Trying to maintain a conversation over a VoIP phone when the connection keeps dropping is impossible, yet it’s something that enterprises struggle with every day. The only way to combat this is with proactive network jitter monitoring by using jitter tools that monitor your VoIP call performance and highlights problems for you to address.
Here is our list of the best Jitter tools for VoIP quality testing:
- SolarWinds VoIP & Network Quality Manager (FREE TRIAL) VoIP monitoring software is used for monitoring VoIP calls and CDRs with search and filtering, performance monitoring dashboards, reports, and more. Start a 30-day free trial.
- ManageEngine NetFlow Analyzer (FREE TRIAL) NetFlow analysis software with VoIP monitoring, customizable dashboard, threshold-based alerts, and more. Start a 30-day free trial.
- ManageEngine OpManager (FREE TRIAL) Network monitoring software and VoIP monitor with a dashboard view, custom reports, alerts, and more. Start a 30-day free trial.
- Paessler PRTG Network Monitor Network monitoring software with sensors for monitoring VoIP jitter with threshold-based alerts, reports, and more.
- tarTrinity Jitter and Packet Loss Test Tool Open-sourced jitter monitoring software with a table-view, packet loss monitoring, RTT monitoring, and more.
- Wireshark Network analyzer with support for a range of VoIP protocols, graphs, RTP streams.
- WhatsUp Gold Network monitoring software with a VoIP monitoring plugin with a configuration wizard, graphs, alerts, reports, and more.
- VoIP Spear VoIP monitoring software with worldwide servers, graphs, alerts, and more.
The Best Jitter Tools for VoIP Quality Testing
In this article, we’re going to look at some of the best Jitter tools for conducting VOIP quality testing. The list includes a comparison of Windows, macOS, and Linux tools focusing on tools that provide a broad range of VoIP metrics, such as Jitter, latency, MOS, and packet loss.
1. SolarWinds VoIP & Network Quality Manager (FREE TRIAL)
SolarWinds VoIP & Network Quality Manager is a VoIP monitoring tool you can use to monitor VoIP calls and Call Detail Records (CDRs). With SolarWinds VoIP & Network Quality Manager, you can monitor CDRs created by Cisco CallManager and Avaya Communication Manager, which you can use to identify performance issues like latency and distortion that affect the end-user experience.
Key Features:
- Monitor VoIP calls and CDRs
- Search and filtering
- Out-of-the-box support for Cisco CallManager
- Reporting
Why do we recommend it?
SolarWinds VoIP & Network Quality Manager stands out as a premier VoIP monitoring tool, providing a comprehensive solution to monitor VoIP calls and Call Detail Records (CDRs). This tool excels in capturing key performance metrics such as VoIP jitter, packet loss, and MOS, enabling users to identify and address issues affecting the end-user experience. The ability to generate real-time and historical reports empowers users to assess the impact of jitter across all phone systems, facilitating informed decision-making.
Some of the VoIP performance metrics you can collect include VoIP jitter, packet loss, MOS, and more. You can also generate reports to provide you with real-time and historical performance data so that you can see the impact jitter is having across all of your phone systems.
Search and filtering enables you to navigate calls by selecting filter conditions, searching calls, and then viewing all calls that match the specified criteria. For example, you can search for calls with MOS, latency, jitter, or packet loss over a particular threshold. This allows you to get a quick snapshot of performance.
Who is it recommended for?
This tool is highly recommended for enterprises seeking a cost-effective and user-friendly solution for monitoring VoIP phone systems. With out-of-the-box support for Cisco CallManager and Avaya Communication Manager, SolarWinds VoIP & Network Quality Manager is suitable for organizations utilizing these platforms. Its robust features, including search and filtering capabilities, make it an ideal choice for network administrators and IT professionals looking to ensure optimal VoIP performance. The tool’s compatibility with Windows Server 2012 R2, Windows Server 2016, and Windows Server 2019 enhances its flexibility for diverse IT environments.
SolarWinds VoIP & Network Quality Manager is an ideal tool for enterprises searching for a cost-effective and easy way to monitor VoIP phone systems. It is available on Windows Server 2012 R2, Windows Server 2016, and Windows Server 2019. Prices start at $949 (£670.16). You can try out SolarWinds VoIP & Network Quality Manager through a completely free and fully functional 30-day trial.
2. ManageEngine NetFlow Analyzer (FREE TRIAL)
ManageEngine NetFlow Analyzer is a NetFlow analysis platform that you can use to monitor VoIP systems. With ManageEngine NetFlow Analyzer, you can monitor jitter, latency, packet, loss, and MOS with customizable dashboards that allow you to select the widgets and performance data you want to review. There is even an iPhone application you can use to monitor network performance on the go.
Key Features
- Monitor jitter, latency, packet loss, and more
- Alerts
- Reports
- iPhone App
Why do we recommend it?
