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iPlum is the best Grasshopper alternative for HIPAA-compliant business texting, call recording, and VoIP.
Grasshopper has been around for quite a while, and one would expect the business phone service to evolve with modern business needs.
Instead, it feels stuck in the past.
Let's look at Grasshopper's customer reviews to better understand what users feel about the solution.
Grasshopper Reviews—What Are Users Saying About Grasshopper?
We scoured the web for Grasshopper reviews. Customers had good and not-so-good things to say about the platform. Here are some of those:
Hidden fees
“The thing that pissed me off the most about Grasshopper was the extra charges. My '$29 per month' plan became $63 after additional phone line charges and other taxes and fees.” – Grasshopper user review, Reddit
Muffled calls and missed connections
“Sometimes the calls wouldn’t ring on my phone and show up on the app later as a missed call... I lost potential clients due to this.” – Verified Reviewer, Capterra
Severe texting limitations
“No bulk texting. Must upload contacts one at a time... Customer service is horrible.” – Matthew, SoftwareAdvice.
Frustrating customer support experience
“You’ll spend an hour or more trying to change something that should take 2–3 minutes.” – Verified Reviewer, G2
Can be difficult to set up, especially if you’re not tech-savvy
“The process of recording is somewhat difficult… I wish that they had more options to record and made the process more simple.” –Verified Reviewer, G2
No ability to create SMS templates
“We do not have the ability to build templates to send out via text message.” – Shawnalee, Capterra
Conversely, some users love Grasshopper’s second number offering and call-forwarding functionalities.
Gives you a second number for work
“The ability of having another phone number without carrying around two phones!” – Verified Reviewer, G2
Includes voicemail and call forwarding tools
“You can forward to multiple numbers, have a fax, voicemail to text email and much more.” – Chris D., CEO, G2
Grasshopper Features
Grasshopper's top features range from a desktop app to call forwarding. Here’s a quick overview.
- Mobile and desktop apps – Gives you the option to call and text from your phone or computer.
- Call forwarding – Allows you to send incoming calls to any number you choose.
- Call transfers – Makes it easy to send a live call to another teammate or extension.
- Call notifications – Keeps you updated on missed calls and voicemails right away.
- Texting – Lets you send and receive SMS using your business number.
- Phone number – Lets you pick a local, toll-free, or vanity number
Grasshopper Pricing
Grasshopper’s pricing is structured in three tiers as follows:
- True Solo Plan at $14/month — Comes with one business number, one extension, desktop and mobile apps, texting, WiFi calling, and voicemail transcription..
- Solo Plus Plan at $25/month — Includes everything in True Solo plus three extensions, call forwarding, simultaneous call handling, and virtual receptionist features.
- Small Business Plan at $55/month— Includes everything in Solo Plus plus five business numbers, unlimited extensions, and customer support .
Why Look for a Grasshopper Alternative?
Grasshopper isn’t perfect. Some of the reasons you’d want to look for an alternative to Grasshopper include:
Hidden fees: Grasshopper’s advertised pricing can nearly double once taxes, line charges, and other fees are added.
- Limited scalability: Grasshopper may not meet the needs of growing businesses due to the lack of robust features.
- Geographic restrictions: The platform only supports users in the U.S. and Canada, limiting global accessibility.
- Lack of integrations: Grasshopper doesn’t integrate with popular tools like CRMs or helpdesk software, which can slow down workflows.
- No call recording: The solution doesn’t offer native call recording, which is essential for compliance and training.
- Limited analytics: Reporting tools are basic, with little insight into call performance or user activity.
- Texting limitations: Grasshopper doesn’t support bulk texting or SMS templates, making mass communication harder.
- Technical issues: Users have reported call drops, muffled audio, and delayed call alerts.
- Customer support challenges: Some users say it's difficult to reach support or get problems resolved quickly.
With this in mind, we rounded up Grasshopper alternatives that offer modern features, better value, and the flexibility businesses need to stay competitive.
Best Grasshopper Alternatives
To start us off, here’s a quick comparison table.
1. iPlum (Best Value)
iPlum is our top pick among the best alternatives to Grasshopper, offering a cost-effective business phone system with HIPAA-compliant texting, call recording, and international capabilities.
iPlum vs. Grasshopper
First, Grasshopper struggles to match iPlum’s security, features, and flexibility. iPlum offers HIPAA-compliant texting and encrypted messaging to safeguard sensitive information—something Grasshopper lacks entirely.
