Top 10 Best VoIP Systems for Small Businesses & What You Need to Know About Small Business VoIP
Your business phone line is a direct channel to your customer base. You need a phone system that's easy to use, reliable, and scalable.
But what’s the best VoIP service for small businesses and your particular needs?
In this guide, I cover:
- What VoIP is and it’s key features
- 10 reasons why your small business needs a VoIP phone system
- The top 10 best VoIP phone systems for small business
- Answers to frequently asked VoIP small business questions
By the end,
Read on for more.
What is VoIP?
VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. It's a technology that allows you to make voice calls using an internet connection instead of a traditional landline. VoIP systems work by converting voice signals into digital data. This enables you to call from various devices, including computers, smartphones, VoIP phones, and traditional phones.
Key VoIP features
- Cost Savings: VoIP systems often reduce costs. It routes phone calls over the Internet instead of traditional telephone networks.
- Call Forwarding and Routing: You can direct phone calls to different numbers or devices with VoIP systems.
- Voicemail to Email/Transcription: VoIP can transcribe your voicemails into text or send audio files directly to email.
- Unified Communication: VoIP integrates with video conferencing, SMS, instant messaging, and team collaboration tools.
- Scalability: You can easily add or remove phone lines without physical infrastructure changes.
- Mobile and Desktop Apps: Many VoIP providers offer apps for smartphones and desktops. You can make and receive calls from any location with internet access.
- Automated Attendant/IVR (Interactive Voice Response): This feature acts as a virtual receptionist. It can guide callers through options to reach the right department or person.
- Call Recording: You can record calls for quality assurance, training, or compliance purposes.
- Call Analytics and Reporting: VoIP systems give you insight into call volumes, durations, wait times, and more.
- CRM Integrations: Many VoIP services integrate with CRMs.
- High-Quality Audio: VoIP offers high-definition voice quality that’s typically better than traditional phone lines.
- Custom Caller ID: With VoIP, you can control your caller ID to enhance brand consistency and professionalism.
- SMS and MMS: Some VoIP services make it possible to send SMS and MMS messages.
10 Reasons Why Your Small Business Needs a VoIP Phone System
A VoIP phone system can be a game-changer for your small business. Most small business VoIP telephone systems offer cost savings, flexibility, and the tools needed to stay competitive.
Here’s why a VoIP phone system is a smart investment for your business:
1. Cost savings on calls
Traditional phone lines can be expensive. This is especially true for long-distance or international phone calls. VoIP uses the internet to route calls, often at a fraction of the cost. This lets you connect with contacts and partners without breaking the bank.
2. Improved mobility and flexibility
With VoIP, you can make and receive business calls from anywhere with an internet connection.
Working from home, traveling, or in the office? Regardless, VoIP systems give you full access to your business line on your computer, smartphone, or VoIP phone.
This flexibility makes it easy to keep up with anyone while on the go.
3. Enhanced customer service
VoIP enables features like call forwarding, automated attendants, and voicemail-to-email. Each of these features helps you handle customer calls efficiently.
For example: An automated attendant can help route calls to the right team member. This can reduce wait times and improve your overall customer satisfaction.
4. Scalability as you grow
Traditional phone systems often require hardware upgrades as your team expands.
But VoIP systems scale - you can add or remove lines with ease. This scalability makes VoIP ideal for business owners who need to keep up with fluctuating demands.
5. Advanced communication features
VoIP offers robust features beyond voice calls. Some VoIP telephone services also offer tools like video conferencing, call recording, and call analytics.
Plus, you’ll often find that they integrate with other software like CRMs. All of this can streamline communication and improve your team's collaboration.
6. Better team collaboration
Many VoIP systems include instant messaging, video conferencing, and file sharing. These features make it easier for team members to collaborate.
They also support remote work. This can help you create a unified communication system that connects your entire team, no matter where they are.
7. Improved call quality
As long as you have a strong internet connection, VoIP can deliver high-definition call quality. This quality is often better than traditional phone lines.
8. Seamless integration with existing tools
VoIP systems can integrate with popular business tools like customer relationship management (CRM) platforms, email, and calendar software.
