Blink vs Bria Solo

Blink is a real-time communications client that uses SIP to connect with service providers, Bonjour on a local network and SIP2SIP. A SIP account from a provider is required. Voice and video features include Opus audio, H.264, VP8 and VP9 video, acoustic echo cancellation and ZRTP media encryption. Messaging supports MSRP chat, OTR encryption, SIMPLE presence and XCAP server storage. File transfers use MSRP and TLS and include progress reports and delivery confirmation. Screen sharing can run with audio, while conferences can combine participant management, VoIP, messaging, presence, file transfers and screen sharing. Blink supports multiple SIP accounts, iCloud syncing between computers and built-in account sign-up through SIP2SIP. It also lists OpenPGP messaging support and says it does not collect end-user data. The free plan is free and lists Linux, Mac and Windows downloads. Available features may differ by operating system and version, and some conferencing functions require a conference server. Blink was founded in 2002.

Bria Solo is a softphone for individual users who want voice and video calling through a service provider, call server or IP PBX they choose. It does not include voice or messaging service, so it must be paired with one of those systems. Calling accounts are configured in a web portal that stores settings for use across devices. Example integrations include Asterisk, FreePBX, sipgate and onsip; contacts can come from Google, Microsoft Outlook, iOS and Android. The paid plan includes HD voice and video, call transfer and forwarding, auto answer, recording and call history. Bria Solo Free costs nothing and supports one device and one SIP/VoIP account, with weekly call limits and personal, non-commercial use. Bria Solo costs $2.95 a year, billed $35.40 per year on an annual plan, with taxes not included. A 21-day trial is advertised without a credit card; the pricing note lists a 14-day trial. Apps are available for Windows, macOS, iOS and Android.