Updated : September 17, 2025VoIP isn’t just replacing physical phone lines; it’s rewriting how we think about communication. The global VoIP market sits at $161.79 billion in 2025, showing how quickly internet-first calling is scaling.
That growth is fuelled by individuals switching from landlines and businesses chasing flexibility and cost savings. Free VoIP numbers are the entry point: no contracts, no expensive hardware, just calling over the internet.
This guide covers the top free VoIP phone number providers, their pros and cons, and how to get started with one.
What Does Free Actually Mean for VoIP Numbers?
When a provider advertises a free VoIP number, it rarely means unlimited inbound and outbound calls without conditions. The term “free” often comes with caveats:
- Some services only allow incoming phone calls for free while charging for outbound calls.
- Many free options work on a basic plan with limited features such as voicemail, caller ID, or text messaging.
- Providers may offer a free phone service, but insert hidden fees for international calls or extra usage.
- Others support free use only if you watch ads or use their app during business hours.
- Google Voice offers free calling within the US, but roaming fees and international rates apply when you call outside.
Why Use Free VoIP Numbers?
A free VoIP phone number is not just about saving money; it’s about flexibility and accessibility. Here’s why users and businesses turn to them:
- You can start calling without needing desk phones or traditional landline phones.
- Businesses can project a local presence with a local phone number or even toll-free numbers.
- Freelancers and entrepreneurs can separate business calls from their personal number using a virtual phone or virtual phone line.
- With unified communications, you can bring everything like voice calls, SMS, voicemail, and even instant messages into one platform, so you’re not switching between apps or devices to stay connected. It streamlines communication and keeps teams responsive.
- A free VoIP service with a phone number reduces cost, sometimes helping companies save thousands per year.
How to Get a Free VoIP Number? [With CallHippo]
Obtaining a free virtual phone number online is simple with CallHippo:
- Visit CallHippo and sign up with your details.
- Choose a phone number (Eg, US phone number) or a local area code that matches your target region.
- Configure all the features you need, such as call forwarding, voicemail, or caller ID.
- Download the app on your desktop to start calling instantly.
CallHippo allows you to test its free VoIP service but also provides advanced features like AI-powered call routing, unlimited calling, CRM integrations, and business phone number management.
Top 9 Free VoIP Phone Number Providers
With so many free VoIP phone number providers available, choosing one can be daunting. Below, we’ve broken down our top 9 providers, what they offer, pros, cons, and pricing to help you select the best one to fit your needs. Note: We’ve analyzed 50+ renowned VoIP providers for small to large-scale business adoption to present the top 9 alternatives.
| Provider | Best For | Key Features | Pros | Cons | Pricing | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  CallHippo | Small to mid-sized teams | Local & toll-free numbers, Call recording, IVR, Analytics dashboards, SMS & voicemail, Parallel dialer | Quick setup, Reliable call quality, Scalable with strong routing tools | Advanced features cost extra, Per-user cost adds up | Free – $42/user/month |
| 2 |  Google Voice | Businesses using Google Workspace | Voicemail transcription, Call transfer, Spam filtering, Workspace integration, Reporting | Deep Google integration, Easy number management & porting | Free plan is limited, Full features require Workspace + Voice | Free (personal) – Enterprise (custom) |
| 3 |  OpenPhone | Modern, collaboration-focused teams | Unlimited US/CA calling, Shared inbox, Auto-replies, Voicemail transcription, CRM integrations | Shared team numbers, Intuitive UI, Improves response speed | No permanent free plan, International use adds cost | $15 – $35/user/month |
| 4 |  TextFree | Casual users needing free texting | Free phone number, Unlimited texting, WiFi calling, Group messaging, Ad-free upgrade | Truly free texting/calling, Cross-platform, Upgrade ensures stability | Ads on free plan, Limited outside US/CA, Codes often need upgrade | Free – $69.99/year |
