Are you looking for the best virtual phone number apps? If you are, keep reading this article.
Virtual phone numbers give you a second line for calls and texts without needing an extra SIM. Whether you’re a business owner separating work communications, a freelancer establishing credibility, or someone who values privacy, these apps provide flexibility through your smartphone or computer.
With options ranging from free services like Google Voice to premium tools like Grasshopper, choosing the right solution depends on your needs for call quality, international numbers, and advanced features.
This guide compares the top virtual number apps, highlighting key differences in pricing, reliability, and use cases to help you find the best fit.
First, let’s see what virtual phone numbers are.
What Are Virtual Phone Number Apps
A virtual phone number (VoIP or cloud-based) is not tied to a physical SIM card or landline. Instead, it operates over the internet, allowing you to make and receive calls and texts through an app on your smartphone, computer, or tablet.
These apps provide a second phone number without needing an extra device, making them ideal for:
- Business owners who want a separate work line
- Freelancers needing a professional contact number
- Travelers who wish to use a local number abroad
- Privacy-conscious users avoid personal number exposure
Unlike traditional phone services, virtual numbers offer flexible features like call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, and AI spam blocking—all managed digitally. Some even support international numbers, letting businesses establish a local presence worldwide.
What to Look for In Virtual Phone Number Apps
Choosing the right virtual phone number app depends on your business, personal use, or international communication needs. Here are the key features to evaluate:
Call Management Features
- Call Forwarding: Route calls to another number or device.
- Voicemail & Transcription: Check messages as text (valid for business).
- Call Recording: Essential for customer support or legal purposes.
- Spam Blocking: Filter unwanted calls automatically.
Messaging Capabilities
- SMS/MMS Support: Send and receive texts (some apps only allow calls).
- Group Messaging: Useful for team communication.
- Auto-Responders: Set away messages for professionalism.
Number Availability
- Local vs. International Numbers: Some apps offer numbers in specific countries (e.g., Google Voice for the U.S. only).
- Toll-Free Options: Important for customer-facing businesses.
- Porting Existing Numbers: Check if you can transfer your current number.
Pricing & Plans
- Free vs. Paid: Free apps (like TextNow) may have ads or limited features.
- Subscription Tiers: Paid apps (e.g., Grasshopper) offer advanced features like extensions.
- Pay-As-You-Go: Ideal for low-volume users (e.g., Skype Credits).
App Compatibility
- Mobile & Desktop Apps: Ensure cross-device syncing (e.g., OpenPhone works on iOS, Android, and web).
- Integrations: CRM tools (Salesforce), email, or Slack (for business users).
Privacy & Security
- End-to-End Encryption: For sensitive calls/texts (e.g., WhatsApp Business).
- Number Hiding: Mask your number when calling.
Now, let’s see the list of the best free and premium virtual phone number apps.
Best Free Virtual Phone Number Apps
These are the free apps you can use for a free virtual phone number:
- Google Voice
- TextNow
- TextFree by Pinger
- 2ndLine
- Hushed
Below, we will explain what makes each platform unique.
1. Google Voice
Google Voice provides a robust free phone number solution that is deeply integrated with Google’s ecosystem. It offers U.S. users a permanent virtual number with voicemail transcription, call screening, and spam filtering.
As the most established free option, it delivers reliable call quality and seamless synchronization across Android, iOS, and web platforms, making it ideal for professionals who need a unified communication hub.
While limited to U.S. numbers and lacking some advanced business features, its tight Gmail/Calendar integration and unlimited domestic calling/texting make it the top choice for Google Workspace users, freelancers, and anyone needing a stable secondary number without ongoing costs.
2. TextNow
TextNow offers a free U.S. or Canadian phone number with unlimited nationwide talk and text over WiFi or cellular data, making it ideal for users who need a persistent secondary number without a paid plan.
The ad-supported service provides reliable calling and messaging with features like voicemail, call waiting, and customizable area codes, while keeping your number private.
Though the free version requires periodic usage to maintain your number, TextNow stands out for its balance of functionality and cost (free with optional ad-free upgrades), particularly appealing to students, budget-conscious users, or those needing temporary numbers for classifieds or travel.
The app’s availability across multiple platforms (iOS, Android, web) ensures seamless communication from any device.
3. TextFree by Pinger
TextFree by Pinger is a solid free option for users needing texting capabilities with occasional calling features.
The app provides a dedicated U.S. or Canadian number with free unlimited texting. It is ideal for casual users, teens, or anyone needing a secondary number for verification purposes or short-term communications.
While ad-supported, it offers affordable calling credits for voice minutes and includes basic features like voicemail, photo messaging, and customizable area code selection.
The simple interface and reliable performance make TextFree particularly useful for those prioritizing texting over calling, though businesses may find its limitations and ads restrictive for professional use.
4. 2ndLine
2ndLine is a practical choice for users seeking a free second phone number with reliable calling and texting capabilities directly from their smartphone.
