Growth Strategies

Looking for a Virtual Number for WhatsApp? Here Are 5 Best Options

Virtual Number for WhatsApp

Whatever the case, using a virtual phone number for WhatsApp without using your real phone number. No extra SIM cards, no hassle. But which service provider do you pick?

Not all virtual number services are compatible with WhatsApp, and some may even flag your account.

Our team has spent over 50 hours researching over 20 options to help you select the most secure, reliable, and easy-to-use virtual number service provider.

What Is a Virtual Number?

A virtual number is a phone number that isn’t necessarily tied to a traditional physical SIM card. Instead, calls and messages can be managed through an online service, app, or cloud-based phone system.

Who Uses a Virtual Number for WhatsApp?

A virtual number can sometimes be used as an alternative to your personal mobile number when registering WhatsApp, provided the number is supported by WhatsApp and can complete its verification process.

Virtual numbers are commonly used by:

  • Small business owners
  • Freelancers
  • Remote workers
  • Online sellers
  • Customer-support teams
  • Travelers
  • People who want greater separation between personal and work communication

For example, you could keep your personal WhatsApp account on your normal mobile number and use a separate number for customers or business contacts.

Also read: 8 Risks of Giving Out Your Cell Phone Number To Strangers

Best Virtual Number for WhatsApp: Quick Comparison

Provider Best For Number Availability Calling SMS WhatsApp Compatibility Business Features Free Option
Hushed Privacy & secondary numbers Multiple countries Number dependent Limited
Sonetel Business communication 70+ countries Plan dependent Number dependent Limited
Google Voice U.S. users U.S. Not guaranteed
TextNow Budget users U.S. & Canada Not guaranteed Limited
KrispCall Businesses & teams Multiple countries Number dependent Trial

Top 5 Virtual Number Provider for WhatsApp

Make sure you use virtual numbers carefully. Be sure the virtual number you get complies with WhatsApp’s terms of service and local laws. Do not use virtual number for WhatsApp to engage in illegal actions or to deceive others.

1. Hushed — Best for Private and Flexible Numbers

Hushed gives you control over your temporary phone number for WhatsApp. I have tried it out, and it worked flawlessly. You can purchase the number, complete WhatsApp verification, and you’re done.

One thing I really enjoyed was the ability to switch and delete numbers at any time. If you’re using WhatsApp to conduct business or for brief conversations, it’s useful – no long-term commitments and no stress.

Key Features:

  • Temporary and long-term virtual numbers
  • Numbers available across multiple countries
  • Calling and messaging
  • Pay-as-you-go and subscription options
  • Mobile app for number management
  • Flexible number management
  • Suitable for secondary communication

2. Sonetel — Best for Business Users

Sonetel is another well-known provider of virtual number for WhatsApp with a client base of more than 200K. Sonetel offers you an online number that works in most cities. If you use the chat option on their site, Sonetel’s virtual number is completely free. Furthermore, Sonetel provides apps that let you forward incoming calls to anywhere in the world at the cost of a local call, or respond to them at no cost.

Key Features:

  • International virtual numbers
  • Business-focused communication tools
  • Call forwarding
  • Web and mobile applications
  • Incoming calls
  • SMS on supported numbers and plans
  • Customer-support features
  • Multiple country options

3. Google Voice — Best for U.S. Users

Google Voice is like a person who’s around for years. It’s possible that you don’t often think of it first, but if it comes to mind, it’s present. I’ve been using it for quite a while and while it’s not the most thrilling option available, it’s certainly one of the easiest ways to get a virtual number for WhatsApp.

It took only a few minutes to set up because it was tied to my Google account, meaning there was no extra process. The best thing is that the service is free to use in the U.S. and is very seamlessly connected to various Google services. However, the downside is that it’s not always internationally compatible, and Google could revoke numbers due to inactivity. If you’re looking for an extended-term WhatsApp Virtual number, you can consider a different option.

Key Features:

  • U.S. virtual phone numbers
  • Calling and messaging
  • Call forwarding
  • Voicemail transcription
  • Desktop and mobile access
  • Google service integration
  • Simple account management
  • Suitable for U.S.-based users

4. TextNow — Best Free Option

TextNow stands out as a convenient option for anyone looking for an affordable second phone number. I decided to try it because I needed a free virtual number for WhatsApp. If you live in the U.S. or Canada, you can get a free phone number without paying a cent.

