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When looking for a business phone system, you want to be sure that you’re picking one that offers the best value for your money.
And, if you’re comparing Google Voice vs Sideline, chances are, you’re in for an affordable yet capable phone system.
But before you pick either, there’s a third option. That option is iPlum, a feature-rich, HIPAA-compliant phone service with better technology.
In this guide, we’ll take you through:
- How Google Voice, Sideline, and iPlum compare in various areas
- Which service offers better value for business communication
- Why iPlum may be the best alternative to Google Voice and Sideline
Let’s jump in.
Table of Contents
1. Google Voice vs Sideline vs iPlum—A Side-by-side Feature Comparison
2. Google Voice vs Sideline vs iPlum—User Reviews
3. Google Voice vs Sideline vs iPlum—Pricing
4. How to Port Your Number to iPlum
5. Google Voice vs Sideline vs iPlum—Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
6. Why Choose iPlum Over Google Voice and Sideline?
We will do a Google Voice vs Sideline vs iPlum comparison based on features like calling reliability, compliance standards, number flexibility, automation, and integrations.
Let’s start with a quick comparison table.
1. Calling Capabilities
Your business phone system should be reliable and dependable. Let’s see how Google Voice, Sideline, and iPlum compare when it comes to call quality, reliability, and advanced calling features.
Google Voice
Google Voice offers a convenient way to make and receive calls from your computer or smartphone. It supports calls over Wi-Fi and mobile data, with call forwarding to linked numbers.
While Google Voice is easy to use and integrates with other Google services (like Gmail and Calendar), many users report call drops, delays, or degraded audio quality, especially on weak Wi-Fi connections.
Sideline
Sideline works more like a traditional second line rather than a VoIP system.
It routes calls over your existing cellular network, giving it an edge in audio clarity and fewer dropped calls compared to Google Voice.
While Sideline delivers excellent reliability and clarity, it lacks advanced business features such as call transfer, auto-attendant routing, and multi-line management. It’s best suited for users who want a second line on their existing device,
iPlum
iPlum offers one of the most versatile and reliable calling experiences among modern business phone apps.
Its dual-mode calling allows you to make calls through either Wi-Fi/data or your mobile carrier. You can switch between the two modes depending on the best available network for clear audio.
IPlum’s hybrid system minimizes dropped calls and ensures uninterrupted communication even in low-signal areas, a significant advantage for remote workers or mobile professionals.
Beyond reliability, iPlum includes HD-quality voice, international calling, call transfer, call forwarding, and voicemail transcription across all plans.
Plus, you can assign dedicated extensions to team members, route calls through an auto-attendant, and record calls with consent prompts for compliance.
2. HIPAA Compliance
HIPAA compliance is a legal requirement for businesses in healthcare, insurance, or any field handling personal data.
Let’s see how Google Voice, Sideline, and iPlum handle HIPAA compliance.
Google Voice
Google Voice is not HIPAA-compliant by default.
While Google Workspace users can request a Business Associate Agreement for compliance, it applies only to the paid Workspace plans, not the free version of Google Voice.
And, even then, HIPAA compliance is limited to the Workspace ecosystem and doesn’t extend to all communication functions within Voice. Moreover, you must manually configure settings to prevent unauthorized access.
Furthermore, encryption for calls and messages isn’t guaranteed at the level required for medical or legal data.
Sideline
Sideline offers no HIPAA compliance capabilities whatsoever. The platform doesn’t encrypt text messages or calls end-to-end.
It doesn’t provide the administrative safeguards required for regulated industries. Plus, you can’t request a BAA. Thus, any use of Sideline for transmitting or storing patient or client health data would violate HIPAA regulations.
iPlum
iPlum is a HIPAA-compliant communication platform. Your iPlum account includes end-to-end encryption for calls, texts, and voicemails.
It also provides a signed BAA at no additional cost. Furthermore, iPlum includes data archiving, secure message delivery, and admin controls for managing multiple users within healthcare or legal teams.
These safeguards ensure all communication meets or exceeds HIPAA and industry-level security requirements.
What’s more, iPlum offers a free iPlum account to your clients or patients, allowing them to engage in secure, bidirectional messaging with you.
And, unlike standard SMS or MMS, these messages are encrypted and fully compliant, enabling healthcare providers and patients to communicate safely without exposing personal data.
3. Number Options
Number flexibility is important when setting up a business phone system.
It could be that you need a local number to connect with nearby clients or a toll-free line for nationwide accessibility.
Here’s how Google Voice, Sideline, and iPlum compare.
Google Voice
With Google Voice, you can select a local US number based on your area code.
