92% of all customer interactions happen over the phone. Hence, if your calls are not smooth, you’re not only losing time but also customer’s trust.
The worst part? 😫That same customer may turn to your competitor, where their call experience is excellent, professional, and efficient. That’s why choosing the right phone system is essential.
So, how do you find the right phone system that scales with your business and is cost-effective?
In today’s market, Grasshopper and Google Voice are two of the most popular VoIP systems. Both offer reliability, affordability, and useful features. The only challenge is to determine the best one for your business.
In this blog, we will compare Grasshopper vs Google Voice on the basis of their pricing, features, ease of use, and customer support to help you make an informed decision for your business.
KEY HIGHLIGHTS:
- For businesses needing multiple numbers and extensions, Grasshopper is the best choice.
- For small teams and solopreneurs with basic needs and Google Workspace integration, Google Voice is better.
- Google Voice supports international numbers in over 100 countries, while Grasshopper only offers local, toll-free, and vanity numbers within the U.S. and Canada.
- Grasshopper limits voicemail storage to 30 days, while Google Voice offers unlimited voicemail transcriptions and custom greetings.
Grasshopper vs Google Voice: At A Glance
| Features | Grasshopper | Google Voice |
| Pricing | Starts at $18/month for 1 person, 1 number. It can get pricey if you add lots of people/numbers. | Starts at $10/month per person. Cheaper if it’s just you, but it adds up fast with more people. |
| Best For | Small teams (under 10) that want a professional phone presence. | One-person shops or small businesses that already use Google Workspace apps (Gmail, Calendar, etc.). |
| Business Phone Numbers | Local numbers, toll-free numbers, toll-free vanity numbers, and number porting | Local numbers, international numbers, and number porting |
| Voice Calling Features | Calling card, call forwarding, number blocking, simultaneous call handling, call transfer, call scheduling | Call forwarding, ring groups, eDiscovery for calls, Multi-level auto attendant, Ad-hoc user call recording |
| Business Text Messaging | Unlimited SMS and MMS texting in the US, Instant replies to texts, automatic texting, colleagues on the same plan can send text messages to each other at no extra charge | Unlimited texting in the US, eDiscovery for text messaging records |
| Third-Party Integration | No built-in third-party integrations, but users can forward calls to a Google Voice number. Note: CRM systems can be connected via APIs | Integrates with Google’s apps (Gmail, Google Calendar, Google Meet, and Google Docs.) |
| Analytics and Reporting | Call logs and 3 reporting types: Usage Reports, Detail Reports, and Activity Reports | Call logs and Top-tier plan offers advanced BigQuery reporting |
| Customer Support | Every plan includes 24/7 support via phone. A dedicated support center and live chat support are also available on their websites. | 24/7 live phone, chat, and email support for Google Workspace users only, and Service Level Agreement (SLA) included on all plans |
How We Compared Grasshopper vs Google Voice
We compared Google Voice vs Grasshopper based on several categories, such as:
- Plans and Pricing Structure: We looked at the pricing structure of both Grasshopper and Google Voice. We checked if they offer monthly or yearly billing, their extra add-ons, and overall value.
- Business Phone Numbers: We looked at the types of business phone numbers offered on each platform, including local, toll-free, international, and vanity numbers. We also considered whether number porting is allowed and how many extensions are allowed.
- Basic Voice Calling Features: We did a comparison of the basic calling features like call forwarding, call screening, virtual faxing, call blasting, and call transfer of Google Voice and Grasshopper to determine which service has better call management tools.
- Virtual Voicemail: We looked at how each service treats voicemail, like the availability of voicemail transcription and voicemail-to-email functionality.
- IVR and Auto Attendant: We compared the Interactive Voice Response (IVR) and auto attendant functions of each service such as call flow design, ring groups, and custom business hour routing.
- Business Text Messaging: We explored the text messaging capabilities of both providers, including whether they support SMS and MMS, any restrictions on group texting, and any additional costs associated with messaging services.
