Every small business needs a reliable phone system. Choosing the right provider helps you lock in smooth operations and exceptional customer service. Below, we’ll take a look at ten of the best phone systems tailored to meet the needs of companies like yours, covering a range of features, price points, and more to help you make an informed decision.
Top Phone Systems for Small Businesses:
1. RingCentral
RingCentral gives companies a comprehensive cloud-based phone system ideal for small businesses. If you want a simple structure and a user-friendly interface that you can take with you as your company grows, RingCentral is for you.
Highlights: Scalable as your business grows, integrates with popular apps like Salesforce and Google Workspace
Best Phone System for Small Businesses that: Need a versatile system that supports remote work.
2. Google Voice
Google Voice is a cost-effective and straightforward solution if you need basic call management features. It’s extremely easy to set up and use and, of course, offers seamless integration with other Google services like Calandar, Gmail, and more.
Highlights: Easy to set up and use, free version available for small teams
Best Phone System for Small Businesses that: Already use Google Workspace to meet other needs.
3. AT&T Business
AT&T’s business phone system is reliable and scalable, with a variety of service options. Their plans can include both VoIP and traditional landline service, and you can count on them for coverage across nearly the entire country. If calls are a key part of your business model, AT&T Business should be at the top of your list.
Highlights: Extensive coverage and reliability, advanced features like auto-attendant and ring groups
Best Phone System for Small Businesses that: Provide constant support to customers and need an ultra-reliable phone setup.
4. T-Mobile Business
T-Mobile’s business services give you a wide range of flexible plans that focus on affordability and mobile integration. With 5G support and coverage across the majority of the US, their plans are ideal picks for companies that primarily use cell phones for communication with customers.
Highlights: Competitive pricing and excellent network coverage, benefits from T-Mobile's 5G innovations
Best Phone System for Small Businesses that: Work off of cell phones and have field operations.
5. Verizon Business
Verizon has several different phone services for businesses, including VoIP and wireless solutions. They have impressive coverage in some of the more rural parts of the country, which can be helpful if your team has field operations in more remote areas.
Highlights: Strong network performance in rural areas, customizable plans and features
Best Phone System for Small Businesses that: Need a dependable service across diverse geographical areas.
6. Nextiva
Nextiva offers one of the best virtual phone systems for small businesses with plenty of VoIP-based features that will keep your team flexible and efficient. If you want to build voice communication into an existing CRM platform, Nextiva is for you.
Highlights: Unified communications features, excellent customer support
Best Phone System for Small Businesses that: Want to integrate voice with a CRM.
7. 8x8
8x8’s cloud-based VoIP solutions are easy to set up and can scale with your business needs. A big perk to their plans is the wealth of data they provide and their international functionality. If your team operates globally and has lots of collaborative calls, 8x8 is a streamlined and feature-rich solution.
Highlights: Robust analytics and reporting tools, works globally without additional infrastructure
Best Phone System for Small Businesses that: Operate internationally and need a scalable system.
8. Vonage Business
Vonag offers VoIP solutions tailored to small businesses, with a strong focus on cross-platform communication. Their plans can integrate with your existing CRM and are ideal if you run a brick-and-mortar office with lots of incoming and outgoing calls.
Highlights: Plug-and-play installation, integrates with most major CRM systems
Best Multi-Line Phone System for Small Businesses that: Need easy integration with existing technology stacks.
9. Grasshopper
Grasshopper is designed specifically for startups and small companies, providing a virtual phone system that operates alongside your existing mobile phone or landline. Simple and straightforward, their plans are easy to use without much previous tech experience.
Highlights: Designed for simplicity and ease of use, offers features like voicemail transcription and business texting
Best Phone System for Small Businesses that: Solopreneurs and startups that prefer a no-frills phone system.
10. Ooma Office
Ooma Office has an easy-to-use interface and straightforward pricing structure, making it ideal for small-scale startups and solo ventures. If you want simplicity and would prefer to skip a contract, Ooma is the perfect solution.
Highlights: No contracts required and affordable pricing, reliable service with excellent call quality
Best Phone System for Small Businesses that: Want a budget-friendly solution without sacrificing quality.
What Is the Best Phone System for a Small Business?
Choosing the best phone system for your small business depends on some specific details, including your company’s size, communication needs, budget, and the industry you’re in. Below, we’ll summarize the key considerations and offer guidance to help you choose a system that’s perfect for you.
Key Considerations
Scalability: Make sure the system can handle the growth of your business, accommodating more users and expanding as needed.
Features: Make sure to identify which features are must-haves for your operations. Pay attention to voicemail-to-email, call forwarding, or integration capabilities with other software.
Cost: Think about both upfront costs and ongoing expenses. VoIP systems often offer a lower ongoing cost but may require more upfront investment.
Reliability: Dependability is key in customer service, and you want a provider that you can count on. Look for phone services that have reliable customer support and a strong track record.
Ease of Use: Systems that are easy to install and maintain keep the burden on your team low and help avoid disruptions.
FAQs About The Best Phone System For Small Business
What is a small business phone system?
A small business phone system is more than just a method for making and receiving calls. In addition to these basics, a system often includes additional features like voicemail, call forwarding, call queuing, and the ability to integrate with other business systems like email and customer relationship management (CRM) tools. These systems can be based on traditional landline services, VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol), or even mobile networks.
How much does a phone system cost for a small business?
Basic VoIP systems can start as low as $10 to $20 per user per month, while more advanced systems with extensive features and support may cost $30 to $50 per user per month or more. Additional costs can include installation, hardware (phones and headsets), and maintenance fees.
What is VoIP, and how does it benefit small businesses?
VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) lets you make voice calls using a broadband internet connection instead of a regular phone line. This tech can help you cut costs, enhance your team’s mobility, and provide advanced features that are often too pricey for small businesses with traditional systems.
How can I choose the best phone system for my business?
Think about your business size, expected growth, the features you need, and your budget. It's also helpful to take advantage of free trials to test how well a system fits with your business operations before making a commitment.