The 10 Best Virtual Phone Numbers in 2025

A virtual phone system enables you to turn your phone into a powerful tool for both personal and business communication. Unlike conventional phone numbers, virtual phone services function online via the service providers’ servers. These numbers are highly flexible, allowing you to choose from toll-free, local area codes, or custom vanity numbers that enhance your brand.

They are also loaded with impressive features like call forwarding, team communication tools, and voicemail transcription – helping you stay connected and organized.

Read on to find a virtual phone number that fits your needs. We’ve researched and tested many services to help you identify the best virtual phone numbers.

Top virtual phone services – Quick list

What is a virtual phone service?

A virtual number is a phone number that allows you to call through the internet, minimizing the risk of identity theft or data breaches. Also, you can use it to manage business calls and personal communication channels separately.

Unlike traditional phone numbers that transmit calls through telecommunication providers, you only need a stable internet connection to use virtual phone numbers. This is ideal for companies that collaborate with international partners, as it significantly lowers the cost of international calls.

Besides convenience and accessibility, a virtual phone number comes with many extra features. Key features include voicemail recording, automatic call-back schemes, and video conferencing support for up to 500 participants.

Some services, like Surfshark’s Alternative Number, add a safety element. For example, it provides private calls not visible and protects your original number from spam emails on a monthly subscription.

Best virtual phone services today – Detailed list

1. Surfshark Alternative Number

Surfshark is a reputable name in the online security field. Its Alternative Number add-on is a worthy choice for getting a virtual phone number. This service is reasonably affordable with significant discounts, especially if you subscribe to annual plans.

You can use it for anonymous calls to protect your regular phone number. What stood out for us was the ability to combine the virtual phone number with a secure email to fully mask your identity on the internet.

Moreover, it’s pretty simple to use. It enables you to generate a virtual phone number for making free calls within the US while concealing your actual number. Although it can help you avoid identity theft, smishing, and other safety threats, it is not ideal for businesses as it lacks office-specific features.

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2. Zoho Voice

Zoho Voice is a great option if you want an affordable combination of virtual phone service and a CRM tool. You can use it as a standalone app or as an add-on to Zoho CRM if you want customer interaction software.

Instead of offering unlimited calls in the US and Canada like Dialpad and OpenPhone, Zoho Voice provides broader coverage in 14 countries. Also, it includes an integrated two-way SMS messaging feature, enabling you to onboard clients while maintaining a secure messaging environment.

The best part is that it supports number porting if you want to add your existing phone number. This comes with many benefits like call monitoring, queues, and transfers, unlike regular calls. It’s ideal for eCommerce, marketing, and sales-driven businesses seeking a secure and reliable communication solution.

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3. RingCentral

RingCentral offers unlimited international calls and affordable plans. Also, it has an extensive array of over 400 integrations with popular tools like Beetexting, Google’s Workspace and Microsoft’s suite.

You will also like the option to build custom integrations based on your business’s needs and preferences. It also excels at data synchronization and secure storage.

Plus, its group chat option will help you manage your entire team with a customizable chatbot feature that automates routine tasks. Essentially, it’s among the most affordable virtual phone providers on this list.

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4. Dialpad

Unlike top competitors like Surfshark’s Alternative Number, Dialpad stands out with its robust business-focused features. In particular, the Dialpad Connect feature has an AI-powered assistant that logs calls and takes notes in real-time.

This convenience is just a small preview of the tool’s full capabilities. For example, it features a built-in sales solution for marketing and eCommerce companies that uses AI to automate playbooks and streamline onboarding and other workflows.

What’s more, Dialpad has in-call coaching that helps you with employee training. Additionally, it offers reliable cloud-based solutions and other communication-based and business-focused integrations.

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5. OpenPhone

OpenPhone is a user-friendly virtual phone service for enterprise and personal use with an intuitive interface and relatively affordable plans. You’ll particularly like the multi-channel feature that you can use for internal communication.

For example, it allows you to share a virtual number for secure calls among team members, while also use its multi-channel messaging capabilities. Also, the ‘Your Team’ section in the messaging app lets you add team members and create custom groups.

The simple interface shouldn’t fool you – this is a fully fledged business solution. For example, in every chat, you can enter the company, client or partner name and assign a role. This allows you to add roles like manage access, customer support and change lead status, which is great for business.

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6. GoTo Connect

GoTo Connect is a great virtual phone service with cloud-based data storage. It allows you to create a full-featured contact center to streamline daily operations and keep executives continuously informed.

This feature enables you to monitor employee performance, clients, and pending tasks. You can do it through the ‘Agent Dashboard’ feature, which allows you to create custom tickets. For example, if your business deals with sales, you can create sales/marketing reports for more efficient project tracking.

This service also uses AI for call transcriptions, like Dialpad. However, it adds some unique features like smart integrations and routing. Also, the AI agent can help you select the right functions and integrations for your company’s needs.

