How to Make Calls from a PC: 11 Best Calling Apps for Computer

You’re here because you want to start making professional calls directly from your PC in just minutes. But do you know where to start?

You already noticed that companies using effective PC calling solutions are outperforming competitors. So now you want to make professional calls, integrate with your CRM, and stop wasting time juggling multiple devices.

But how do you find the right solution? How do you actually set up PC calling that boosts productivity instead of creating more problems?

Don’t worry. We’re sharing the exact 4-step process to set up calling software for PC.

Plus, we’ll show you the best 11 calling apps for computers ranked by features, pricing, and real-world performance.

Follow this guide to find out.

Key Takeaways:

• PC calling software boosts productivity and cuts communication costs by up to 50%, giving businesses a competitive edge
• The right calling app for desktop can transform your computer into a comprehensive call center with advanced features
• Companies with effective communication practices are 3.5 times more likely to outperform competitors
• Modern apps to call on a computer offer seamless CRM integration, advanced analytics, and scalability
• Setting up internet phone calls from a PC takes just minutes with the right platform

How to Make a Call from a PC

Making internet phone calls from a PC is simpler than you might think. Computer calls use Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) technology, which converts your voice into digital signals, transmits them over the internet, and reconverts them into voice at the receiving end. Think of it like sending an email, but with your voice instead of text.

Here’s your complete 4-step guide to start making calls from your computer right away:

Step 1: Choose the Right Calling Software for PC

The foundation of successful PC calling is selecting the right platform. Your choice will determine everything from call quality to integration capabilities. Look for these essential features:

• CRM Integration: Seamless connection with your customer management tools (Salesforce, Hubspot, etc.)
• Call Analytics: Detailed reporting and performance insights
• International Support: Access to global phone numbers and calling
• Scalability: Ability to grow with your business needs
• Reliability: Guaranteed uptime and call quality

For business calling, CloudTalk’s pc calling app stands out with its comprehensive feature set and user-friendly interface. Our platform offers everything from basic calling functionality to advanced features like IVR, power dialers, and intelligent call routing.

Step 2: Set Up Your Calling Solution

Once you’ve chosen your platform, setup is typically straightforward:

For Browser-Based Solutions:

1. Visit your chosen provider’s website
2. Create an account and select your plan
3. Install any required browser extensions (like CloudTalk’s Click-to-Call extension from Chrome Web Store)
4. Log in and verify your setup

For Desktop Applications:

1. Download the desktop calling app from your provider
2. Install following the setup wizard
3. Configure your account credentials
4. Test your microphone and speakers

Step 3: Configure Your Settings and Preferences

Customize your calling experience for optimal performance:

• Audio Settings: Test and adjust microphone and speaker levels
• Calling Preferences: Set up auto-dialing, call forwarding, and voicemail options
• Integration Setup: Connect your CRM, helpdesk, or other business tools
• Number Selection: Choose your business phone numbers from the available countries
• Team Configuration: Add team members and set up call routing rules

Step 4: Start Making Calls

With everything configured, you’re ready to transform how you communicate:

• Manual Dialing: Use the software interface to dial numbers directly
• Click-to-Call: Turn any phone number on your screen into a clickable link
• CRM Integration: Initiate calls directly from your customer database
• International Calling: Reach global customers with local numbers

CloudTalk Quick Start: With CloudTalk’s online calling app for pc, phone numbers on any webpage become clickable links. Simply browse, click, and connect—it’s that simple.

11 Best Calling Apps for Computers

Here’s our comprehensive comparison of the top calling apps for computers, based on features, pricing, and user experience:

CloudTalk

CloudTalk is a cloud-based call center and business phone system designed to maximize customer support efforts across all channels. It’s the top choice for businesses seeking a comprehensive calling app for desktop that scales with growth.

