Best US Virtual Phone Number Apps in 2027
Getting an American phone number can be useful for international communication, remote work, online businesses, customer support, and keeping personal and professional calls separate. Fortunately, you do not always need a physical US SIM card to get a second number. Several US virtual phone number apps allow users to make calls, send messages, and manage an American number through an internet connection.However, not every virtual number service works in the same way. Some applications offer free numbers for eligible users in the United States, while others provide paid American numbers to customers in different countries. Certain services focus on personal communication, whereas others are designed for business teams.
In this guide, we compare the best US virtual phone number apps in 2027, explain their features, discuss important limitations, and help you choose the right provider for your needs.
Editorial note: This guide was prepared in November 2026 using publicly available provider information. Product features, supported countries, and prices can change during 2027. Always confirm current availability and terms before purchasing.
What Is a US Virtual Phone Number?
A US virtual phone number is an American telephone number that can be used through an online phone service rather than relying exclusively on a traditional physical SIM card.
Many virtual number providers use Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology. This allows calls and, where supported, text messages to be handled through an internet connection using a mobile application or web browser.
Depending on the provider, a virtual number may offer:
- Incoming calls from US telephone numbers.
- Outgoing calls to American and international destinations.
- Incoming and outgoing SMS messages.
- Voicemail and call forwarding.
- Business communication and shared inboxes.
- Multiple numbers managed through one application.
Not every service includes all these features. Some providers offer numbers for receiving calls only, while others support two-way calls and messaging.
Best US Virtual Phone Number Apps in 2027
Google Voice – Best Free Option for Eligible US Users
Google Voice is one of the best-known virtual phone services. It provides a US phone number that can be used for calls, text messages, and voicemail through supported devices and web browsers.
Its free personal option can be attractive to people who live in the United States and need a separate number for everyday communication.
Key features:
- US phone number for eligible personal users.
- Calls and text messages on supported plans.
- Voicemail transcription.
- Spam call and message protection.
- Call screening and personalized voicemail greetings.
- Browser and mobile access.
Advantages:
- Free personal option for eligible US users.
- Integrates with Google's ecosystem.
- Useful voicemail management features.
- Can work on computers and mobile devices.
Limitations:
- Personal number availability is limited to eligible users in the United States.
- Some services may not accept Google Voice numbers for verification.
- Business features and advanced options may require a paid plan.
- It is not a universal solution for people living outside the US.
Best for: US residents who want a convenient second number for personal calls, messages, and voicemail.
Official website: Google Voice
TextNow – Best Free Second Number for North American Users
TextNow is a communication application offering phone numbers, calling, and messaging features. Its free ad-supported option makes it attractive to users who want a second number without paying a traditional monthly phone bill.
It is particularly useful for people who live in the United States or Canada and want an additional number for everyday communication.
Key features:
- Free US or Canadian number options for eligible users.
- Calling and texting over Wi-Fi or mobile data.
- Optional paid upgrades.
- Mobile applications and supported web access.
- International calling options through purchased credits.
Advantages:
- Free access option with advertisements.
- Useful for basic second-number communication.
- Can reduce the need for another traditional phone line.
- Offers additional paid features.
Limitations:
- Registration and availability are restricted geographically.
- Users outside North America cannot normally register for the service.
- Some verification messages may require paid features or may not be supported.
- Free numbers can be subject to inactivity and retention policies.
Best for: Eligible users in the US and Canada who want a free or low-cost additional number.
Official website: TextNow
Hushed – Best for a Private Second Phone Number
Hushed is a virtual phone number application that lets users obtain additional numbers without purchasing another physical SIM card. It offers US numbers and supports calling and messaging features depending on the number and selected plan.
It can be useful when you want to keep your personal telephone number separate from online listings, temporary projects, or business communications.
Key features:
- US virtual phone number options.
- Calling and messaging on supported numbers.
- Voicemail and call management features.
- Multiple number options depending on the plan.
- Prepaid and subscription-based options.
Advantages:
- Useful for maintaining a separate phone identity.
- Offers more than one type of number plan.
- Supports communication through a mobile application.
- Provides options for different usage periods.
Limitations:
- Not all features are available for every number.
- Availability depends on the country and current number inventory.
- Some third-party verification systems reject VoIP numbers.
- Paid plans and renewal conditions should be checked carefully.
Best for: Individuals, freelancers, and small business owners who want an additional US number for privacy and communication.
Official website: Hushed
Quo (Formerly OpenPhone) – Best for Business Communication
Quo, previously known as OpenPhone, is a business phone platform designed for companies, freelancers, and teams that need professional communication tools.
