A: First, we should discuss what each of these alternatives is fax options. A fax modem is a small USB device that you can plug into your computer and use it to send faxes via a dial-up Internet connection. These devices can be found for as cheap as $ 20. Internet fax service allows you to have a dedicated fax number through which you can send and receive faxes with any kind of Internet. These online services are based affordable and flexible, and start at around $ 5 / month.
While a single fee for the USB fax modem may at first seem more attractive, there are some reasons why Internet fax services are not only better value, but are more meaningful.
- You need a remote connection to use the fax modem. These Internet connections are a rare breed, and for good reason. They are slower, more expensive and generally less flexible. Most people use broadband, DSL or cable, no dial-up. In addition, Mac users with OSX Lion and Mountain Lion are out of luck if they want to use the fax modem from Apple, because these operating systems are not compatible with the device.
-With Internet fax, you should not use your computer to fax - you can do it from your smartphone too! When you have an account Internet fax you can fax from anywhere with an Internet connection.
If you want to know more about Internet faxing, visit our comparison chart to compare side-by-side services.