Magic Jack
Post Fiend
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 6,473
Likes: 4
From: Lafayette, IN
I have one in lieu of a landline, but I don't use it much. The downside is that I have the older model that has to be plugged into a USB port on a computer that is up and running. There is a newer model that does not need a computer--only a broadband connection and a power source.
One reason I don't use mine much is that there is not a local exchange available the last I looked. I have a number that is in the same area code, but if someone down the road were to call me from a landline, they would have to call long distance. However, the converse is not long distance--you can dial any number in the contiguous U.S. for free (other than the ~$20/year).
There have been numerous firmware updates in the several years that I've had mine (all automatic), and the call quality and reliability have gone way up, I'd say on par with cell service, maybe even a bit better.
Jason
One reason I don't use mine much is that there is not a local exchange available the last I looked. I have a number that is in the same area code, but if someone down the road were to call me from a landline, they would have to call long distance. However, the converse is not long distance--you can dial any number in the contiguous U.S. for free (other than the ~$20/year).
There have been numerous firmware updates in the several years that I've had mine (all automatic), and the call quality and reliability have gone way up, I'd say on par with cell service, maybe even a bit better.
Jason
Postmaster
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 3,940
Likes: 8
From: Southern Oregon Coast
I've also been looking into getting one of the new version units but my only concern is whether or not I can port my existing landline # over - the website says they can but they don't give any specifics...
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Logistics Pro
Joined: Apr 2004
Posts: 4,292
Likes: 5
From: NJ where fun comes to die
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Hotshot
Joined: May 2004
Posts: 12,170
Likes: 5
From: The hills of No. Calif.
I have it and like it, most of the time. Had the old unit that had to be plugged into the USB port of a computer and of course that meant the computer had to be on for it to work...that unit sucked and we just stopped using it. Got the new style a few months ago, had our number ported over (so yes, you can) and dumped AT&T for good. There are a few glitches, it occasionally drops calls but for the most part it works well and I have no regrets.
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