Switching to a VoIP phone system can make a lot of sense especially as ISDN lines are due to be switched off by 2025. Many businesses have been making the switch not only because of this but due to the many benefits that VoIP phones can offer. VoIP phones can be cheaper, can reduce the need for on-site hardware and are portable. There are so many VoIP providers that we have explored below what each of them offers.
The table below gives a quick price comparison of the top UK providers for business VoIP.
| Company | Price from per user (monthly) |
|---|---|
| BT | £13 |
| Virgin Media | Not stated |
| KCOM | Not stated |
| bOnline | £9 |
| Glide | Not stated |
| Fastnet | Not stated |
| Stream Networks | Not stated |
| Exa Networks | £10 |
| Pulse8 | £8.95 |
| Ai Networks | Not stated |
| hSo | Not stated |
| Telecoms World | Not stated |
| Telappliant | £4.99 |
| Boxx Internet | Not stated |
| Ice Comms | Not stated |
| Fivebars | Not stated |
| Andrews & Arnold | £1.20 |
| Cerberus Networks | Not stated |
| FluidOne | Not stated |
| Gradwell | £12 |
| Lily | Not stated |
| OptaNet | Not stated |
| Southern Communications | Not stated |
| Spitfire | £6 |
| Structured Communications | Not stated |
| SureVoIP | Not stated |
| Syscomm | Not stated |
| Vonage | £9 |
| RingCentral | £7.99 |
| 8X8 | Not stated |
| CircleLoop | £5 |
| 4Com | Not stated |
| Voipfone | £1 |
| Skype For Business | Not stated |
| Mitel | Not stated |
| Zendesk talk | £0 |
| Dialpad | Not stated |
| VoIPstudio | £3.99 |
| VTSL | Not stated |
| Buzz Connect | £4.95 |
| SoConnect | £8.95 |
| 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 |
* The facts and figures included here come from each company’s website and were accurate at the time of writing (January 2024) 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. BT
Some of the features and benefits of BT’s business VoIP.
- Offers a range of solutions
- Cloud Phone offers a plug ‘n’ play phone system for 1-9 users
- Cloud Voice offers a flexible phone system for 5-250+ users
- One Phone is a mobile-based phone system for 5-500+ users
- Each package offers a choice of calls bundles and unlimited calls
- Video conferencing
- Includes virtual geographic numbers
- Maintenance included
- Easy to manage with new users and automatic updates
- 24/7 dedicated helpdesk
2. Virgin Media
Some of the features and benefits of Virgin Media’s business VoIP.
- Offers Smart Workspace solutions with a range of packages
- Delivers operational and cost efficiencies
- Carries voice calls over the internet
- Enables video and telephone conferencing
- Allows instant messaging
- Can share documents
- Automatic updates and no hardware to maintain
- Also offers SIP trunking
- Supplies all the equipment needed
- Suits a variety of business sizes
3. KCOM
Some of the features and benefits of KCOM’s business VoIP.
- Offers SmartComms UC
- Save time and money
- Robust and flexible service
- No line rental costs
- Low call rates and free internal calls
- Easy to manage through their intuitive portal
- No ongoing technical expertise required
- Fast and resilient connectivity
- Safe and secure service
- Offers personalised service
4. bOnline
Some of the features and benefits of bOnline’s business VoIP.
- Offers a range of VoIP packages
- Choice of 12 or 24-month contracts with various inclusive minutes and features
- Reliable connectivity
- Low monthly costs
- Simple contracts
- Easy set up with no installation required
- Automatic updates and no hardware to maintain
- Connect mobile workers
- Designed for small businesses
- Highly rated on Trustpilot
5. Glide
Some of the features and benefits of Glide’s business VoIP.
- Provides cloud-based business phone solutions
- Quick and reliable service
- Tailored packages
- Robust end-to-end managed service
- Choice of hosted PBX, unified communications and fixed PTSN lines
- Separately managed voice and data to protect internet speeds and call quality
- Offers hold, transfer and incoming call rule facilities
- Can set up ad-hoc conference calls
- Simple set up and scalable solution
- Offers a range of features including virtual geographic numbers
6. Fastnet
Some of the features and benefits of Fastnet’s business VoIP.
- A smart way to run your phone through your broadband connection
- Suitable for any business with a stable internet connection
- Powerful phone system
- Simple and cost-effective
- Easy and hassle-free setup
- Connect to your phone wherever you are
- Flexible with the ability to add or remove features
- Ongoing support and maintenance included
- Complete control through the web portal
- UK-based customer support
7. Stream Network
Some of the features and benefits of Stream Network’s business VoIP.
- Offers cloud telephony solutions
- A simple solution with one easy to use phone systems
- Provides a choice of phone devices
- Allows you to have phone access everywhere
- Reduced phone costs
- Improved quality of service
- Flexible pricing
- Web-based management
- Includes inclusive UK local, national and mobile calls
- Also offers SIP trunking
8. Exa Networks
Some of the features and benefits of Exa Networks’ business VoIP.