- Call Reporting and Analytics: We analyzed the analytics tools each provider includes, focusing on real-time and historical reporting to see which service offers better insights into call performance.
- Customer Experience: We also compared Grasshopper’s and Google Voice’s customer support options to decide the best use cases for each service based on user feedback and reviews.
Grasshopper vs Google Voice: Pricing and Plans
If you are selecting a virtual phone system for your business, it is essential to consider both your budget and the features offered by each service. Below is a detailed comparison of Grasshopper and Google Voice, focusing on their pricing and plans:
Grasshopper Pricing and Plans
Grasshopper offers three main plans: True Solo, Solo Plus, and Small Business.
The True Solo pricing is $18 per month. It includes basic features such as one user, one business phone number, and one extension. Likewise, the Solo Plus plan is $32 per month. It includes unlimited users, one business phone number, and three extensions.
Lastly, the Small Business pricing plan costs $70 per month. It is the top-tier plan of Grasshopper that offers unlimited users, four business phone numbers, and unlimited extensions.
All Grasshopper Plans include SMS texting, voice calling features (Unlimited VoIP and WiFi voice calls via desktop and mobile apps, call forwarding, voicemail with transcription, Instant Response, custom greetings, call hold, call transfer, simultaneous call handling, etc), virtual faxing, and 24/7 customer support.
Note: Grasshopper does not offer video conferencing or direct third-party integrations.
Google Voice Pricing and Plans
The popular communication tools, i.e., Google Voice, also offer three business pricing plans: Starter, Standard, and Premier.
The Starter plan starts at $10 per user per month. The key features of this plan include support for 10 users, up to 10 domestic locations, unlimited calling within Canada and the U.S., Usage and activity reporting, call forwarding, and integration with Google Meet and Google Calendar.
Likewise, the Standard plan costs $20 per user per month and includes all key features of the Starter plan. Not only this, it also possesses features such as unlimited users, unlimited domestic locations, multi-level auto-attendant, ring groups, desk phone support, and Ad-hoc user call recording.
Additionally, the third pricing plan is the Premier plan, which starts at $30 per month per user. It has all standard plan features as well as other key features like unlimited international locations and advanced reporting.
Summary: When comparing Google Voice vs Grasshopper, it’s evident that Google Voice is cheaper per user, especially for businesses already using Google Workspace. However, Grasshopper’s flat-rate plans can be a better deal for small teams that need multiple phone numbers and extensions without extra user fees. The best choice depends on your business needs and the tools you already use.
Grasshopper vs Google Voice: Feature Comparison
When choosing between Grasshopper and Google Voice, it’s essential to compare key features like business phone numbers, calling and texting capabilities, voicemail, IVR, messaging, and analytics. While both platforms offer virtual phone services, their features cater to different business needs.
Business Phone Numbers
In Google Voice, the lower-tier plans support up to 10 domestic locations, while higher-tier plans allow unlimited locations, including international ones. Likewise, all users are restricted to one phone number and extension, so direct calls to extensions are not possible. Instead, callers must navigate through an IVR menu to connect to the right person or department.
Meanwhile, Grasshopper provides local, toll-free, and vanity numbers but does not support international numbers. It’s plans include up to four phone numbers, and the Small Business plan even offers unlimited extensions. Users can also purchase extra numbers for $10/month and additional extensions for $5/month each.
Summary: Both Google Voice and Grasshopper allow users to port their existing numbers. However, the difference is that Google Voice provides local numbers and supports international numbers in over 100 countries. In contrast, Grasshopper only offers local, toll-free, and vanity numbers within the U.S. and Canada.
Basic Calling Features
Using the Private Branch Exchange (PBX) phone system like Grasshopper, users can choose from pre-set hold music or upload custom recordings. It also supports business hour routing, which ensures after-hours calls are directed to the right extension or voicemail.
