In the rapidly advancing world of technology, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) has become a cornerstone for business communications. Offering a blend of versatility, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness, VoIP solutions are increasingly favoured by businesses across the UK. To aid in your selection, we have compared and reviewed the top 12 business VoIP providers in the UK for 2024.
What is VoIP?
VoIP, or Voice over Internet Protocol, is a technology that allows you to make voice calls using a broadband Internet connection instead of a regular (or analog) phone line.
Some VoIP services may only allow you to call other people using the same service, but others may allow you to call anyone who has a telephone number – including local, long-distance, mobile, and international numbers.
Using VoIP can potentially reduce costs associated with traditional phone services and increase functionality by integrating with other services and software.
It is a key component in modern business communications infrastructure, offering flexibility and a host of advanced features.
Best UK business VoiP providers compared
| VoIP Provider Name | Starting Price (GBP) | Free Trial Availability | Trustpilot Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8×8 | Custom Pricing | Yes | 2.1 |
| Vonage | £14.99/month | Yes | 4.8 |
| bOnline | Custom Pricing | Yes | 4.5 |
| Dialpad | Custom Pricing | Yes | 4.4 |
| Mitel | £19.99/month | Yes | 3.7 |
| RingCentral | £20.00/month | Yes | 4.5 |
| GoTo Connect | Custom Pricing | Yes | 4.8 |
| Teliqo | Custom Pricing | No | N/A |
| CallHippo | Free (Basic Plan) | Yes | 2.9 |
| 3CX | Free (Startup Plan) | Yes | 4.1 |
| BT Business | £16.26/month | No | 1.6 |
| Ringover | £20.89/month (Smart) | Yes | 4.2 |
The ‘Starting Price’ reflects the lowest-paid plan available or the starting price of custom plans. Free trial availability is also subject to terms and conditions set by the provider.
8×8
Renowned for its comprehensive suite of communication solutions, 8×8 offers a variety of services including voice, video, chat, and contact centre solutions. Their packages are scalable, making them ideal for small businesses with growth aspirations.
Key offerings
- Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS) solution integrating voice, video, and chat.
- Global Cloud Communications Platform.
- Advanced analytics and reporting features.
Pros
- Extensive feature set supports a wide range of communication needs.
- Scalable solutions good for growing businesses.
- Strong international calling capabilities.
Cons
- Can be complex to set up and manage without IT expertise.
- Pricing may be higher than some competitors, especially for advanced features.
Vonage
Offers a reliable and cost-effective VoIP solution with features like unlimited calling, voicemail, call forwarding, video conferencing, and call recording. Vonage is known for its ease of use and high-definition call quality.
Key offerings
- Unlimited calling, text messaging, and a mobile app.
- High-definition voice quality.
- Integrations with CRM and business tools.
Pros
- User-friendly interface suitable for small businesses.
- Competitive pricing with a variety of plans.
- Strong reputation for reliability.
Cons
- Customer support has received mixed reviews.
- Additional costs for some advanced features.
bOnline
bOnline specialises in bespoke VoIP solutions for small businesses, providing tailored plans to meet specific requirements. They offer a mix of basic to advanced VoIP features, catering to varied telecommunication needs.
Key offerings
- Customisable VoIP solutions.
- Flexible pricing plans.
Pros
- Tailored services for unique business needs.
- Good customer service reputation.
Cons
- Limited information on international calling capabilities.
- May not be suitable for larger businesses with complex needs.
Dialpad
Dialpad is a modern VoIP provider that focuses on AI-driven communications, offering voice intelligence features that can transcribe calls, provide real-time coaching, and voice analytics, particularly beneficial for sales teams.
Key offerings
- AI-powered telephony.
- Sales-focused features like real-time coaching.
Pros
- Innovative AI features.
- User-friendly interface.
Cons
- May be costly for full feature access.
- AI features may require a learning curve.
Mitel
A veteran in the field of business communications, Mitel‘s VoIP solutions are targeted at businesses transitioning from traditional phone systems to more modern, cloud-based solutions.
Key offerings
- Range of solutions from basic VoIP to advanced unified communications.