Although Grasshopper provides basic calling and voicemail, it falls short on compliance. iPlum, on the other hand, comes with call recording and compliance support for industries like finance and healthcare. This makes it a better choice for professionals who need legally sound call records.
Connectivity is another concern. Grasshopper’s mobile app is known for dropped calls and unreliable texting. iPlum eliminates this issue by offering dual calling reliability, allowing users to switch between Wi-Fi and carrier networks for uninterrupted communication.
For businesses looking to scale, iPlum’s phone tree and virtual extensions offer robust call routing. Grasshopper, in comparison, only provides these at a basic level. In addition, iPlum includes online faxing, voicemail transcription, and auto-replies, all missing with Grasshopper.
And then there’s pricing. Grasshopper’s cheapest plan starts at $18 per month for a single line, whereas iPlum offers plans starting at $8.99, giving you access to a host of business-centric call management features.
iPlum Key Features
- HIPAA and Secure Messaging: Encrypted texting ensures compliance for healthcare, legal, and financial industries.
- Call Recording and Compliance: Record and archive business calls while meeting regulatory requirements like HIPAA and Dodd-Frank.
- Auto-Attendant and Phone Tree: Set up professional call routing with virtual extensions to streamline customer interactions.
- Dual Calling Reliability: Choose between Wi-Fi and carrier networks to ensure clear calls, even in low-signal areas.
- Business Hours and Auto-Responses: Set work hours to route calls properly and send automated text replies to missed calls.
- Voicemail Transcription: Convert voicemails into text and access them as audio files for easy review.
- API Integration: Connect iPlum to external systems for enterprise-wide visibility and compliance.
- 800 Toll-free Vanity Line
- Mobile 2nd Line in the U.S. and Canada
iPlum Pricing
iPlum’s plans start at $8.99 monthly compared to Grasshopper’s $14/user/mo, making it one of the most cost-effective VoIP business phone systems.
2. 8x8
8x8 is a solid Grasshopper alternative for teams that want global calling, video meetings, and built-in analytics, without sacrificing security or scalability.
8x8 vs. Grasshopper
Grasshopper is fine if all you need is a basic second number and call forwarding. But it quickly falls short when your team grows or your needs become more advanced. That’s where 8x8 comes in..
Unlike Grasshopper, which mainly serves users in the U.S. and Canada, 8x8 supports international numbers in over 100 countries. This makes it a good pick if you’re expanding beyond North America.
It also has video conferencing and team messaging built right into the platform. Grasshopper doesn’t offer either. So if you're working remotely or need face-to-face collaboration, 8x8 gives you those tools out of the box.
Another plus is call quality and reliability. 8x8 includes smart routing and a built-in contact center option, which helps larger teams route calls and track performance. Grasshopper, on the other hand, lacks detailed analytics and custom routing options.
One potential drawback: 8x8’s interface may take longer to get used to if you’re switching from a simpler tool like Grasshopper. But once you're set up, it's a more capable system overall.
8x8 Key Features
- Global Numbers: Get local numbers in over 100 countries
- Video Conferencing: HD meetings with screen sharing and team chat
- Team Messaging: Internal chats and file sharing across your organization
- Smart Call Routing: Route calls based on skills, schedules, or performance
- Call Analytics: Monitor and report on call activity in real time
- CRM Integrations: Works with Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics, and more
- Call Recording and Transcription: Capture and transcribe calls for training or compliance purposes.
8x8 Pricing
8x8 plans start at $24 per user per month for voice and team chat. Their X Series plans (starting at $32 per user per month) include video meetings, analytics, call routing, and global calling features. Higher tiers include call center tools and advanced compliance support.
iPlum vs. Grasshopper vs. 8x8
Grasshopper and 8x8 both offer business calling solutions, but they serve different needs. Grasshopper is best suited for solo professionals and small businesses that only need a second phone number and basic calling features. It’s simple, but also limited in features, support, and integrations.
8x8, by contrast, is built for teams that need more—video conferencing, global calling, team messaging, and real-time analytics. It’s a more complete communications platform, ideal for companies that are growing or already operating across regions.
Then there’s iPlum.
iPlum combines secure texting, call recording, compliance features, and international support at a lower cost. Unlike Grasshopper, it supports HIPAA and financial compliance out of the box.
And unlike 8x8, which may be overkill for simple use cases, iPlum hits the sweet spot for professionals who want more than the basics.
