Google Voice vs Grasshopper: Which Is Best for Your Business?
Two budget-friendly options for small business phone service. Google Voice is ideal if you already use Google Workspace, while Grasshopper works as a standalone solution with toll-free numbers. We compare the real differences.
Quick Comparison
Pricing and key strengths at a glance
Google Voice
Simple phone service from Google
Strengths
- Deeply integrated with Google Workspace
- Clean, familiar Google interface
- Affordable starting price
- AI-powered spam filtering
Weaknesses
- Requires Google Workspace subscription
- Limited features compared to dedicated VoIP
- No toll-free numbers
Grasshopper
Virtual phone system for entrepreneurs
Strengths
- Standalone product, no other subscriptions needed
- Toll-free and vanity numbers available
- AI transcription for recorded calls (Fall 2025)
- 24/7 phone support
Weaknesses
- Call forwarding only (not true VoIP)
- Call recording requires Solo Plus ($25+)
- No CRM or third-party integrations
Features Side by Side
See how Google Voice and Grasshopper compare on the features that matter
Google VoiceGrasshopperGoogle VoiceGrasshopperIn-Depth Analysis
We break down the key categories to help you make an informed decision
True Cost Comparison
What you actually pay month to month
Google Voice's $10/user/month looks cheap, but it requires Google Workspace ($6/user minimum). So the true cost is $16+/user/month. If you already pay for Workspace, Voice becomes a good add-on. If not, the total cost is less competitive.
Grasshopper's $14/month Solo plan is all-in pricing with no prerequisites. The Partner ($25/mo) and Small Business ($55/mo) plans add more numbers and extensions. For solopreneurs without Google Workspace, it's often the cheaper option.
Features That Matter
Day-to-day functionality compared
Google Voice excels at what it integrates with: Calendar for scheduling, Meet for video, Gmail for context. The AI spam filtering is genuinely better than competitors. But standalone phone features are limited - basic auto-attendant, no toll-free numbers, minimal call routing.
Grasshopper is purpose-built for phone service. The auto-attendant, extensions, and professional greetings work well for creating a professional image. Toll-free and vanity numbers are included. As of Fall 2025, AI transcription is available on Solo Plus and higher plans. But messaging is limited, call recording requires the $25+ plan, and there are no integrations worth mentioning.
Setup and Daily Use
Getting started and ongoing experience
If you know Google products, Voice feels familiar immediately. The interface is clean and minimal. Setup is quick within Google Admin. The mobile app is solid. The downside is limited customization - what you see is what you get.
Grasshopper takes slightly more setup for auto-attendant and extensions, but the process is guided and straightforward. The admin portal is dated but functional. The mobile app works but lacks modern polish.
Customer Support
Help when you need it
Google Voice support is typical Google: good documentation, community forums, but limited direct support. Getting a human for complex issues can be challenging. For a $10/month product, support expectations should be accordingly calibrated.
Grasshopper offers 24/7 phone support on all plans. This is a significant differentiator for small businesses without technical staff. US-based agents can help with setup, troubleshooting, and account questions.
Why choose between limited options?
Phone2 gives you modern features without Google Workspace requirements or Grasshopper's limitations.
- $15/month includes 4 users (no additional subscriptions required)
- Full SMS/MMS messaging with shared inbox
- Modern interface that rivals Google, with real phone features
- Toll-free numbers available, team collaboration included
- Actual human support when you need help
The Bottom Line
Quick guidance on which option fits your needs
Choose Google Voice if...
- You already pay for Google Workspace
- Deep Google Calendar/Gmail integration is important
- SMS messaging is a primary communication channel
Choose Grasshopper if...
- You need toll-free or vanity numbers
- 24/7 phone support is essential
- You don't want to be locked into Google's ecosystem
Consider Phone2 if...
- You want modern features without ecosystem lock-in
- Team collaboration and shared numbers matter
- You need both good messaging AND good calling features
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Google Voice vs Grasshopper
For personal use, yes. For business use with features like auto-attendant and multi-user management, you need Google Workspace. The personal version lacks business features.
Ready to switch from Google Voice or Grasshopper?
Port your existing number to Phone2 for free. Keep your number, lose the limitations.