What Is A Calling Card?

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A calling card is actually a service that is used to make long-distance or international phone calls. They are sometimes represented as a physical card (about the same size as a credit card) but these days they are virtual or digital.

Types Of Calling Cards

There are several types of calling cards available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.

Traditional calling cards

Traditional calling cards are physical cards that can be purchased at a variety of retail locations. These cards typically have a toll-free number to call, as well as a PIN number that must be entered in order to access the card’s balance. These types of calling cards are becoming less common as more people switch to virtual calling cards or prepaid phone cards.

Virtual calling cards

Virtual calling cards are similar to traditional calling cards, but do not require a physical card to be purchased. Instead, the card’s information is stored electronically and can be accessed by entering a PIN number. Virtual calling cards can be purchased online and are often less expensive than traditional calling cards.

Prepaid calling cards

Prepaid calling cards are cards that can be purchased with a set amount of credit, which can then be used to make long-distance or international calls. These cards are often used as an alternative to traditional phone plans, as they allow users to make calls without incurring additional charges.

How To Use A Calling Card

Using an international calling card is a simple process, but there are a few steps that need to be taken in order to make a call.

Step 1: Purchase a calling card.

This is a bit of a no-brainer but it’s worth mentioning because we recommend purchasing your international calling card from a store that specializes in selling phone cards – that is, they don’t sell anything else.

Why is this important?

The reason for this is because general retailers do not have the information on hand to make sure you are buying the right option – they’re also not trained on how to offer the best calling card based on your specific needs – in fact they know only a little bit more than you do and they will often be reading the card alongside you if you ask them a question.

Step 2: Next, activation.

Before you can use the phone card it must first be activated, thankfully most calling cards today are activated just by the process of making a phone call – some other phone cards will need you to activate it online or by calling a special number.

Step 3: Making the call.

Making a call involved 3 steps:

  1. Dial the local access number
  2. Enter you PIN
  3. Dial the international number

That’s it!

Advantages And Disadvantages Of Using A Calling Card

While calling cards can be a convenient and cost-effective way to make long-distance or international calls, they also have their own set of disadvantages.

Advantages

  1. Cost savings: Calling cards often offer lower rates than traditional phone plans for long-distance or international calls.
  2. Convenience: Calling cards can be used from any phone, making them a convenient option for travelers.
  3. Privacy: Calling cards can be used to make private calls without revealing your phone number.

 

Disadvantages

No product or service is without it’s downsides, here are a few that you need to keep in mind before you purchase a calling card:

  1. Additional fees: Some calling cards charge additional fees such as connection fees or maintenance fees, which can add up over time.
  2. Connection issues: Some calling cards may experience poor call quality or dropped calls, which can be frustrating.
  3. Limited international use: Not all calling cards are able to be used internationally, which may limit their usefulness for travelers.

Conclusion

Calling cards are a convenient and cost-effective way to make long-distance or international calls. However, they also have their own set of disadvantages, such as additional fees, poor call quality, and limited international use.

It’s important to consider these factors before deciding to use a calling card. Alternative options for making long-distance calls include prepaid phone cards and internet-based calling services.