- Offers flexible internet telephony systems
- Can offer significant cost reduction
- Fair pricing
- Provides a range of additional features
- Builds bespoke packages
- Can add or remove features whenever you need to
- Provides a simple web interface to manage your system
- They offer three different licence options
- Caters for mobile users
- Specialises in services for schools and commercial organisations
9. Pulse8
Some of the features and benefits of Pulse8’s business VoIP.
- Offers CloudPhone and hosted solutions
- Packages include inclusive minutes to UK numbers and mobiles
- Keep your landline number
- Can include handsets
- Voicemail system
- Call recording
- Click to call desktop software
- Auto-attendant
- 3G/4G compatible
- Requires a minimum of 3Mbps internet speeds
10. Ai Networks
Some of the features and benefits of Ai Networks’ business VoIP.
- Offers a range of cloud-based telephony solutions
- Hosted VoIP services including SIP trunking and virtual PBX
- Powerful telephony service
- Provides same-day quotes
- Cost-effective and competitive solutions
- Virtual switchboards
- Flexible extension numbers
- Call queuing and hunt groups
- Scalable solutions from 1 to 1,000 lines
- 24/7 monitoring and UK-based support teams
11. hSo
Some of the features and benefits of hSo’s business VoIP.
- Provides resilient cloud PBX systems
- Frees you from CAPEX
- Offers scalable end-to-end systems
- Provides integrated enhanced services
- Call recording
- Three-way calling
- Mobile integration
- Manage your system through an online portal
- Suitable for businesses of all sizes
- 24/7 technical support
12. Telecoms World
Some of the features and benefits of Telecoms World’s business VoIP.
- Offers hosted VoIP phone systems
- Competitive rates and free internal calls
- Flexible online control
- Manage call groups and schedules
- Access call analytics
- Offer a range of call bundles including unlimited
- Provides free HD handsets
- Quick and easy setup
- Safe and secure system
- 24/7 customer support
13. Telappliant
Some of the features and benefits of Telappliant’s business VoIP.
- Offers a range of VoIP phone systems
- Simple to use systems
- Advanced solutions
- Cost-effective systems to save money
- Allows you to work anywhere
- Offers SIP trunking and unified communications
- Also provides cloud and internet solutions
- International provider in 170 countries
- Offers packages to small to medium-sized businesses
- Highly rated on Trustpilot
14. Boxx Internet
Some of the features and benefits of Boxx Internet’s business VoIP.
- Future-proofed IP telephony solutions
- Choice of on-site PBX or cloud-based telephony
- Benefit from cheaper telephony costs
- Flexible solutions
- Improved call handling including hold and playing marketing messages
- Seamlessly move calls
- Great business continuity solution
- Suitable for small to large businesses
- Offers unified communications
- Highly rated on Trustpilot
15. Ice Comms
Some of the features and benefits of Ice Comms’ business VoIP.
- Simplified phone systems that are cloud-based
- Eliminates the need for complex onsite phone systems
- Provides full support and configuration
- Custom-built packages
- Cost-effective solutions
- Offers a range of features
- Simple install that works straight out of the book
- Includes equipment
- Also offers broadband and mobiles
- UK-based customer support
16. Fivebars
Some of the features and benefits of Fivebars’ business VoIP.
- VoIP solutions that are flexible
- Can save you time and money
- Requires a robust broadband connection
- No-fuss switching with no disruption
- Integrates with mobiles
- Geographical numbers
- Provides solutions that can cater for up to 100,000 users
- Expert support and engineers
- Built-in disaster recovery
- Offers a range of extra features including call recording
17. Andrews & Arnold
Some of the features and benefits of Andrews & Arnold’s business VoIP.
- Provides a variety of VoIP solutions
- Connect to your phones, mobiles or systems
- Offers SIP trunk and centrex functionality
- Can connect to your on-premises PBX
- Also can provide connection direct to handsets through cloud telephony
- Offers a choice of UK area codes and 03, 05 and 0800 numbers
- Can port in your existing numbers
- Provides pre-configured phones
- Includes voicemail, caller display, call recording as standard
- Flexible terms on a 1-month minimum contract and competitive call charges
18. Cerberus Networks
Some of the features and benefits of Cerberus Networks’ business VoIP.
- Next-generation voice services
- Offers a range of powerful IP telephony services
- Competitive and cost-effective solutions
- Hosted cloud-based service
- Feature-rich systems
- Flexible solution
- Choice of a range of handsets or use your existing hardware
- Offers softphone for a variety of devices
- Simple set up
- Control and manage your telephony through their web control panel
19. FluidOne
Some of the features and benefits of FluidOne’s business VoIP.
- Offers seamless multi-channel communications
- Includes high-quality key features
- Tailored solutions to meet your business needs
- Unified messaging
- Conferencing
- Business continuity through automatic alternative call routing
- Instant messaging, screen and file sharing
- Rapid installation
- Usage reporting with alerts
- 24/7 technical customer support
20. Gradwell
Some of the features and benefits of Gradwell’s business VoIP.
