10ms vs 20ms vs 30ms: Which Packet Delay Is Best for VoIP Calls?
When it comes to VoIP, packet delay, the time it takes for voice data to travel from one device to another. Also known as latency, it’s the silent killer of clear calls—even if your internet speed looks perfect. A 10ms delay feels instant. A 30ms delay? You’ll notice the lag. And it’s not just about speed—it’s about how your system handles that delay across networks, codecs, and hardware.
Jitter, the variation in packet arrival times. Also known as packet timing variation, it’s what turns smooth voice into robotic stutters. If your network can’t keep packets arriving evenly—even with low average delay—your call sounds broken. Then there’s codec selection, the compression method that turns your voice into digital data. G.711 uses more bandwidth but needs less processing, while G.729 saves bandwidth but adds tiny delays. Combine that with network congestion, Wi-Fi interference, or a cheap router, and suddenly your 10ms goal becomes 40ms in practice.
Most business VoIP systems aim for under 20ms. That’s the sweet spot: clear enough for customer service, fast enough for sales calls, and forgiving enough for mixed networks. 10ms is ideal for high-end call centers or financial trading desks where every millisecond counts—but you’ll pay for the infrastructure to get there. 30ms? It’s workable for casual use, but you’ll hear pauses between responses, especially in group calls. Real-world tests show that users start noticing delays at 25ms, and frustration spikes at 30ms and above.
What’s often ignored is how these numbers interact with your SIP setup, firewall rules, and QoS priorities. A router that prioritizes voice traffic can make a 25ms delay feel like 15ms. A poorly configured ATA can turn a clean 10ms line into a choppy mess. And if you’re using Wi-Fi 6 phones or eSIMs for travel, your delay isn’t just about your home network—it’s about every hop between you and the person you’re calling.
You won’t find one magic number that works everywhere. But you can find the right balance for your needs. Below, you’ll find real guides on how to measure your actual delay using MOS and PESQ, how to fix jitter without buying new gear, and why some providers push 30ms as "good enough" while others optimize for 10ms at every cost. Whether you’re setting up a home office, managing a call center, or trying to keep church outreach calls clear across continents, the right delay setting makes all the difference.