ManageEngine NetFlow Analyzer has customizable dashboards that empower users to monitor crucial VoIP metrics such as jitter, latency, packet loss, and MOS with ease. The inclusion of an iPhone application adds convenience, enabling users to monitor network performance on the go. The platform’s threshold-based alerts system ensures timely notifications when predefined metrics cross set thresholds, enhancing proactive issue resolution.
A threshold-based alerts system notifies you whenever these metrics cross a predefined threshold. For instance, you can set an alert to notify you when communication has a certain amount of latency or has exceeded the threshold x amount of times. Alerts are available by email, SMS, SNMP trap, web alarm, SysLogs, and more.
The platform comes with a range of reporting options you can use to view performance data. One of these is the Top-10 call path report, which allows you to see the top 10 call paths by MOS, packet loss, jitter, and latency. Another useful reporting option is the All Monitor Report, which shows the latency, jitter, packet loss, RTT, and MOS of each monitor.
Who is it recommended for?
This solution is recommended for enterprises seeking a straightforward yet comprehensive tool for monitoring VoIP performance. ManageEngine NetFlow Analyzer’s user-friendly interface and customizable dashboards make it an ideal choice for network administrators and IT professionals looking to gain insights into key VoIP metrics. The platform’s alerting capabilities and diverse notification options, including email, SMS, SNMP trap, web alarm, and SysLogs, cater to the needs of organizations prioritizing proactive monitoring and issue detection.
ManageEngine NetFlow Analyzer is suitable for enterprises looking for a simple solution for monitoring VoIP performance. It is available on Windows and Linux. Prices start at $595 (£420.20) for the professional edition—a 30-day free trial available from this link here.
3. ManageEngine OpManager (FREE TRIAL)
ManageEngine OpManager is a network monitoring tool that offers VoIP monitoring. With ManageEngine OpManager, you can use Cisco IP SLAs to monitor the performance of your VoIP service and metrics such as jitter, packet loss, delay, MOS, and RTT. Call paths allow you to view maps of connections so you can assess the QoS of connections. The dashboard also provides a Top 10 call path report by jitter, packet loss, latency, maximum SLA violation, and max RTT.
Key Features:
- Dashboard
- Cisco IP SLA monitoring
- Maps
- Custom reports
- Alerts
Why do we recommend it?
ManageEngine OpManager is a robust network monitoring tool that impressively integrates VoIP monitoring capabilities. Leveraging Cisco IP SLAs, OpManager allows users to monitor critical VoIP performance metrics, including jitter, packet loss, delay, MOS, and RTT. The intuitive dashboard, complemented by features like call paths and the Top 10 call path report, facilitates comprehensive assessment of VoIP Quality of Service (QoS). The platform’s ability to generate over 100 out-of-the-box reports, coupled with customizable alerting mechanisms, ensures proactive monitoring and timely issue resolution.
Generate reports to check up on your VoIP performance. The reports feature offers over 100 out-of-the-box reports, including NetFlow traffic reports which provide graphs detailing VoIP QoS trends that you can use to get started. You can also schedule reports so that you receive regular updates on network performance.
Alerts notify you about poor VoIP performance via email and SMS. You can view active alerts on the Alarms page, where a list of color-coded alarms is listed so that you can begin resolving the most critical issues first. Alerts are threshold-based, so you can determine what trigger conditions will generate an alarm.
Who is it recommended for?
This solution is recommended for enterprises seeking a comprehensive network monitoring tool with a strong focus on VoIP performance. ManageEngine OpManager’s user-friendly interface, Cisco IP SLA monitoring, and visual representations of call paths make it an ideal choice for network administrators and IT professionals. The platform’s extensive reporting capabilities and flexible alerting options, including email and SMS notifications, cater to organizations prioritizing efficient VoIP monitoring for optimal network performance.
ManageEngine OpManager is a reliable choice for enterprises that desire a network monitoring tool with strong VoIP monitoring capabilities. It is available for Windows and Linux. Prices start at $245 (£173.02) for the Standard Edition, which supports up to 10 devices. You can start the 30-day free trial from this link here.
4. Paessler PRTG Network Monitor
Paessler PRTG Network Monitor is a network monitoring tool with various sensors for monitoring VoIP phone systems and jitter. With Paessler PRTG Network Monitor, you can use the QoS (Quality of Service) Round Trip sensor to monitor the amount of jitter, corrupted packets, lost packets, and RTT of a call to identify performance issues quickly.
Key Features:
- VoIP and network jitter sensors
- Cisco IP SLA sensor
- Alerts
- Reports
Why do we recommend it?