The setup process is straightforward, and if you already use Google Workspace, it integrates seamlessly into your account. However, the service is limited to the United States. You can’t get Canadian or international numbers, nor can you choose a toll-free line.
Sideline
Sideline gives you a second US phone number for your existing mobile device. You can choose your area code and port your number in or out.
However, Sideline does not offer toll-free, vanity, or international numbers, and inactive accounts may lose their numbers due to expiration policies.
iPlum
iPlum pushes the envelope here, giving you access to local, toll-free, and international numbers in over 200 countries, including the US and Canada.
In addition, you can port your existing number or purchase multiple lines for your team under one admin dashboard.
Moreover, each number can have its own voicemail, business hours, and auto-attendant extension. And, if you run an international team or serve global clients, you can assign local country numbers so clients can reach you without paying long-distance fees.
iPlum also supports toll-free numbers, which come in handy if you want to appear more established or customer-centric. To top it all off, iPlum supports 800 toll-free vanity numbers for US and Canadian users.
4. Multi-level Auto Attendant
If you manage incoming calls from clients or patients, having an auto attendant can completely transform how your business handles communication.
Instead of manually transferring calls or missing them entirely, an automated system routes callers to the right department, person, or voicemail based on their selection.
Here’s how Google Voice, Sideline, and iPlum compare when it comes to automated call management.
Google Voice
Google Voice offers a basic auto attendant feature.
However, this feature is only available on the paid business plans, starting with the Starter tier. Advanced capabilities are only available in higher tiers.
You can create a simple menu that routes calls to specific team members or departments, record a greeting, and set up basic call forwarding rules. However, customization is limited compared to Google Voice alternatives like iPlum.
Sideline
Sideline doesn’t offer an auto attendant or IVR system. When someone calls your Sideline number, it rings directly on your mobile device. If you miss the call, the caller is sent to voicemail.
You can set custom voicemail greetings and business hours to appear professional, but you can’t automatically route calls to different departments or staff members.
iPlum
iPlum comes with a multi-level auto attendant, a feature usually reserved for enterprise-grade phone systems.
You can set up a professional phone tree that routes callers through multiple layers based on their needs, such as “Press 1 for Billing, 2 for Support, or 3 for Scheduling.”
And because each option leads to another sub-menu or direct line, you can build a customized, intelligent routing experience.
You can also define business hours, holiday schedules, and voicemail options for each department or individual.
Furthermore, the admin dashboard lets you manage all call flows visually, making it easy to adjust as your team grows.
5. Call Recording
Call recording is an essential tool for maintaining accuracy, improving customer service, and ensuring compliance, especially in healthcare, finance, and legal industries.
Let’s see how Google Voice, Sideline, and iPlum compare in this area.
Google Voice
Google Voice provides a limited call recording feature, but it’s available only on the highest-tier “Premier” plan, which costs $30 per user per month.
Even then, you must start recordings manually during live calls by pressing a specific key.
What’s more, the platform saves your recordings within your Google account. While you can access the recordings later, Google Voice doesn’t provide long-term archiving or compliance features.
Sideline
Sideline does not support call recording. There’s no native option to record or save calls within the app.
Plus, you cannot easily integrate third-party recording solutions with Sideline’s infrastructure due to privacy and carrier restrictions.
This lack of functionality limits your ability to monitor client interactions, review important discussions, or maintain compliance records.
iPlum
iPlum gives you full-featured call recording that’s secure, compliant, and easy to manage.
Available in the Enterprise plan, the feature supports both manual and automatic recording, along with verbal consent prompts to ensure legal compliance in all states and countries.
Recordings are encrypted end-to-end and stored securely in your iPlum account, where you can manage, download, or share them directly from your admin dashboard.
More importantly, you also get 10-year data retention for all recorded calls and messages — ideal for regulated industries that must maintain auditable communication histories.
And, with iPlum, you can customize your recording preferences per line, choose whether to include voicemail, and integrate recordings with your compliance systems.
6. Business Texting
Texting has become the preferred communication channel for many customers.
From confirming appointments, sending reminders, or providing quick updates, having a reliable and professional business texting solution keeps you connected and efficient.
Here’s how Google Voice, Sideline, and iPlum compare when it comes to business texting.
Google Voice
Google Voice allows you to send and receive SMS and MMS messages from your desktop or mobile device.
You can text clients from your Google Voice number, which helps keep your personal number private. However, texting through Google Voice is limited to domestic (U.S.) numbers only, and messages aren’t encrypted.
There’s also no support for bulk texting, scheduled messages, or automated responses, all of which are vital if you manage multiple clients or appointments.
Sideline
Sideline’s texting capabilities are slightly more advanced than Google Voice’s in terms of flexibility, but still limited in automation.
