Yes, magicJack can be plugged into a computer connected via wireless Internet (Wi-Fi) and make and receive calls.
But the new version, the MagicJack Plus, can be connected directly to your router or modem and can be used without a computer as long as you have broadband Internet service.
While Ooma has no direct monthly fee, there are taxes due every month that amount to about $3.50 per month. MagicJack, on the other hand, has an annual fee of $29.99. Each device has an initial cost. The magicJack Plus' retail cost is $49.95, which includes the first six months of service free.
You can use a computer headset or traditional telephone set with a magicJack device. To use magicJack on your smart phone, download magicApp through the Apple iTunes or Google Play stores and use the App as a companion to your magicJack device for free. Money Back Guarantee.
Yes, MagicJack is legit. In a nutshell, it's a device that enables very inexpensive VOIP calling (phone calls over the Internet). The Magic Jack phone service competes with Vonage, Ooma, Skype, and other VOIP telephone service providers. The MagicJack device has evolved considerably since its 2007 debut.
Your active magicJackHOME includes a FREE magicApp download with Unlimited Texting and premium features unlocked (a $9.99/yr value).
Both magicJack and Ooma provide good service, and it's a tight race between the two. Ooma has an advantage with all the VoIP features it offers through its Premier Service plan, but magicJack has better free features. magicJack is also certainly the better option when it comes to its technology and pricing.
To use a magicJack, you MUST have the following:
Windows 10 or Intel-based Apple MAC operating system; AND. One of the following types of internet connection: DSL, Cable, or Broadband high speed internet connection, with at least 5 mbps download speed and 3 mbps upload speed, AND.While magicJack offers a competitive range of basic telephony features, Vonage includes even more advanced call control features in all of its monthly calling plans. Vonage plans may cost more per month than the annual service fee for magicJack, but those pricing plans support feature-rich, high quality service.
The earliest MagicJack required your computer to be on and connected to the Internet at all times in order to make and receive calls. But the new version, the MagicJack Plus, can be connected directly to your router or modem and can be used without a computer as long as you have broadband Internet service.
Turn on Wi-Fi calling
- On your Android device, open the Voice app .
- At the top left, tap Menu. Settings.
- Under "Calls," tap Make and receive calls.
- Select Prefer Wi-Fi and mobile data.
Receive Calls
With magicApp companion app, you can have your home phone and smartphone ring simultaneously! It works just like using your magicJack service at home. PLUS get unlimited text messages to any U.S. mobile number.To connect with a high-speed modem:
- Plug your provided Ethernet cord into the port labeled “INTERNET”
- Plug your phone into the port labeled “PHONE” on your magicJack.
- Connect the provided power adapter to your magicJack USB.
- Plug your magicJack into a power outlet.
- Visit mjreg.com on your computer, tablet or smartphone.
Your telephone number is eligible to be transferred to magicJack. To initiate your transfer or “port”, you must first purchase and register a magicJack device. Click here to purchase a device. If you already have a registered magicJack device, you can begin the porting process!
How much does VoIP cost? VoIP can cost anywhere from free up to $200 per month but will generally cost anywhere from $10 to $50 per month depending on the type of service you order. VoIP can be free when you use a service where the call is routed from PC to PC.
Regarding E911 service, when you call 911 with MagicJack, your address can't be automatically detected. You have to register your home address with MagicJack in order for emergency services to properly locate you, and it won't work if you are using the device in other locations.
Cheapest landline services without internet
- CenturyLink – Basic Home Phone starting at $23.34/mo.*
- Cox – Voice Premier starting at $29.99/mo.*
- Spectrum – Spectrum Voice Basic service starting at $29.99/mo.*
- Verizon Fios – Digital Voice Unlimited Plan starting at $20/mo.*
You may choose to select a new telephone number to use with your magicJack. You can also elect to “port”, or transfer, your current number to magicJack, if you wish to do so. You can read more about porting your number here.
On the MagicJack device there is a single telephone line connection, initially allowing you to plug in one telephone. However, it is possible to connect two different phones into the MagicJack, as long as you have the correct adapter.
Skype charges per-minute or monthly fees for calls to regular phones and an added fee to receive incoming calls. The maker of magicJack says its low prices are possible because the product is produced by a privately held Florida company called YMAX, which is also a phone carrier.
The Verdict. Both magicJack and Ooma provide good service, and it's a tight race between the two. Ooma has an advantage with all the VoIP features it offers through its Premier Service plan, but magicJack has better free features. magicJack is also certainly the better option when it comes to its technology and pricing
5 Reasons Why Ooma is the Best VoIP Home Phone
- High Quality Audio. Ooma is widely recognized for the high quality of its telephone audio.
- 911 Service. When choosing phone service, it's easy to overlook 911 service as a deciding factor.
- Ultimate Low Cost Phone Service — Free!
- Affordable VoIP Phone Service With Added Features.
- Take Your Home Phone With You.
Where To Buy
- Best For Customer Support, Call Centers: Freshcaller — Check Price.
- Best For Very Small Business, Mobile VoIP: Grasshopper — Check Price.
- Best For Small Business That Mainly Need Voice: Ooma Office — Check Price.
- Best For Softphone-focused Businesses: Dialpad — Check Price.
Best Buy: MagicJack PLUS USB Phone Jack K1103.
Current costs (not including applicable taxes and fees) are listed below: Vanity numbers: $10 yearly. Custom numbers: $3 yearly. Canadian numbers: $10 yearly.
The MagicJack App is entirely free to download and use during this time.