| 5 |  FreedomPop | Budget-conscious users | Free US number, Limited minutes, Free texting, Voicemail, Paid add-ons | Affordable upgrades, Works with SIM + app, No long-term contracts | International requires add-ons, Coverage varies by carrier | Free – $10+/month |
| 6 |  2ndLine | Freelancers & solo entrepreneurs | Second number, WiFi calling, Call forwarding, Voicemail, Unlimited texting | Keeps personal/work separate, Seamless mobile use, Free unlimited texting | Ads on free plan, Limited verification code support, Features gated in premium | Free (ads) – $9.99/month |
| 7 |  Linphone | Tech-savvy users needing SIP control | SIP support, HD voice/video, Multi-device, Open-source, Secure calls | Free & open-source, Highly customizable, Works on many devices | Requires SIP setup, No native numbers, Complex for non-tech users | Free (open-source), Custom enterprise |
| 8 |  Zadarma | Businesses with international reach | 100 free minutes, International numbers, Cloud PBX, CRM integrations, Call recording | Wide global coverage, Strong free tier, Business-ready features | Complex interface, Features locked in higher tiers, Support varies | Free – $79/month |
| 9 |  TextNow | Users wanting free talk & text | Free US number, Unlimited US/CA calls & texts, Free Flex plan, SIM support, Data add-ons | Use existing devices, Flexible pay-as-you-go data, Free access to essential apps | Ads in free plan, Free Flex plan limited to essentials, Unlimited LTE requires upgrade | Free – $35.99/month |
1. CallHippo
CallHippo offers a virtual business phone system built to help teams scale without hassle. Their platform lets you set up local or toll-free numbers quickly, forward and route calls, manage voicemails, and track performance, all in one place. For new or smaller teams, there’s a free or basic-tier access so you can try core calling features without commitment.
Features
- Unlimited minutes in paid plans
- Call forwarding
- SMS & voicemail capabilities
- Interactive voice response (IVR)
- Analytics dashboards
- Call recording
- Parallel dialer
Pros
- Impressive reliability and high call quality enhance communication with clients.
- Scalable solution that is suitable for businesses of all sizes, from small businesses to larger enterprises.
- Rich call routing and management tools help with scaling processes.
Cons
- The free/basic plan has limited features; many advanced features require a paid plan.
- Cost per user adds up for growing teams.
Pricing
- Basic plan: $0/user/month
- Bronze: $18/user/month
- Silver: $30/user/month
- Platinum: $42/user/month
2. Google Voice
Google Voice gives individuals and businesses access to a VoIP service provider tied into Google’s ecosystem. The personal version is free in the US/Canada with basic voice, SMS & voicemail transcription, while business plans (through Google Workspace) add features like auto attendants, call routing, and multi-user support. It’s ideal for those already using Google tools who want something that works out of the box.
Features
- Voicemail transcription
- Call transfer
- Spam filtering
- Gmail and Calendar integration
- Advanced reporting with BigQuery
Pros
- Deep integration with Google Workspace and tools you may already use.
- Simple to manage number assignments, port numbers, and billing from the Google Admin Console.
Cons
- The free plan is limited: fewer features, limited to certain geographies, and lacks many business-level tools.
- To unlock the full business-feature set, costs add up (Workspace + Voice premium).
Pricing
- Starter: $2
- Standard: $11
- Business Plus: $21
- Enterprise Plus: Custom pricing
3. OpenPhone
OpenPhone is a modern business phone & messaging platform built for teams that want flexibility without complexity. It offers local or toll-free numbers, shared inboxes, unlimited calling and messaging in the U.S. & Canada, plus useful collaboration features like internal threads, scheduled messages, and voicemail transcription.
Features
- Local or toll-free
- Unlimited calling
- Shared inbox
- Auto replies
- Voicemail transcription
- CRM integrations
Pros
- Shared team numbers and internal threads keep communication aligned.
- It offers a clean, intuitive interface for easy navigation.
- OpenPhone improves response time with voicemail transcription..
Cons
- There is no completely free long-term plan since users must start paying once the trial period ends.
- International calling and texting come with additional costs, which can add up for global users.
- Some advanced features, such as phone menus, are only available in higher tiers, limiting functionality in the lower plans.