This integration enables quick access to customer information, better scheduling, and enhanced productivity during calls.
9. Future-proofing your business
The shift toward digital communication is accelerating, and VoIP aligns your business with modern communication trends.
Implementing VoIP now can set you up for future growth. It enables you to leverage new features and technologies as they emerge.
10. Enhanced security
Many VoIP providers offer encrypted calling and other security features that protect your communications.
This may be especially important for industries where data privacy is a priority. VoIP services can help you safeguard sensitive business and customer information.
Top 10 Best VoIP Phone Systems for Small Business
- CommunityPhone: Best small business VoIP for those needing a reliable, internet-free landline alternative with basic features and strong customer support.
- Nextiva: Best small business VoIP for teams wanting a versatile communication solution with seamless CRM integration and top-tier customer service.
- RingCentral: Best small business VoIP for companies requiring advanced call management and collaboration features with extensive third-party app integrations.
- 8x8: Best small business VoIP for growing businesses that need a unified communication platform combining voice, video, and messaging in a single system.
- Dialpad: Best small business VoIP for tech-forward businesses looking to leverage AI-driven features like phone call transcription and real-time coaching for enhanced productivity.
- Ooma: Best small business VoIP for budget-conscious businesses seeking straightforward, affordable phone services with essential call management features.
- Vonage: Best small business VoIP for companies prioritizing flexible plans and a highly customizable system that scales with business growth.
- Grasshopper: Best small business VoIP for solo entrepreneurs and small teams who want a simple mobile-friendly solution to establish a professional business line.
- Zoom Phone: Best small business VoIP for businesses already using Zoom’s video services and looking to integrate reliable VoIP with video and messaging for seamless communication.
- Line2: Best small business VoIP for those seeking a cost-effective, mobile-first solution with core calling features and easy setup.
1. Community Phone
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Who Community Phone is best for:
Community Phone is best for those seeking a straightforward, internet-free landline solution. Unlike other VoIP small business phone systems, Community Phone leverages cellular networks for reliable connectivity.
This is why Community Phone customers appreciate its simplicity and ease of setup. It doesn't require an internet connection. This makes it ideal for areas with limited broadband access.
Additionally, Community Phone offers unlimited nationwide calling, voicemail, and call forwarding. It caters to those who prefer traditional landline functionality without the complexities of VoIP systems.
Customers also highlight Community Phone's focus on customer service and support. It's a great option for those valuing personalized assistance.
Community Phone overview:
Community Phone is a modern small business landline alternative. It operates through cellular networks, so you get a reliable phone service without an internet connection. This means it works especially well for areas with limited broadband access.
Community Phone also offers essential features like call forwarding, voicemail, and number portability. With Community Phone, you get simplicity and transparency. There aren’t any hidden fees, long-term contracts, or rate hikes.
Community Phone features:
- No Internet Required: Works independently of internet connectivity.
- Backup Battery: Ensures up to 12 hours of power in case of outages.
- Call Forwarding: Redirect calls to multiple numbers simultaneously.
- Voicemail Transcription: Converts voicemails into text for quick review.
- Guaranteed Call Quality: Reliable coverage backed by a satisfaction guarantee.
- 3-Year Price Lock: Fixed rates with no unexpected price increases.
- Real Human Support: Dedicated support from knowledgeable representatives.
- Easy Number Porting: Transfer your existing number seamlessly.
2. Nextiva
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Who Nextiva is best for:
Nextiva is best for those who need a small business VoIP telephone system that integrates with existing tools.
Customers often praise Nextiva for its versatility. It allows for operations from various locations, and its intuitive interface simplifies communication management.
Nextiva also integrates with popular CRM systems. It also offers other features like call recording and analytics to provide valuable insights for business growth.
Additionally, Nextiva's 24/7 customer support suggests that you’ll receive timely assistance.
Nextiva overview:
Nextiva is one of the most comprehensive VoIP platforms. It provides businesses with a unified communication solution that integrates voice, video, and messaging into one seamless experience.
