How to Compare MagicJack With Other Internet-Based Phone Systems
The MagicJack is a device that allows you to connect a regular phone to the Internet. Once you connect your phone to the MagicJack, and then connect the MagicJack to your Internet connection, it will provide your phone service. There are many alternatives for Internet phone service, so some planning will determine which option is best for you.
Instructions
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Determine how you would like to make your Internet phone calls. The MagicJack is a home phone device, while other options are more mobile if you have a laptop computer. The MagicJack could be more convenient, as it only requires a regular phone. Among the other major providers, Vonage also works with a regular phone or computer, but Google Voice and Skype require either a computer or a special phone.
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Compare the current pricing of MagicJack to other Internet phone options, including the major providers: Google Voice, Vonage, and Skype. These services offer unlimited calls in the United States for the same price, but some charge for calls to Canada, and their prices vary for other international calls. (As of June 2010, Google Voice is a free service; however, it is still in beta, and new accounts are not being accepted.)
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Review online forums, such as VoIPreview.org, to see what current customers are saying about each of these services. All Internet phone services promise many features, but their quality can be spotty, and can vary by region and over time. Get the latest information about quality of service before you commit to any one provider.
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Keep your current phone service, or a cellular phone contract, active until you are sure the new phone service you've selected meets your needs. (It is an excellent idea to keep your cell phone active if you are depending on Internet phone service; it is not yet as reliable as landline service, and 911 service may not be included.)
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