Best International Phonecall (Internet or Otherwise) Options?

[jjcha]

Just noticed a call from my cell to Tokyo for an hour costs about a hundred bucks, so I ought to find a better way.

We've got highspeed internet both here and in Tokyo, so I think most options are available to us. I just haven't been following what's available.

I will say sound quality and convienance are the top priorities. Cost is a factor, but we don't need to go for cheapest or free. I would rather pay for simplicity and quality than skimp out.

Any thoughts?

Best,

-Jason

 

[Firam]

If you have access to a computer, I'm sure you do. Using Skype the rate is only 0.02 cents a minute.

Edit: I should clarify that computer-computer is free. Computer-Landline in Japan is 0.02 cents.

 

[bahamaman]

Not as cheap as skype, but a quick and easy way to save a bundle while still using your regular phone:

http://www.1010987.com/

 

[BlindTiger]

We buy phone cards from the vendors in Chinatown.
a prepaid $20 card can be found as cheap as $4. depending on vendor.
Most expire 90 days after first use and some have connection charges.
Some don't have connection charge if you call a local number instead of the toll free number.
You have to read the back. But for $4, it's what we use for LD.
$4 is what you pay in taxes alone on your phone bill.
I've noticed you mentioned you're not looking for cheapest, sorry if this doesn't apply.
anyway, a calling card is good to have for emergencies.

 

[RYCeT]

Do you need to call several person in tokyo or only one person? If you need to call only one person, I suggest getting one voip account w/ US number and ship the dta (the equipment) to your contact in Japan. If you need to call several person, try Voxby.com. If you called japan landline phone, it cost you $0.025.minute however Japan cellphone will cost you $0.17. Use the US/Canada unlimited plan since you only want to call Japan.

 

[lan]

I don't think they're out yet but the skype wifi phones should be cool. You don't need to use a computer but like PC to PC it should be free since no landline is involved. Sorry can't help you anything in the short term though.

 

[MrSlacker]

Buy bluetooth headset for your computers, and use skype. Skype is free, and headset will act as a phone so you dont have to sit at your computer. Also you can use phone cards. Thats what we use when we call to Russia.

 

[bozebuttons]

Cablevision just came out with a $19.95 option above their 34.95 phone service for global unlimited calls.

 

[jpburton5150]

If you're calling one person (or a set group of people) have them all sign up for Gizmo. Calls are free to landlines in Japan as long as whoever you're calling is a registered Gizmo member. I can't say I've honestly tried it, but I thought it looked interesting from this Techcrunch Article

 

[Denim]

I was thinking of the Cablevison option also. I'm paying $99 for cable / phone / Internet service. For $19.95 more, you get international dialing anywhere. I believe it only covers 1000 minutes a month, and then they charge you another $19.95 for the next 1000 minute block.

Does anyone here have the service than can report on the quality and useability of it? My wife can eat up international calls quickly, and she talks fast!