Nextiva also offers superior call quality and reliability. They advertise an impressive 99.999% uptime, ensuring you’ll stay connected at all times.
Nextiva’s platform is also highly customizable. It even comes with a visual call flow builder and detailed analytics dashboards. Both can help you optimize your communication processes.
Nextiva also offers a range of integrations with popular CRMs and helpdesks. This makes it a versatile choice for companies looking to enhance their customer service and sales operations.
With scalable pricing plans, Nextiva can grow with your business. It offers additional features and capabilities as your needs evolve.
Nextiva features:
- Unified Communication: Combines your voice, video, and messaging in one platform.
- Visual Call Flow Builder: Nextiva has intuitive tools for setting up and managing call routing.
- Advanced Analytics: You can customize dashboards for tracking call metrics and performance.
- Integrations: Connect Nextiva with popular CRMs like Salesforce, HubSpot, and Zendesk.
- Call Pop: Provides real-time customer data on incoming calls for personalized service.
- 99.999% Uptime: Nextiva offers industry-leading reliability.
- VoIP Hardware Availability: You can purchase or lease compatible VoIP hardware through Nextiva.
- Team Collaboration Tools: Nextiva comes with built-in messaging and file-sharing capabilities.
- Scalable Plans: Nextiva’s flexible pricing options suit businesses of different sizes.
- 24/7 Customer Support: Round-the-clock assistance via phone, email, and live chat.
Nextiva reviews from customers:
Whitney S.
"Customer Service is great! And the set-up is so easy and they walk you through instead of handing you a guide. Whenever you run into an issue, which so far for us it is hardly ever, you can rely on technical support to fix the issue immediatley. Also, our phones have never been down which is something we had experienced frequently with our last provider. We happy with the switch! Update: Still awesome customer service. No outages or major problems!"
Melissa E.
"The service is very unreliable. It is not the most intuitive or user-friendly. Often, training others with its capabilities is very cumbersome and confusing. For example, transferring calls can be tricky and takes time to master. The app often crashes and is not reliable at all. Whenever there is an update, prepare for Nextiva to have lots of issues for a period of time. Customer Service is absolutely awful and unhelpful. Some of the features are ones we would never use due to our line of work."
3. RingCentral
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Who Ringcentral is best for:
Need a comprehensive, scalable small business VoIP telephone system with collaboration features and third-party integrations? If yes, then RingCentral is best for you.
Customers often laud RingCentral for its ease of use. You also get a wide selection of features and multiple price points. This makes it an excellent small business VoIP phone system.
Additionally, RingCentral’s ability to integrate with hundreds of third-party applications enhances its versatility. You also get robust call management features and even AI-powered tools. All of this can make it a powerful collaboration platform.
RingCentral also offers a consistent experience across mobile and desktop applications. You can customize menus and accessibility options, making it a user-friendly VoIP telephone system for small businesses.
RingCentral overview:
RingCentral is a unified communications provider that offers a range of VoIP services. These include voice, video, messaging, and collaboration tools.
RingCentral excels in integrations, offering native connections with over 300 popular applications like Salesforce, Microsoft 365, and Google Workspace.
You also get AI-powered features with RingCentral. These include live transcription, meeting summaries, and task management. All of which set Ringcentral apart as a more innovative platform compared to other VoIP providers, like Vonage.
RingCentral features:
- Unified Communications: Integrates voice, video, messaging, and more on a single platform.
- Advanced Call Management: Includes call routing, IVR (Interactive Voice Response), call queues, and call recording.
- Team Collaboration: Offers team messaging, task management, and file sharing.
- Video Conferencing: Provides HD video meetings with features like screen sharing and recording.
- Mobile and Desktop Apps: Access RingCentral from any device via mobile and desktop apps.
- CRM Integrations: Connects with over 200 apps, including Salesforce, Microsoft 365, and Google Workspace.
- Global Reach: Supports international calling and offers local numbers in over 100 countries.
- Security and Compliance: Ensures compliance with GDPR, and HIPAA, and provides industry-leading security.
- Analytics and Reporting: Real-time analytics and reporting to track communication performance.
- 24/7 Customer Support: Available via phone, chat, and email.
