In today’s digital world, not only is it easier than ever to make a phone call, but it is more versatile than ever. In addition to traditional phone lines and smartphones, you can also use your computer to make a phone call to other phones or computers. Whether for personal needs or business matters, knowing how to make a phone call from a computer allows you to stay connected with your loved ones or colleagues from anywhere in the world.
Various technologies such as Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and communication platforms let you call a phone from a computer without anything but the Internet. These technologies and platforms transmit voice signals using the internet to place the call. This makes it easy, convenient, and cost-effective to place calls from anywhere.
In addition to the above, making a phone call from a computer comes with other benefits such as call recording, voicemail, and seamless integration with video conferencing tools. Here’s everything you need to know about making a phone call from a computer.
How Does Making A Phone Call From A Computer Work?
Making a phone call from a computer is possible through VoIP which is Voice Over Internet Protocol. This technology utilizes the internet to convert your voice into digital data packets and then transmits them to the recipient devices in no time. So, all you need to make a phone call online is a computer and a stable internet connection.
Understanding the technology behind online calls
Most of the calling platforms such as Google Voice, Skype, and Zoom utilize VoIP technology to make calling from a computer possible. When you place a call from a computer, your voice signals are transmitted over the internet in the form of data packets which are converted to voice signals again when they reach the recipient device.
This technology allows you to make phone calls from a PC free or at lower costs than traditional methods of calling. Additionally, VoIP calls are not subject to geographical restrictions which means that you can call anyone from anywhere as long as you have a stable internet connection and online calling platform.
What you need to make calls from your computer?
Following are the few basic things that you need to make phone calls from a computer from anywhere.
A stable internet connection- a fast and stable internet connection is the first thing you need to make a call from a computer. A high-speed internet connection ensures high-quality calls without interruptions or delays.
Online communication platform- VoIP software such as Google Voice, Zoom, Dialpad, Skype and others are also important when it comes to making calls using your computer.
Microphones and speakers- computers come with built-in microphones and speakers but to ensure high-quality calls without dropouts or lags, you will have to use high-quality calling setups such as Nuroum business headsets. These professional headsets and microphones improve audio clarity making calls easy and fun.
A VoIP account- some online calling platforms may also require you to have an account with a VoIP provider and if that’s the case with you, create your account first before trying to make a phone call from a computer.
Top 5 Ways To Make Phone Calls From Your Computer
With the advancement of technology comes the versatility to make phone calls from your computer. Whether you need it for personal use or professional needs, there are many ways and platforms to make phone calls from your computer, all without needing a landline connection or chips.
Here are the top 5 ways to make phone calls from your computer.
Using VoIP services
Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services are the most popular way to make phone calls from your computer. Unlike traditional calling services that need proper phone lines to place the phone calls, VoIP services only use the internet to convert and transmit voice signals to the recipient devices. Google Voice and Skype are most commonly used to make VoIP calls from your computer.
Google Voice- this VoIP service allows you to place calls on computer. This platform is free to use in the U.S. and offers affordable calling plans where it is not. In addition to free calls on computer, this platform also offers voicemail transcription and call forwarding.
Skype- this service is also widely used for both personal and business purposes and offers free or affordable calling rates to users. The platform also features video calling and conference calls.
Calling via online communication platforms
Online communication platforms such as Zoom and Microsoft Teams are also great for making calls on computer. If you are already using these platforms, you may be aware that these platforms let you call other users for free. For calling mobile and landline numbers, you will have to use their paid plans.
Zoom- using Zoom Phone, you can make direct phone calls from your computer. You can also integrate with business phone networks. Zoom also allows you to route calls professionally.
Microsoft Teams- in addition to call features, voicemail, and other collaborative tools, Microsoft Teams also integrates with other Microsoft apps which makes it a great choice for businesses and teams that work through collaboration and communication.
Using a USB phone or headset with your computer
You can also make calls from your computer using a USB phone or a headset that connects to your computer. A USB phone is a phone that connects to your computer like any other traditional phone. Connecting a phone or headset to your computer brings the following benefits to the table:
A USB phone can be connected to your computer to make calling easier and more professional.
High-quality headsets such as Nuroum business headsets ensure high-quality professional calling by enhancing audio clarity.
With professional headsets, you also get excellent noise cancellation and a hands-free experience.
So, using a USB phone or high-end business headsets makes calls more fun and fruitful as they improve call clarity and reduce background noise.
