VoIP Price Comparison

Vonage pioneered the VoIP concept and offers two basic calling plans. The most popular Vonage plan is the World Plan, which provides unlimited local and long distance calling for the United States, Puerto Rico and Canada, plus international calling to 60 countries. Vonage-to-Vonage calls are free, and unlimited calls to cell phones are offered in 10 countries. The startup price for the Vonage World plan is $14.99 for the first three months, increasing to $25.99 per month after three months of service. The United States and Canada 300 plan is the second Vonage call plan. It includes 300 minutes of outbound calls to the U.S., Puerto Rico and Canada for $11.99 a month plus taxes and fees. There is no limit on incoming calls or Vonage-to-Vonage calls. Both plans include a free phone adapter and activation.

AT&T; provides two internet phone plans in their U-verse packages. U-verse Voice Unlimited services the United States, Puerto Rico, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands and the Northern Marianas for a basic monthly charge of $35.00. Optional services include a second line, call tracing, directory assistance and operator assistance for fees-per-use. U-verse Voice 250 offers 250 free minutes for $25.00 per month with a charge of five cents per minute over 250 minutes. AT&T; sends a free installation kit for self-installation with a fee for shipping and handling. International calls can be made on either plan with rates that vary by country.

Time Warner is a basic cable provider in many areas of the country. Digital internet phone service begins at $39.95 a month for unlimited calling in the United States and Canada. Time Warner offers bundled packages that include TV, digital phone and high speed internet connections.

All digital internet phone services require high-speed internet connections. Check with your local ISP or digital phone provider to determine if you already have a high-speed connection.