USB Phones

USB Phones are quickly becoming the most popular VoIP device for PC to Phone users. Low cost and ease of use combined with the familiar layout of a conventional telephone handset contributes to the USB phones' popularity.

USB phones are quite simple. They are essentially an integrated speaker, microphone and keypad which interfaces with your computer via a vacant USB port. USB VoIP phones typically resemble their conventional telephone handset counterparts and function in much the same way.

The main drawback associated with USB VoIP phones is that your computer needs to be turned 'on' in order for the USB handset to function. Whilst this generally won't be a problem for the majority of 'high-speed' Internet users (i.e., users with 'always-on' Internet connections), for those of us on 'dial-up' Internet connections, this may prove more than a 'little' annoying.

Another drawback associated with USB VoIP Phones is that not all PC to Phone Service Providers support their use. Check with your vendor and/or PC to Phone Service Provider to ensure that your USB Phone is supported.

USB Phones typically start at around $25 USD and increase depending on the model and manufacturer. Expect to pay a little more for a USB VoIP Phone that incorporates an LED or LCD display.