Your phone system is probably a critical element of your business so getting the right system that caters for your needs is essential. There are many types of phone systems available including hosted and on-premise, physical and cloud-based or VoIP (voice over internet protocol) systems. There are many providers of business phone systems, so to help you find one that might suit you we have reviewed what each provider can offer below.
The table below gives a quick price comparison of the top UK providers for business phone systems.
Company Price from (monthly)
XLN £9.95
BT £13 per user
TalkTalk £7 per user
Virgin Media Not stated
KCOM £9.95
Toople £13.95 per handset
Fido £14.95 per handset
hSo Not stated
Telecoms World £6.99
Telappliant £4.99 per user
Boxx Internet Not stated
Ice Comms Not stated
Cisco Not stated
Cerberus Networks Not stated
FluidOne Not stated
Gradwell £12
Lily Not stated
OptaNet Not stated
Southern Communications Not stated
Spitfire £6 per user
Structured Communications Not stated
SureVoIP Not stated
Syscomm Not stated
Vonage £9 per user
RingCentral £7.99
8X8 Not stated
CircleLoop £5 per user
4Com Not stated
Reach Digital Not stated
Voipfone £1 per user
Mitel Not stated
Dialpad Not stated
VoIPstudio £3.99 per user
VTSL Not stated
Buzz Connect £4.95 per user
SoConnect £7.95
Best 4 Business Communications £0.33 per day
Sipgate £14.95 for 3 users
Focus Group £9.99
Pioneer Global Services Not stated
Talking Technology £8.50 per user
* The facts and figures included here come from each company’s website and were accurate at the time of writing but may have since changed. Also, please keep in mind these may not be apples to apples comparisons as each provider offers different solutions. This guide should be used as a starting off point for more research on your part.
Below we profile each of the companies’ services and features in a bit more detail.
Note companies are ranked in no particular order and this no way indicates one solution is better than another.
1. XLN
Some of the features and benefits of XLN’s business phone systems.
- Offers traditional phone lines and cloud voice packages
- XLN Cloud Voice
- Offers a choice of packages with PAYG or unlimited options
- Suitable for multiple users and can easily add more
- Can provide better call quality
- Offers next-generation handsets
- No installation or activation fees
- Simple setup
- Designed to support smaller businesses
- Offers a range of optional extras
2. BT
Some of the features and benefits of BT’s business phone systems.
- Offers a choice of a variety of different phone systems
- Cloud-based VoIP systems
- On-premises PBX systems
- Mobile-based systems for seamless connectivity
- Combines landlines and mobiles
- Flexible solutions that can cater for a variety of needs
- Offers unlimited call packages and a wide range of features
- Online management portal
- Options suitable from 1 to 20,000 users
- 24/7 helpdesk support
3. TalkTalk
Some of the features and benefits of TalkTalk’s business phone systems.
- Offers leased lines and hosted voice
- Flexible working solutions
- Could offer lower call costs
- Can integrate with business applications
- Good for remote working
- Affordable solutions that cater for different needs
- Solutions that can grow with your business
- Utilise the latest technology
- Caters for small businesses to large ones
- 24/7 UK-based support
4. Virgin Media
Some of the features and benefits of Virgin Media’s business phone systems.
- Offers a range of business phone solutions
- Cloud-based VoIP systems
- Supports legacy phone systems through their ISDN30 solutions
- SIP trunking
- Hosted or on-premise unified communications
- Can incorporate phone, messaging, video conferencing and email
- Option to combine voice and data solutions
- Flexible solutions to cater for a range of needs
- Resilient and scalable solutions
- Caters for a range of business sizes
5. KCOM
Some of the features and benefits of KCOM’s business phone systems.
- Offers a choice of systems
- Gives you control over your voice services
- Hosted phone systems
- SmartComms UC is a customisable phone system
- PBX phone systems with equipment housed at your premises
- Offers a range of licences
- Can provider simpler and more cost-effective solutions
- Offers a range of additional voice services such as call recording and routing
- Can make mobile working and business continuity easier
- UK-based support
6. Toople
Some of the features and benefits of Toople’s business phone systems.
- Business phone systems that can combine with your mobile
- Unlimited calls to landlines and UK mobiles
- No maintenance charges or hidden fees
- Quick and simple setup
- Plug and play technology
- Includes handsets
- Offers a choice of package
- Has a range of features including call transfer, call holding, call waiting and voicemail
- Designed purely for small businesses
- UK-based customer support
7. Fido
Some of the features and benefits of Fido’s business phone systems.
