A Comparison of Free VoIP

The two most popular free VoIP services are Google Voice and Skype. Both services offer computer-to-computer calling, which means you can talk to people through your computer using a microphone, speakers and a Webcam if you have one. Google Voice has an advantage over Skype in that it also offers users free calls to landlines and cell phones within the U.S. and Canada. Skype offers this option, but only if you subscribe to one of its paid plans.

Skype's free computer-to-computer service relies on usernames to connect callers, not phone numbers. This means that you need to open the Skype software on your computer and initiate the call through Skype. Google Voice allows users to select their own phone number. Users can then forward calls to or from their Google Voice account so they can be reached anywhere, anytime.

Many of the free VoIP services offer smartphone apps for Android, iPhone, Blackberry and other platforms. This allows users to make free VoIP calls through their cell phone. While the benefit may not be immediately apparent, users of these apps can make overseas calls for free on their smartphones, or use the free VoIP service through a Wi-Fi connection and save money on their minutes and data usage charges.

Keep in mind that none of the free VoIP services offer emergency calling. If you have to dial 911 for any reason, you cannot do so through the VoIP software. It is important that users of these free services have some other type of phone service, whether it's a landline or cell phone, so that they can call emergency services if needed. Some of the paid VoIP services offer emergency calling, so if you upgrade your Skype account look into this option.