MagicJack or NetTalk users? - Smart Car of America Forums : Smart Car Forum

SmartJoeMN · 02-05-2010, 11:38 AM

I'm just wondering if we have anyone in here who uses MagicJack or NetTalk?

I just bought a NetTalk box because my MagicJack was garbage, curious if anyone else has either one, and what has your experience been?

gabe1475 · 02-05-2010, 01:31 PM

I have tried MagicJack, but the unit I got was defective. Have heard great things about it from others that I know use it. One of the things you want to keep in mind is you have to keep your computer on if you want to receive calls, not an issue if you do that anyway. Also it sticks out of your USB port and is not well built so you have to be careful. For the price, you can not beat it though. I myself use Vonage, for $25 per month we also get calls to Hungary and have quite a bit of family there.

NCC1701 · 02-05-2010, 01:56 PM

I've had MagicJack for several months. I kept my Ma Bell line until I was sure I'd be happy with the VOIP device. Very satisfied to have paid for six years' phone service for about $100. No more phone bills until 11/2015.

Twice, when I tried to place a call I got a "all circuits busy" type of announcement. Other than that, no problems. But, I only make a couple of long distance calls a year, so I'm not getting the full benefit of free long distance.

SmartJoeMN · 02-05-2010, 02:06 PM

I tried using MagicJack... I really did, but everyone kept telling me they couldn't hear me, or I sounded liek I was in a barrel. I couldn't even call into my bank because it wasn't registering I was pushing keys. It did work better when I had it plugged into my Mac, but I had to many complaints. I recently read on Engadget a story about the owner of Magicjack bad mouthing the NetTalk company, so I looked into it, same idea, BUT you don't need a PC/MAC, it just plugs directly into the Eithernet port.

So far, I can't make any outbound calls, but inbound calls are nice and clear. I sumitted a ticket last night, they responded back right away this morning, and that didn't work so they replyed back and had me call into their Tech line and they reset the firmware on the unit. I haven't tried it yet since I had to come into work (Which I was followed part way by a Red/Black Smart Pure). I'll post later tonight with an update.

MPrice2984 · 02-05-2010, 02:22 PM

I use Magic Jack with a dedicated old computer that is always on, no complaints and good connections. Actually much better than my ex ATT line.

**JPaul** · 02-05-2010, 02:41 PM

Because I didn't want to use a computer, I chose a VoIP that uses the existing home phone system and connects to a modem between the cable and the WiFi. Out was Verizon, in came Lingo. That was 8 years ago. Never went back.

Advantage: unlimited and unmetered calls to US, Canada and Europe* (the latter a necessity for me). Less than $30/m.
Inconvenience: *slight fee for calling portables in Europe, no phone when cable is down.
Calls quality: mostly good depending on the circuit, but if it's not good, I just call back...

PS: usual disclaimer about any interests with the company (I didn't want to use "connection" in this context).

matchbox · 02-05-2010, 05:17 PM

I switched to Ooma because I knew so many people unhappy with Magic Jack. A friend is happy with Vonage, but that costs $25 a month. With Ooma, you buy the box (I got mine at Costco) and pay NO MONTHLY FEE! The box will pay for itself in a few months. Unlimited long distance anywhere in US, Canada is free. Service has worked flawlessly, and I just ported my AT&T phone number to my Ooma and kissed Ma Bell goodbye forever. Ooma makes handsets too, but I just use my existing Panasonic wireless phones and all is well.

NCC1701 · 02-05-2010, 05:43 PM

I wasn't aware that folks were having less than satisfactory experiences from MagcJack ... I'm perfectly satisfied with mine.

This Ooma thing sounds interesting matchbox! Still, I can't see me switching unless I find some reason to be dissatisfied with MagicJack. Hasn't happened yet.

**GetSmrt28277** · 02-05-2010, 06:14 PM

I just sent my magicJack back this week; they promoted 30 days free (note FREE) trial; the service was hit and miss; I was constantly having to reboot my computer to get the unit to work; I ordered it 1/2/10; received it and started it up 1/10; got a charge from them on 1/4 for 2.96 and a separate one for 17.16; on 2/1 charged for the unit; what happened to my 30 day free trial?

I could not resolve the hits on my account and I sent it back. I hope this warns those ordering this unit. I may never get my money back. The bank told me when I disputed the early charges, the stated if the company said it was their policy, then there is nothing they can do about it. I could not find anywhere that defined the free trial nor when the charges would hit my account so how can I prove their policy other than the inconsistent people I "chatted" with online (no one to personally talk to). I am sure there will be another unit out in the next few years.

good luck. I tried it because of the Consumer reports positive remarks.

orngandblack · 02-05-2010, 06:37 PM

I too use a magicJack. For 20 bucks a year it is a great deal. I run it wireless with a lot of traffic and it works well. If you have a cell phone a magicJack is all you need at home. Plus you can take it on the road with you and plug into any computer and you can make calls. I have nothing negative to say for 20 bucks.