While you can send SMS and MMS, Sideline doesn’t support encryption. Therefore, your messages aren’t secure for sensitive communication.
It also lacks smart automation such as scheduled texts, broadcast messaging, and workflow integration with CRMs or scheduling tools.
iPlum
With iPlum, you get a complete, secure, and automated communication system for business texting.
You can send and receive encrypted SMS and MMS messages, ensuring every message meets HIPAA standards.
In addition, iPlum includes advanced texting features such as scheduled messages, bulk texting, auto-replies, and voicemail-to-text transcription.
You can set up custom text responses outside business hours or integrate your texting workflow with other tools using iPlum’s API and web portal.
For healthcare professionals, this means you can text patients securely about appointments or prescriptions.
And for small businesses, it allows you to manage multiple client conversations simultaneously without compromising privacy.
Plus, with 10-year data retention, you’ll always have a complete record of your communications if you ever need to reference past messages.
7. Integrations
Integrations determine how well your phone system fits into your broader workflow.
A truly effective business phone app should connect effortlessly with the tools you already use.
Let’s see how Google Voice, Sideline, and iPlum compare in this area.
Google Voice
Google Voice integrates deeply within the Google Workspace ecosystem. It is an excellent choice if you already rely on tools like Gmail, Google Meet, and Google Calendar.
In addition, you can initiate calls from Gmail, schedule meetings in Calendar, and use Google Meet for video calls.
However, that’s where the integration essentially stops. Voice doesn’t natively connect with popular CRMs like Salesforce or HubSpot. Plus, there are no direct integrations with project management tools like Trello or Asana.
Sideline
Sideline operates as a standalone mobile application.
While it’s straightforward to use, it offers almost no integrations. Sure, you can sync contacts from your phone. However, there’s no native connection to CRMs, email platforms, or productivity apps.
This isolation means that if you want to track client communication history or link messages to your customer database, you’ll have to do it manually.
iPlum
iPlum is built for robust flexibility and connectivity.
You can integrate your iPlum number with EHR systems, CRMs, and workflow platforms through its open API and web-based dashboard.
The integration allows you to sync call logs, text history, and voicemail data with other business tools, creating a seamless communication ecosystem.
For healthcare providers, iPlum’s integrations enable secure message archiving and compliance tracking directly within patient management systems.
On top of that, iPlum’s web portal enables you to manage calls, texts, and reports from any device, which keeps your entire team in sync without being tied to a single platform.
Google Voice vs Sideline vs iPlum—User Reviews
Did you know that 90% of customers read reviews before making a purchasing decision? So should you when buying a business phone system.
The point is, you’re more likely to spend your money on a good phone service if you know what others say about it.
Below is a rundown of Google Voice, Sideline, and iPlum reviews across the web.
Google Voice reviews
Most Google Voice users appreciate its ease of use and minimalist interface. However, some mention serious limits and reliability problems as a business tool.
❌ Dropped or poor calls
“Sometimes when making and receiving calls on my phone (not on a strong wifi connection), audio quality is bad on the receiving end.” — Matthew C., G2
❌ Missed notifications
“I cannot get the notifications to work on my PC … still miss a call.” — Jazz A., G2
❌ Limited business features
“Wasn’t able to do many ‘enhanced’ things like … having auto-responses set up.” — Lizzy O., G2
✔ Simple interface
“Simple, easy to use, convenient to have an online phone number.” — Ryan T., Capterra
Sideline reviews
Most Sideline reviews point to a serviceable but flawed phone system. A section of customers complains about the platform’s reliability, support, and feature gaps.
❌ Contact's name glitch
“The app does not always keep contacts saved names … I receive calls but only see the number.” — Arin W., Capterra
❌ Message fails silently
“Sometimes, text messages do not go through, but I do not receive an error message.” — Arin W., Capterra
❌ App transfer failure on new device
“I bought a new phone … unable to sign in, had multiple errors … lost hours of work …” — Diane E., Capterra
✔ Works across devices
“It works with iPhone and Android. I only have to have ONE phone.” — Michelle L., Capterra
iPlum reviews
Most users describe iPlum as dependable, secure, and well-suited for professional communication.
Reviewers frequently mention responsive support, HIPAA-compliant texting, and affordable pricing.
✔ Excellent customer service
“The email help desk has been super responsive and helpful.” — Michelle Ernst, Trustpilot
✔ Great for small businesses
“As a small business owner managing a remote team, I needed a reliable phone system. Setup was easy, the admin panel works well, and call quality is excellent.” — Vidur Gupta, Trustpilot
✔ Affordable professional line
“It’s easy to use and fairly priced. I really needed a second line for work, and iPlum delivered exactly that.” — Arash Eskandari, Trustpilot
❌ No video conferencing
iPlum doesn’t offer video conferencing at the moment. The feature development, however, is underway.