That said, if you’re looking for a mobile-first solution that works well for healthcare, legal, finance, or just professional business communication, iPlum gives you more control, better compliance, and lower monthly fees than both Grasshopper and 8x8.
3. Nextiva
Nextiva thrives as a Grasshopper alternative primarily due to its customer experience (CX) functionality. It combines VoIP communication with CX tools like chatbots, social media integration, and workflow automation.
Nextiva vs. Grasshopper
Nextiva's selling point is its customer engagement capabilities. The platform offers a unified communication system integrating voice, video, chat, and CRM tools. Unlike Grasshopper, which is more of a virtual phone system, Nextiva is built for users who need real-time customer interactions.
It boasts call monitoring and workflow automation features that allow teams to manage support and sales processes. Furthermore, Nextiva’s dashboard and reporting tools provide insights into call metrics, helping users optimize their customer service strategies.
That said, Nextiva’s best features—like intelligent call routing and AI-powered automation—are only available in its highest-tier plans, making it a pricier option.
Nextiva Key Features
- Call Notes: Agents can jot down essential details during calls for easy reference later.
- Chatbot: Automate responses and provide self-service options to customers via chat.
- Messaging Applications: Engage with customers across social media and messaging apps from a single platform.
Nextiva Pricing
Nextiva's plans start at $25 per user monthly for standard VoIP and messaging features. Higher-tier plans cost as much as $75 per user per month for customer experience tools.
iPlum vs. Grasshopper vs. Nextiva
iPlum beats Grasshopper and Nextiva in areas like affordability, HIPAA compliance, and international phone numbers, features neither competitor has.
Sure, Grasshopper may be a good virtual phone system for solopreneurs, but it lacks essential tools like call recording and business texting on lower plans.
Nextiva, on the other hand, delivers robust customer CX tools. However, these come at a steep price.
By comparison, iPlum allows you to access business-grade communication tools with regulatory compliance at an affordable rate. It is, therefore, one of the best Grasshopper alternatives if you’re on a tight budget but want a solution with overlapping features.
4. GoTo Connect
GoTo Connect’s feature lineup includes AI-powered call routing, international calling, and built-in collaboration tools, a significant shift from Grasshopper’s standard business phone tools.
GoTo Connect vs. Grasshopper
GoTo Connect and Grasshopper do well with business communication features, but GoTo Connect adds smart call handling and unified communication tools.
For instance, both platforms include auto-attendants. However, GoTo Connect enhances this with AI-powered call routing and a customizable dial plan.
In addition, while Grasshopper charges extra for professionally recorded greetings, GoTo Connect includes unlimited recorded greetings in all plans. And, unlike Grasshopper, it offers unlimited international calling to over 50 countries at no extra cost.
One more thing: GoTo Connect’s video conferencing supports up to 250 participants, a feature Grasshopper lacks entirely. So, if needing more than stand call forwarding, GoTo Connect is a Grasshopper alternative you can consider.
GoTo Connect Key Features
- Intelligent Call Routing: Uses AI to direct calls based on custom rules, improving efficiency.
- Call Park: Allows agents to place calls on hold and transfer them across teams.
- Virtual Voicemail: Sends voicemail transcripts and recordings directly to email for quick access.
GoTo Connect Pricing
GoTo Connect offers two main pricing plans, plus optional add-ons for contact centers and customer engagement.
The Basic plan costs $27 per user monthly and supports up to 20 users. The Standard plan, at $32 per user, includes international calling, call routing, and video meetings for larger teams.
iPlum vs. Grasshopper vs. GoTo Connect
First, iPlum is more affordable than both Grasshopper and GoTo Connect. However, that doesn’t mean you’re sacrificing essential business features for affordability.
While iPlum may not have video conferencing like GoTo Connect, it holds its own with secure calling, encrypted texting, and mobile call recording for compliance.
Furthermore, iPlum ensures HIPAA and financial compliance—something both Grasshopper and GoTo struggle with.
Want automated call handling? No problem! iPlum comes in handy with phone tree extensions, voicemail transcriptions, and auto-replies. How about compliant faxing? Sure, iPlum has that covered, too, with secure online faxing, a feature neither Grasshopper nor GoTo Connect prioritizes.