RingCentral reviews from customers:
Aquib K.
"We can send messages to our candidates, its very easy to use, we can implement this in any team, Customer support is also good. I use daily and it has many other features."
Rose C.
"The TCR is taking some time to be approved."
4. 8x8
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Who 8x8 is best for:
8x8’s power is in how it integrates voice, video, and messaging into a single, user-friendly VoIP solution. Customers also like 8x8 for its comprehensive feature set. This includes unlimited calling, video conferencing, and team messaging, all accessible through a single application.
The platform's scalability also allows you to start with basic services and expand as needed. Additionally, 8x8's robust security and compliance certifications are a must for those with stringent data protection requirements.
8x8 overview:
8x8 is a leading cloud-based communications platform offering unified communications as a service (UCaaS).
The platform brings together voice, video, chat, and contact center solutions in one package. This makes it a great choice for those wanting to streamline communication across multiple channels.
With real-time analytics and AI-powered tools, 8x8 helps organizations improve both internal team collaboration and customer service. Its flexible and scalable solutions make it a strong fit for larger growing businesses
8x8 features:
- VoIP and Video Conferencing: High-quality voice and video conferencing tools that connect teams and customers across the globe.
- Team Collaboration: Built-in team messaging and collaboration tools that enable efficient workflows.
- Contact Center Integration: Integrated contact center solutions for handling customer inquiries and improving service.
- Real-Time Analytics: Advanced analytics and reporting features for tracking performance and optimizing communication.
- Mobile and Desktop Apps: Access 8x8 features across devices for seamless communication on the go.
- Integrations: Supports integrations with leading business tools such as Salesforce, Microsoft Teams, and Google Workspace.
- AI-Driven Insights: Uses artificial intelligence to enhance customer interactions and provide actionable insights.
Reviews from 8x8 customers:
Steve M.
"It's a solid product, Works very well and very intuitive to users. Installation is easy whether using MSI or EXE, both take a few minutes to install. While on phone, it can be flipped to cell phone instantly, There is also an Outlook snap in for meetings. We use it on a dialy basis and most of our folks love the products. Also customer service is top notch. We'll get a call from support within hours of placing a ticket."
Teaira P.
"There are times when the app will not dial out. It is as though the app glitches out from time to time. This happens on the laptop, the mobile app, or the deskphone. Sometimes it will last for at most 2 hrs. I can receive calls, but calling out creates a issue."
5. Dialpad
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Who Dialpad is best for:
Dialpad is best if you prioritize AI-driven communication and seamless integration with existing software.
Customers note the power of Dialpad’s AI-powered call transcription and smart alerting features. Both work well for streamlining communication workflows and providing actionable insights.
Additionally, Dialpad's user-friendly interface and regular updates mean you’re getting access to the latest features and improvements. Dialpad is a reliable choice if you want to leverage advanced technology in your small business.
Dialpad overview:
Dialpad is a comprehensive cloud-based communication platform. It combines voice, video, messaging, and AI-driven insights into one unified solution for remote teams and modern businesses.
Dialpad’s standout feature is its AI-powered Voice Intelligence (Vi) technology. This provides you with real-time transcription, call summaries, and actionable insights that enhance your productivity and decision-making.
Additionally, Dialpad integrates well with popular CRM tools and productivity apps. This makes it easier for your organization to streamline your workflows and improve customer interactions.
Dialpad features:
- AI-Powered Voice Intelligence (Vi): Real-time transcription, automated call summaries, and actionable insights enhance communication efficiency.
- Unified Communications: Combines voice, video, messaging, and conferencing in a single platform.
- Seamless Integrations: Integrates with popular CRM and productivity tools like Salesforce, Slack, and Google Workspace.
- Multi-Device Support: You can access Dialpad on desktop, mobile, and web platforms.
- Call Recording and Analytics: You can record calls and access detailed analytics to track performance and improve decision-making.
- Voicemail Transcription: Dialpad converts voicemails to text for easy review and follow-up.
- Customizable Call Routing: You can direct calls based on predefined rules for efficient call handling.