Pricing
- Starter: $15/user/month
- Business: $23/user/month
- Enterprise: $35/user/month
4. TextFree
TextFree is a freemium VoIP and messaging app that lets U.S. & Canada users send unlimited text messages and make/receive calls over WiFi or data using a free phone number. The app is supported by ads, but for a nominal monthly fee, you can remove ads, lock your number, and access verification shortcodes. For casual users, it’s one of the easiest ways to get texting and calling without a traditional carrier.
Features
- Free cell phone number
- Unlimited texting
- WiFi calling
- Custom voicemail
- Group messaging
- Picture/video/GIF support
- Ad-free upgrade
Pros
- TextFree offers truly free core features for texting & domestic calls.
- It gives good cross-platform support (iOS, Android, web).
- The option to upgrade provides more stability and number retention.
Cons
- Free plan has ads, which can interrupt the experience.
- Service is limited outside the U.S. and Canada.
- Premium features like verification codes require a paid upgrade.
Pricing
- Monthly: $9.99
- Weekly: $4.99 (Available for Android users only)
- Half-Yearly: $39.99 (Available for iOS users only)
- Yearly: $69.99 (Available for iOS users only)
5. FreedomPop
FreedomPop is a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that provides VoIP-based calling, texting, and data plans with a free tier. Users get a U.S. number, limited free minutes and texts, and the option to upgrade for more data and international calling. It’s built for budget-conscious users who want the basics of connectivity without committing to pricey carrier contracts.
Features
- Free U.S. number
- Limited minutes
- Free texting
- Voicemail support
- Upgrade plans
Pros
- It offers affordable upgrades compared to traditional carriers.
- It works with SIM cards and mobile apps both.
- Users are not tied to long-term contracts, offering flexibility and the ability to switch plans or cancel at any time.
Cons
- International use requires paid add-ons, which can increase costs for frequent travelers.
- Coverage quality depends on the carrier network so performance may vary by location.
Pricing
- Free plan: limited calling & texts
- Paid plans: start at $10/month
6. 2ndLine
2ndLine is a VoIP app designed to give professionals a second phone number for business calls and texts. It works over WiFi or cellular data, making it easy to separate personal and work communication on one device. The app is geared toward freelancers and solo entrepreneurs who need a dedicated number without the overhead of a carrier contract.
Features
- Second phone number
- WiFi calling
- Voicemail
- Call forwarding
- Unlimited texting
Pros
- It offers an affordable way to keep your business and personal numbers separate without needing two devices.
- The service works seamlessly on mobile devices, making it easy to stay connected on the go.
- Unlimited texting is included in the free plan, which is a big plus for frequent users.
Cons
- The free plan does come with ads, which can be distracting during use.
- Verification codes have limited availability, so it may not work for all platforms.
- Many advanced features require a paid upgrade, which can be restrictive for business users.
Pricing
- Free version with ads
- Premium: $9.99/month
7. Linphone
Linphone is an open-source VoIP softphone that allows users to make voice and video calls, as well as messaging, using SIP accounts. It’s popular among tech-savvy individuals who prefer full control over their communications setup. Unlike commercial apps, Linphone doesn’t provide numbers directly but works with SIP providers to configure calling on desktops, mobiles, and even embedded devices.
Features
- SIP support
- HD voice/video
- Secure calls
- Multi-device use
- Open-source software
Pros
- It is completely free, open-source, and highly customizable.
- The platform offers strong security with encryption support, which helps keep calls and data protected.
- It is flexible and works across multiple devices and platforms.
Cons
- Since it requires SIP setup, it is not a simple plug-and-play option and takes more effort to configure.
- The service does not provide native phone numbers so users will need to integrate with a separate provider.
- It is not the best fit for non-technical users as the setup can be complex.
Pricing
- Custom enterprise solutions available
8. Zadarma
Zadarma is an international VoIP provider offering cloud PBX, SIP trunking, and virtual phone numbers in 100+ countries. It includes a free plan with 100 minutes per month, plus business-friendly features like call recording, IVR menus, and integrations with CRM platforms. It’s well-suited for businesses that need both international reach and professional-grade communication tools.
Features
- 100 free minutes
- International numbers
- Cloud PBX
- CRM integrations
- Call recording
Pros
- It provides wide global coverage with local numbers, making it easy to establish a presence in different regions.