- Call center and collaboration tools.
- MiCloud Connect platform for hosted communications.
Pros
- Extensive experience in the telecommunications industry.
- Robust feature set for larger businesses.
Cons
- More suited for larger businesses, may be complex for small businesses.
- Some users report a steep learning curve.
RingCentral
Known for its robust VoIP platform, RingCentral is especially geared towards enhancing customer service teams with a range of features including toll-free numbers, unlimited calling, and advanced call handling capabilities.
Key offerings
- Comprehensive VoIP solution with messaging, video, and phone.
- Extensive integration with third-party applications.
Pros
- Feature-rich for customer service teams.
- Strong infrastructure and reliability.
Cons
- Can be expensive for small businesses.
- Some users report issues with customer support.
GoTo Connect
Provides an all-in-one communication platform that offers voice, video, and messaging services. It is recognised for its user-friendly interface and comprehensive feature set.
Key offerings
- Integrated communication platform.
- User-friendly interface.
Pros
- Wide range of features.
- Good usability and setup.
Cons
- Pricing can be less competitive for the value.
- Some features may be unnecessary for smaller setups.
Teliqo
Offers hosted telephony services with a range of flexible packages from bronze to gold. They provide a personalised service, making them a good match for small to medium-sized businesses.
Key Offerings:
- Hosted telephony services.
- Bronze, silver, and gold packages.
Pros:
- Personalised service.
- Flexible package options.
Cons:
- Not as well-known as some competitors.
- Limited third-party integrations.
CallHippo
CallHippo is a global VoIP provider that offers local and toll-free numbers in more than 50 countries. Features include call forwarding, recording, voicemail, and text messaging, suitable for businesses looking to have an international reach.
Key offerings
- Global phone numbers.
- Basic to advanced calling features.
Pros
- Free basic plan available.
- Good for international businesses.
Cons
- Premium features come at a higher cost.
- Some complaints about call quality.
3CX
3CX provides a software-based private branch exchange (PBX) system that is known for its flexibility and ease of installation. It supports standard SIP soft/hard phones, VoIP services, and traditional PSTN phone lines.
Key offerings
- Software-based PBX system.
- Standard SIP supports with PSTN lines.
Pros
- Free startup plan.
- Scalable and flexible solutions.
Cons
- May require IT knowledge for setup.
- Limited customer support hours.
BT Business
BT offers a suite of VoIP and unified communications solutions, including instant messaging, video conferencing, and cloud-based management. They are a traditional and well-established telecom provider in the UK.
Key offerings
- Unified communications solutions.
- Cloud-based admin portal.
Pros
- Integrated solutions with other BT services.
- Established and trusted provider.
Cons
- Can be more expensive than alternatives.
- Customer service can be slow to respond.
Ringover
Ringover focuses on optimising voice strategy and providing digital channels and mobility features. It caters to businesses looking for a robust VoIP solution with an emphasis on voice and strategy optimisation.
Key offerings
- Voice strategy optimization.
- Mobility and digital channel support.
Pros
- Focus on voice strategy.
- Offers good mobility features.
Cons
- Pricing may be high for smaller businesses.
- Some users may find the feature set overwhelming.
FAQ about business VoIP providers in the UK
Yes, VoIP can be cost-effective, reducing expenses on traditional phone lines, long-distance charges, and maintenance.
VoIP can be highly reliable if you have a stable internet connection and a quality service provider.
Many UK VoIP providers offer adapters that allow you to use your existing analog phone.
Most VoIP services support number portability, allowing you to keep your existing number.
Yes, most VoIP providers offer apps that allow you to use your business number from your mobile device.
Call quality can be excellent with a good internet connection, often surpassing traditional phone lines.
A broadband internet connection with adequate speed and bandwidth is required for VoIP.
Business VoIP services typically offer additional features like advanced call handling, integration with business tools, and multiple lines.
Many VoIP providers offer integrations with CRM systems, email, and productivity applications.
VoIP providers often have call forwarding features to redirect calls to mobile phones or other numbers in case of an outage