Need a business number that works on your existing phone? iPlum’s BYOD-friendly setup lets you keep personal and work calls separate without extra hardware. Plus, with advanced password protection and API integration for enterprise use, iPlum brings security and flexibility together
5. RingCentral
RingCentral is one of the best alternatives to Grasshopper if you’re looking for a communication platform that combines voice, messaging, and video in one system.
RingCentral vs. Grasshopper
RingCentral outperforms Grasshopper with its unified approach to business communication. It comes with tools like auto-attendants, call monitoring, and AI-powered call transcription, unlike Grasshopper, which focuses on basic calling and texting.
Furthermore, it can integrate with 300+ third-party applications, making it a solid option if you need a more connected system. That said, Grasshopper offers unlimited business texting, while RingCentral does not, which could be a drawback for text-heavy businesses.
Apart from voice, RingCentral powers team collaboration with built-in messaging, file sharing, and video conferencing, supporting up to 500 participants. It even includes interactive tools like whiteboards and breakout rooms.
RingCentral Key Features
- Call transcription: AI-powered transcription makes it easy to search for important call details.
- Ring in order: Customize the sequence in which your devices ring for incoming calls.
- Whiteboard: A collaborative tool for brainstorming in video meetings.
RingCentral Pricing
RingCentral pricing starts at $20 per user per month for the Core plan, which includes calling, multilevel auto-attendants, and videoconferencing for 100 participants. Higher-tier plans introduce call monitoring, CRM integrations, and unlimited file storage.
iPlum vs. Grasshopper vs. RingCentral
Grasshopper caters to solopreneurs and small teams. However, it lacks advanced call management, integrations, and compliance features, making it less suitable for businesses with regulatory needs.
RingCentral, in contrast, provides a robust unified communications experience. However, its pricing is significantly higher. Plus, it caps business texting on lower tiers.
iPlum finds the perfect middle ground.
It delivers a secure, feature-rich business phone solution at a fraction of RingCentral’s cost while offering compliance and call management tools Grasshopper doesn’t have.
Best Alternatives to Grasshopper — Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is Comparable to Grasshopper?
iPlum is comparable to Grasshopper. It offers a mobile-friendly business phone solution with call management, secure texting, and compliance features. Plus, it’s more affordable while supporting HIPAA compliance and secure faxing.
Is Grasshopper HIPAA Compliant?
No Grasshopper is not HIPAA compliant. It lacks the security measures required for HIPAA compliance, making it unsuitable for healthcare and financial industries that need encrypted texting and call recording compliance.
Does the Grasshopper App Record Calls?
Yes, but its lack of HIPAA compliance is a major concern for regulated industries. Without proper encryption and security measures, it’s not a reliable option for legally compliant call recording.
Port Your Number to a Tried and Tested Grasshopper Alternative
As you can see, Grasshopper competitors aren’t perfect for everyone.
Some come packed with extras like video calls, while others drown you in collaboration tools you might never use.
But what if you need a more business-centric, mobile first-phone system without the sky-high price?
That’s what makes iPlum a top Grasshopper alternative.
It packs innovative features to help you manage business calls and texts while ensuring you comply with industry regulations.
So, are you ready to ditch overpriced phone systems and limited features for a solution that puts security, compliance, and affordability first?
Port your Grasshopper number to iPlum and get a solution that works the way you do.
Transferring your number is easy. Follow the procedure below:
How to Port Your Grasshopper Number to iPlum in a Few Simple Steps
- Check Porting Eligibility – Visit my.iplum.com and select "Port Existing Number" to verify your number's eligibility.
- Set Up Your iPlum Account – If you're new to iPlum, create an account using a different phone number (not your Grasshopper number).
- Gather Your Account Details – Have your Grasshopper account number, PIN, and registered business information ready.
- Fill Out the Porting Form – Enter your Grasshopper account details, including the number type (local or toll-free) and service address.
- Submit Your Port Request – iPlum will process your request and notify you if any details need correction.
- Wait for Transfer Completion – The process typically takes 1–7 business days. Your Grasshopper number will continue to work until the transfer is complete.
- Receive Confirmation – Once porting is successful, you'll receive an email, and your number will start working in iPlum.
- Download the iPlum App – Install the iPlum app, log in, and start managing business calls and texts.
- Cancel Your Grasshopper Plan – Contact Grasshopper to confirm the number has been ported and ensure billing stops.
Note: Your number must remain active with Grasshopper during the porting process.
Ready to get started? Click the link below to port your Grasshopper number to iPlum.
