Ooma helps you save on your phone bills

Ooma uses your broadband Internet service to let you make phone calls. Unlike , though, you won't have to pay a monthly fee for its use, unless you want to use its premium services (more on that later). Instead, you'll be able to make unlimited free phone calls throughout the U.S., and calls at reduced cost overseas.

How much will you save That depends on your current phone bill. Ooma has a list price of US$249.99, although you should be able to find it for less at a retail store or online. (As I write this review, it's available from Amazon for $199.99.) So calculate your annual phone fee, and compare it to Ooma's price; you should get a good estimate.

Installation is a snap

Because of the vast number of phone options in homes, you might expect Ooma's setup to be at best problematic. Do you have a DSL or a cable modem A separate router Do you want to use the device in concert with an existing phone line and number, or not use your wall jack at all No matter what your current setup is, Ooma has done an excellent job in creating a simple installation routine.

The Ooma device itself is a compact, unobtrusive, sleek-looking 7.5-by-5.5-in. device with six buttons for doing things such as retrieving, managing and deleting voice mail. I opted to use it in addition to my landline, instead of as a replacement. When you choose this option, you get a free phone number from Ooma, with a good chance that you'll get a number in your area code. If you want to replace your landline but keep your existing phone number, you'll have to pay a one-time fee of $39.99.