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7. Aircall

Aircall is a reliable virtual phone service with AI-powered call insights and recording features. Although the price tag is higher, the features it offers make it worthwhile.

This isn’t just a virtual business phone but a complete solution for automating tasks around your company. Also, its AI models generate clear, accurate insights and detailed call logs.

All these features on the dashboard will help you boost your relationships with clients. For example, it has a calendar integration to monitor important dates for business needs. It also includes built-in performance metrics, tracking both answered and missed calls.

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8. 8×8

8X8 is another trustworthy virtual phone service for small businesses, offering AI-driven insights to support client acquisition. It features a built-in call center and many integrations. For example, you can use an 8×8 native system for calls and Microsoft Teams for messaging.

This is the only service on this list with a post-call survey that offers detailed insights about calls, transcriptions, and overall quality. It also features native sales and support teams, as well as a quality evaluation score to show you what you can improve.

The icing on the cake is the customizable shortcuts for activating calls and extensive video conferencing options. Each stream supports up to 500 participants, making it ideal for larger organizations.

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9. 800.com

800.com is a robust business solution that offers toll-free numbers, enabling them to create a professional image and improve customer support. It also features an intuitive interface that simplifies call management and customer communication.

Its user-friendly tools and customizable features enable businesses to streamline communication without relying on complex hardware or installations.

The service offers a transparent pricing scheme with multiple-tiered plans that cater to various business needs. Whether you’re running a small business or a large enterprise, you can choose a suitable package that includes your preferred number of toll-free numbers and a monthly allotment of minutes.

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10. VirtualPhone

VirtualPhone is a popular virtual phone service that offers international numbers at no additional cost. It is well-suited for businesses, offering features like unlimited extensions, fax functionality, an auto attendant, and voicemail.

The service offers a starter package for free or at a low cost. This is an excellent option for independent and small business owners looking to expand internationally while preserving a strong domestic presence.

It allows you to choose one of the three-tiered subscription plans or the pay-as-you-go model. The three paid plans allow you to choose minutes or texts for monthly usage.

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Comparison of the best virtual phone services

Provider	Best for	Price	Available on
Surfshark’s Alternative Number	Privacy-focused users needing a second number for personal use	Starting at $2.99/month with Surfshark One	Android, iOS
Zoho Voice	Businesses already using Zoho ecosystems	Starts at $100/user/month	Web, Android, iOS
Ring Central	Enterprises needing full VoIP + collaboration tools	Starts at $20/user/month (Core)	Web, Android, desktop, iOS
DialPad	AI-powered calling and team collaboration	Starts at $15/user/month	Web, Android, iOS, Desktop
OpenPhone	Startups and remote teams that need business numbers	Starts at $19/user/month	Web, Android, iOS
GoTo Connect	Businesses seeking unified communications (UCaaS)	Starts at $27/user/month	Web, Android, iOS, Desktop
Aircall	Sales and support teams needing CRM integration	Starts at $30/user/month	Web, Android, iOS
8X8	Global companies that need international calling	Starts at $24/user/month	Web, iOS, Android
800.com	Businesses wanting toll-free numbers to boost credibility	Starts at $23/month	Web
VirtualPhone	Pay-as-you-go users needing global virtual numbers	Pay-as-you-go or plans from $19/month	Web, iOS, Android

How we tested these virtual phone services

Here are some of the factors we considered when choosing these virtual phone numbers:

• User reviews: The first thing we considered was the user feedback from users and companies that have used the services. We wanted to get honest and unbiased feedback from real customers. For example, Trustpilot gave us a realistic overview of most of these services.
• Pricing plans: Next, we checked the pricing of each service. We were trying to find the best affordable virtual phone service for both small and enterprise businesses.
• Communication features: Another thing we considered is the list of features each service offers. Some of the basic features we considered include virtual business phone numbers, customizable channels, text messages, voicemail setups, and in-call recording.
• Integration: Finally, we considered services with comprehensive integration. Although not many can match RingCentral with its over 400 integrations, we chose options that are at least compatible with Slack, Microsoft, and Google tools.
• Communication features: Always review the communication features to ensure they align with your specific needs. For example, if you’re operating a large company, Dialpad’s features like call monitoring and recording tools can be helpful. Other useful features can include queued callbacks and voicemail logs.
• Use cases and business size: If you just need a virtual phone number for personal use and not a fully-fledged business service, you can opt for SurfShark’s Alternative Number. However, keep in mind that it lacks some essential features for business needs, such as automatic call-back and video conferencing.
• Software integrations: We recommend that you always check the integration the service offers. While you can switch providers as your business grows, it’s much easier to start with a scalable solution like RingCentral.

