When looking for a VoIP solution for your business, you must choose an affordable provider with all the necessary features and integrations. If you have searched, you will agree that MagicJack and Vonage have been adversely mentioned as the most reliable VoIP service providers. Which one of these two VoIP providers is right for you?
MagicJack is a small USB phone adapter that allows you to call via VoIP to other users. On the other hand, Vonage is a phone VoIP platform that enables people to collaborate through cloud video, chats, SMS, and video. MagicJack is a great VoIP system for individuals, while Vonage’s robust features make it an excellent option for growing businesses.
We looked at these two VoIP solutions highlighting their differences, strengths, and weaknesses to help you choose the right one for your business.
Why MagicJack?
MagicJack is a small USB phone adapter that allows you to make calls through Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) to other VoIP users, landline phones, and regular cell phones. The service will enable you to make unlimited U.S. and Canadian calls at a small fee and free unlimited international calls to other MagicJack owners.
When the original MagicJack was introduced in the market, many VoIP enthusiasts thought the device was intended to attract attention. But that’s not the case. Since the debuting of MagicJack Plus in 2011, the VoIP system has been a reliable service for home phone replacement. It has unlimited features, which you won’t find in any regular home phone services.
Why Vonage?
Vonage is a phone VoIP platform that allows its users to connect and collaborate on any device through cloud-hosted chat, video, voice, and short message service (SMS). It is more than a phone VoIP system because it can integrate with many business applications and tools.
MagicJack vs. Vonage: Which VoIP provider is right for you?
Here is a guide on the differences between MagicJack and Vonage to help you determine which VoIP solution is right for your business.
Features
In terms of features, Vonage comes out on top as the VoIP provider and a good google voice alternative with advanced features for individuals and businesses. Besides the essential elements on most VoIP systems, such as unlimited calls and SMS, Vonage boasts many advanced features, including unlimited team messaging, call recording, multi-level auto attendant, I.P. desk phone capability, and unlimited meetings for up to 100 and integration.
MagicJack is inferior when we look at the number of features and services it offers. The VoIP service doesn’t go beyond a phone line service. It is designed for home phone replacement, providing basic features including unlimited U.S. and Canadian calls, free international calls, call forwarding, call blocking, automated call screening, voicemail, and voicemail to email. It offers little when it comes to collaboration with other users.
Available Plans
MagicJack offers affordable plans so that you can stay connected with other users. Available plans include a 1-year plan, a 2-year plan, and a 3-year plan. After your initial service ends, you will continue using your device, but you will have to choose your preferred Plan. Returning customers who want to renew or upgrade their subscriptions can log into their accounts.
Vonage also has three plans, each with a different price. The basic, premium, and advanced plans are mobile plans. Each of these plans comes with a 14-day free trial period.
Pricing
Regarding pricing, MagicJack has stood the test of time as one of the most cost-effective VoIP providers in the market today. The MagicJack Home is available for $49.99 on the official website, but the price may vary based on the place of purchase and current deals. Upon purchase, you will get 12 months of free services when both MagicOUT and MagicIN services are selected and 15 months of free service when you select either MagicOUT or MagicIN one-way service subscription. After the initial 15-month free service expires, the subscription service will be auto-renewed to the one-year Plan for $38. You will need to pay a one-time $10 change service fee to upgrade (re-subscribe) to the two-way subscription.
Vonage has four plans with different prices. Vonage’s basic Plan, known as the mobile Plan, costs around $19.99 per month per line. The second term plan is the premium plan which costs around $24.99 per month per line, while the third and final Plan is the advanced Plan which costs approximately $34.99 per month per line.
MagicJack’s $39 annual subscription compares favorably to Vonage’s $19.99 per month. MagicJack remains a great option as long as you don’t need any call management features or collaboration required by small enterprises and home businesses. However, if you are looking for a unified communication provider, Vonage’s price might be a tip in the ice compared to its features.
Read More: Google Voice vs. Vonage – Comparison and Differences
Integration
Vonage is a clear winner when it comes to integration. The VoIP system supports up to 17 integrations, including Office 365, Microsoft Dynamics CRM, Slack, Zendesk, Google Workspace, and Salesforce CRM. It’s an excellent service for small businesses and corporate enterprises that want to leverage these apps. Unfortunately, MagicJack does not integrate with any business tools and applications.
Mobile apps
Besides a Desktop app, Vonage also has a mobile app for Android and iPhone devices that lets you make free video and voice calls and send free video, texts, and photos to other app users, anywhere in the world. The App works for everyone, including those without a Vonage plan.
MagicJack also offers a mobile app known as MagicApp Companion App for iOS or Android devices. This App allows users to enjoy MagicJack benefits on the go and never miss a call. The App is entirely free to download when you purchase the device. After that, you will need an active MagicApp monthly subscription to use the App.
Support and customer care
Vonage offers 24/7 customer service and tech support. The company also provides additional support and consultation services at a fee. Based on customer reviews and testimonials, Vonage has a slight edge with its support services.
MagicJack also offers support for sales and renewal, billing, and technical support. You can contact the company through their toll-free number if you want to purchase the device or renew your subscription. The support team is available on weekdays from 9 am to 9 pm and on weekends from 9 am to 6 pm EST. You can get assistance via live chat or phone for billing and customer service. For technical support, you can get assistance through live chat and email.
Is MagicJack better than Vonage?
Not really. MagicJack can’t match the features that Vonage offers. MagicJack is a great VoIP system for individuals wanting to switch from a landline service. Vonage’s robust features make it an excellent option for growing businesses that want to power their customer experiences and accelerate connections that matter to their business.
