What Are Choppy Calls? What are Its Causes and Solutions

Tired of dealing with glitchy, choppy calls? If your conversations keep cutting out, you’re not alone. Whether it’s weak internet, network issues, or outdated equipment, these disruptions can turn an important call into a frustrating experience.

The good news is choppy calls are fixable. Let’s dive into the common causes of poor call quality and explore simple solutions to restore clear, uninterrupted conversations. Ready to reclaim your calls?

What Are Choppy Calls?

A choppy call is when the audio quality of a conversation is compromised, making voices sound broken, delayed, or entirely missing at times. This issue can make communication frustrating, as words may be lost or distorted, leading to misunderstandings. Unlike dropped calls, where the call disconnects entirely, choppy calls remain connected but suffer from major disruptions.

How Choppy Calls Differ from Other Call Issues

Here’s how they differ from other common issues:

• Latency: This refers to the delay in voice transmission, which creates an unnatural conversation flow. Unlike choppy calls, latency may not necessarily lead to missing words but can make conversations feel sluggish.
• Jitter: Jitter occurs when voice packets are delivered inconsistently, resulting in out-of-sequence or distorted audio. While similar to choppy calls, jitter often creates echo effects or robotic-sounding voices.
• Dropped Calls: In this case, the call disconnects entirely due to network failures, whereas choppy calls remain active but suffer from audio interruptions.

What are the Common Causes of Choppy Calls?

1. Poor Internet Connection & Bandwidth Issues

A weak or unstable internet connection is one of the biggest culprits behind choppy audio during VoIP calls. Since VoIP phone systems depend on real-time data transmission, any interruption can lead to delays, distortions, or dropouts in conversation.

• Slow Internet Speeds: If your connection isn’t fast enough, data packets won’t be transmitted smoothly, making calls sound choppy. Running a speed test can help determine whether your internet meets the minimum requirements for VoIP.
• Bandwidth Overload: If multiple devices are using the network at the same time—whether for streaming, large downloads, or cloud applications—it can eat up bandwidth, leaving little room for VoIP calls. This congestion often leads to noticeable quality issues.

2. Network Jitter & Latency

Jitter and latency refer to inconsistencies in how data packets travel across the network. Since VoIP calls require a continuous flow of data, any irregularities in how packets are delivered can cause distorted, delayed, or broken-up speech.

• Jitter: This happens when data packets arrive at irregular intervals, causing words to sound out of sync or garbled.
• Latency: This refers to the delay in data transmission, which results in a noticeable lag between when one person speaks and the other hears them.

3. Packet Loss

Packet loss occurs when some of the data packets sent over the network fail to reach their destination. Unlike emails or downloads, VoIP calls don’t resend lost packets, so when pieces of the conversation go missing, you’ll experience moments of silence, garbled speech, or words cutting in and out.

Some of the most common reasons for packet loss include:

• Network congestion – When too many devices are using the network, some packets may get dropped.
• Poor routing – Inefficient pathways taken by data packets can lead to delays and loss.
• Faulty networking equipment – Older or malfunctioning routers and switches can disrupt data transmission.
• Interference from other networks – Wi-Fi signals from neighboring devices or networks operating on the same frequency can interfere with VoIP call quality.

 4. Quality of Service (QoS) Misconfiguration

Quality of Service (QoS) settings on your router determine how internet bandwidth is allocated among different types of traffic. If not properly configured, VoIP calls might take a backseat to other activities like video streaming or file transfers, leading to choppy audio.

By adjusting your router settings to prioritize VoIP traffic, you can prevent interruptions.

5. Outdated or Faulty Hardware & Software

Your internet connection isn’t always to blame for poor call quality—sometimes, the problem lies in the devices you’re using.

• Old routers and modems may struggle to keep up with modern VoIP requirements, leading to frequent disruptions.
• Low-quality or worn-out headsets create the illusion of connection problems when the real issue is the microphone or speaker itself.
• Outdated software and firmware on VoIP systems, networking equipment, and even your computer can cause compatibility issues, impacting call performance.

6. Environmental Factors

Your surroundings can also cause choppy calls. Common obstructions include:

• Physical obstructions: Walls, furniture, and large objects can interfere with Wi-Fi signals, reducing connection strength and causing call disruptions.
• Electrical interference: Devices such as microwaves, cordless phones, and Bluetooth devices can interfere with wireless network signals, leading to choppy calls.
• Poor coverage map: If your internet provider has weak coverage in your area, it can lead to unstable connections, resulting in frequent call quality issues.

How to Check for Audio Issues?

If you’re experiencing choppy audio, it’s essential to diagnose the problem accurately. Below are steps to check for audio issues and identify potential causes:

1. Conduct a VoIP Call Test

Many VoIP service providers offer test call features that analyze call quality. This helps determine whether the issue lies with your network, hardware, or software.

2. Run a Speed Test

A slow internet connection can significantly impact VoIP call quality. Run a speed test to check your upload and download speeds. Ideally, VoIP calls require at least 100 kbps per call with minimal jitter and latency.

3. Check for Packet Loss

Packet loss can cause missing or distorted audio. Use network diagnostic tools like PingPlotter or Wireshark to detect data packet loss and assess its severity.

4. Test Different Devices and Headsets

Hardware issues can sometimes cause audio problems. Try switching to a different VoIP phone, headset, or microphone to determine if the issue persists.