Key features to consider in the best virtual phone service

Here are some of the features to consider when choosing the best virtual phone number for your individual or business needs:

• Call monitoring and automation features. If you want a business virtual phone, call monitoring features can be helpful. For example, RingCentral enables you to switch to live business calls through the app while Aircall has a call coaching system that is ideal for employee training.
• Usability. Another essential thing to consider is the ease of use. For example, Dialpad is user-friendly while 8X8 has a complex dashboard and features that require expertise to use.
• Affordability. Most of the services on this list are affordable. We’ve also featured providers like Zoho Voice, which offers a free basic tier, though you’ll need a paid plan to access premium features.
• Scalability and customization. These are vital features you should consider a virtual phone number for small business that aims to stay current and grow effectively. A good example is RingCentral which offers an extensive suite of integrations tailored to diverse business needs.
• Customer support. Even the best technology can malfunction. So, choose a virtual service with reliable customer support so you can ask for help if you encounter a problem.

Benefits of using a virtual phone service

Nowadays, a virtual phone number is more beneficial than traditional phone lines. For example, if you want to expand your business internationally, it can enable you to connect with clients or team members worldwide securely and affordably. Instead of paying high per-minute rates for international calls, you can opt for services like 8×8, which offers unlimited calling to over 14 countries.

Moreover, virtual phone numbers are flexible and allow you to establish a fully functional virtual office. You can do this by monitoring calls and integrating messaging tools like Microsoft’s business suite tools or Slack. Finally, you can use virtual phone numbers because of their scalability and integrations, which can support your business as it grows.

Why your business needs a virtual phone system

Businesses that stick to just email and landlines are missing key opportunities to improve service and streamline operations. A virtual phone system enables you to enhance customer service, improve internal efficiency, and make smarter decisions.

Today’s communication tools also enable you to gather valuable insights from every interaction, helping you to customize operations for better results. For example, some services allow you to digitize all communication channels and integrate CRM tools.

The evolution to essential infrastructure

A virtual phone number has evolved from just a communication tool for digital nomads and freelancers to a core component of advanced business needs. Nowadays, the best virtual phone service is a comprehensive solution for businesses, enabling you to manage calls, present a professional image, and protect your privacy, without relying on expensive hardware or physical location.

As more business owners embrace hybrid and remote work models, virtual phone systems are becoming more popular than traditional landline phones. These cloud-powered solutions come with advanced features that enable teams to receive and answer calls across multiple devices, forward business calls seamlessly, and maintain a local presence with customizable local phone numbers.

Business virtual phone numbers provide scalability, efficiency, and control while still maintaining mobility and a professional image.

The shift toward professional communication

One of the main reasons why small businesses are switching to virtual phone services is the ability to separate personal and business calls. Using your personal number for business can hurt your credibility, blur professional boundaries, and compromise your privacy. Thankfully, a virtual phone number provides a separate business line that connects directly to your current mobile phone or desktop application.

Upholding a professional image is crucial, especially if your business relies on phone calls for sales, service delivery, or customer support. Features like custom greetings, call recording, and voicemail transcription enable small businesses to deliver a professional, enterprise-level image.

Why separating business calls is essential

Missed or mismanaged calls can cause lost business opportunities. Therefore, it’s essential to separate business calls from personal ones to ensure customer calls don’t redirect to voicemail or get ignored completely. Virtual phone services give you full control over your call flow with features like time-based routing, automated attendants, and call forwarding to teammates or departments.

With advanced call management, small businesses respond more quickly and reliably, enhancing customer satisfaction and minimizing friction. For mobile teams, receiving business calls without sharing personal numbers is a major advantage.

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Should I pair my Virtual Number with a VPN?

Okay, you’ve got your shiny new virtual phone number protecting your personal digits and boosting your biz cred. Awesome! But here’s a cybersecurity pro tip: think about the connection itself. Just like your virtual number shields your real phone number, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) acts like a cloak for your entire internet connection. That protection is especially crucial when making or receiving calls on public Wi-Fi (airport lounge, coffee shop, your ‘third office’ at the park).

Here is why you would want to pair them:

• Double the privacy shield: A VPN encrypts all the data flowing to and from your device before it even reaches your virtual phone service’s servers. This adds a powerful layer of security. The extra security layer makes it exponentially harder for snoops to intercept your calls or see what you’re doing online while managing communications.
• Secure the foundation: Your virtual number relies on the internet. A VPN secures that underlying connection, which can protect from man-in-the-middle attacks or eavesdropping on potentially unsecured networks (a common threat vector today).
• Location flexibility (safely): Need to appear local? Your virtual number handles the caller ID. Need to secure your actual location or bypass geo-restrictions securely? That’s the VPN’s job. Both of these tools work hand-in-hand for secure, flexible communication.
• Get services like Surfshark (already on our list): Their core product is a VPN, which ranks among the best, and their Alternative Number integrates seamlessly, offering a powerful privacy combo right out of the box. It’s a smart move for anyone serious about locking down their communications.

While it’s not a must to have a VPN on 24/7 with your virtual number, using one, especially on untrusted networks, significantly boosts your overall security posture. It’s the smart layer beneath your virtual communication layer.

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