- The free tier is generous and includes 100 minutes, which is useful for testing or light usage.
- It is suitable for professional communication needs sue to its business-ready features like PBX and IVR.
Cons
- The interface can feel complex for beginners, which may slow down the onboarding process.
- Many of the advanced features are locked behind paid tiers.
- Support quality can vary by region, so the experience may not be consistent worldwide.
Pricing
- Standard:$0 per month/per 5 users
- Office: $39 per month/per 10 users
- Corporation: $79 per month/per 20 users
9. TextNow
TextNow is a freemium VoIP and wireless service that gives users a free phone number with unlimited nationwide calling and texting in the U.S. and Canada. With its prepaid phone plans, you can bring your own device, keep your number, and access flexible data options that start at $0/month. It’s ideal for individuals who want basic connectivity for free, with the option to scale into affordable data packages without contracts or credit checks.
Features
- Free U.S. number
- Unlimited calling & texting
- Free Flex data plan
- Ad-free upgrade
- Flexible data passes
- SIM support
Pros
- You can use your existing device with TextNow, eliminating the need to buy new hardware
- Flexible add-on data options let you pay only when needed.
- SIM plan includes free access to essential apps like Maps, Gmail, Uber, and more.
Cons
- Free plan is ad-supported, which can be distracting.
- Free Flex plan includes only limited data for essential apps.
- Premium features (like unlimited LTE data) require paid plans.
Pricing
- Free Flex Plan: $0 (Unlimited talk & text + data for key apps)
- Day Pass: $2.99 (24 hrs, 2GB high-speed data)
- Weekly Unlimited: $8.99 (5GB high-speed data, no ads)
- Monthly Unlimited: $35.99 (20GB high-speed data, no ads)
What are the Pros and Cons of Free VoIP Phone Services?
Free VoIP phone services can be appealing to many because they eliminate traditional carrier phone costs. However, like many free services, they come with drawbacks that business and personal users should consider.
- No monthly phone bill - Great for consumers who want to stay connected without the monthly expense.
- Works across multiple devices - Can have the same VoIP number on mobile phones or desktops, which provides flexibility to communicate.
- International calling- Calls using internet protocol services make it easier to communicate and connect across borders, often at minimal to no cost.
- Local presence - Many providers let you select the area code so you appear local to customers.
- Business savings - Many small businesses can save significantly on business communications by using a VoIP service, even saving thousands a year.
- Limited features - The "free" tier often only provides the essential features, rarely including enhanced features like an IVR, call recording, logs, or analytics.
- Hidden fees - Some providers may offer "free" wireless service, but later charge for outbound calls, an upgrade to the system, or international minutes.
- Advertisement-based - Many free VoIP apps utilize ads for revenue, and the ads can be frustrating.
- Minimal support - Free services often lack dedicated support teams.
- Internet connection dependence - Call quality drops if your Wi-Fi or data connection isn’t strong.
What are the Key Components of a Free VoIP App?
All free VoIP applications provide you with free virtual numbers that can be used for calling and texting device. Usually, the number would have some local area code to create legitimacy and some familiarity for when people see the call, as well.
1. Receiving and Making Calls
A VoIP app allows you to receive and make calls, even without a normal carrier. You only need a connection to the internet, which makes it easy to use and affordable as well.
2. Voicemail, SMS, and Text Messaging
Most free VoIP applications are equipped with voicemail and text messaging, allowing you to reach prospects later if they are not available at that moment. This feature allows you to make sure your clients or friends are on the same page, even if you cannot reach them immediately.
3. Caller ID and Contact Management
Caller ID gives you to idea of who is calling before you answer. However, contact management can help you block spam or organize the contacts of people you speak with frequently. These two features together create a high extent of professionalism and give you full control.
4. Access to Both Mobile and Desktop applications
Free VoIP applications do not only exist as mobile apps, but they are also available as desktop applications. This means you can work cross-device and receive calls from any device from anywhere at any time.