Apart from this, this PBX system provides unlimited VoIP calling in the two countries (U.S. and Canada), along with essential features like call management, call forwarding, caller ID, call screening, call blocking, and call transfers.
In contrast, Google Voice offers unlimited calling in the U.S. and Canada, including free incoming calls to the U.S. from anywhere and unlimited Europe-to-Europe calls. It supports call blasting, call forwarding, caller ID, spam filtering, and integration with Google Fi. In addition, call recording is available on mid-tier plans, while Premier plans enable automatic call recording.
Summary: Google Voice and Grasshopper have different basic calling features. Even though Grasshopper includes more built-in calling features than Google Voice, it lacks call recording and built-in ring groups. Similarly, Google Voice supports virtual faxing, while Grasshopper doesn’t.
Virtual Voicemail
Both Grasshopper and Google Voice offer voicemail transcription and voicemail-to-email on all plans.
However, Google Voice has extra features. It connects with Google Calendar to send calls to voicemail during meetings or after work. It also transcribes all voicemails, even spam, and lets users check them on desktop, mobile, or email.
Users can set up to 10 custom voicemail greetings, get voicemail notifications, and listen to messages by calling their own number. Also, Google Voice can forward personal voicemails to users’ accounts.
On the other hand, in the Grasshopper phone system, users can send voicemails to up to 15 email addresses and get instant notifications on desktop and mobile. Each extension has its voicemail box for better organization.
This cloud-based PBX system also lets users buy a professional voicemail greeting in English or Spanish for $75. But voicemail messages are only saved for 30 days.
IVR and Virtual Receptionists
Both Grasshopper and Google Voice offer IVR and virtual receptionist features, but they work differently.
Grasshopper provides a basic auto attendant feature that allows businesses to create custom call menus to help direct customers to the right department. If needed, businesses can also use the Professional Voice Studio for high-quality, pre-recorded greetings.
Additionally, in Grasshopper, call forwarding and scheduling rules can be set based on business hours, but a multi-level IVR feature is not available. However, call blasting is possible for up to 15 numbers but only with a paid plan.
In contrast, Google Voice’s auto-attendant is more advanced. It allows for multilingual text-to-speech customer greetings, customizable voice tones, and adjustable speech speed. Moreover, its Standard and Premier plans include multi-level IVR, giving admins more control over call routing.
It also possesses additional features such as ring groups, special announcements, and flexible business-hour settings.
Business Text Messaging
Based on the business text messaging feature, Grasshopper and Google Voice differ in functionality and capabilities.
Grasshopper enables texting from both local and toll-free numbers, offering unlimited SMS in the U.S. and Canada. Users can send group texts, pictures, and videos via text messaging. One standout feature in this phone system is an instant response, which automatically sends a text to missed calls. However, Grasshopper requires a one-time $19 registration fee for texting and a recurring $1.50/month charge.
On the other hand, Google Voice allows users to send and receive texts on both desktop and mobile devices. Moreover, it automatically filters out spam messages. But the negative part about this virtual phone system is it does not support shortcodes, limits group messages to just 8 participants, and breaks texts longer than 160 characters into multiple messages.
Using Google Voice, users can send images via MMS but can’t send videos. Only the video links can be shared.
Call Reporting and Analytics
Both Grasshopper and Google Voice have limited reporting capabilities beyond basic call logs. But when performing detailed comparisons, Grasshopper generates three types of reports. They are:
- Usage Reports: Track call minutes and average call duration.
- Detail Reports: Show call status, transfers, and hold times.
- Activity Reports: Monitor hangups, fax outcomes, and call blasts.
Note: Here, older reports are deleted after 90 days.
Meanwhile, Google Voice offers searchable call logs, but most reporting features require a Google Workspace account. Users can review call lengths, timestamps, phone numbers, and call types (inbound or outbound).
Grasshopper vs Google Voice: Customer Experience
The following points compare the average user experience of Grasshopper and Google Voice, incorporating recent reviews.