Paessler PRTG Network Monitor stands out as a versatile network monitoring tool equipped with specialized sensors for efficient VoIP monitoring, particularly in the realm of jitter analysis. The platform’s QoS Round Trip sensor allows users to scrutinize crucial metrics such as jitter, corrupted packets, lost packets, and Round-Trip Time (RTT), enabling quick identification of performance issues. Paessler’s intuitive interface presents performance information through dials, offering a visually accessible overview.
Sensors display all of the performance information on dials so that you can read them at a glance. For each sensor, the users can set threshold-based alerts to determine when they receive notifications. Notifications are available by SMS, push notifications for IoS and Android, Slack messages, and more.
You can also create reports to review the level of jitter over time. You can generate reports on-demand or schedule them, so they’re released periodically. Reports are available in HTML, PDF, CSV, and XML formats.
Who is it recommended for?
This tool is recommended for organizations seeking a comprehensive network monitoring solution with dedicated features for VoIP performance evaluation, especially in terms of jitter. Paessler PRTG Network Monitor’s user-friendly interface, support for threshold-based alerts through various channels (SMS, push notifications, Slack messages), and robust reporting capabilities make it an ideal choice for IT professionals and network administrators focused on ensuring optimal VoIP and network performance.
Paessler PRTG Network Monitor is a solid option for organizations that require a jitter monitoring tool that offers network monitoring capabilities. It is available on Windows. Free version available for less than 100 sensors. Paid versions start at $1,750 (£1,235.81) for 500 sensors. You can start the 30-day free trial from this link here.
5. StarTrinity Jitter and Packet Loss Test Tool
StarTrinity Jitter and Packet Loss Test Tool is an open-source jitter monitor that you can use to monitor the jitter and packet loss of VoIP phone systems. You can observe some metrics, including upstream/downstream bandwidth, upstream/downstream jitter, upstream/downstream packet loss, Round Trip Time (RTT), History of downtimes, and Uptime percentage.
Key Features:
- Jitter and packet loss monitoring
- Network quality testing
Why do we recommend it?
StarTrinity Jitter and Packet Loss Test Tool earns its recommendation as an open-source jitter monitor specifically designed for observing and analyzing the jitter and packet loss in VoIP phone systems. This tool provides essential metrics, including upstream/downstream bandwidth, jitter, packet loss, Round Trip Time (RTT), as well as a detailed history of downtimes and uptime percentage. Its simplicity and focus on fundamental network quality testing make it an accessible and effective choice for those prioritizing straightforward jitter monitoring.
Performance data can be viewed via a simple table format that details the Time, Download, Packet Loss, Upload, Packet Loss, and RTT connection. You can also use the software to test the connection between two specific endpoints by running one as a client and a server.
Who is it recommended for?
This tool is recommended for users seeking an open-source solution dedicated to monitoring jitter and packet loss in VoIP phone systems. StarTrinity Jitter and Packet Loss Test Tool’s straightforward table format for displaying performance data, along with its capability to test connections between specific endpoints, caters to individuals or organizations looking for a reliable, no-frills jitter monitoring tool without the need for extensive additional features.
StarTrinity Jitter and Packet Loss Tool is a reliable tool if you’re looking for an open-source jitter monitoring tool and don’t require a more elaborate feature set. It is available for Windows, Android, and Linux. You can download the tool for free from this link here.
6. Wireshark
Wireshark is one of the most popular network analyzers globally and supports a range of VoIP protocols, including SIP, H323, ISUP, MGCP, and UNISTIM. With Wireshark, you can view a table list of VoIP calls and view Start Time, Stop Time, Initial Speaker, To (destination), Protocol, Packets, State, and Comments. At the bottom of the table, you can summarize how many calls were attempted, the number of completed calls, and the number of rejected calls.
Key Features:
- Supports VoIP protocols like SIP, H323, ISUP, MGCP, and more
- Graphs
- RTP audio stream
Why do we recommend it?
Wireshark stands out as one of the most widely used and powerful network analyzers globally, making it a top choice for monitoring VoIP performance. Offering robust support for various VoIP protocols, including SIP, H323, ISUP, MGCP, and UNISTIM, Wireshark provides a comprehensive table listing VoIP calls with essential details like Start Time, Stop Time, Initial Speaker, Destination, Protocol, Packets, State, and Comments. The ability to generate graphs and analyze RTP audio streams further enhances its capabilities, providing detailed insights into network performance.
Select calls from the VoIP list and use the Graph option to view graphs of the calls. Each color in the chart outlines a different call so you can distinguish between successful calls and unstable connections. You can also view RTP streams for selected calls viewing information such as the amount of RTP packets dropped by Jitter Buff in percentage and the percentage of the call out of sequence.
Who is it recommended for?
Wireshark is recommended for enterprises seeking a free and versatile tool to monitor VoIP performance comprehensively. With cross-platform compatibility (Windows, macOS, and Linux) and features like detailed call analysis, graphical representations, and RTP stream examination, Wireshark caters to users who prioritize in-depth network analysis and demand a tool that can adapt to various environments.