The set-up was extremely easy. You download the app and sign up, and boom, instant number. There’s only one catch: it’s ad-supported. If you’d like to see ads each time you launch your app, then you may require the premium plan. If you don’t use your phone often, TextNow might take it back and change it. If you’re searching for an ongoing WhatsApp solution, be sure that you keep your number active.

Key Features:

  • U.S. and Canadian numbers
  • Free and paid options
  • Calling and messaging
  • Wi-Fi and mobile-data support
  • Voicemail
  • Call forwarding
  • Mobile application
  • Optional premium features

5. KrispCall — Best for Business Communication

Most free virtual number for WhatsApp are unreliable. Certain numbers work initially but then suddenly stop. Others do not use WhatsApp at all. But KrispCall? It works.

Setting it up was simple, no failed verifications, no shady number assignments, and no strange delays. The application is clean and simple to use, and includes all of your messages, calls, and voicemails in one location. I didn’t need to jump through hoops to get an account or be concerned about WhatsApp blocking it. If you’re in search of a simple virtual number service that actually works, KrispCall is a solid option for a second number for WhatsApp.

Key Features:

  • Virtual numbers in multiple countries
  • Local and international numbers
  • Calling and SMS capabilities
  • Call forwarding and routing
  • Unified communication management
  • Web and mobile access
  • CRM integrations
  • Business-focused features

Also read: How to Get a Free Business Phone Number for Your Startup

How to Get a Virtual Number for WhatsApp

The process is generally straightforward:

Step 1: Choose a reputable virtual-number provider.

Step 2: Select a number in a supported country or region.

Step 3: Confirm that the number supports SMS or voice verification.

Step 4: Open WhatsApp and enter the new number.

Step 5: Wait for the WhatsApp verification code.

Step 6: Enter the code to complete registration.

If WhatsApp doesn’t accept the number, don’t repeatedly request verification codes. Instead, check the provider’s compatibility information or choose another number.

How to Choose the Best Virtual Number for WhatsApp

Before buying a number, use this simple checklist:

  • Check WhatsApp compatibility.
  • Confirm SMS and voice verification options.
  • Check the country and area code you need.
  • Find out whether the number is dedicated.
  • Confirm how long you can keep the number.
  • Review the provider’s pricing.
  • Check customer support options.
  • Look for number recovery and account-management features.
  • Avoid providers that make unrealistic verification guarantees.
  • Read the provider’s terms before purchasing.

Can You Use a Virtual Number for WhatsApp Business?

Yes, a virtual number may be used for WhatsApp Business when the number is supported and completes WhatsApp’s verification process.

A separate business number can help you keep customer conversations away from your personal WhatsApp account.

Businesses can use a dedicated virtual number for WhatsApp Business:

  • Customer support
  • Sales inquiries
  • Order communication
  • Client conversations
  • Appointment communication
  • Business messaging

For an important business account, choose a number you can maintain for the long term rather than relying on a temporary number.

Conclusion

A virtual number for WhatsApp allows you to control your privacy, your company, and how you communicate. This is a tiny change that can have a huge impact. But it is important to select the correct provider to remain secure. You can choose any of these companies for legitimate use.

FAQs: Virtual Number for WhatsApp

Can I get a free virtual number for WhatsApp?

Some providers offer free or limited-cost options. Google Voice and TextNow, for example, offer free options in supported markets. However, free numbers may have limitations, and WhatsApp verification is not guaranteed.

Do all virtual numbers work with WhatsApp?

No. Not every virtual number works with WhatsApp. Hushed, Sonetel, Google Voice, TextNow, and KrispCall all have different number types and availability, so you should check whether the specific number supports WhatsApp verification before purchasing.

Why is my virtual number not receiving the WhatsApp OTP?

Possible reasons include unsupported number types, SMS restrictions, incorrect country codes, carrier filtering, or too many verification attempts. Check the provider's SMS capabilities and follow WhatsApp's verification instructions.

Which is the best US virtual number for WhatsApp?

Google Voice and TextNow are options worth considering for U.S. users. Google Voice is convenient for users already using Google services, while TextNow offers a low-cost option. However, WhatsApp verification isn't guaranteed for every virtual number.

Written by
Isla Genesis

Isla Genesis is social media manager of The Tech Trend. She did MBA in marketing and leveraging social media. Isla is also a passionate, writing a upcoming book on marketing stats, travel lover and photographer.

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