Grasshopper vs 800.com: Which Is Best for Your Business?
Two virtual phone services focused on professional image over feature depth. Grasshopper offers a complete virtual phone system, while 800.com specializes in toll-free and vanity numbers. We compare which makes sense for your business.
Quick Comparison
Pricing and key strengths at a glance
Grasshopper
Virtual phone system for entrepreneurs
Strengths
- Simple, straightforward setup
- Multiple number types (local, toll-free, vanity)
- AI transcription for recorded calls (Fall 2025)
- Professional auto-attendant
Weaknesses
- Call forwarding only (not true VoIP)
- No team collaboration or shared numbers
- No CRM integrations
800.com
Toll-free business phone system
Strengths
- Specializes in toll-free and vanity numbers
- Large inventory of memorable numbers
- Full VoIP with desktop & mobile apps
- Call recording on all plans
Weaknesses
- No shared phone numbers
- No team inbox
- No AI call summaries
Features Side by Side
See how Grasshopper and 800.com compare on the features that matter
Grasshopper800.comGrasshopper800.comIn-Depth Analysis
We break down the key categories to help you make an informed decision
Different Approaches to Business Calling
Understanding what each is built for
Grasshopper is a virtual phone system using call forwarding - calls route to your existing cell phone. In Fall 2025 they added AI transcription for recorded calls, but it's still fundamentally call forwarding with extensions and voicemail.
800.com has evolved into a full VoIP platform with desktop and mobile apps. You can make/receive calls directly in the app without forwarding. They still specialize in vanity toll-free numbers but now offer comprehensive phone features.
Pricing Structure
What you pay and what you get
Grasshopper's flat pricing ($14-55/mo annual) includes unlimited minutes. The True Solo plan is budget-friendly, but call recording and AI transcription require Solo Plus ($25/mo+).
800.com's Startup plan ($19/mo) only includes 1,000 minutes. For unlimited minutes you need Small Business at $49/mo. Call recording and full features are included on all plans.
Feature Comparison
What each actually does
Grasshopper now includes AI transcription (Fall 2025) on plans with call recording. But call recording itself requires Solo Plus ($25+). No fax, limited analytics, and still call-forwarding based.
800.com includes call recording, fax, call analytics, and API access on all plans. True VoIP with apps. But no AI transcription or call summaries.
Number Availability
Getting the number you want
Grasshopper offers local, toll-free, and vanity numbers. Selection is decent but not exceptional for premium vanity numbers.
800.com specializes in memorable toll-free numbers as a registered RespOrg. They have the largest inventory of premium vanity numbers like 1-800-LAWYERS.
Modern features with professional numbers
Phone2 combines professional toll-free numbers with modern team features neither of these offer.
- $15/month includes 4 users and toll-free number options
- Full-featured mobile app (unlike 800.com)
- Team collaboration with shared inbox (unlike either)
- AI transcription and modern interface
- Simple flat pricing with no per-minute surprises
The Bottom Line
Quick guidance on which option fits your needs
Choose Grasshopper if...
- You need a complete virtual phone system
- Auto-attendant and extensions are important
- You want predictable flat-rate pricing
Choose 800.com if...
- Getting a specific vanity 800 number is the priority
- You just need basic call forwarding to your cell
- You don't need apps, auto-attendant, or advanced features
Consider Phone2 if...
- You want modern features AND professional numbers
- Team collaboration is important to your business
- You want a phone system built for how business works today
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Grasshopper vs 800.com
800.com includes call recording on all plans. Grasshopper requires Solo Plus ($25/mo+) for call recording. If call recording is essential, 800.com has the edge.
Ready to switch from Grasshopper or 800.com?
Port your existing number to Phone2 for free. Keep your number, lose the limitations.