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For a free U.S. second number, Google Voice remains the clearest baseline; TextNow is the ad-supported alternative. Choose Hushed if you want multiple paid numbers, Burner for an iPhone-focused eSIM option, or Quo if you need business call routing. These services are not interchangeable: availability, number retention, device integration, and acceptance for verification codes vary, so match the service to how you plan to use the number.
Which Google Voice alternative fits your needs?
| Service | Best fit | Cost and access | What the cited pages establish |
|---|---|---|---|
| Google Voice | General-purpose personal U.S. number | $0, $10/month, or $20/month for the listed standalone tiers; personal Gmail and U.S. eligibility apply (Google plan comparison) | Calls, texts, voicemail, browser and mobile access, plus call-management features (Google setup and features) |
| TextNow | Free number if you can tolerate ads | Free, ad-supported; Android, iOS, and web (TextNow getting started) | Free phone number and access on the listed platforms; number-retention rules are not stated in the cited page |
| Hushed | Paid private numbers or multiple numbers | $8.99 USD/month displayed when its pricing page was retrieved in 2026; page also presents pay-as-you-go credits (Hushed plans and pricing) | Number choices for the U.S., Canada, and U.K.; terms and availability can change |
| Burner | Privacy-oriented second line for some iPhone users | Price not stated in the cited article; verify current plan terms (Burner’s 2026 alternatives article) | Vendor describes an eSIM-based number for compatible iPhones using native Phone and Messages apps; this is promotional vendor material, not independent testing |
| Quo (formerly OpenPhone) | Small-business calls that need routing | Paid business-phone service; price not stated in the cited pages | Business local numbers through mobile apps, with forwarding, ring groups, and phone menus (Quo dedicated business number; Quo local business number) |
Google Voice: the free-to-paid baseline
Google’s standalone plan comparison lists a no-charge tier for eligible personal Gmail users, plus Starter at $10 per month and Standard at $20 per month for individual U.S. users. The listed local numbers are U.S.-only. Paid tiers add different capabilities, so check the plan table for the feature you need rather than assuming every tier includes the same tools (Google Voice standalone plans).
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Google says Voice supports calls, texts, and voicemail, with access through a browser and mobile devices. Its listed features include voicemail transcripts, custom greetings, spam protection, blocking, and call screening. Almost all calls from the U.S. to U.S. and Canadian numbers are free, but some specific calls cost $0.01 per minute and international calls are charged at listed rates (Google Voice setup and calling details).
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsFree Scan →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →If you already have an eligible personal U.S. mobile number and want to move it into Google Voice, Google lists a $20 port-in fee. Its page says a phone-number transfer can take up to 48 hours and text transfer up to three business days; eligibility is not universal (Google Voice number porting).
#1 Best Overall
- YOUR CONTENT, SUPER SMOOTH: The ultra-clear 6.7" FHD+ Super AMOLED display of Galaxy A17 5G helps bring your content to life, whether you're scrolling through recipes or video chatting with loved ones.¹
- LIVE FAST. CHARGE FASTER: Focus more on the moment and less on your battery percentage with Galaxy A17 5G. Super Fast Charging powers up your battery so you can get back to life sooner.²
- MEMORIES MADE PICTURE PERFECT: Capture every angle in stunning clarity, from wide family photos to close-ups of friends, with the triple-lens camera on Galaxy A17 5G.
- NEED MORE STORAGE? WE HAVE YOU COVERED: With an improved 2TB of expandable storage, Galaxy A17 5G makes it easy to keep cherished photos, videos and important files readily accessible whenever you need them.³
- BUILT TO LAST: With an improved IP54 rating, Galaxy A17 5G is even more durable than before.⁴ It’s built to resist splashes and dust and comes with a stronger yet slimmer Gorilla Glass Victus front and Glass Fiber Reinforced Polymer back.
TextNow: a free, ad-supported option
TextNow’s support page says its free version provides a phone number and is supported by ads. It lists access through Android, iOS, and the web, which makes it a practical option to investigate if you want a number without a monthly charge (TextNow getting started).
The cited page does not establish how long an unused number is retained or whether a particular bank, social network, or other service will accept it for verification. Do not treat ordinary calling and texting support as proof that one-time codes will arrive.
Rank #2
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with Verizon, Spectrum, AT&T, Total Wireless, other CDMA carriers, it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- 4G LTE Bands: B1/B3/B5/B7/B8/B20/B28/B38/B40/B41
- Display: Super AMOLED, 90Hz, 800 nits (HBM) | 6.7 inches, 110.2 cm2 (~86.0% screen-to-body ratio) | 1080 x 2340 pixels, 19.5:9 ratio (~385 ppi density)
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro)
Hushed: paid numbers and pay-as-you-go credits
Hushed’s pricing page presents multiple private numbers, pay-as-you-go credits, and number choices in the U.S., Canada, and U.K. It displayed an $8.99 USD monthly option when retrieved in 2026; confirm the current price, credit terms, and market availability on the provider’s page before signing up (Hushed plans and pricing).
