Updated on October 2, 2025 by John Clarke
Choosing the right business phone service can be challenging, especially with so many options promising the best features and support. Every business, big or small, needs a phone system that’s easy to use, affordable, and packed with features that help you stay connected. The rise of VoIP phone services has made it possible for even small companies to access tools that were once only available to large enterprises.
But with so many choices, how do you know which provider is right for you? In this article, we’ll compare Ohio.net and Grasshopper side-by-side, focusing on what matters most: features, reliability, support, and value.
Quick Overview: Ohio.net and Grasshopper
Before we dive into the details, let’s get to know our contenders.
Ohio.net is a full-service VoIP internet phone service provider based in Ohio, serving businesses of all sizes. With years of experience in the VoIP industry, they offer professional, fully hosted, and customizable systems designed to grow with your company. With a focus on reliability, security, and local support, Ohio.net is ideal for businesses that want more than just a basic phone line.
Grasshopper, on the other hand, is a virtual phone service built for very small businesses, solopreneurs, and startups. It’s known for its easy setup, affordable plans, and ability to help you separate business and personal calls using your existing devices. Grasshopper is all about simplicity and projecting a professional image without a lot of technical fuss.
How Do Ohio.net and Grasshopper Compare on Key VoIP Features?
Here’s a quick look at how Ohio.net and Grasshopper stack up on key features:
| Feature | Ohio.net | Grasshopper |
| Core Service | Hosted VoIP, Cloud PBX, SIP | Virtual phone system (VoIP) |
| Hardware Needed | None (fully hosted) | None (uses your devices) |
| Extensions | 4-digit, unlimited locations | 1, 3, or unlimited (plan) |
| Call Routing & IVR | Advanced, customizable | Basic auto-attendant |
| Voicemail-to-Email | Yes | Yes |
| Business Texting (SMS/MMS) | Inbound messaging, custom | Unlimited SMS, some MMS |
| Video Conferencing | Yes | No |
| Integrations | CRM, custom options | Limited, some via API |
| Support | Local, in-house, 24/7 | 24/7, but mixed reviews |
| Pricing | Custom quote, no contracts | $14–$55/mo, 7-day trial |
For a deeper dive into VoIP technology, check out VoIP internet phone service.
In-Depth Comparison
Core Services & Flexibility
Ohio.net delivers a wide range of services, including cloud PBX solutions, hosted VoIP, SIP trunking, and more. Their systems are designed for businesses with 2 to 200 users and can scale as your company grows. You get a professional phone system with advanced features without the hassle of managing hardware.
Grasshopper is best for very small businesses or solo entrepreneurs who want a simple, virtual phone system. It runs on your existing mobile or desktop devices, making setup quick and easy. However, it lacks some of the advanced features and flexibility that larger or growing businesses might need.
Call Management & Advanced Features
Ohio.net stands out with its customizable call routing, automated attendants, and interactive voice response (IVR) systems. You can set up complex call flows, direct calls based on business hours, and even create custom greetings for different departments.
Grasshopper offers basic call forwarding, call screening, and a simple auto-attendant. While it’s effective for handling calls professionally, it doesn’t offer the same level of customization or advanced call management as Ohio.net.
How Do Messaging, Voicemail, and Mobility Compare?
Both providers offer voicemail-to-email and mobile access, but there are some differences:
- Ohio.net: Inbound messaging can be customized by time of day, helping you offload common questions and reduce call volume. Voicemail is delivered as audio files to your email, allowing you to access messages within minutes and improving responsiveness wherever you are.
- Grasshopper: Includes unlimited business texting (SMS) on all plans, plus voicemail transcription that sends text versions of your messages to your email or app. It also offers instant response texts for missed calls, a handy feature for solo operators.
Reliability, Security, and Support
When it comes to reliability, both Ohio.net and Grasshopper promise high uptime. However, Ohio.net’s platform is built with redundancy and automatic disaster recovery, ensuring your business stays connected even during outages.
Security is a top priority for Ohio.net, with encryption and secure cloud storage, which is especially important for industries that handle sensitive information. Grasshopper uses standard encryption and third-party audits but lacks advanced security features like HIPAA compliance.
Support is another area where Ohio.net shines. With local, in-house staff and 24/7 support, you can count on help when you need it. Ohio.net demonstrates a strong commitment to ongoing customer satisfaction and reliable service. Grasshopper offers 24/7 support too, but user reviews mention mixed experiences, including slow responses and difficulty canceling services.
For more on industry standards, see the FCC’s compliance guides for small businesses.
What Integrations and Add-Ons Are Available?
Ohio.net integrates with CRM systems and offers custom development options, making it easy to connect your phone system with other business tools. They also provide add-on services like call recording, call queuing, and video conferencing.
Grasshopper’s integrations are limited, mostly relying on APIs or third-party tools like Zapier. If you need deep integration with your business software, Ohio.net is the better choice.
How Do Pricing and Contracts Compare?
Ohio.net offers custom quotes based on your business needs, with no term contracts or equipment service contracts. This means you only pay for what you need, and you’re not locked into a long-term agreement. For more details, check out their business phone service pricing.
Grasshopper is known for its flat monthly rates ($14–$55/month) and a 7-day free trial. It’s a budget-friendly option for startups and very small businesses, but some users have reported issues with overcharging and cancellation.
Who Should Choose Ohio.net? Who Should Choose Grasshopper?
- Choose Ohio.net if:
- You have a growing business with 5+ users.
- You need advanced features like call routing, video conferencing, or CRM integration.
- Local, reliable support is important to you.
- You want a system that can scale and adapt as your business changes.
- Choose Grasshopper if:
- You’re a solo entrepreneur, freelancer, or very small business.
- You want a simple, affordable way to separate business and personal calls.
- You don’t need advanced features or integrations.
Take time to learn more about each provider’s offerings to ensure you make the best choice for your needs.
Why Ohio.net Is the Best Choice for Growing Businesses
While both Ohio.net and Grasshopper offer solid VoIP phone services, Ohio.net stands out for businesses that need more than just the basics. With a full suite of features, local support, and the ability to customize your system, Ohio.net is built to help your business grow and thrive.
Ohio.net has helped thousands of businesses improve their communications. Over the years, they have adapted their services to meet the changing needs of businesses in different times.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Choosing the right business phone service is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be a stressful one. If you want a reliable, scalable, and fully supported VoIP phone system that grows with your business, Ohio.net is the clear winner for most companies.
Ready to take the next step? Contact Ohio.net and find out which VoIP system is right for your situation. Your business deserves a phone service that works as hard as you do!