Unlike simple second-number applications, Quo focuses on business workflows. It can help teams manage customer calls, text conversations, shared numbers, and internal communication from a central platform.
Key features:
- US and Canadian business phone numbers.
- Calling and messaging features on supported plans.
- Shared phone numbers and team inboxes.
- Voicemail transcription.
- Business hours and call management.
- Integrations with selected business applications.
Advantages:
- Designed for professional communication.
- Useful for small teams and growing businesses.
- Helps organize customer conversations.
- Offers collaboration and business workflow features.
Limitations:
- It is a paid business service rather than a free personal number app.
- Pricing is generally based on users and selected plans.
- Registration and messaging requirements may apply.
- Some advanced features require higher subscription tiers.
Best for: Freelancers, startups, customer support teams, and businesses that need a professional US phone system.
Official website: Quo
Numero eSIM – Best for International Number Options
Numero eSIM is a mobile application that offers international communication services, including virtual phone number options in supported countries.
It may be worth considering if you travel frequently or want to manage numbers from different countries through one application. Its availability and features depend on the selected country and number.
Key features:
- Virtual numbers in supported countries.
- US number options subject to availability.
- Calling and messaging features on eligible numbers.
- International communication services.
- Additional eSIM data options sold separately where available.
Advantages:
- Designed with international users in mind.
- Offers numbers from multiple countries.
- Combines several communication options in one application.
- Useful for people who travel or communicate internationally.
Limitations:
- Not every number supports the same calling and SMS features.
- Pricing depends on the selected country and plan.
- Some services may require identity verification.
- A virtual number subscription and an eSIM data plan are different products.
Best for: Travelers and international users who want access to numbers from several countries through one application.
Official website: Numero eSIM
Sonetel – Best for International Business Numbers
Sonetel is a cloud-based business communication service offering virtual phone numbers in multiple countries, including the United States where available.
It is designed for companies and professionals who want an international business presence without setting up a traditional office phone system in every country.
Key features:
- Virtual international phone numbers.
- Call forwarding and call handling options.
- Business communication features.
- Mobile and web-based account management.
- International number options subject to local requirements.
Advantages:
- Suitable for international business communication.
- Offers number options in multiple countries.
- Can help companies manage calls remotely.
- Provides flexible communication services.
Limitations:
- Not primarily designed as a free personal second-number application.
- Calling costs may depend on the plan and destination.
- SMS support can vary by number and service.
- Some number purchases require identity or address information.
Best for: International freelancers and businesses that need a professional US contact number.
Official website: Sonetel
US Virtual Phone Number Apps Comparison
The following table summarizes the main differences between the services. Exact features depend on the plan, number type, and country where you register.
| App | Best For | Free Option | International Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Voice | Personal second number | Yes, for eligible US users | Limited for personal signup |
| TextNow | Free calls and texts | Yes, with ads | North America focused |
| Hushed | Private second number | Check current trial offers | Available in supported countries |
| Quo | Business communication | No general free personal number | Subject to business eligibility |
| Numero eSIM | International number options | Check current offers | Multiple supported countries |
| Sonetel | International business numbers | Check current offers | Multiple supported countries |
Which US Virtual Number App Is Best for People Outside the US?
This is one of the most important questions to consider before buying a virtual American number.
Some popular applications are designed mainly for people who already live in the United States. For example, Google Voice personal signup is US-focused, while TextNow states that registration is available within North America.
If you live in another country, you should look at providers that explicitly support international registration and allow customers in your country to purchase US numbers.
Before paying, check these details:
- Can you create an account from your current country?
- Can you purchase a US number without a US residential address?
- Does the provider accept your payment method?
- Can you receive incoming calls while outside the United States?
- Does the number support incoming and outgoing SMS?
- Are there country-specific restrictions?
Do not assume that an application will work internationally simply because it advertises US numbers. Confirm eligibility with the provider before subscribing.
Can You Use a US Virtual Number for SMS Verification?
Many people search for a US virtual number for SMS verification, but this is an area where expectations need to be realistic.
Some websites accept virtual numbers, while others reject them because they identify the number as VoIP or do not support its carrier type.
For example, banks, financial platforms, social networks, and certain online services may require a mobile number from a supported carrier.
Before choosing a provider, remember:
- Receiving ordinary SMS does not guarantee receiving verification codes.
- Short-code messages may not work on every virtual number.
- Some platforms block VoIP numbers entirely.
- Number availability and verification support are separate issues.
- Never use a virtual number to bypass identity, regional, or account security requirements.