- Team Collaboration Tools: Dialpad gets you in-app messaging, shared contacts, and call transfer features.
- International Calling: Dialpad offers competitive rates for international calls.
- Visual Voicemail: You can view and manage voicemails in a list format with transcription options.
Dialpad reviews from customers:
Stephanie B.
"We've had a wonderful experience so far with Dialpad. We love the Ai options provided with our service as well as the ability for all users to utilize the advance services and SMS messaging. The implementation process was easy and painless. "
Nicole S.
"Dialpad is quite costly, it runs about 4x what I would pay for typical phone service, but you do get 4+ times the features you would usually have with standard landlines. So you have to weigh your pros and cons to see if it is worth it at the end of the day. There have been some issues with calls dropping before they make it through to the lines, but it is rare and not something I typically have to worry about."
6. Ooma
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Who Ooma is best for:
Ooma is one of the best VoIP phones for small businesses. It’s an affordable, user-friendly solution that offers essential features without the complexity of more extensive VoIP systems.
Customers praise Ooma for its straightforward setup and transparent pricing, with plans starting at $19.95 per user per month. This start price makes it an attractive option for budget-conscious businesses.
Ooma’s platform gives you a range of fundamental VoIP features. This includes unlimited calling, a virtual receptionist, and mobile app support.
While Ooma caters to the core communication needs of small teams it lacks some advanced higher-tier VoIP features. Instead, Ooma focuses on simplicity and cost-effectiveness. Its an ideal choice if you need ease of use and essential communication tools.
Ooma overview:
Ooma provides VoIP services to both residential and business customers. With Ooma, you get a range of communication solutions. This includes home phone services through Ooma Telo and business phone systems via Ooma Office.
Customers know Ooma for its easy setup, high-quality voice calls, and robust set of features. These features go beyond what traditional landlines and basic VoIP services offer.
With Ooma, you can enjoy features like virtual receptionists, call blocking, voicemail transcription, and smart home integration. All of these tools make it a versatile choice for those looking to upgrade their communication systems.
Ooma features:
- VoIP Calling: Free unlimited calling in the U.S. with options for affordable international plans.
- Ooma Mobile App: Make and receive calls using the Ooma mobile app on your mobile device.
- Call-Blocking: Custom and anonymous call-blocking features to prevent unwanted calls.
- PureVoice HD Technology: Ensures high-quality voice calls even on low-bandwidth networks.
- Virtual Receptionist: Automates call handling for businesses with options for routing and voicemail.
- Conference Bridge: Allows businesses to host conference calls with multiple participants.
- Smart Home Integration: Connects with devices like Amazon Alexa, Google Voice, and more for enhanced home automation.
- 911 Services: Automatic address transmission to emergency responders during 911 calls.
Ooma reviews from customers:
Tanesha S.
"Ooma Office has been amazing for our small non profit. The value and the service put it over any other company we have used. No more being on hold for hours to make adjustments or ask questions. I love the online access and how easy it is to make changes. It was a huge asset during COVID when I had to make changes to our answering service from home. It was easy to set up and we use it every day."
Austin L.
"The only real downside to Ooma is that you are dependent on a stable and reliable internet connection...which includes not just the internet provider service, but your modem hardware working properly."
7. Vonage
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Who Vonage is best for:
Vonage is great if you need a flexible VoIP solution with robust features and extensive integration. Vonage’s comprehensive communication tools include voice, video, and messaging services.
The platform's also integrates with over 100 third-party applications. This makes it a great solution for customization to meet specific needs.
Additionally, Vonage offers scalable plans and reliable service. It’s a great choice if you’re growing and need a versatile and dependable VoIP phone service for small businesses.
Vonage overview:
Vonage is a cloud-based communications provider offering VoIP services for businesses and individual consumers.
With Vonage, you get voice, video, messaging, and team collaboration tools.
Vonage also offers features like CRM integrations, advanced call management, and access via mobile apps.
Vonage features:
- VoIP Calling: Get high-quality voice calls over the internet, eliminating the need for traditional phone lines.
- Unified Communications: Combines voice, video, messaging, and collaboration tools into one platform.