It provides a dedicated Canadian or U.S. number with essential business features like voicemail, call forwarding, and MMS support. It is handy for freelancers, small businesses, or anyone separating work and personal communications.
The app integrates seamlessly with your existing device, eliminating the need for extra hardware while maintaining decent call quality.
Though ad-supported in its free version, 2ndLine remains a strong option for budget-conscious users who need basic virtual number functionality without subscriptions or complex setups.
5. Hushed
Hushed is an excellent choice for users who need a private, temporary, or secondary phone number with a clean interface and reliable calling and texting features.
It offers disposable numbers for short-term use, making it ideal for online dating, selling items, or traveling. The app also provides long-term number options with affordable subscription plans. The app includes essential features like call forwarding, voicemail, and customizable area codes, all while keeping your number private.
With strong encryption and no need for a SIM card, Hushed balances simplicity with functionality, catering to casual users and professionals who value discretion and flexibility in their communications.
Best Premium Virtual Phone Number Apps
Here are the premium apps:
- Grasshopper
- OpenPhone
- RingCentral
- Sideline
- Vonage
- Zoom Phone
- Dialpad
- Aircall
- JustCall
- Line2
Now, here’s what you can expect from these apps.
1. Grasshopper
Grasshopper provides entrepreneur-focused virtual phone systems with enterprise-grade features scaled for small businesses and solopreneurs.
As a pioneer in virtual phone services, it delivers reliable call management through intuitive mobile/web apps, including professional voicemail transcriptions, custom greetings, and simultaneous ringing across multiple devices.
Unlike consumer apps, Grasshopper specializes in business identity tools like toll-free/local numbers, multi-extension setups, and call transfers—all of which can be operated without hardware.
While priced above basic apps, its straightforward setup and 24/7 U.S.-based support make it ideal for service businesses needing polished call handling without IT complexity.
2. OpenPhone
OpenPhone is a modern virtual phone system designed for startups and small teams who prioritize simplicity without sacrificing functionality.
Combining the ease of use found in consumer apps with business-grade features, it offers local/toll-free numbers, shared phone numbers for teams, and seamless calling/texting across iOS, Android, and web browsers.
What sets OpenPhone apart is its intuitive interface. It centralizes business communications—including threaded conversations, voicemail transcriptions, and collaborative inboxes—while integrating with essential tools like Slack and CRMs.
Though slightly pricier than basic options, it justifies the cost through exceptional voice quality, unlimited domestic calling/texting, and responsive customer support. This makes it ideal for growing businesses that outgrow free services but don’t need enterprise complexity.
3. RingCentral
RingCentral is the industry leader in unified communications, offering robust virtual phone numbers as part of a full-featured VoIP platform. Designed for businesses scaling their operations, it combines HD voice calling, video conferencing, team messaging, and contact center solutions into one seamless ecosystem.
Unlike simpler virtual number apps, RingCentral provides enterprise-level reliability with 99.999% uptime SLA, global number availability in 100+ countries, and deep integrations with Microsoft 365, Google Workspace, and leading CRMs.
4. Sideline
Sideline offers a streamlined solution for professionals needing a separate business number on their smartphone.
Unlike complex VoIP systems, Sideline is a lightweight app that adds a second line with essential calling and texting features while keeping personal communications private. Its intuitive interface provides business-friendly tools like auto-replies, scheduled messages, and customizable voicemail greetings—all without requiring additional hardware.
While lacking some enterprise features of premium platforms, Sideline excels in simplicity, making it ideal for solopreneurs, realtors, and service providers who need fundamental number separation at an affordable price.
5. Vonage
Vonage (formerly Vonage Business Communications) delivers enterprise-grade virtual numbers through a flexible cloud phone system. It distinguishes itself with robust API integrations for custom communication workflows.
Beyond basic calling features, it offers AI-powered call analytics, omnichannel contact center solutions, and programmable SMS/voice APIs. It is ideal for businesses building communication into their apps or customer journeys.
While requiring more setup than consumer apps, Vonage provides carrier-grade reliability with global number support in 40+ countries, seamlessly scaling from startups to large enterprises.
6. Zoom Phone
Zoom Phone integrates virtual phone numbers into Zoom’s familiar meeting platform, offering businesses a seamless transition from video calls to voice communications.
Designed for hybrid work environments, it combines enterprise-grade calling features, such as auto-attendants, call recording, and call queues, with Zoom’s reliable HD voice quality.
Unlike standalone virtual number apps, Zoom Phone works natively within the Zoom ecosystem, allowing users to switch effortlessly between meetings, chats, and phone calls.
7. Dialpad
Dialpad redefines virtual phone systems with its AI-driven platform, combining business numbers, contact center solutions, and meeting tools into one intuitive interface.
What sets it apart is real-time voice transcription and AI call summaries that analyze conversations as they happen—ideal for sales and support teams.