Using desktop apps for phone calling
Other examples of Desktop apps that can be used to make phone calls from computer include but are not limited to Dialpad and RingCentral. These computer applications are powered by VoIP technology. These apps make calling easy as they transform your computer into a functioning system that can be used to call anyone anywhere.
Dialpad is a cloud-based calling platform that features call forwarding, transcription, and other business features such as CRM integration.
RingCentral powered by VoIP also offers advanced call management protocols making it a suitable choice for businesses and organizations.
Making calls via your web browser or chat apps
Some services even allow you to make phone calls from your computer without needing a VoIP provider or a physical phone attached to your computer. These services include WhatsApp Web, Facebook Messenger, and Google Meet. All you need to do to make phone calls from PC free is to enter the URL to open a web application such as WhatsApp Web, log in to your WhatsApp account and call people. In addition to voice calls and chats, these apps also let you make high-quality video calls anywhere in the world.
Benefits Of Making Phone Calls From Your Computer
Making phone calls from your computer comes with a lot of benefits, here are some of them.
Convenience when working on a computer
If you are someone who works on their computer, reaching for your phone every time you need to make or receive a call can be distracting. On the other hand, using your computer to make phone calls streamlines the flow of work and enables you to multitask. You can also set and use keyboard shortcuts to call your contacts easily.
Cost-effectiveness of online calls
Traditional phone lines and mobile providers often have expensive call plans which makes calling from your computer more cost-effective as some of the VoIP providers and most of the web-based calling platforms let you call anyone for free, even if they are abroad.
Access to additional features like call transcription and recording
Making phone calls from your computer also has other advantages such as call transcription, call recording, and voicemail to email. These features allow you to convert speech into text and record calls on the go.
Seamless integration with other communication tools
If you are managing other tasks or projects on your computer, most VoIP service providers make it easy for you to make a phone call online by seamlessly integrating with task management tools. So making calls from your computer not only improves efficiency, it also allows you to save money.
How To Choose The Right Platform For Making Phone Calls From Your Computer?
With so many options available, it’s essential to find a platform or service that offers the features that you need to call a phone from computer. Here’s what you should consider while selecting a platform to make phone call from computer.
Ease of use: How intuitive is the platform?
A good calling platform should be user-friendly. It should allow you to dial numbers, access contacts, and change your preferences easily and without any confusion. So, choose a platform that makes calling easy.
Communication options: Can you use other channels like messaging or video calls?
In addition to free phone calling from computer, a good communication platform also allows you to make video and conference calls. It should also allow you to use other channels such as messaging and file sharing.
Cost considerations: free vs paid platforms
Cost is another factor that plays a key role in selecting a platform to call phone calls. If you want to make phone calls from PC free, you should go for Web Applications such as WhatsApp Web or Google Voice. For business and professional needs, you may need to consider paid VoIP platforms.
How To Make A Phone Call Using Dialpad (Or Similar Tools)
Here’s a step-by-step process to make a phone call using Dialpad or other similar tools.
Step 1. Dial a number from the desktop app or web browser
First of all, open the Dialpad or other tools similar to it, log into your account, dial a number, and press the call button. Make sure you have a stable internet connection for a smooth calling experience.
Step 2. Search for contacts and call directly
Most calling platforms also let you save contacts and then call them whenever you want. All you need to do to make a phone call from computer is to type the name of the contact and call them instantly.
Step 3. Initiate calls from chat conversations
Most of the VoIP service providers and other platforms such as WhatsApp Web and Facebook Messenger let you call anyone directly from the chat conversations in one click. So, if you are messaging someone, look for a call button on the screen and click on it to place a phone call from your computer.
Step 4. Adjust settings and preferences for better call quality
If you want to ensure high-quality calls without any interruptions, make sure you are using a fast and stable internet connection. To enhance audio quality and reduce background noise, use professional headsets such as Nuroum business headsets.
Frequently Asked Questions (Faqs) About Making Phone Calls From A Computer
Here are the most frequently asked questions about making phone calls from a computer.
Can I make international calls from my computer?
Yes! Many VoIP service providers and communication platforms such as WhatsApp Web and Facebook Messenger allow you to make international calls from your computer, that too for free.
What are the best apps for calling from my computer?
Google Voice, WhatsApp Web, Skype, and Microsoft Teams are examples of apps that make it easy for you to make calls from your computer. These apps offer different features, so choose the right application based on your needs.
How do I ensure call quality when using my computer for calls?
A stable internet connection is the key when it comes to making high-quality calls from your computer. You can also use professional headsets and other tools and equipment to improve call clarity and reduce noise.