Grasshopper User Reviews
Users consistently praise Grasshopper for its ease of use and intuitive interface. The only concern with this phone system is it doesn’t provide standard features relative to the price.
Some users even feel that add-ons increase the overall cost, and some recent reviews mention dissatisfaction with customer support efficiency as well. Despite this, Grasshopper customers appreciate customizable hold music and voicemail.
✔️Pros:
- It is easy to use and can be used with a smartphone, tablet, or computer.
- Provide separate phone lines for calling back.
- It offers multiple extension options.
- Doesn’t require any per-user cost.
- Customizable hold music and voicemail.
❌Cons:
- Lacks advanced features for video conferencing, outbound calls, and SMS/MMS log transfer.
- Limited availability (only available in the U.S. and Canada).
- It doesn’t offer a call recording feature.
- Some users report slow customer support response times.
- Users report technical glitches and lag in receiving calls and text messages within the app.
Google Voice User Reviews
As per the user, Google Voice is a good option for those who already invested in the Google ecosystem. It integrates with Google Workspace and has reasonable pricing. However, some users criticize issues with call quality and limitations on texting depending on the plan.
✔️Pros:
- It supports multi-device access.
- Easily forward calls to multiple numbers or devices.
- Calling to U.S number is free.
- Beginner-friendly.
- Integration with Google Workspace.
❌Cons:
- Lack of toll-free numbers.
- It can be considered as spam call like any phone number.
- It has limited incoming call management features.
- Accessing it on a computer requires using the web browser, which can be inconvenient for some users.
- Few users faced inconsistent call quality.
Summary: Based on customer reviews, Grasshopper would work great for businesses needing multiple phone numbers and extensions, with the ability to customize the calling experience. In the same way, Google Voice is a good choice for solopreneurs or small teams that require basic features and integrate heavily with Google Workspace.
Grasshopper vs Google Voice: Common Use Cases
Here are some common industries and situations where each phone system is chosen. Keep in mind that your specific needs may differ:
Grasshopper Use Cases
- Healthcare Providers: Doctors use Grasshopper’s greetings to guide patients and handle urgent calls. The call forwarding feature handles emergencies call quickly.
- Real Estate Agents: Agents use local numbers to show familiarity with the area and can have multiple numbers for different locations.
- Consultants: Consultants use instant replies to connect with potential clients even when they are busy. Virtual extensions help direct calls to the right person.
- Growing Businesses with Many Numbers: Grasshopper is ideal for businesses that need multiple phone numbers for different teams, plan to expand, and want detailed call reports.
- Businesses with Mobile Teams: Employees can use their personal phones for work calls while keeping separate extensions for business communication.
Google Voice Use Cases
- Freelancers & Solopreneurs: Freelancers and solopreneurs use Google Voice to protect personal numbers while maintaining a professional image.
- Small Businesses (1-10 Employees): Those businesses that have 1-10 employees use this virtual phone system as it doesn’t require multiple extensions or extra phone numbers.
- Side Hustles: Google Voice is a great option for small ventures like pet services, crafts, or startups that only need a simple phone system.
- Professionals Dealing with Spam Calls: Those who are dealing with spam calls use Google Voice to filter out spam calls.
- Businesses Using Google Workspace: As this PBX phone system Integrates smoothly with Gmail, Calendar, and other Google apps, businesses using Google Workspace use it to make communication smooth.
Grasshopper and Google Voice Alternatives
Grasshopper and Google Voice are great for small to medium-sized businesses that don’t require advanced features or detailed analytics. However, there are other options available that provide VoIP solutions for businesses of all sizes.
These alternatives often offer better value, with more features in the basic pricing, including video conferencing that saves money against Grasshopper or Google Voice.