5. Verify Network and Firewall Settings

Ensure that your network and firewall settings aren’t blocking or deprioritizing VoIP traffic. Disable SIP ALG and enable QoS to prioritize VoIP data.

6. Contact Your VoIP Provider for Troubleshooting

If you’ve ruled out network and hardware issues, reach out to your VoIP provider for further analysis. They can run diagnostics on their end to pinpoint potential problems and suggest effective solutions.

Solutions to Fix Choppy Calls on Different Devices

Choppy calls can be frustrating, but there are several ways to resolve these issues and improve call quality. Below are solutions tailored to different causes of choppy calls.

I. Improve Internet Connection & Bandwidth Allocation

• A slow internet connection usually causes bad VoIP quality. If you feel you’re being squeezed onto a slower plan, you may want to consider upgrading to the next level or higher plan to accommodate VoIP calls smoothly. Contact your ISP to find out the best options they have regarding smooth VoIP calls without interruptions.
• Though not necessarily the cause of any of the other things but continues to remain a suspect, other applications running very heavy applications can lead to some slight choppiness during calls. Limiting activities like streaming, large downloads, or cloud backups during VoIP calls may free up some bandwidth for better performance.
• If multiple users are connected to the network, consider implementing bandwidth management tools to allocate resources effectively.

II. Optimize Network Settings & Enable QoS for VoIP

• QoS settings on your router let you prioritize VoIP data compared with less time-sensitive traffic, like video or file downloads. QoS makes sure that VoIP calls have plenty of bandwidth to avoid delays. You can use the router control panel to adjust it or ask your VoIP service provider for best practices.
• Some firewall settings or outdated router firmware can interfere with VoIP calls. To help with call stability, configure your router to allow VoIP traffic and ensure that your firewall is not blocking any important VoIP ports. Disabling SIP ALG can also improve VoIP performance by preventing changes to packet content.

III. Reduce Jitter & Latency Issues

• Wireless connectivity is more sensitive to interference and deviations in data transmission. The utilization of a wired Ethernet connection offers less latency, jitter, and packet loss. If Wi-Fi is the only option, find a place for it that allows for less wall or electronic device interference between the wireless router and the VoIP phone.
• A jitter is when packets arrive differently. Many Voice Over IP systems enable you to turn on jitter buffers, which temporarily store and reorder packets to smooth out audio playback and reduce choppiness. You can try working with jitter buffer settings to lessen the effects of abrupt fluctuations in voice data.

IV. Fix Packet Loss Issues

• The quick route is to check for packet loss on your network using speed tests, ping tests, or traceroute; if they show that there is packet loss, you should start optimizing your network configuration to get rid of it. Look for possible causes, such as extreme congestion or faulty cabling, if possible.
• If there are still issues with packet loss, consider switching to another ISP that would provide a more stable network. The VPN services can optimize your routing, and most ISPs would be happy to adjust their network paths for better VoIP performance. The fast service of most ISPs specializing in business VoIP solutions incorporated with optimized routing would ensure seamless voice communication.

V. Maintain and Upgrade Hardware & Software

• There could be issues with calls due to bad/malfunctioning hardware, headsets, or routers. Thus, investing in a quality device that is VoIP compatible ensures good sound clarity and a good connection. Choose a router with a built-in VoIP prioritization feature to strengthen call stability.
• Keep your VoIP phone, router, and software up to date to guarantee that they will have received the latest security fixes and performance enhancements. Outdated firmware may cause compatibility problems and degrade call quality. Make sure to check for software updates regularly and apply them in order to avoid known bugs from affecting your VoIP system.

VI. Contact Your Service Provider

If you have answered yes to the questions above yet the problems persist, you might want to turn to your VoIP provider for help. They can analyze the network issues, offer troubleshooting steps, or suggest alternative configurations to improve and enhance your voice calling.

Choppy calls don’t have to be a headache in your communication. Understanding the root causes and making a few simple changes can go a long way in improving the call quality. A bit of troubleshooting will fix this and keep your conversations smooth, eliminating the disturbing sounds on the line.

Say goodbye to call quality issues and hello to clearer, more reliable calls with the above-mentioned ways.

If the problem still persists, it’s time to switch your provider.

FAQs

Could my hardware be causing choppy calls?

Yes. Old routers, faulty headsets, or outdated VoIP applications can negatively impact call quality. Keeping your equipment updated can help prevent these issues.

Why is my phone call choppy?

A weak signal, network congestion, or service provider issues may be causing the problem. Checking your internet connection or switching to a better network can help

.

Why are my calls over wifi choppy?

Wi-Fi signals can be unstable due to interference from other devices or weak signals in certain areas. Using a wired connection or adjusting router settings can improve call clarity.

Is VoIP more prone to choppy calls?

Yes, VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) can be more prone to choppy calls compared to traditional phone calls. This is primarily due to the nature of how VoIP works and its reliance on internet connectivity.

How to fix choppy phone calls?

To fix choppy phone calls:

• Check your internet connection and switch to a wired one if possible.
• Upgrade outdated equipment like routers and headsets.
• Reduce network congestion by limiting connected devices.
• Adjust router placement or use a Wi-Fi extender for better signal.
• Switch to a stronger network or mobile data.
• Use call quality optimization tools for prioritizing voice traffic.