On the surface, Google Hangouts and Google Voice are quite similar as both applications allow users to make calls using wi-fi and without owning a phone. However, the major difference between the two products lie in Google Hangouts having support for chat and online video conferences, whereas Google Voice does not. However, instead of online chat, Google Voice supports text messaging.
When comparing these two products, consider whether you are looking for a web conferencing tool or a VoIP tool. While Google Hangouts can make outgoing calls, it does not provide users with a phone number to give out to others for incoming calls. Google Voice allows users to not only make calls, but receive them, and provides users with a free phone number to use.
Features
Google Hangouts is a great business tool if used on an individual basis by employees for casual online meetings and chat, as it does not have a business-focused offering. Google’s web conferencing and collaboration tools for business are now under the Google Hangouts Meet and Google Hangouts Chat tools. In addition to hosting online meetings, Google Hangouts is useful for making ad-hoc outgoing calls, so employees can protect their personal numbers.
Google Voice is best if you are solely looking for a VoIP solution as it is strictly an online telephone service. Its key features are providing users with a contact phone number, free call forwarding, and voicemail. Google Voice is best for small business owners and small teams that need a simple and very cost-effective mobile voice solution. It is well-suited for use as a personal business line for travel as it provides a secure way to contact clients and customers without using a personal number.
Limitations
Unlike Google Voice, Google Hangouts does not provide users with phone number for others to contact. This is in part because it supports web conferences in addition to calls, unlike Google Voice. Compared to similar tools that can be used for online meetings, Google Hangouts doesn’t allow for a lot of customization or “host” controls.
While Google Voice supports voice-to-text transcription, users report that it is not always accurate and may not be useful if transcription is a key component of your business operations. Google Voice does not allow for transferring of phone numbers across accounts, so users should be mindful of numbers used across their teams.
Both of these tools are best for individuals or small businesses who don’t need to consistently host online meetings or make phone calls.
Pricing
Both tools are available fully functional for free, which is a huge selling point. You can make unlimited calls with each and as a part of the Google suite, automatically syncs with your Gmail account and contacts.
Google Hangouts users looking to expand its features and capabilities, should look towards Google Hangouts Meet, which has paid plans with broader support.
Google Voice does have paid plans as well which adds support for more users per account. These plans start at $10 and go up to $30. Its paid plans provide users to operate internationally and integrate with telephone equipment and data management tools.
For more details on how to compare these products, check out our post Google Voice vs Google Hangouts.