- Vonage SMS and MMS: Offers text messaging (SMS) and multimedia messaging (MMS) capabilities.
- Advanced Call Management: Provides powerful tools like call forwarding, screening, queues, routing, and recording.
- Voicemail Transcription: Automatically converts voicemails into text.
- Mobile and Desktop Apps: Full-featured mobile and desktop applications.
- Team Collaboration Tools: Includes built-in messaging, file sharing, and video conferencing tools.
- CRM and App Integrations: Integrate with applications like Salesforce, Microsoft 365, and Google Workspace.
- International Calling: Affordable international calling rates with local numbers in over 60 countries.
- Toll-Free Numbers: Toll-free numbers and bundled minutes for customer service and sales departments.
- Call Analytics and Reporting: Detailed call data, real-time analytics, and custom reporting features.
- Communication APIs: Integrate voice, SMS, MMS, video, and verification services into existing applications.
- Customizable Call Flows: Set up IVR (Interactive Voice Response) for personalized customer call flows.
Vonage reviews from customers:
Rahul S.
"It is very easy to handle and the interface is so pretty and so attractive and its features is very useful and helpful to use it easy way its really very comforting in all device like mobile, laptop as well as Desktop and its features for texting really amazing. Easily we can communicate with clients without any lacking and it is very easy to install in all devices. "
Vignesh R.
"Integrating third party application to Vonage was little bit challenging and it was not an one step process to integrate, it needed a dedicated technical expertise from Vonage to do it for us, which was a pain-point in using Vonage."
8. Grasshopper
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Who Grasshopper is best for:
Are you an entrepreneur or freelancer needing a mobile-friendly VoIP solution with just the essential features? If yes, then Grasshopper is for you.
Grasshopper customers say it's easy to set up and use. It allows them to keep things professional using a business phone line that works seamlessly across multiple devices.
Keep in mind, that Grasshopper does lack some advanced VoIP features. It focuses on simplicity and mobility, making it the best if you need ease of use and just the essentials.
Grasshopper overview:
Grasshopper is another VoIP phone system for small businesses. With Grasshopper you get the professional communication tools you need without additional hardware.
Grasshopper’s platform allows you to manage calls and texts on an existing smartphone, business landline, or desktop app. No matter your device, you get a range of features that streamline communication.
Grasshopper also supports key features like multiple extensions, call forwarding and voicemail transcription. All of which makes it easy to keep communications professional.
It is especially useful for those who need to manage calls and separate their personal and business communications.
Grasshopper features:
- Business Phone Numbers: Choose from toll-free, local, or vanity numbers for your business.
- Call Forwarding: Forward calls to your mobile phone or any other number.
- Voicemail Transcription: Receive transcriptions of your voicemails via email.
- Business Texting: Send and receive text messages from your business number.
- Simultaneous Call Handling: Handle multiple calls at once.
- Extensions: Provide different extensions for departments or team members, each with its own call-forwarding rules.
- Custom Greetings: Record professional greetings to welcome callers and provide them with options.
- Virtual Fax: Receive faxes as PDF attachments directly in your email inbox.
- Mobile and Desktop Apps: Manage calls, texts, and voicemails from your phone or computer with Grasshopper’s apps.
- Instant Response: Automatically send a text response to missed calls, ensuring you never miss a business opportunity.
Grasshopper reviews from customers:
Amber S.
"Grasshopper allows me to use my very own cellphone as a work phone day in and day out. It can plug in and work with slack and Hubspot to channel all the call information to our CRM to collect the data too. What I love most is that every voicemail comes with a written transcription so that I do not have to listen to every voicemail if I do not have the time. It also allows texting with customers, as well as several lines to be added for our support team. My supervisor is also able to monitor the texts and calls that come through."
Greg P.
"No Security. All anyone needs to steal your account and phone number is your credit card information. They will not return the service or business phone number back to you without a court order.They send an email to inform you that your information and account email was changed, but never sent one prior to authorization. Move your number while you can!"
9. Zoom
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Who Zoom is best for:
Do you already use Zoom for video conferencing? Then you might want to consider Zoom Phone.