- Offers cloud-based PBX systems
- Low-cost phone system
- High-quality call routes
- Includes support, maintenance and upgrades
- One simple monthly fee
- Can configure voice messaging for you
- Includes digital voicemail
- Manage calls through call queues
- Allows you to set up ring groups
- Operates through a web-based control panel
8. hSo
Some of the features and benefits of hSo’s business phone systems.
- Offers cloud-based PBX systems
- Provides end-to-end IP telephony
- Scalable solution
- Resilient system
- Feature-rich system
- Integrated enhanced services
- Includes call recording and three-way calling
- Mobile integration
- Caters for small to large businesses
- 24/7 technical support
9. Telecoms World
Some of the features and benefits of Telecoms World’s business phone systems.
- They provide VoIP phone systems
- Flexible cloud-hosted systems
- Future-proofed telecommunications
- Cost-effective solutions with unlimited call packages
- Can be used on a variety of devices including mobiles and laptops
- Access your phone system from anywhere
- Provides business continuity with a disaster recovery solution
- Easy to set up and use system
- Better call handling
- 24/7 customer service
10. Telappliant
Some of the features and benefits of Telappliant’s business phone systems.
- Offers complete business phone systems
- Save money with no line rental fees
- Lower call costs
- Flexible system
- Works well with remote workers
- Provides a range of packages to cater to your needs
- Offers a range of built-in features including voicemail, call routing, virtual receptionist and hold music
- Designed for businesses from small to large scale businesses
- Offers a price match guarantee
- Provides a range of technical support including 24/7 support on some packages
11. Boxx Internet
Some of the features and benefits of Boxx Internet’s business phone systems.
- Offers a choice of two phone systems
- Onsite PBX
- Hosted VoIP
- Reliable and cost-effective options
- Future-proofed solutions
- Flexible and scalable systems
- Improved call handling
- Provides business continuity solution
- Can offer reduced telephony costs
- Highly rated on Trustpilot
12. Ice Comms
Some of the features and benefits of Ice Comms’ business phone systems.
- Provides business VoIP phone systems
- Offers all the features of an onsite phone system
- Externally hosted system
- Simple to use
- Easy setup straight out of the box
- Provides full support and configuration
- Custom built for your business
- Cost-effective solution
- Includes a range of phone features
- Suitable for small to large businesses
13. Cisco
Some of the features and benefits of Cisco’s business phone systems.
- Offers phone systems for small to medium-sized businesses
- VoIP phone systems
- More cost-effective and powerful than a traditional PBX system
- Combines voice, video, messaging, data and mobility applications
- Allows you to collaborate in real-time
- Quick install
- Easy to use system
- Calls can be done on smartphones and tablets
- Features include voicemail, paging, instant messaging, video and web conferencing
- Has a wealth of technical support
14. Cerberus Networks
Some of the features and benefits of Cerberus Networks’ business phone systems.
- Provides VoIP phone systems
- Offers more than traditional fixed lines
- Maximise capabilities
- Minimise costs with simple and flexible pricing
- Reliable and good call quality
- Offers a range of services to choose from
- Also offers unified communications
- Offers a choice of handsets
- Caters for a small to medium-sized businesses
- 24/7 technical support
15. FluidOne
Some of the features and benefits of FluidOne’s business phone systems.
- Offers unified communications solutions
- Seamless multi-channel communication
- Can be tailored to your needs
- Offers full IP PBX call features
- Features include unified messaging, conferencing and instant messaging
- Rapid installation
- Includes usage reporting
- Offers business continuity
- 9% service level availability
- 24/7 technical customer support
16. Gradwell
Some of the features and benefits of Gradwell’s business phone systems.
- Offers cloud-based phone systems
- Specialises VoIP and SIP technology
- Can reduce your phone costs
- Simple management
- Easy switch and setup
- Packed with features
- Use your phone system from anywhere
- A flexible system that is scalable and provides business continuity
- Designed for small to medium-sized businesses
- UK-based support
17. Lily
Some of the features and benefits of Lily’s business phone systems.
- Provides a range of phone systems and communications solutions
- Will tailor a solution to meet your needs
- Offers on-premise and hosted phone systems
- Provides a wide range of call management services
- Can offer a whole communications package
- Can provide cost savings
- Future-proofed infrastructure
- Works with leading technology partners to offer innovative solutions
- Provides a dedicated account manager
- 24/7 support options
18. OptaNet
Some of the features and benefits of OptaNet’s business phone systems.
- Offers cloud-hosted VoIP phone systems
- Provides unified communications solutions
- Fully hosted and managed telephony service
- Only requires an IP phone
- Needs an Ethernet cable or PSU
- Secure storage of telephony information
- Connect to your phone system from anywhere
- Offers business continuity and disaster planning
- Suitable for single employees to large call centres
- Provides 99.98% uptime SLA and business hours support
19. Southern Communications
Some of the features and benefits of Southern Communications’ business phone systems.