Best for: Mid-sized companies looking to grow their sales and customer service operations

Top Features:

• High-Quality Calls: Guaranteed latency and minimal jitter for crystal-clear conversations
• Smart Call Routing: Smart distribution of calls to the right agents
• Click-to-Call: Transform any phone number into a clickable link
• Advanced Analytics: Deep insights for data-driven decisions
• 35+ Integrations: Seamless connection with HubSpot, Zendesk, and other business tools
• Global Coverage: Numbers available in 160+ countries

Best Integrations:

• HubSpot CRM: Native integration for seamless customer data access
• Zendesk: Streamlined support ticket management
• Salesforce: Advanced sales workflow automation

Pros:

• Comprehensive business phone system with advanced features
• Excellent call quality and reliability
• Intuitive interface that’s easy to learn and use

Cons:

• Pricing may be high for freelancers
• Some advanced features require higher-tier plans
• Learning curve for accessing all advanced functionalities

Pricing: Starting at $19/month with 14-day free trial

How to Start Calling from a PC with CloudTalk

Setting up CloudTalk as your software for calling from pc to mobile is incredibly straightforward:

Quick Setup Guide

Step 1: Sign up for your free trial

Step 2: Choose your business phone number from 160+ countries

Step 3: Install the Chrome Click-to-Call extension

Step 4: Connect your CRM or helpdesk for seamless integration

Step 5: Start making calls directly from your browser or desktop app

Total setup time: 3 minutes

The beauty of CloudTalk lies in its instant deployment. Unlike traditional phone systems that require hardware installation, CloudTalk’s internet calling software for pc works immediately once configured. Your team can start making professional calls within minutes, not days.

Google Voice

Google Voice is a free calling service that’s been available since 2009, offering both personal and business calling features.

Best for: Startups and small businesses based in the US

Top Features:

• Free calling within the US
• Voicemail transcription
• Google Meet and Calendar integration
• Multi-level auto attendant
• Unlimited text messaging

Pros:

• Completely free for basic features
• Reliable Google infrastructure
• Good integration with Google Workspace

Cons:

• Requires US phone number for access
• Limited international calling options
• No desktop application available

Pricing: Free for basic features, Google Workspace plans start at $6/user/month

Microsoft Teams

Microsoft Teams is a communication platform developed by Microsoft. It’s designed to be an all-in-one workspace for team messaging, meetings, file sharing, and real-time collaboration.

Best for: Teams who want reliable calls, chat, and meetings under Microsoft’s ecosystem.

Top Features:

• Free 60-minute group meetings, 100 participants
• Integrated chat, file sharing, and collaboration
• Works seamlessly with Office and Outlook
• Cross-device sync (PC, mobile, web)

Pros:

• Familiar for ex-Skype users
• Better security and reliability than Skype
• Expanding ecosystem of integrations

Cons:

• Requires a Microsoft account
• Heavier app than classic Skype
• Limited business features on the standard plan

Pricing: Standard plan starts at $10/month. 

Zoom Phone

Zoom‘s business phone system integrates seamlessly with its video conferencing platform.

Best for: Companies already using Zoom for video conferencing

Top Features:

• Integrated video and voice calling
• Up to 1,000 third-party integrations
• User-friendly interface
• Click-to-call functionality

Pros:

• Excellent integration with Zoom ecosystem
• Intuitive user interface
• Strong video conferencing capabilities

Cons:

• Limited advanced dialing features
• Missing popular CRM integrations
• Business phone features only in higher tiers

Pricing: Starting at $15/user/month

RingCentral

RingCentral is a well-established VoIP provider with over 20 years in the market, focused on enterprise communications.

Best for: Large enterprises with complex communication needs

Top Features:

• SIP Trunking capabilities
• Advanced IVR systems
• Comprehensive call recording
• Enterprise-grade security

Pros:

• Mature, stable platform
• Extensive enterprise features
• Strong security and compliance

Cons:

• Implementation can take up to 90 days
• Premium features locked behind higher tiers
• Complex interface for smaller teams

Pricing: Starting at $19.99/user/month

Dialpad

Dialpad is a modern VoIP solution with built-in AI and machine learning capabilities for enhanced calling experiences.

Best for: Sales organizations focused on efficiency and analytics

Top Features:

• AI-powered call analysis
• Real-time transcription
• Customer sentiment scoring
• Advanced call routing

Pros:

• Cutting-edge AI features
• Excellent call analysis capabilities
• Modern, intuitive interface

Cons:

• Limited power dialer functionality
• Fewer integrations than competitors
• SMS restricted to North America

Pricing: Starting at $15/user/month

Grasshopper

Grasshopper is a simple VoIP solution designed specifically for small businesses and entrepreneurs.

Best for: Small businesses wanting basic calling features

Top Features:

• Custom greetings and voicemail
• Simultaneous call handling
• Mobile and desktop apps

Pros:

• Simple setup and operation
• Affordable pricing
• Good for basic business needs

Cons:

• Limited advanced features
• No call recording capability
• Lacks click-to-call functionality

Pricing: Starting at $14/month

8×8

8×8 is a comprehensive business communication platform, focusing on analytics and enterprise-grade features.