With Zoom Phone you can integrate a reliable VoIP solution into your existing communication infrastructure. People love Zoom Phone’s seamless integration with Zoom Meetings. It gives you a great unified platform for simple communication and collaboration.
The platform also offers essential VoIP features like call recording, voicemail transcription, and call routing. It’s a practical, user-friendly choice that offers competitive pricing.
All of this makes Zoom an attractive option if you need enhanced communication capabilities without significant additional investment.
Zoom overview:
Zoom is a versatile, cloud-based communication platform best known for its video conferencing capabilities. But with Zoom Phone, you can also get a robust VoIP phone system.
In fact, Zoom Phone integrates seamlessly with the broader Zoom ecosystem. It allows you to manage calls, video meetings, and team chats from a single interface.
Zoom’s platform is particularly beneficial for organizations with remote or hybrid work environments. It does a great job of smoothing transitions between voice calls and video conferences.
Zoom's ease of use, extensive integration options, and scalability make it a top choice. Choose Zoom if you need to unify all of your communication tools across multiple channels and devices.
Zoom features:
- Unified Communication Platform: Zoom as a platform combines video, voice, and chat.
- Global Coverage: Zoom supports phone numbers in over 45 countries with international calling capabilities.
- Voicemail Transcription: You can automatically transcribe voicemails and deliver them via email with Zoom.
- Call Recording: Zoom offers on-demand and full-time recording with playback and transcription options.
- Salesforce Integration: The native Salesforce integration works well for click-to-dial and automated call logging.
- Call Routing and Queues: Zoom offers advanced call management features like auto attendants, call queues, and intelligent routing.
- Elevate to Video: You can seamlessly transition from a voice call to a full Zoom video meeting.
- Shared Line Groups: Zoom allows multiple customers to share a line and access shared voicemail.
- Analytics and Monitoring: Provides detailed analytics and real-time monitoring.
- Device Flexibility: Zoom works on a wide range of devices, including desktops, smartphones, and traditional desk phones.
Zoom reviews from customers:
Griselda R.
"There's always new updates that come in so handy when hosting virtual events. The ease that comes with being a host and co-host when facilitating virtual events diminishes the cognitive overload from facilitating content. One of the most valuable things is sending participants automatically to breakout rooms, especially when we have a mix of joining via laptop, tablet, and phone - this also lifts the burden from the participants and enhances their experience."
Ali A.
"While Zoom Workplace has many strengths, there are a few areas where users might find room for improvement: Bandwidth Requirements: High-quality video and audio can consume a lot of bandwidth, which might be challenging for users with slower internet connections. Security Concerns: Despite improvements, some users still worry about privacy and security, especially with the rise of “Zoombombing” incidents in the past. Cost: For larger organizations or those needing advanced features, the cost can add up quickly."
10. Line2
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Who Line2 is best for:
Line2 is one of the most affordable, straightforward voip small business phone systems. With Line2 you get essential communication features without the complexity of more extensive systems.
Customers like Line2’s easy setup and friendly interface. It’s great for professionals who need a business phone line that operates across multiple devices.
Like Grasshopper, Line2 lacks some advanced VoIP features. It focuses on simplicity and cost-effectiveness.
Line2 overview:
Line2 is a cloud-based VoIP service. It provides you with a second phone number for managing your professional communication on your existing device.
Line2 offers a full-featured virtual phone system. This includes voice calling, texting, and call management tools.
Line2 is particularly appealing if you need to keep your personal and professional communications separate. With Line 2 you can also manage your communications from any device.
Line2 features:
- Dual Phone Lines: Line 2 helps you manage two separate phone lines on a single device.
- Unlimited Calling and Texting: Enjoy unlimited calls and texts within the US and Canada with Line2.
- Call Screening and Blocking: Line2 manages incoming calls to screen and block spam.
- Voicemail to Email: You can automatically forward voicemails to your email with Line2.
- Advanced Auto-Attendant: Use customizable auto-attendant features to route calls and play personalized greetings with Line2.
