Google Fi vs. Google Voice: What's the Difference?
Edited by Harlon Moss || By Janet White || Published on February 7, 2024
Google Fi is a phone plan service providing calling, texting, and data, whereas Google Voice is an online telephony service offering voicemail, text, and voice services.
Key Differences
Google Fi, formerly known as Project Fi, is a telecommunication service by Google that offers cellular phone service including voice calls, text messaging, and mobile data. Google Voice, on the other hand, is a voice over internet protocol (VoIP) service that provides a phone number for calling, text messaging, and voicemail, primarily over the internet.
Google Fi provides international data and texting in over 200 countries, with the same data rate as in the US, making it beneficial for travelers. Google Voice is mainly used for managing calls and messages across multiple devices and does not offer a separate data plan.
Google Fi operates on a pay-as-you-go model where users pay for the exact data they use, and it automatically connects to Wi-Fi hotspots with VPN for data saving. Google Voice allows users to make free calls and texts within the US and Canada and offers low-cost international calls.
Google Fi requires a specific SIM card and is compatible with selected phones for full service functionality, while Google Voice can be used on any device with an internet connection, including smartphones, tablets, and computers.
Google Fi offers additional features like network switching between carriers for better coverage and bill protection to cap charges for high data usage. Google Voice features like voicemail transcription and call forwarding are more focused on business and personal communication management.
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Comparison Chart
Service Type
Cellular service (calls, texts, data)
VoIP service (calls, texts, voicemail)
Usage
Domestic and international with data plans
Mainly online, with free domestic calls/texts
Payment Model
Pay-as-you-go for data
Free domestic services, pay for international calls
Device Compatibility
Requires specific SIM and compatible phones
Works on any internet-enabled device
Additional Features
Network switching, data saving
Voicemail transcription, call forwarding
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Google Fi and Google Voice Definitions
Google Fi
Operates on a pay-as-you-go data model.
I only pay for the data I use with Google Fi.
Google Voice
A VoIP service providing a phone number for calls, texts, and voicemail.
I use Google Voice to manage my business calls.
Google Fi
Offers network switching for better coverage.
Google Fi ensures I always have the best network available.
Google Voice
Allows free calls and texts within the US and Canada.
With Google Voice, I can text my friends in the US for free.
Google Fi
A cellular service offering voice, text, and data.
I use Google Fi for its flexible data plan when traveling.
Google Voice
Features voicemail transcription and call forwarding.
Google Voice transcribes my voicemails, making it easier to manage missed calls.
Google Fi
Automatically connects to Wi-Fi hotspots.
My phone on Google Fi seamlessly switches to Wi-Fi in cafes.
Google Voice
Can be used on any device with an internet connection.
I access my Google Voice account on both my laptop and smartphone.
Google Fi
Includes international texting and data.
Google Fi's international coverage saved me a lot on roaming charges.
Google Voice
Offers low-cost international calling options.
I make international calls using Google Voice at a reduced rate.
FAQs
What is Google Voice?
Google Voice is an online telephony service for managing calls, texts, and voicemails.
Is Google Voice free?
Google Voice offers free calls and texts within the US and Canada, with low-cost international calling.
Can Google Fi be used internationally?
Yes, Google Fi offers international data and texting in over 200 countries.
What is Google Fi?
Google Fi is a phone plan service providing cellular data, voice calls, and texting.
How does billing work for Google Fi?
Google Fi uses a pay-as-you-go model for data, charging only for the data you use.
How do I access Google Voice?
Google Voice can be accessed on any internet-enabled device, including smartphones, tablets, and computers.
Does Google Fi require a special SIM card?
Yes, Google Fi requires a specific SIM card and is compatible with selected phones.
Does Google Fi offer unlimited data?
Google Fi offers a bill protection feature that caps charges for high data usage.
Does Google Fi work with all carriers?
Google Fi switches between partnering carriers for the best network.
Can I use my existing phone number with Google Voice?
Yes, you can port your existing number to Google Voice.
Can I send text messages with Google Voice?
Yes, Google Voice allows you to send text messages.
Is Google Fi suitable for frequent travelers?
Yes, its international coverage makes it beneficial for travelers.
Does Google Voice offer voicemail transcription?
Yes, Google Voice provides voicemail transcription services.
Does Google Fi have good network coverage?
Google Fi switches between multiple networks for optimal coverage.
Is Google Voice a good option for business use?
Yes, its features like call forwarding and voicemail transcription are useful for business.
Can I use Google Voice on a landline?
Google Voice works over the internet, so it's not directly usable on a traditional landline.
What devices can Google Fi be used on?
Google Fi works on selected smartphones that support its network-switching technology.
Can I make international calls with Google Voice?
Yes, Google Voice offers low-cost international calling options.
Can I use Google Fi for just data?
Yes, Google Fi offers flexible plans including data-only options.
How reliable is Google Voice?
Google Voice is generally reliable, especially in areas with stable internet connectivity.
About Author
Written by
Janet WhiteJanet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Harlon MossHarlon is a seasoned quality moderator and accomplished content writer for Difference Wiki. An alumnus of the prestigious University of California, he earned his degree in Computer Science. Leveraging his academic background, Harlon brings a meticulous and informed perspective to his work, ensuring content accuracy and excellence.
