Packet8

Solid call quality, even during file transfers. Dirt-cheap if you prepay annually. Free calling to eight countries; low rates to others. Supports seven-digit dialing

Sign-up process can be confusing. Faxing didn't work. Limited choice of phone numbers. E911 service costs extra. No Web access to voice mail. Phone adapter has only one line jack

Excellent value combining voice and video at one of the lowest rates on the market. The initial cost of the videophone makes it very affordable. Simple to set up

Requires a two-year commitment and carries a hefty cancellation fee. Lack of an analog jack means that all calls must be made from the videophone, and you can't distribute your VoIP service to other locations in your home