Rental vs Temporary Numbers: Which One Do You Need?
Proxnum offers two kinds of virtual numbers. Here is a clear comparison so you can pick the cheapest option that still keeps your account safe.
Temporary (activation)
One service, one code, about 20 minutes. Lowest price.
Rental
One number from 1 day to 180 days with unlimited SMS.
Switch in one click
Both are on the same Buy Number page — just use the switch.
One dashboard
Activations and rentals are tracked together on your Activations page.
Side-by-side comparison
| Temporary number | Rental number | |
|---|---|---|
| How long it lasts | About 20 minutes | 1 day to 180 days |
| SMS you can receive | One verification code | Unlimited during the rental |
| Re-verification later | Not possible | Possible while active |
| Extend / renew | No | Yes, at the live price |
| Cancel & refund | Automatic refund if no code arrives | Request within 2 minutes if no SMS yet |
| Typical price | Lowest | Higher total, low cost per day |
When a temporary number is the right choice
- You only need to sign up once and will not log in from new devices.
- The platform lets you add an email or authenticator app after registration.
- You want the lowest possible price per verification.
- You are testing a sign-up flow and do not need the account afterwards.
When you should rent instead
- The account matters to you and may ask for SMS codes again later.
- You will log in from several devices or reinstall the app.
- You need to receive codes from the same service several times over days.
- You manage a business profile and need a stable contact number for verification.
How to switch between them on Proxnum
Open Buy Number. Activation numbers are shown by default. Tap the Rentals switch at the top of the page to see rental services, choose a duration and rent. Your purchases appear on the Activations page, where a matching switch lets you view rentals separately from one-time activations.
Frequently asked questions
Is a rental number the same as a temporary number?
No. A temporary (activation) number receives one code and expires after about 20 minutes. A rental number stays assigned to you for the duration you buy and receives every SMS sent to it.
Which one is cheaper?
A single activation is cheaper. If you need several codes over days, a rental is usually cheaper than buying several activations.
Can I turn an activation into a rental?
No. They are separate products. If you think you will need the number again, choose a rental from the start.
Where do I see my rentals?
On the Activations page, use the Rentals switch to see your rented numbers, their messages, expiry time and the Extend option.
Ready to rent your number?
Pick a country, a duration and a service. Your number is ready in seconds.
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