This isn't Super Mario Bros related, but we always want to let our readers know about good deals we find on the Information Superhighway. :) Today we'll be reviewing the MagicJack. The MagicJack was invented by Dan Borislow and is a computer device that'll provide low-cost telephone service in the United States and Canada using your existing internet connection (Cable or DSL). This device has gotten great reviews and was named Editors' Choice by PC Magazine in January 2008.

We ordered the MagicJack last week and it arrived within 4 days. It arrived in a nice compact envelope with the MagicJack device surrounded in padding. There was no software included, just the MagicJack. After plugging a phone into the MagicJack's phone port, we plugged the MagicJack into an open USB slot. The MagicJack proceeded to download software and set itself up automatically - this took about a minute. After it was all done with the install, I was assigned a new telephone number. Once that was completed, I picked up the phone and low-and-behold, there was a dial tone! We called a few local friend and some long distance friends and no one could tell that we were on a VOiP device. This device works great! Could this be too good to be true? An alternative to the local phone company that'll only cost $49.99 per YEAR and $19.99 every year after - well, its true. We've been searching for an alternative for a while now. Vonage is charging $29.95 per month for the 1st 6months, then the rates go up to just about a regular land line price. Comcast is also offering VOiP services, but their cost was even higher than Vonage's. After reviewing multiple VOiP options, the best solution was the MagicJack.  

We were are paying about $70 per month for our AT&T land line. MagicJack will save us $840 every year.

Here's some technical info on the MagicJack:

Compatibility:

• Works with Windows XP, Windows Vista and Mac OS/X (Intel)
• Doesn't work with Linux (YET!). There are smart people working on this so something should be available soon.

Pros:

• Unlimited Long Distance calls.
• Unlimited Local calls
• MagicJack gives you 2 telephone numbers.
• Low startup cost.
• Extremely easy setup. Very little computer knowledge needed, even my grandmother hooked it up herself.
• Offers 30 Day Free Trial.
• Works with any regular phone.
• So far, MagicJack offers the best calling plan on the internet.
• Did we mention it was cheap! :) $49 for the entire first YEAR and $20 every YEAR after! WoW!

Cons:

• Must have existing broadband internet connection
• Will not work with Dial-Up
• Does not have real Emergency 9-1-1, MagicJack uses E911 and that's only available in certain areas. All VOiP services have the same type of 911, it's just something you have to deal with. Make sure you have a cell phone as a backup if you're concerned about real 911.

Overall, the MagicJack is totally worth it if you're looking to lower your bills. Not having to pay $70 every month to AT&T allows us to buy more Super Mario Bros. stuff. :) Amazon is selling the MagicJack if you're interested in getting away from your expensive phone company. Click here to get your MagicJack.