A reliable home phone service is a must-have when it comes to staying connected with loved ones worldwide. Whether you're catching up with family in another state or keeping in touch with friends overseas, finding an affordable home phone service that suits your long-distance calling needs can make all the difference. However, many home phone service providers don’t have the features that you really need for your long-distance calls.

 In this blog, we'll explore the ins and outs of calling long distance, help you determine the best plan for your needs, and share how Shentel can help!

 

What is Long-Distance Calling?

Put simply, long-distance calls are any phone calls made between two locations that are geographically far apart. In the world of telecommunications, it refers to phone calls between two or more individuals who are located in a different city, state, or country. Typically, this requires more extensive, interconnected communication networks to enable these calls to happen seamlessly.

Traditionally, making a long-distance call was a luxury. The need to utilize more sophisticated technology meant long-distance calls often were more expensive than local calls. But with the advent of more modern communication technologies and services, the cost of long-distance calling has been significantly reduced, making it more affordable and accessible to users worldwide.

 

Understanding Your Long-Distance Options

Before we dive into finding the best long-distance calling option for you, let's take a moment to explore the two leading contenders: landlines and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services.

Landline — The Timeless Classic

Traditional landline phone services have been the backbone of home communication for over a century. These services, which utilize metal wires or optical fiber telephone lines to transmit signals back and forth, have provided a stable and reliable option for many to send and receive calls. In the pre-Internet era, landlines were the primary means of quickly communicating over long distances, and while they have somewhat fallen out of favor with the rise of digital technologies, numerous homes and businesses worldwide still rely on landlines for daily communication.

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) — The Modern Solution

With advancements in technology, long-distance communication methods have become more cost-effective and accessible than ever — and in few places is this more apparent than VoIP. Voice over Internet Protocol, or simply VoIP, is a home phone service that leverages your Internet connection to make and receive calls, and the beauty of VoIP can be found in its extensive versatility. VoIP can be used across any Internet-connected device, be it your smartphone, computer, or tablet, which makes VoIP a popular choice among modern users looking for a more efficient and budget-friendly communication option.

 

Landline or VoIP? Which Option is Better?

Generally, in 2023, VoIP services are considered superior to traditional landline phone services. There are a few reasons for this:

Affordability

When it comes to affordability, VoIP services win hands down. Unlike traditional landlines, which require a separate system and additional hardware to function, VoIP can be seamlessly integrated into devices you already own, utilizing your existing Internet connection. This streamlined setup translates to significant cost savings for users, making VoIP a budget-friendly choice for individuals and businesses alike.

Accessibility

One of the most significant advantages of cloud-based VoIP services is their unparalleled accessibility. With a stable data connection, you or your business can make and receive calls virtually anywhere. Whether you're using your smartphone, computer, or tablet, as long as you have the necessary software and a strong Internet connection, VoIP enables you to stay connected effortlessly.

Scalability

While homeowners might not find scalability important, it's an immensely attractive proposition for growth-minded businesses. Instead of purchasing costly hardware or new dedicated lines, companies can effortlessly adjust their preferences and expand their network instantly, which allows them to seamlessly accommodate increasing communication needs without any major infrastructure investments.

Regarding reliability, however, landlines still come out on top. While VoIP services have proven themselves to be high-quality phone options for many, one critical aspect sets landlines apart: they don't rely on the Internet to function.

For some users, a stable Internet connection might not be a concern, but the dependence of VoIP services on Internet connectivity means that during outages or power fluctuations, communication methods can fail. In critical situations, such as emergencies, landlines can be the lifeline that connects you to emergency services, loved ones, and other essential contacts.

 

What About Cell Phones?

If you're exploring long-distance phone plan options, you're likely considering your cell phone as well. Cell phones offer unmatched mobility and convenience for long-distance calling as they allow you to make and receive calls from anywhere with a cellular signal. This has been one of the standout reasons cell phones have become so popular. However, cell phones aren't perfect and have some limitations worth considering.

For one, while their call quality has improved over time, cell phones often still can't match the reliability of a landline. If you're making long-distance calls frequently, this may be a dealbreaker.

Moreover, cell phone calls are limited to your mobile device, and while landlines have similar hardware limitations, VoIP services offer unmatched flexibility as they can be used to make phone calls from virtually any Internet-connected device. If you appreciate the flexibility of making calls not only from your smartphone but your computer, tablet, and more, VoIP services may win out for their unparalleled versatility.

 

What to Consider Before Choosing a Phone Plan?

Whether you're considering a landline, VoIP service, or other option, it's essential to understand your calling habits to find the perfect fit for your communication needs. If long-distance calls play a significant role in your daily life, take a moment to assess how frequently you make these calls, the destinations you call most often, and the average duration of your long-distance conversations; this will help you determine which plan might suit you best.

Some plans may offer unlimited long-distance calling, which is ideal for those with frequent and extensive long-distance communications, and others may charge based on the number of minutes used. These options are usually cheaper and are beneficial for occasional long-distance callers.

Aside from affordability, several other features are worth considering when choosing a home phone service. Look for offerings like caller ID, call waiting, call block, and voicemail services, which help streamline and personalize your calling experience. Additionally, some providers may group their services together. By bundling your home phone service with Internet and television packages, you can not only simplify your billing but also save a substantial amount on your monthly expenses.

When deciding on a home phone service plan, it's crucial to strike the perfect balance between quality and affordability. While saving on long-distance calls is essential, never compromise on call clarity and reliability. After all, a poor connection will only lead to frustrating communication experiences. Equally important, be sure you're partnering with a telecommunications company that prioritizes you. Dealing with a difficult-to-use provider can add unnecessary stress to your experience, giving you headaches in the process.

Luckily, Shentel is the best home phone service provider for your unique needs. With a range of unlimited and long-distance phone plan options, and attractive bundles designed to save you money on Internet and television too. Shentel is committed to making seamless communication reliable, affordable, and easy.

Discover the ease and reliability of Shentel's home phone plans today. Say goodbye to communication woes and hello to seamless connectivity; contact Shentel today!