Product Review: MagicJack VOIP

I first became aware of the MagicJack in the Fall of 2008. Their convincing television commercial and promises of free calls over the internet was so alluring, I had to find out more about this unique money-saving device. I was especially curious how this tiny, futuristic-looking device that plugs into my computer's USB port was going to save me some cash on my phone bill. So, I hopped on the internet and signed up for their free 30-day guarantee offer.

The MagicJack website was equally informative and intriguing. With videos, features, and copius logos and quotes from major media who have reviewed the product including PC Magazine Editor's Choice, I was assured the MagicJack was a quality tested product that performed as it claims. And for the most part, it does.

Setting Up the MagicJack

The MagicJack promptly arrived in my mailbox only four days after I ordered it. The packaging was impressive and the unit was well protected. When I opened the box, I noticed the MagicJack also comes with a USB extension cord in the packaging. I've never had reason to use it, but it's nice that they provide it just in case.

After I plugged the MagicJack into the USB port on my iMac, its software promptly loaded and prompted me to click twice to launch the MagicJack softphone (short for software phone, it's essentially a popup window that displays a phone pad and other phone options). The next step was to plug my regular cordless phone into the other end of the MagicJack so I can start placing calls. And that's the beauty of the MagicJack; you can use your regular home phone with the product and it works just fine.

Before I could start calling friends and family, MagicJack took me through a brief setup procedure that involved selecting a telephone number and initializing enhanced 911 (E-911) location data. I noted that you cannot port your current landline telephone number to MagicJack; however, you are given a real phone number within your local calling area.

Placing Calls Using MagicJack

After the setup procedure, I picked up my phone and dialed a colleague. I was impressed to find that the MagicJack is really no different than dialing the telephone through traditional phone lines; and the sound was clear with the exception of a little background static. The only real problems I've had with the MagicJack are 1) occasional contstant ringing of my phone which caused me to have to close the MagicJack software program on my computer; and 2) having to unplug and replug the MagicJack from my USB port or having to restart my computer after closing the MagicJack sofware on my computer.

MagicJack Advantages

MagicJack competes directly with VOIP heavyweights Skype and Vonage. With an initial cost of $39.95 at the end of the free 30-day trial, MagicJack features unlimited local and long distance calling, voice mail, caller ID, and many other features for only $19.95 per year ($1.66 per month). What this means is tremendous savings if you currently make frequent long-distance calls or if you use your cell phone minutes for long distance. And, your callers don't need any special software or even a computer to talk to you.

MagicJack Limitations

Like all VOIP telephony these days, your MagicJack phone service won't be available if your electricity goes out or if you turn your computer off. In this case you would not be able to use your MagicJack VOIP phone for emergency calling. Thus, MagicJack should not be considered your primary phone but rather a money-saving device to bring down your long-distance phone bill. The other problem lies with phone number portability, which MagicJack has promised repeatedly but never seems to happen. Thus you cannot port your current landline phone number to MagicJack.

Despite MagicJack's minor drawbacks, I still recommend this leading VOIP service for cheap, unlimited long-distance calling. With its low cost of $19.95 per year, it equals out to roughly $1.66 per month, saving those who call long distance often a bundle of money.