Best 8 Virtual Phone Number Apps in 2026: Compared and Reviewed

Introduction

RingCentral is the best overall virtual phone number app, thanks to its mix of local, toll-free and vanity numbers plus mobile and desktop apps. This list covers 8 apps, from solo-friendly options to developer APIs and sales-team phone systems.

Quick comparison table

The list splits into two camps. Grasshopper and eVoice are simple apps for solopreneurs. Aircall, CloudTalk and Twilio are built for teams or developers.

Platform coverage differs too. Twilio is Web and API only, while RingCentral and Nextiva add desktop apps. Pricing varies by plan and country, so check each vendor's current rates.

1. RingCentral

Best for: growing businesses that need local, toll-free and vanity numbers under one account.

RingCentral lets you pick numbers when you set up your account, then manage them from the Web, iOS, Android and Desktop apps. Calls, messages and settings follow you across devices. The vanity and toll-free range is what stands out, and it suits businesses that want a memorable or national-looking line. The caveat is that plan tiers get complicated, so compare them carefully.

2. Nextiva

Best for: teams that want VoIP calling with built-in CRM features.

Nextiva is a VoIP business phone service, and you can add extra virtual numbers to your account as needed. It runs on Web, iOS, Android and Desktop. The best part is the CRM tooling bundled with the phone service, so customer details sit next to your calls. The tradeoff: it's more than a solo user needs.

3. Grasshopper

Best for: solopreneurs who want a separate business number on their existing phone.

Grasshopper keeps setup quick. Choose a number, install the app, and start taking business calls without carrying a second device. The Web, iOS and Android apps cover calling and texting basics. That simple setup is its main draw. The limit is that larger teams will find fewer advanced features.

4. CallHippo

Best for: small teams that need international calling and fast setup.

CallHippo gets a small team running quickly, with numbers and calling available across Web, iOS and Android. Agents can start making calls without a long rollout. International calling is its strongest suit. One thing to verify: number availability and call rates vary by country, so check yours before committing.

5. Aircall

Best for: sales and support teams working inside a CRM.

Aircall provides local and toll-free numbers that teams use through Web, iOS, Android and Desktop apps. Calls route to agents and stay tied to your customer records. CRM integrations are the highlight. The caveat: it's overbuilt for a single freelancer who just needs a second line.

6. CloudTalk

Best for: contact centers and companies that need numbers in many countries.

CloudTalk provisions virtual numbers across many countries and works on Web, iOS and Android, with API access for custom builds. Its AI voice agent platform stands out, adding automation beyond standard calling. The tradeoff: expect more setup than with a basic number app.

7. eVoice

Best for: small businesses that want a virtual receptionist without hiring one.

eVoice handles incoming calls with simple routing and greetings, so callers get directed without a person answering. You manage everything from the Web, iOS and Android apps. The virtual receptionist features are the reason to pick it. The limit: team and integration features are lighter than on the bigger platforms.

8. Twilio

Best for: developers building voice and SMS into their own product.

Twilio isn't plug-and-play. You provision numbers through the API and write the code that handles calls and texts, with a Web console for management. Programmatic number provisioning for voice and SMS is its core strength. The caveat: you'll need engineering time to get value from it.

How we picked these tools

We looked at number types, country coverage, platform support, ease of setup, and fit for different team sizes.

We mixed solo, small-team, sales-team and developer use cases so the list isn't one-note. Every entry gets the same format and depth, so no tool gets extra weight.

None of these tools are sponsored or owned by us. Confirm current pricing and number availability for your country before you buy.

Frequently asked questions

What is a virtual phone number app, and how is it different from a second SIM?

It gives you a business number that rings through an app on your existing phone or computer. A second SIM needs its own plan and often a second device or a dual-SIM phone.

Can I keep my existing number and phone?

Yes, in most cases. You keep your personal number and phone, and the app adds a separate business line on top.

Which number type should I choose?

Local numbers build trust with nearby customers. Toll-free suits national reach, and vanity numbers help with memorable branding.

Do these apps work internationally?

Many do, but coverage varies. Check number availability, call rates and any local registration rules for each country before buying.

When should I choose Twilio over Grasshopper?

Choose Twilio if you're building calling or texting into your own product and have developers. Choose Grasshopper if you just want a business line running today.

The verdict

RingCentral is the strongest overall pick on merit, thanks to its number variety and app coverage. Nextiva is the runner-up for teams that want CRM features alongside calling.

Grasshopper is the runner-up for solopreneurs who want the simplest setup. Twilio is the pick for developers, and Aircall for sales teams.