- Provides and installs telecoms equipment
- Offers free consultancy and project management
- Full installation and staff training
- Includes 12 months maintenance
- Offers a range of leading phones
- Provides a range of features
- Works directly with the manufacturers
- Will tailor solutions to your needs
- Caters for businesses of varying sizes
- 24/7 security, monitoring and management
Southern Communications website
20. Spitfire
Some of the features and benefits of Spitfire’s business phone systems.
- Offers a range of telephone systems
- Hosted PBX system
- SIP Communicator Hosted PBX
- 3CX IP PBX telephone systems
- Offers full or self-managed solutions
- Provides a full range of features
- A choice of phone system
- Simple setup and installation
- Scalable solutions
- UK-based support
21. Structured Communications
Some of the features and benefits of Structured Communications’ business phone systems.
- Provides VoIP phone systems
- Flexible options with a range of features
- Specialises in services in Sussex and Surrey but covers the whole of the UK
- Offers high quality, enhanced voice communications
- Resilient network
- Free calls between company locations
- Incorporates remote workers from anywhere in the world
- Increase the line capacity when needed easily
- Provides a disaster recovery solution
- Highly rated on Trustpilot
Structured Communications website
22. SureVoIP
Some of the features and benefits of SureVoIP’s business phone systems.
- Offers a range of VoIP services
- Provides fully managed and basic hosted VoIP
- Also offers single-user VoIP
- Voicemail to email
- Call forwarding and music on hold
- Customer caller ID
- High definition calls
- Single hunt call groups
- Additional features include multiple hunt groups, conferencing, call recording and auto attendant
- UK-based technical support team
23. Syscomm
Some of the features and benefits of Syscomm’s business phone systems.
- Offers hosted telephony
- Cloud-based VoIP system
- Versatile communication tool
- Can be used from offices, home or on the road
- Integrates call routing and voicemail into a unified tool
- Allows you to communicate and collaborate from anywhere
- Low fixed monthly charges
- Low-cost call bundles
- Scalable solution and disaster recovery solution
- Maintenance and internal calls are included in a simple monthly charge
24. Vonage
Some of the features and benefits of Vonage’s business phone systems.
- Offers business phone system platforms
- Unlimited calls to UK landlines and mobiles
- Unlimited calling to 60 countries
- Keep your number or select new numbers
- Simple setup
- Quick and easy system
- Scalable solution
- Offers a choice of 3 plans
- Includes a variety of features including mobile and desktop apps
- 24/7 live support
25. RingCentral
Some of the features and benefits of RingCentral’s business phone systems.
- Integrated phone systems
- Combine phone, video, meetings and messaging
- A single, reliable system
- Easy to use
- Feature rich
- Reliable support
- Affordable pricing
- Mobile friendly solution
- Scalable and will grow with you
- Online and app technical support
26. 8×8
Some of the features and benefits of 8×8’s business phone systems.
- Offers cloud-based VoIP phone systems
- Includes all the features you expect
- Reliable solution
- Offers mobility as standard across locations and devices
- Easy to use communications
- More cost-effective solution to traditional PBX systems
- Features include extension dialling, auto-attendant, ring groups and call recording
- Collaborative tools including web conferencing and video meetings
- Includes real-time analytics
- Integrates seamlessly with CRM and productivity tools
27. CircleLoop
Some of the features and benefits of CircleLoop’s business phone systems.
- Provides cloud-based phone systems
- Offers flexibility
- Can be used through their app on mobiles and desktops
- Helps to manage teams and numbers as well as performance
- Option to include handsets
- Make and receive calls from anywhere
- Simple setup in minutes
- Works common business tools
- Scalable system that integrates with your CRM
- Offers a 7-day free trial
28. 4Com
Some of the features and benefits of 4Com’s business phone systems.
- Offers VoIP phone systems
- Tailored solutions
- Have a choice three systems
- More cost-effective than traditional phone systems
- Offers a simple setup
- Easy to use system
- Offers features including call reporting, call recording and on-hold marketing
- Includes video services
- Offers to buy you out of your existing contract
- UK based customer support
29. Reach Digital
Some of the features and benefits of Reach Digital’s business phone systems.
- Offers a range of business telephone systems
- Provides a simple and intuitive system
- Offers fixed handsets, cordless handsets and headsets
- Fully programmed handsets
- Loop enabled handsets
- View customer details on screen
- Durable cordless handsets
- Provides wireless headsets
- Offers free consultation to assess your needs
- Caters for small to medium-sized businesses
30. Voipfone
Some of the features and benefits of Voipfone’s business phone systems.
