Reviews onG2Capterra
602 reviews trackedThe Bottom Line
Entry price
Paid plans only
Biggest pro
Owns its own nationwide IP network for carrier-grade reliability
Biggest con
Enterprise-focused platform with steep learning curve
TL;DR - Bandwidth
- Enterprise CPaaS built on its own carrier network with voice, messaging, and 911 APIs
- Powers communications for Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Genesys, and other major platforms
- Usage-based pricing starting at $0.01/min for voice with free inbound SMS
Pricing: Paid only
Best for: Enterprises & pros
4.4/5 across review platforms
What is Bandwidth?
Bandwidth is an enterprise communications platform as a service (CPaaS) built on its own nationwide IP network. It provides voice, messaging, and emergency calling APIs that power communications for major UCaaS and CCaaS providers like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Genesys. Covering 65+ countries with direct PSTN connectivity, Bandwidth handles phone number provisioning, porting, toll-free services, and real-time call analytics. It serves Global 2000 enterprises, contact centers, and voice AI startups needing carrier-grade reliability with 99.995% uptime.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Owns its own nationwide IP network for carrier-grade reliability
- Usage-based pricing with free inbound texting
- 99.995% uptime SLA with geo-redundant infrastructure
- Direct PSTN replacement in 40+ countries
- Powers major platforms like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Genesys
Cons
- Enterprise-focused platform with steep learning curve
- No self-service UI for non-developers
- Pricing requires contacting sales for volume commitments
- Limited out-of-the-box features compared to turnkey solutions
Ratings Across the Web
4.4(602 reviews)
Ratings aggregated from independent review platforms. Learn more
Key Features
Voice, SMS, MMS, and RCS messaging APIsEmergency 911 calling API with dynamic location routingIn-app calling and media streaming APIsPhone number provisioning and porting automationGlobal PSTN connectivity across 65+ countriesReal-time call quality and message deliverability insightsAuthentication and fraud detection APIsPre-built integrations for UCaaS, CCaaS, and PBX platformsToll-free services with 5x-redundant disaster recovery
Pricing
Paid
Bandwidth offers paid plans. Visit their website for current pricing details.
Reviews
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4.4/5
Across 602 verified user reviews on G2, Capterra
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Best Bandwidth Alternatives
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VonagePaid
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Bandwidth FAQ
How does Bandwidth ensure reliable communication services?
Bandwidth operates on its own nationwide IP network, which allows it to offer carrier-grade reliability with a 99.995% uptime SLA. This infrastructure includes geo-redundant systems to maintain consistent service availability.
Which teams benefit most from using Bandwidth?
Bandwidth is best suited for Global 2000 enterprises, contact centers, and voice AI startups that require carrier-grade reliability for their communication infrastructure. It caters to organizations needing robust voice, messaging, and emergency calling APIs.
How is Bandwidth priced?
Bandwidth uses a usage-based pricing model for its services. While it does not offer a permanently free tier, it includes free inbound texting, and pricing for volume commitments requires direct engagement with their sales team.
What kind of communication solutions can be built using Bandwidth's APIs?
Bandwidth's APIs enable the development of voice, messaging, and emergency calling solutions, including phone number provisioning and porting. It powers communications for major UCaaS and CCaaS platforms like Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Genesys.
How does Bandwidth compare to Twilio for enterprise communication needs?
Bandwidth differentiates itself from competitors like Twilio by owning its nationwide IP network, which provides direct PSTN replacement in over 40 countries. This allows it to offer carrier-grade reliability and a 99.995% uptime SLA, serving as a foundational communications layer for large platforms.
What are the main limitations to consider when adopting Bandwidth?
Bandwidth is an enterprise-focused platform with a steep learning curve and is primarily designed for developers, lacking a self-service UI for non-technical users. It also offers limited out-of-the-box features compared to more turnkey communication solutions.
Can Bandwidth handle international communication requirements?
Yes, Bandwidth provides direct PSTN connectivity and covers over 65 countries. This global reach supports international voice and messaging services for enterprises operating across different regions.
Source: bandwidth.com