- Cross-Platform Compatibility: Access Line2 across multiple devices, including desktops, laptops, and smartphones.
- Group Conferencing: Add up to 20 participants to a call from any device for group meetings and discussions.
- WiFi Calling: You can make and receive calls over WiFi with Line2.
Line2 reviews from customers:
John L.
"One device , two lines makes it a lot easier to communicate with clients that have different lines of products. I sell for multiple companies and Line2 makes it seem that there is a dedicated line for THAT business."
Simon W.
"There are some downsides. Texting is glitchy and it only allows one photo (attachment) per text, Not great if, like me, you need to send multiple photos, you end up needing to send multiple texts."
Answers to Frequently Asked Small Business VoIP Questions
Below are answers to frequently asked VoIP small business questions.
How can I add SMS to any landline or VoIP phone system?
With MessageDesk, you can add SMS superpowers to your existing business phone system without disrupting your voice provider setup.
MessageDesk plugs into your existing phone number and lets you start sending and receiving SMS.
You can use MessageDesk to add the following SMS superpowers to any VoIP provider:
- Shared Team SMS Inbox
- SMS Broadcasts
- SMS opt-in and opt-out management
- SMS campaigns and auto-responses
- SMS forms and Chatbot for gaining subscribers
- SMS compliance and registration assistance
What is the best VoIP phone solution for small business with trial?
- RingCentral – 14-day trial
- Nextiva – 7-day trial
- Dialpad – 14-day trial
- Grasshopper – 7-day trial
- Ooma – 60-day trial
How reliable is VoIP compared to traditional phone lines?
VoIP can be very reliable, but its quality depends on your internet connection. A stable, high-speed internet connection is essential for clear, uninterrupted calls. You may also consider network redundancy to minimize potential disruptions.
Is VoIP more affordable than a traditional phone system?
Yes, VoIP often costs less than traditional phone services. This is especially true for long-distance and international calls.
Additionally, many VoIP providers offer flat-rate pricing. This can help you manage your budget without worrying about fluctuating phone bills.
What equipment do I need to set up a VoIP system?
Basic VoIP equipment includes a broadband internet connection, a router, and compatible VoIP phones or software applications.
Some businesses also use headsets or adapters for traditional phones. Most providers offer software that you can use on computers and mobile devices.
Are small business telephone phone systems VoIP?
Yes, many small business phone systems are VoIP-based. They provide a flexible, cost-effective alternative to traditional landlines. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone systems use an internet connection instead of traditional phone lines to make and receive phone calls.
Can I keep my existing phone number with VoIP?
Yes, most VoIP providers offer number porting services. With number porting, you can transfer your existing phone number to your new VoIP service.
How secure is VoIP for business communications?
Most reputable VoIP providers use security measures like encryption to protect calls and data. You’ll also want to implement strong passwords, firewalls, and possibly a Virtual Private Network (VPN).
What are the main advantages of using VoIP for remote teams?
VoIP enables remote work. It allows employees to make and receive business calls from anywhere with an internet connection.
Many VoIP systems also support video conferencing, instant messaging, and integrations with other productivity tools.
Can VoIP integrate with other business applications?
Yes, many VoIP systems integrate with customer relationship management (CRM) software, email, SMS, and project management tools.
What features should I look for in a small business VoIP provider?
Key small business VoIP features include:
- Call forwarding
- Voicemail-to-email
- Call recording
- Conferencing
- SMS and MMS capabilities
- Auto-attendants
- Mobile app support
How can VoIP improve customer service?
VoIP offers call handling, routing, and record-keeping. It enables customer service teams to manage calls more effectively. Features like call analytics and CRM integrations also provide insights to help improve customer interactions.
Is VoIP suitable for high-volume call centers?
Yes, VoIP is suitable for call centers. It provides essential features like automatic call distribution, IVR (interactive voice response), and call monitoring.
Final thoughts and next steps
MessageDesk can help you add texting to your existing VoIP number.
We’re here to help you find the best ways to communicate. Especially to maintain a strong and positive presence with your contacts and customers.
Ready to get started? Your next step is to meet with a MessageDesk messaging expert.