Paid vs Free VoIP Numbers [Comparison Table]
| Feature | Free VoIP Number | Paid Virtual Phone Number |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Free or basic plan | Subscription, but cost-effective in long term |
| Phone Service | Limited calls & messages | Unlimited calling + advanced features |
| Call Quality | Dependent on the internet | Optimized with premium providers |
| Support | Community-based | 24/7 professional support |
| Flexibility | Great for personal use | Tailored for business scalability |
| Compatibility | Works only via apps | Includes desk phones, SIP devices & UC tools |
How SIP and Softphones Work with Free VoIP Numbers?
VoIP technology doesn’t just replace your landline; it runs on SIP (Session Initiation Protocol) to establish and manage calls. When you connect your free VoIP number to a softphone app, you can place and receive calls over the internet, without traditional carriers. Image suggestion: A flow diagram showing a SIP server connecting free VoIP numbers, apps, and user devices. Alt text: How SIP and softphones work with VoIP numbers?
- Softphones act as the digital version of a phone, running on your desktop or mobile device.
- SIP servers handle the signaling by initiating, routing, and ending calls, while keeping them secure.
- With Linphone, users can configure their SIP account for free calling on laptops or smartphones. CallHippo takes it a step further by offering SIP trunking plus softphones, so businesses can set up advanced features like international calling, call forwarding, and unified communications across multiple devices.
Conclusion
A free VoIP number is a great entry point for anyone who wants to cut costs and experience internet-based calling. It works for individuals looking to separate personal and work calls, as well as small businesses testing the waters before investing in a larger phone system. That said, free comes with limits: fewer features, ads, and weaker support. For businesses aiming to scale, upgrading to a professional VoIP provider ensures access to advanced tools like IVR, analytics, call recording, and toll-free numbers. With the right provider, VoIP evolves from a free experiment into a powerful communication backbone for growth.
FAQs
1. Can I use a free VoIP number like a regular mobile number?
Yes, but with limitations. A free VoIP number can make and receive calls or texts over the internet, but it doesn’t connect to cellular towers like a mobile number. That means no offline usage, and some services may not recognize it as a standard mobile line.
2. Will a free VoIP number receive bank OTPs or 2-factor authentication codes?
Most banks and financial services block VoIP numbers for security reasons. While some codes may come through, it’s unreliable. So free VoIP numbers shouldn’t be used for banking or critical logins.
3. Can I port a free VoIP number to another carrier?
In most cases, no. Free VoIP providers don’t support number portability. If you need a number you can port later, you’ll need to go with a paid VoIP service or traditional carrier.
4. Are free VoIP numbers suitable for businesses?
They work for testing or very small teams, but they lack advanced features like call routing, analytics, and dedicated support. For real business use, upgrading to a paid VoIP plan is more reliable and scalable.
5. Will WhatsApp or other messaging apps accept a free VoIP number?
Sometimes. WhatsApp, Telegram, and similar apps often block VoIP numbers, though a few may slip through. For consistency, it’s safer to use a mobile or paid virtual number.
6. Can free VoIP numbers be reclaimed or deactivated by the provider?
Yes. If the number is inactive for a certain period, providers may reclaim it and assign it to someone else. Free numbers don’t offer ownership guarantees like paid ones do.
7. Are there hidden costs with “free” numbers?
Often, yes. While basic calling and texting may be free, features like international calls, call recording, or ad removal usually cost extra. Always check the fine print before relying on one.
8. How secure are free VoIP accounts?
Security varies. Some providers encrypt calls, while others don’t. Free apps are also more likely to display ads, which can pose privacy risks. Paid providers usually offer stronger compliance and protection.
9. Can I use a free VoIP number with my PBX, CRM, or automation tools?
Not usually. Free numbers rarely integrate with business systems like PBX, CRM, or automation platforms. For those features, you’ll need a paid provider that supports integrations.
10. What are good alternatives to free VoIP numbers?
Paid virtual phone numbers from providers like CallHippo, Google Voice, or OpenPhone are the best alternatives. They cost a small monthly fee but come with reliability, integrations, and business-grade features.
Published : September 16, 2025
Vihar Naik is a Senior Marketing Professional at CallHippo, specializing in propelling growth through impactful content and product-driven strategies. With deep expertise in virtual telephone systems, he creates resources that simplify technology and help businesses enhance communication, improve customer experience, and scale effectively.
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