menus and self-serve for common inquiries.

CRM and business tool integrations

Native integrations with your existing CRM platform (Salesforce, HubSpot, Zendesk, Microsoft Dynamics) can dramatically streamline workflows. When your phone system automatically logs calls, updates contact records and syncs with your customer database, your team saves hours of manual data entry while maintaining accurate records.

Video conferencing capabilities

For businesses that rely on face-to-face communication, integrated video conferencing eliminates the need for separate subscriptions and simplifies collaboration. Providers like Zoom Phone, RingCentral and Dialpad offer unified platforms where voice, video and messaging work together seamlessly.

AI-Powered features

Modern VoIP platforms increasingly leverage artificial intelligence to enhance productivity. Key AI features to consider include:

• Real-time transcription: Automatic conversion of calls to searchable text
• Voicemail transcription: AI-generated text summaries of voice messages
• Sentiment analysis: Live assessment of caller mood and satisfaction
• AI coaching: Real-time suggestions and guidance during calls
• Automated call summaries: Post-call recaps highlighting key points and action items

International calling coverage

If your business serves global markets or employs remote workers abroad, evaluate each provider's international calling options. Providers like 8x8 include unlimited calling to 47 countries, while others charge per-minute rates for international destinations.

Mobile and desktop applications

A robust mobile app ensures your team can make and receive business calls from anywhere while maintaining professionalism. Look for apps that offer full functionality, including calling, texting, voicemail access and call management — not just basic calling capabilities.

Scalability and pricing structure

Consider how pricing scales as your team grows. Per-user pricing can become expensive for larger teams, while fixed-rate plans (such as Grasshopper) may offer better value for growing organizations. Also evaluate contract requirements — month-to-month flexibility can be valuable for businesses with fluctuating needs.

Reliability and uptime guarantees

Enterprise-grade VoIP providers typically offer 99.9% or higher uptime SLAs (Service Level Agreements). For businesses where missed calls mean lost revenue, strong reliability commitments and redundant infrastructure are essential considerations.

Security and compliance

Depending on your industry, you may need a VoIP provider that meets specific compliance requirements, such as HIPAA for healthcare or SOC 2 for data security. Evaluate encryption standards, data handling practices and compliance certifications before committing.

Customer support quality

When technical issues arise, responsive customer support can make the difference between a minor inconvenience and a major business disruption. Look for providers that offer 24/7 support across multiple channels (phone, chat, email) and check user reviews for feedback on their support experience.

Enhance your VoIP system with Smith.ai

Whichever VoIP provider you choose, Smith.ai integrates with all of them to handle what a phone system alone cannot. Both services work alongside your existing phone setup rather than replacing it — capturing every call, screening for spam and ensuring qualified leads reach your team whether you're on another call, in a meeting or done for the day.

Schedule a free consultation to learn how Smith.ai receptionist services can work with your VoIP provider to capture more leads and free up your time.

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