If you need a number for an important account, use a number type explicitly supported by that service. Do not depend on an inexpensive virtual number as your only account recovery method.
How to Choose the Best US Virtual Phone Number App
Check Your Main Purpose
Start by deciding why you need an American number.
- Personal communication: Look for simple calling, messaging, and voicemail features.
- Business communication: Choose a provider with business hours, shared inboxes, and professional call handling.
- International travel: Look for services that support registration and number usage in your destination countries.
- Privacy: Consider a separate number for public listings and non-essential contacts.
- SMS reception: Confirm that the exact number supports the type of messages you need.
Compare Monthly and Annual Pricing
Virtual number services may charge monthly subscriptions, annual fees, activation costs, or additional calling credits.
Do not compare providers using only their advertised starting price. Calculate the total cost, including:
- Number rental or subscription fees.
- Activation and setup charges.
- Incoming and outgoing call costs.
- SMS and MMS charges.
- Additional numbers or users.
- Taxes and renewal conditions.
Review Privacy and Security Policies
A virtual phone number can help separate your personal and professional communication, but it does not make you completely anonymous.
Providers may collect account details, payment information, device information, IP addresses, and communication metadata. Read the privacy policy and understand how your information is handled.
Check Number Retention Rules
Some providers may reclaim numbers that remain inactive or whose subscriptions expire. This is particularly important if you use the number for business or account recovery.
Review inactivity policies, renewal requirements, cancellation conditions, and number-porting options before choosing a long-term service.
Are US Virtual Phone Numbers Legal?
Virtual phone numbers are legitimate communication services when used according to applicable laws, provider policies, and the requirements of the services you contact.
However, using a virtual number does not give you permission to impersonate someone, commit fraud, send unwanted messages, or bypass identity verification requirements.
Businesses should also review applicable telephone and messaging regulations, including registration requirements for certain types of business SMS traffic in the United States.
Always use a provider that operates transparently and follow its acceptable-use policies.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing the wrong virtual number can waste money or cause problems with important accounts. Avoid these common mistakes:
- Choosing only by price: A cheap number may not include the features you need.
- Ignoring country restrictions: Some apps cannot be registered from outside North America.
- Assuming every number receives verification codes: VoIP numbers can be rejected by third-party platforms.
- Ignoring renewal rules: You may lose access if a subscription expires.
- Using one number for everything: Separate personal, business, and temporary communication where practical.
- Ignoring emergency calling limitations: Many virtual number apps are not substitutes for a local emergency telephone service.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best US virtual phone number app in 2027?
The best option depends on your location and purpose. Google Voice is a strong choice for eligible US residents, TextNow offers a free option for eligible North American users, Hushed is useful for a private second number, and Quo is designed for business communication.
Can I get a US virtual phone number outside America?
Yes, some providers offer US numbers to international customers. However, availability depends on your country, identity requirements, payment options, and the provider's registration policies.
Are there free US virtual phone number apps?
Google Voice and TextNow offer free options under specific eligibility conditions. These services are not universally available to people living outside the United States or North America.
Can I receive SMS messages with a US virtual number?
Some providers support incoming SMS, but availability varies by number and subscription. Verification codes and short-code messages may be blocked or unsupported.
Can I use a virtual US number on WhatsApp?
Some virtual numbers may work with WhatsApp registration, while others may be rejected. WhatsApp controls its own verification process, so no virtual number provider can guarantee successful registration.
Do US virtual phone number apps require a SIM card?
Many VoIP-based services do not require a separate physical SIM card for their app-based calling and messaging features. However, some services require an existing phone number during registration or for account verification.
Can I make international calls with a US virtual number?
Some providers support international calls, but rates and destination coverage vary. Review the calling rates before making frequent international calls.
Are virtual phone numbers safe?
They can be useful for separating communication and protecting your primary number from unnecessary exposure. However, they are not completely anonymous or risk-free. Choose reputable providers and protect your account credentials.
Final Thoughts
The best US virtual phone number apps in 2027 offer different advantages depending on whether you need a free second number, private communication, international access, or a professional business phone system.
Google Voice is a convenient option for eligible US users, TextNow is worth considering for North American users who want a free service, Hushed offers additional personal numbers, and Quo provides business-oriented communication features. Numero eSIM and Sonetel are also worth exploring if you need international number options.
Before purchasing, confirm that the provider supports your country, offers the calling and messaging features you need, and clearly explains its pricing and number retention policies.
Most importantly, do not assume that every virtual number will work with banking services, social networks, or SMS verification systems. Choose a service based on your actual communication needs rather than promises of universal compatibility.