This is the option to consider when a free ad-supported service does not suit you and you want more than one number. The cited pricing information does not settle every detail of number retention, device support, or verification acceptance.
Rank #3
- Please note, this device does not support E-SIM; This 4G model is compatible with all GSM networks worldwide outside of the U.S. In the US, ONLY compatible with T-Mobile and their MVNO's (Metro and Standup). It will NOT work with other CDMA carriers, and it is also not compatible with their MVNO (Visible, Xfinity Mobile, US Mobile, Cricket Wireless, etc).
- Compatibility with certain third-party devices and accessibility accessories, including some hearing aids, may vary depending on manufacturer support, Bluetooth protocols, software compatibility, and regional firmware limitations. For additional hearing aid compatibility information, please refer to Samsung’s official support documentation.
- Camera: 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 50 MP, f/1.8, (wide), 1/2.76", 0.64µm, AF | 2 MP, f/2.4, (macro). Battery: 5000 mAh, non-removable | A power adapter is NOT included.
Burner: an iPhone-focused eSIM approach
Burner’s own 2026 alternatives article describes an eSIM-based second number for compatible iPhones that works through the native Phone and Messages apps. That may appeal if native app integration matters more than using a separate calling app. Because the description is vendor-authored and promotional, confirm compatible models, plan terms, and availability in current product documentation rather than treating the article as an independent comparison (Burner’s alternatives article).
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Quo: choose it for business call routing
Quo, formerly OpenPhone, is aimed at business use rather than simply adding a personal line. Its pages describe business local numbers used through mobile apps, with features such as call forwarding, custom ring groups, and phone menus (Quo dedicated business number; Quo local business number). This routing toolkit is a better fit when calls need to reach a team or follow a menu; it may be more than a personal user needs.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- GSM Unlocked: Enjoy seamless connectivity with your preferred GSM carrier. Compatible with T-Mobile, Metro PCS, AT&T, Cricket, Mint Mobile and other GSM networks. SIM card not included. For network compatibility, please check with your carrier. Note: Not compatible with CDMA networks like Verizon (Visible, Spectrum Mobile, US Mobile, Total Wireless, Straight Talk Wireless)
- Boundless Views: Enjoy immersive viewing on the spacious 6.5” HD+ display. Whether you're watching videos, browsing, or gaming, every detail comes through with stunning clarity.
- Smooth Performance, All Day: Powered by an efficient octa-core processor, the G35 ensures smooth performance for your everyday tasks. Enjoy faster app launches, seamless multitasking, and reliable speed.
- Snap, Share, Repeat: The G35 features a dual rear camera setup for sharp, detailed shots, and a front-facing camera that’s perfect for selfies and video calls. Capture every moment with ease and clarity.
- Effortless Access: Keep your phone secure with A.I. Face ID technology. Instantly unlock your G35 with just a glance. It's fast, easy, and secure.
Rank #4
- Charger NOT Included, 6.7" Super AMOLED FHD+, 90Hz Refresh Rate, 385 ppi, 800 nits (HBM), 1080x2340px, 5000mAh Battery
- 128GB, 4GB RAM, microSDXC, Exynos 1330 (5nm), Octa-Core, Mali-G68 MP2 or Mali-G57 MC2 GPU
- Rear Camera: 50MP, f/1.8 (wide) + 5MP, f/2.2 (ultrawide) + 2MP, f/2.4 (macro), LED flash, panorama, HDR; Front Camera: 13MP, f/2.0, Android 14, up to 6 major Android upgrades, One UI 6.1
- 3G: HSDPA 850/900/1700(AWS)/1900/2100; 4G LTE: 1/2/3/4/5/7/12/13/14/20/25/26/28/29/30/38/39/40/41/48/66/71, 5G: 2/5/25/41/66/71/77/78 SA/NSA/Sub6/mmWave - Nano-SIM + eSIM
- US Model – Global Connectivity – Compatible with Most GSM Carriers like T-Mobile, AT&T, MetroPCS, etc. Will Also work with CDMA Carriers Such as Verizon, Straight Talk.
Check these details before relying on a second number
- Number type and device fit: An app-based number and an additional carrier or eSIM line are not the same experience. The cited sources do not establish every provider’s technical behavior, country coverage, or device eligibility.
- Verification codes: A service’s ability to handle ordinary calls or texts does not prove that banks, social platforms, or other services will accept its number for authentication. Confirm with both providers where possible.
- Retention and porting: Check the service’s current rules for keeping an inactive or canceled number and whether it can be ported out before using it for account recovery or other long-term identity needs. Google’s $20 personal port-in process applies to eligible active U.S. mobile numbers and does not establish other services’ porting terms (Google porting requirements).
- Real total cost: Compare recurring charges, ads, credit usage, and any paid features you actually need. Prices and terms can change; the cited figures are page listings retrieved in 2026, not guaranteed future rates.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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