Google Voice vs Sideline vs iPlum—Pricing
When comparing Google Voice, Sideline, and iPlum pricing, you want to determine which one offers the best value for your money.
Below is a breakdown of the costs and the features included in each tier.
How much does Google Voice cost?
Google Voice offers three plans ranging from $10 to $30 per user per month, each tailored for different business needs.
Starter — $10 per user per month
The Starter plan provides calling and texting within the U.S., voicemail transcription, integration with Google Meet, call forwarding, and access to an auto-attendant with multiple levels.
Standard — $20 per user per month
The Standard tier adds support for unlimited users, ring groups, desk phones, and detailed analytics. However, it’s limited to domestic calling within the U.S.
Premier — $30 per user per month
The Premier plan expands functionality with international calling, automatic call recording, and enhanced reporting tools, in addition to all features available in the Standard plan.
How much does Sideline cost?
Sideline offers monthly, bi-monthly, or annual subscriptions as follows:
- Monthly — $14.49
- Half year — $69.99
- Annually — $129.99
Some of the features of a paid subscription include an ad-free experience, VoIP calling, web messaging, and no number expiration.
How much does iPlum cost?
iPlum offers three subscription options ranging from $8.99 to $25.99 per user per month as follows:
Standard — $8.99 per user per month
The Standard plan includes unlimited calling and texting in the U.S. and Canada, voicemail, custom business hours, automatic text replies, and a phone tree with multiple extensions.
Professional — $14.99 per user per month
The Professional tier extends the Standard plan with web-based calling and texting, message encryption, voicemail transcription, scheduled, as well as bulk messaging.
You also get one-year data archiving, HIPAA compliance, and a signed Business Associate Agreement (BAA).
Enterprise — $25.99 per user per month
The Enterprise plan offers advanced compliance and management features.
It includes call recording, consent prompts, and ten-year data retention for calls and messages, making it ideal for finance, insurance, and legal sectors. You also get email and live Zoom support.
Google Voice vs Sideline vs iPlum—Which Offers More Value?
When comparing prices, iPlum delivers more for less.
Its plans start at $8.99 per user per month, making it about 10% cheaper than Sideline and nearly 55% cheaper than Google Voice’s top plan.
Despite the lower price, iPlum includes HIPAA compliance, call recording, and ten-year archiving, features missing from both competitors.
Moreover, Google Voice charges up to $30 per user yet limits international options on lower tiers, while Sideline costs $14.49 monthly with fewer business tools.
Simply put, iPlum is the more cost-effective pick. It’s more affordable, feature-rich, and designed for professional communication.
How to Port Your Number to iPlum
You can transfer your current Google Voice or Sideline number to iPlum in a few steps, as explained in the video below.
Google Voice vs Sideline vs iPlum—Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What app is better than Google Voice?
iPlum is better than Google Voice. It offers encrypted texting, dual-mode calling, HIPAA compliance, and ten-year data archiving, all at up to 70% cheaper pricing for professional users.
Is Sideline a good app?
Sideline works well for casual business use but lacks features such as compliance, call recording, and long-term archiving. In comparison, iPlum offers broader features and better reliability at approximately 40% lower pricing.
What are the benefits of iPlum?
iPlum offers HIPAA-compliant texting, secure calling, voicemail transcription, auto-replies, call recording, and ten-year data storage. Pricing starts at $8.99 per user, making it a comprehensive and cost-effective communication platform.
Why Choose iPlum Over Google Voice and Sideline?
Google Voice and Sideline are solid phone systems.
However, neither is HIPAA compliant. And while Google Voice can be HIPAA-compliant, you must get a Workspace subscription. Moreover, you both are expensive compared to iPlum for similar features.
So, why choose iPlum over Google Voice and Sideline?
First, iPlum is HIPAA compliant out of the box, with encrypted texting, secure voicemail, and a signed Business Associate Agreement included.
On top of that, iPlum offers dual-mode calling, allowing you to make calls using either Wi-Fi or your carrier network for maximum reliability.
Furthermore, its plans start at only $8.99 per user per month—up to 70% cheaper than Google Voice’s top tier and 40% cheaper than Sideline.
And to top it all off, iPlum provides 10-year archiving, call recording, and dedicated support, making it the best long-term choice for healthcare, legal, and financial professionals.
Click the link below to get an iPlum number.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general informational purposes and may not reflect the most current features or capabilities of the products or companies mentioned. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please refer to the official sources of each company.
