Full disclosure: we make Jaambo, so we're biased. But we'll tell you where other apps genuinely beat us — because if we're not honest, why would you trust us?
What we're evaluating
- Monthly cost
- Call and SMS quality
- Number of countries
- Browser support (no app required)
- Verification code compatibility
- Voicemail features
The rankings
1. Jaambo — Best overall for personal use
$5/month | 40+ countries | Browser-based
Yes, we put ourselves first. But here's why: $5/month, works from any browser (no app needed), 40+ countries, AI voicemail transcription, and a unique call link feature. Pay-as-you-go calling with modern WebRTC quality.
Where we lose: No mobile app yet (it's on the roadmap). If you need a dedicated app, that's a legitimate mark against us.
2. Google Voice — Best free option
Free | US only | Browser + app
If you just need a free US number and don't care about reliability, Google Voice is fine. SMS delivery is hit-or-miss, support is nonexistent, and it could be killed any day. But it's free.
Where it wins: The price tag. That's it.
3. OpenPhone — Best for business teams
$15/month | US & Canada | App required
If you're a sales team that needs shared numbers, CRM integration, and call routing, OpenPhone is excellent. It's just wildly over-specced for personal use.
Where it wins: Team features, shared inboxes, CRM integrations.
4. Hushed — Best for privacy/burner needs
$5/month + credit packs | 3 countries | App only
Hushed is designed for disposable numbers. Good for Craigslist, dating apps, and situations where you want a number you can throw away.
Where it wins: Disposable number options, privacy focus.
5. Burner — Best for temporary numbers
$5/month | US & Canada | App only
Similar to Hushed but with a slicker app. Good for short-term needs. Gets expensive if you keep it long-term.
Where it wins: App design, temporary number management.
6. TextNow — Best budget option
Free (ad-supported) | US & Canada | App + browser
Free with ads. The calls and texts work but you'll see ads everywhere. Number recycling means you might get a number with baggage.
Where it wins: Free tier, ad-supported model means no subscription.
7. Skype Number — Honorable mention (barely)
$8/month | 25 countries | App required
No SMS. In 2026. We can't recommend Skype Number with a straight face when it can't do something a Nokia 3310 could do in 2001.
The verdict
For personal use with international needs: Jaambo. For free US-only: Google Voice. For business teams: OpenPhone. For burner/privacy: Hushed.
Try Jaambo free — your first call is on us.