Below is a full breakdown of the Grasshopper and Google Voice competitors.
| Features | Nextiva | Dialpad | 8*8 | Ooma Office | RingCentral RingEx |
| Pricing | From $30/user per month (for 20-99 users, Core plan) | From $15/user per month. | Quote-based plans. | From $19.95/user per month. | From $20/user per month (billed annually, Core plan). |
| Top Features | Smart call routing, AI call summaries, Desktop and mobile apps (iOS and Android) for softphone functionality. | Built-in Dialpad AI, unlimited ring groups, team messaging, real-time call transcriptions, Call routing | Unlimited calling to 48 countries, video calling for 500 participants, HD calls | Advanced business texting, Caller Info Match, Virtual receptionist for directing incoming calls | RingCentral Video, Call Flip, Live transcript generation, and Unlimited video recording with up to one year of storage available across all plan levels. |
| Best For | Medium-sized businesses looking for a voice and digital customer experience platform | Businesses looking for a scalable AI-powered business phone system with built-in UCaaS tools | Global teams prioritizing affordable international calling and high-capacity video calling | Small teams looking for a basic business phone system offering unlimited calling in the US, Canada, Mexico, and Puerto Rico | Remote/hybrid teams looking for a truly all-in-one UCaaS platform with built-in AI |
| Video Conferencing Capacity | Up to 250 participants | Unlimited AI meetings | Up to 500 participants | Up to 100 participants at Pro and Pro Plus packages | Up to 100 participants at the Core and Advanced levels, and the premium tier offers up to 200 participants without an additional cost. |
Wrapping Up
Choosing between Grasshopper and Google Voice depends on your business needs. Grasshopper shines with its call management, multiple phone numbers, and customizable features and is ideal for growing businesses. On the other side, Google Voice offers a cost-effective, simple solution, especially for smaller teams or those already using Google Workspace.
Both have their strengths, so it’s about weighing your budget, required features, and scalability to find the best fit for your business.
👉For your help: Choose Google Voice if you are just a starter or solopreneur and don’t have more budget. Once you grow your business with the right approach, go for Grasshopper for multiple phone numbers and advanced call management.
FAQs
What is the difference between Google Voice and Grasshopper?
The difference between Google Voice and Grasshopper is Google Voice is cheaper and ideal for individuals or small teams, offering basic features like call forwarding and voicemail transcription. In contrast, Grasshopper is more expensive but provides advanced business features like toll-free numbers, vanity numbers, and unlimited extensions, making it better for growing businesses.
Is there anything better than Google Voice?
Yes, there are alternatives to Google Voice that may work better for you based on your needs. They are Grasshopper, RingCentral, Ooma, and Sideline. These VoIP platforms or Google Voice competitors offer more advanced features like detailed call analytics, simultaneous call handling, better integrations, and live support.
What is the disadvantage of Google Voice?
Some disadvantages of Google Voice are:
- Internet dependence: Google Voice relies on a stable internet connection, so calls may be poor or drop if the internet is weak.
- Few integrations: It mainly works with Google apps like Gmail and Google Calendar and doesn’t connect with many other business tools.
- Limited user capacity: The basic Google Voice plan supports only 10 users. You can upgrade to add more users, but it costs extra.
- No auto-replies: Google Voice doesn’t offer automatic replies for customer calls or messages.
- No toll-free numbers: Google Voice doesn’t provide or support toll-free numbers.
What is comparable to Grasshopper?
Many VoIP services are comparable to Grasshopper like RingCentral, Vonage, Dialpad, Nextiva, Google Voice, OpenPhone, and Mitel. Each of them provides similar virtual phone system features such as virtual phone numbers, call forwarding, video conferencing, and integrations with other business applications.
Why is Google Voice better?
Google Voice is better because it is favorable for businesses that want a centralized communication platform, voicemail, and international calling. It is also accessible from multiple devices, and it integrates with other Google services.
Does Grasshopper record calls?
No, Grasshopper does not have a built-in call recording feature. However, you can record calls using a third-party call recording tool.