- Offers cloud-based phone systems
- Provides a choice of packages
- Plug and play software
- Offers a PAYG deal allowing you to build your own package
- Inclusive package has a 12-month contract
- Includes unlimited calls to UK landlines and mobiles
- Features include extensions, call queues and groups
- Offers a range of additional features at an extra cost
- Cater their systems for specific industries
- Allows you to sign up for free to try many of their services
31. Mitel
Some of the features and benefits of Mitel’s business phone systems.
- Offers a comprehensive range of business phone systems
- Provides unified communications and cloud communications
- Cloud-based phone systems
- On-site business phone systems
- Secure and flexible service
- Reliable service
- Can offer increased mobility
- Combines voice, messaging, conferencing and collaboration tools
- Includes Mitel Business Analytics
- Offers solutions for businesses of all sizes
32. Dialpad
Some of the features and benefits of Dialpad’s business phone systems.
- Offers reliable and secure VoIP phone systems
- Allows you to work remotely at any location
- Can be used on a range of devices
- Includes Ai insights
- Fast deployment and hassle-free setup
- Seamless integration with leading business applications
- Business SMS
- Dynamic call routing
- Automatic spam blocking
- Offers a free 14-day trial
33. VoIPstudio
Some of the features and benefits of VoIPstudio’s business phone systems.
- Offers VoIP phone services for small businesses
- Provides a choice of package level
- Offers an international call plan
- All the features of an enterprise-class PBX system
- Includes call recording with unlimited storage
- Transparent pricing
- Offers a PAYG plan
- Features include auto attendant, call queues, call recording
- Can integrate with CRM systems
- 24/7 technical support
34. VTSL
Some of the features and benefits of VTSL’s business phone systems.
- Offers next-generation business phones
- Easy to use system
- Feature rich
- No contract
- No hidden call charges or upfront costs
- Guaranteed call quality and reliability
- Per user inclusive pricing
- Cheaper than traditional phone systems
- A flexible system allowing you to make calls from anywhere and scalable
- Integrates with leading CRM platforms
35. Buzz Connect
Some of the features and benefits of Buzz Connect’s business phone systems.
- Offers hosted VoIP phone systems
- Flexible solution
- Feature rich system
- Low start-up costs and minimal hardware requirements
- Can offer a reduction in telephony costs
- Offers a range of packages all starting with a minimum of 2 users
- Self-service portal and reporting facility
- Includes 3-way voice conferencing
- Packages include phone support
- Suitable for businesses for all sizes
36. SoConnect
Some of the features and benefits of SoConnect’s business phone systems.
- Provides on-site and hosted business phone systems
- Flexible packages that allow you to call from anywhere
- Rolling monthly contract
- Provides quick response times to queries
- Helps you to control and reduce costs
- Supports you in finding the right solution for your business
- A simple solution that is maintenance free
- Manage the system from their online control panel
- Quick setup
- Caters for a variety of business sizes
37. Best 4 Business Communications
Some of the features and benefits of Best 4 Business Communications’ business phone systems.
- Provides a range of cloud-based business phone systems
- Use through any device such as smartphone, tablet or laptop
- Offers conference bridging to create a virtual meeting
- Smart voice to manage calls when you are on a call
- Includes voicemail to email and text messaging
- Call recording and reporting
- A flexible system that is scalable
- Simple to set up and maintain
- Safe and secure with auto disaster recovery
- 24/7 support and monitoring
Best 4 Business Communications website
38. Sipgate
Some of the features and benefits of Sipgate’s business phone systems.
- Provides cloud-based telephony services
- Combines landline, fax and call management
- Single call package for multiple locations
- Coverage in the UK and EU
- Works well for remote workers
- Easy to setup
- Offers over 150 features
- A flexible contract that allows you to adjust your levels when needed
- Monthly termination
- Offers a 30-day trial
39. Focus Group
Some of the features and benefits of Focus Group’s business phone systems.
- Offers cloud-based and on-premise business phone systems
- Provides latest affordable technology
- More control and flexible system
- Assists with call management
- Less outlay on hardware and maintenance
- Can offer lower costs
- Reliable technology
- Includes a range of features with additional ones available at an extra charge
- Caters for businesses from small to large
- UK-based support teams
40. Pioneer Global Services
Some of the features and benefits of Pioneer Global Services’ business phone systems.