Wireshark is recommended for enterprises that are looking for a free tool for monitoring VoIP performance. It is available on Windows, macOS, and Linux. You can download the software for free from this link here.
7. WhatsUp Gold
WhatsUp Gold is a network monitoring tool that provides a plugin for VoIP monitoring called WhatsUp Gold VoIP monitoring. With WhatsUp Gold VoIP monitoring, you can collect data from Cisco IP SLA to monitor jitter, latency, packet loss, MOS, and CPIF. You can use the software to generate graphs on jitter, latency, and packet loss and provide MOS and IPCIF voice quality scoring.
Key Features:
- Cisco IP SLAs
- Configuration wizard
- Threshold-based alerts
- Reports
- Graphs
- Alerts
Why do we recommend it?
WhatsUp Gold offers a robust network monitoring tool with dedicated VoIP monitoring capabilities through its WhatsUp Gold VoIP monitoring plugin. This feature allows seamless data collection from Cisco IP SLA, enabling the monitoring of crucial VoIP performance metrics like jitter, latency, packet loss, MOS, and CPIF. With a user-friendly configuration wizard, autodiscovery functionality, and over 200 pre-built analytics and reports, WhatsUp Gold simplifies the setup and ongoing management of VoIP monitoring. The platform’s ability to generate graphs and provide voice quality scoring further enhances its effectiveness in tracking and analyzing VoIP performance.
Setting up VoIP monitoring is very simple, as WhatsUp Gold provides a configuration wizard that explains how to configure a VoIP performance monitor. The software also offers an autodiscovery feature for broader network monitoring so that you can configure your monitoring environment quickly.
An alerts system lets you know about performance issues automatically. The alerts are threshold-based, so you can determine when you receive an alert. There are also over 200 analytics and reports included with the software out-of-the-box to check up on your environment however works for you.
Who is it recommended for?
WhatsUp Gold is recommended for enterprises seeking an all-encompassing network monitoring solution that includes dedicated VoIP monitoring capabilities. Its user-friendly features, such as the configuration wizard and autodiscovery, make it suitable for both experienced IT professionals and those newer to network monitoring. The platform’s extensive analytics and reporting options cater to users who value detailed insights into their IT infrastructure and VoIP phone systems.
WhatsUp Gold is a reliable network monitoring solution suitable for enterprises looking to monitor IT infrastructure and VoIP phone systems together. It is available for Windows as an annual or perpetual subscription. You need to contact the company to request a quote for pricing information. You can download the free trial from this link here.
8. VoIP Spear
VoIP Spear is a VoIP monitoring solution that you can use to monitor the quality of VoIP calls. With VoIP Spear, you can measure metrics like jitter, packet loss, MOS, and latency through a graph to see how connection quality changes over time. There are over 15 servers in cities located throughout North America, South America, and Asia to ensure that you get an accurate reading.
Key Features:
- Measure MOS
- Graphs
- Worldwide servers
- Alerts
Why do we recommend it?
VoIP Spear stands out as a dedicated VoIP monitoring solution designed to assess the quality of VoIP calls comprehensively. Offering a range of essential metrics such as jitter, packet loss, MOS, and latency, the platform presents this data through insightful graphs, allowing users to visualize changes in connection quality over time. With a network of over 15 servers strategically located in North America, South America, and Asia, VoIP Spear ensures accurate readings and a global perspective on VoIP performance
Whenever the quality of calls begins to decline, VoIP Spear issues you an email alert. Alerts are customizable so that you can determine who gets alerted and how long there needs to be a quality issue before an alert is generated. This allows you to limit the number of false positives you receive.
Who is it recommended for?
VoIP Spear is recommended for enterprises seeking a lightweight yet effective solution specifically tailored for monitoring VoIP performance. The platform’s ability to issue customizable email alerts when call quality experiences a decline adds a proactive layer to performance management. With pricing starting at $10 per month for the Lite version, which includes a one-minute testing frequency and one week’s data archiving, VoIP Spear is an affordable choice for organizations looking to prioritize VoIP call quality monitoring.
VoIP Spear is a good choice for enterprises that want a lightweight and cost-effective solution for monitoring VoIP performance. Prices start at $10 (£7.06) per month for the Lite version, which offers a one-minute testing frequency with one week’s data archiving. No installation is required. You can sign up for the free trial here.
Best Jitter Tools: Editor’s Choice
Bad call quality can have a devastating effect on you and your team’s productivity. The only way to ensure that your VoIP phone systems are functioning well is to monitor them. All of the tools on this list are a great starting point for ensuring that your team can communicate effectively.
SolarWinds VoIP & Network Quality Manager stands out as a top solution for enterprises that need a VoIP monitoring tool with a diverse feature set. However, we highly recommend conducting your research to ensure that you discover the best fit for your environment.