Unlike basic virtual number apps, Dialpad offers true omnichannel flexibility (calls, SMS, MMS, video) with deep CRM integrations (Salesforce, HubSpot) and global numbers in 70+ countries. Its browser-based softphone requires no hardware, making it perfect for remote teams prioritizing analytics and automation over traditional phone systems.
8. Aircall
Aircall is a cloud-based call center platform that transforms virtual phone numbers into powerful customer engagement tools. It is designed specifically for sales and support teams.
Unlike basic virtual number apps, Aircall combines enterprise telephony with deep business integrations, offering intelligent call routing, real-time analytics, and team collaboration features. Its browser-based softphone works instantly across devices without downloads, while maintaining carrier-grade call quality.
With dedicated local or toll-free numbers in 100+ countries, Aircall stands out for scaling global teams that need to monitor performance (like average handle time or call volumes) while maintaining seamless CRM sync with tools like Salesforce, HubSpot, and Zendesk.
The platform shines for customer-facing teams through features like shared call notes, whisper coaching, and parallel calling. However, its per-user pricing makes it most cost-effective for established businesses rather than solopreneurs.
9. JustCall
JustCall is a cloud-based phone system designed for sales and support teams needing enterprise-grade virtual numbers with deep CRM and helpdesk integrations.
Unlike basic virtual number apps, it offers powerful automation features like AI-powered call analytics, click-to-call from business tools (Salesforce, HubSpot, Zendesk), and smart call routing based on customer data.
The platform shines for distributed teams with real-time collaboration features, including shared call notes, live call monitoring for coaching, and simultaneous ringing across devices.
While priced for businesses rather than individual users, JustCall delivers exceptional value through workflow automation that turns calls into actionable customer insights rather than just conversations.
10. Line2
Line2 delivers premium business-grade virtual phone service with advanced call management features tailored for professionals and small teams.
Unlike free alternatives, it provides crystal-clear HD voice quality, dedicated toll-free/local number options, and sophisticated call routing capabilities, including auto-attendants and ring groups.
The service stands out for its seamless integration with existing mobile devices (iOS/Android) while offering desktop softphone support. It is ideal for remote workers who need enterprise features without hardware.
Though priced higher than basic apps, Line2 justifies its cost with reliable uptime, dedicated customer support, and business-critical functionality like call recording and CRM integrations that free services typically lack.
How to Choose the Right App
Selecting the best virtual phone number service depends on your specific needs. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you decide:
Define Your Primary Use Case
- Business Needs: Look for call routing, extensions, and CRM integrations (e.g., Grasshopper, OpenPhone).
- Personal/Privacy Use: Prioritize free or low-cost apps with basic calling/texting (e.g., Google Voice, TextNow).
- International Communication: Ensure the app offers numbers in your target countries (e.g., Zadarma, Skype Number).
Compare Must-Have Features
- Call Quality & Reliability: Read reviews to check for dropped calls or delays.
- Messaging Support: Some apps only allow calls (no SMS).
- Voicemail & Transcription: Useful for professionals.
- Number Portability: If you want to keep an existing number.
Evaluate Costs
- Free Apps: Often have limitations (ads, fewer features).
- Paid Plans: Typically offer better support and advanced tools.
- Pay-As-You-Go: Best for occasional international calls.
Test Usability
- Try free trials or lite versions to assess the app’s interface.
- Check cross-device compatibility (iOS, Android, desktop).
Read User Feedback
- Look for consistent complaints (e.g., poor customer support, bugs).
- Verify uptime reliability if using it for business.
Frequently Asked Questions
Now, we will see some of the frequently asked questions and answers.
What is a virtual phone number?
A virtual phone number operates over the internet instead of a physical SIM card. It allows you to make and receive calls and texts through an app or web interface, using a dedicated number separate from your line.
Can I keep my existing phone number?
Many services allow you to port (transfer) your current number, but not all. Before signing up, check if the provider supports number porting. Some may charge a fee for this service.
Do virtual numbers work internationally?
Some providers offer numbers in multiple countries, letting you establish a local presence abroad. However, availability depends on the service, and international calling rates may apply.
Are there free virtual phone number options?
Yes, free options exist, but they often come with limitations like ads, restricted features, or requirements to use the number regularly to keep it active. Paid plans typically offer better reliability and advanced tools.
Can I use a virtual number for business?
Absolutely. Many businesses use virtual numbers for customer support, sales lines, or remote team communication. Look for features like call forwarding, voicemail transcription, and CRM integrations if needed.
Conclusion
Choosing the right virtual phone number solution can enhance communication, whether for business, personal privacy, or international needs.
Evaluating features, pricing, and reliability can help you find a service that meets your requirements.
Before committing, prioritize what matters most—call quality, messaging capabilities, or international availability—and test options. A well-chosen virtual number keeps you connected efficiently, without the need for extra devices or complicated setups.
Ready to get started?
Compare your options, consider your must-have features, and take the next step toward seamless communication.
Which app are you going to use?
Let us know in the comments.