- Offers hosted IP PBX and cloud PBX systems
- Reduces the cost of telephony compared to traditional PBX systems
- Easy setup
- Free and low-cost calls locally and internationally
- Works with all VoIP supported phones
- Offers excellent sound quality
- Can be used on a variety of devices including desk phones, cordless phones, softphones, laptops and mobiles
- Integrates multiple sites and offers geographic numbers
- Features include auto attendant, voicemail, fax to email
- 24/7 connectivity
Pioneer Global Services website
41. Talking Technology
Some of the features and benefits of Talking Technology’s business phone systems.
- Offers business VoIP phone services
- Provides a choice of deals
- PAYG or unlimited call options available
- Handsets and desktop apps included on some deals
- Features include call forwarding and transfer
- Call recording available on some deals
- Can be integrated with CRM systems
- Easy setup
- Onboarding includes training
- 24/7 support
What Is The Best Small Business Phone System In The UK?
The best small business phone system in the UK depends on the specific needs and requirements of your business. However, some of the popular options include:
- RingCentral Office:
- RingCentral Office is a cloud-based phone system that offers a range of features such as call forwarding, voicemail, call recording, and video conferencing. It also integrates with popular business tools like Salesforce and Google Workspace.
- 8×8 Virtual Office:
- 8×8 Virtual Office is another cloud-based phone system that provides features such as unlimited calling, video conferencing, and team messaging. It also offers integrations with various business applications like Microsoft Teams and Salesforce.
- Vonage Business Communications:
- Vonage Business Communications is a flexible, cloud-based phone system that offers features such as virtual receptionist, call recording, and conferencing. It also integrates with CRM tools like Salesforce and Zendesk.
- BT Cloud Voice:
- BT Cloud Voice is a hosted phone system that provides features such as call forwarding, conferencing, and voicemail. It also offers integration with Microsoft Teams and other business tools.
- Mitel MiCloud Business:
- Mitel MiCloud Business is a cloud-based phone system that offers features such as call recording, conferencing, and mobile integration. It also integrates with popular CRM tools like Salesforce and Microsoft Dynamics.
When choosing a small business phone system, it’s important to consider factors such as the number of users, the required features, and the budget. It’s also recommended to read reviews and compare the offerings of different providers to find the best fit for your business.
How To Choose A Business Phone System?
- Assess Your Business Needs:
- Identify the specific needs and requirements of your business. Consider the number of employees, office locations, and the type of calls you handle (local, international, video, etc.).
- Determine the features you need, such as call forwarding, voicemail, conferencing, and call recording.
- Consider the Type of Phone System:
- Traditional Landline: A traditional phone system that uses copper wires. Generally reliable but can be expensive and lacks modern features.
- VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol): A modern phone system that uses the internet to make calls. Offers a range of features and is usually more cost-effective than landline systems.
- Virtual Phone System: A cloud-based system that provides a virtual phone number and forwards calls to the user’s mobile or landline.
- Research Providers:
- Research different phone system providers in the UK. Look for providers that offer the features you need and have a good reputation for customer service and reliability.
- Read customer reviews and ask for recommendations from other businesses in your industry.
- Ask for Quotes:
- Contact providers and ask for quotes based on your business needs. Be sure to ask about any additional costs, such as installation, equipment, and maintenance. You can also use the form at the top of this page.
- Compare the quotes to find the best value for your business.
- Check Scalability:
- Consider the scalability of the phone system. Make sure it can grow with your business and handle any future increase in call volume or additional locations.
- Test the System:
- If possible, test the phone system before making a decision. Check for call quality, ease of use, and the availability of customer support.
- Read the Contract:
- Before signing any contract, read it carefully and understand the terms and conditions. Look for any hidden costs, contract length, and the process for canceling or upgrading the service.
By following these steps, you can choose a business phone system that meets your needs, fits your budget, and provides the necessary support for your business to thrive.
How Much Does A Business Phone System Cost In The UK?
The cost of a business phone system in the UK can vary significantly depending on several factors, such as the type of system, the number of users, the features required, and the provider. Here are some rough estimates to give you an idea:
- Traditional Landline System:
- The cost can range from £20 to £50 per user per month, with additional costs for installation and maintenance.
- VoIP System:
- The cost can range from £10 to £30 per user per month, with additional costs for installation and equipment.
- Virtual Phone System:
- The cost can range from £5 to £15 per user per month, with minimal additional costs for installation and equipment.
- Additional Costs:
- There may be additional costs for features such as call recording, voicemail, conferencing, and customer support.
- Some providers also charge a one-time installation fee, and there may be costs for equipment such as phones and routers.
It’s important to note that these are approximate figures, and prices can vary significantly between providers and packages. It is recommended that you contact several providers and request quotes based on your specific business requirements to get an accurate estimate of the costs involved.
* Please note we have an affiliate relationship with XLN.