Best for: Large enterprises with global operations

Top Features:

• Advanced analytics and reporting
• Call center management tools
• Global phone number support
• Enterprise security features

Pros:

• Robust enterprise features
• Strong analytics capabilities
• Global coverage

Cons:

• Regional calling restrictions
• Requires Microsoft Office integration
• SMS limited to US only

Pricing: Starting at $12/user/month

Vonage

Vonage is a one of the most recognized names in VoIP, serving businesses for over 20 years.

Best for: Companies wanting an established, reliable provider

Top Features:

• Proven reliability and stability
• Comprehensive CRM integrations
• Video and voice conferencing
• Advanced call forwarding

Pros:

• Strong market reputation
• Reliable service quality
• Comprehensive feature set

Cons:

• Higher pricing than competitors
• Hidden fees and charges
• Less innovation than newer providers

Pricing: Starting at $19.99/user/month

Ooma

Ooma is a cost-effective VoIP solution ideal for small teams and businesses with basic calling needs.

Best for: Small businesses with limited budgets

Top Features:

• Voicemail-to-email forwarding
• Basic caller ID features
• Mobile and desktop applications

Pros:

• Very affordable pricing
• Simple setup process
• Good for basic calling needs

Cons:

• Limited advanced features
• No predictive dialing
• Basic reporting capabilities

Pricing: Starting at $14.95/month

Nextiva

Nextiva is a comprehensive business communication platform offering voice, video, and messaging in one solution.

Best for: Businesses seeking an all-in-one communication platform

Top Features:

• Unlimited calling plans
• Video conference recording
• Workflow optimization tools
• Omnichannel communications

Pros:

• Comprehensive feature set
• User-friendly interface
• Quick setup process

Cons:

• Higher pricing for small businesses
• Limited integration options
• Missing some popular third-party connections

Pricing: Starting at $18.95/user/month

How to Pick the Right PC Calling App

Choosing the right calling apps for the computer requires careful consideration of your specific needs and business requirements. Here are the key factors to evaluate:

Define Your Business Requirements

Start by clearly identifying what you need from a pc calling app. Consider your team size, call volume, and primary use cases. Are you primarily making outbound sales calls, handling customer support, or conducting internal meetings?

Small businesses might prioritize cost-effectiveness and ease of use, while enterprises need advanced features like detailed analytics, custom integrations, and scalability. Document your must-have features versus nice-to-have additions to guide your decision.

Evaluate Integration Capabilities

Your calling solution for pc should seamlessly integrate with your existing business tools. Look for platforms that connect with your CRM, helpdesk software, and other essential applications.

CloudTalk, for example, offers 35+ native integrations including HubSpot, Salesforce, and Zendesk. This connectivity ensures your calling data flows seamlessly across your business ecosystem, eliminating data silos and improving efficiency.

Assess Call Quality and Reliability

Nothing undermines professional credibility like poor call quality. When evaluating any phone call app for pc, prioritize providers that guarantee high-quality audio with minimal latency and jitter.

Look for providers that offer Service Level Agreements (SLAs) for uptime and call quality. Test the platform during your trial period with real calls to assess performance under your specific network conditions.

Consider Scalability and Growth

Your desktop calling app should grow with your business. Evaluate how easily you can add new users, phone numbers, and features as your needs evolve.

Some platforms charge significant fees for scaling up, while others like CloudTalk offer flexible pricing that adapts to your growth. Consider both your current needs and where you expect to be in 12-24 months.

Analyze Total Cost of Ownership

Don’t just look at the advertised per-user price. Calculate setup fees, hardware requirements, training costs, and any hidden charges for essential features.

Some providers advertise low base prices but charge extra for call recording, international numbers, or CRM integrations. Calculate the true monthly cost based on all the features you’ll actually need to use.

Transform Your Business Communication Right From Your PC

The shift to computer-based calling is your bridge to business transformation. If you need a simple calling app for basic communications or comprehensive internet calling software with advanced analytics, the platforms we’ve reviewed offer solutions for every business size and need.

CloudTalk stands out as your complete solution with support for 160+ countries, 35+ integrations, and industry-leading call quality. Designed to grow with your business while providing the reliability and features you need to dominate your market.

So don’t let outdated communication systems define your limits. Your competitors are already making the move—make yours today and turn communication into your competitive advantage.