- Offers business cloud phone systems
- 24-month contract
- Easy to use system
- Robust and flexible solutions
- Enables you to reduce your telecoms costs
- Simple switch and set up
- Packed with features and a range of add-ons
- Allows you to use your phones anywhere
- Helps with disaster recovery plans
- Ideal for small and growing businesses
21. Lily
Some of the features and benefits of Lily’s business VoIP.
- Offers hosted VoIP phone systems
- Mobile phone solutions, not fixed lines
- Tailored and flexible systems to meet your needs
- Deliver high-quality calls
- Can provide savings of 30-60% compared to traditional on-premise systems
- Offers the opportunity to increase efficiencies across your business and customer service
- Easy configuration
- Offers a range of features
- Future-proofed infrastructure
- Provides the support of their large infrastructure and technical team
22. OptaNet
Some of the features and benefits of OptaNet’s business VoIP.
- Provides cloud-hosted VoIP systems for businesses
- Unified communications solutions
- Managed telephony service
- Reduces the need for on-site equipment as only IP phones and ethernet connection is required
- Provides a range of features and add-ons
- 30-day terms
- Offers business continuity and disaster recovery solutions
- Full-service solutions
- Choose from a range of phones
- UK-based support
23. Southern Communications
Some of the features and benefits of Southern Communications’ business VoIP.
- Offers VoIP telephone systems for businesses
- Flexible solutions
- Provides a cheaper telecoms system
- Easy to install solutions
- Secure service
- Supportive to IT teams and reduces the responsibility on them
- Calls can be free
- Suitable for single homeworker connections
- Offers a range of features
- Contact them for further details and quotes
Southern Communications website
24. Spitfire
Some of the features and benefits of Spitfire’s business VoIP.
- Offers a range of hosted telephony solutions
- Cloud-based systems
- Reduced complexity and hardware
- Only requires handsets or softphones
- Straightforward installation
- Developed in-house so can offer bespoke solutions
- Flexible and scalable solutions
- Offers a range of call features
- Future-proofed systems
- Provides dedicated account management
25. Structured Communications
Some of the features and benefits of Structured Communications’ business VoIP.
- Offers VoIP solutions to Sussex and Surrey as well as the rest of the UK
- Resilient and HD audio solutions for quality calls
- Features including voicemail, remote operation, call waiting and forwarding
- Provides increased capacity easily
- Free calls internally between locations
- Freedom of movement as portable when businesses move
- Suitable for remote workers from anywhere in the world
- Provides a disaster recovery solution as it is cloud-based
- 24/7 network monitoring
- Highly rated on Trustpilot
Structured Communications website
26. SureVoIP
Some of the features and benefits of SureVoIP’s business VoIP.
- Business-grade hosted VoIP systems
- Tailored solutions
- Choice of level
- Fully managed with enhanced features
- Basic hosted solution
- Suitable for businesses and single users
- Standard features include voicemail, call forwarding, caller ID and hold music
- Enhanced features include hunt call groups, conferencing, call recording and routing
- HD calls for crystal clear calls
- UK-based technical support team
27. Syscomm
Some of the features and benefits of Syscomm’s business VoIP.
- Offers secure cloud voice solutions
- Fixed monthly charges with low-cost call bundles
- Simple to use systems
- Cost-effective solutions
- Versatile and scalable systems
- Easy to set up with plug and go configuration
- Communications from anywhere on any device
- Pay only for the extensions you need
- Includes call routing and voicemail
- Unified presence across all devices
28. Vonage
Some of the features and benefits of Vonage’s business VoIP.
- Offers business cloud voice solutions
- Choice of plan with PAYG calls or unlimited options
- Option to add world coverage
- Scalable solutions
- Standard features include call forwarding, call transfer and conferencing
- Enhanced features include call monitoring, queuing, virtual receptionist and call groups
- Easy setup and switching
- Provides onboarding and training
- Offers phone handsets
- 24/7 customer support
29. RingCentral
Some of the features and benefits of RingCentral’s business VoIP.
- Provides a cloud-based phone system
- Easy to set up and manage
- Flexible and cost-effective solutions
- HD voice standard
- Voicemail
- Powerful call management
- Video conferencing
- Works seamlessly with over 100 apps
- They have an extensive global reach
- 99.999% uptime SLA
30. 8×8
Some of the features and benefits of 8×8’s business VoIP.
- Offers a choice of cloud phone systems
- Agile solutions
- Tailored plans
- Contact centre solution
- Offers a broader business solution called X Series offering a range of products
- Enterprise-grade voice
- Video meetings
- Team chat
- Comprehensive contact centre performance analytics
- They cater for small to mid-sized businesses
31. CircleLoop
Some of the features and benefits of CircleLoop’s business VoIP.
- Offers integrated business phone system
- Operate on desktop and mobile apps
- Works with many of your existing business tools
- A solution that can help you save time and money
- Includes a range of features including call recording, call analytics, call transfer and call groups
- Will port your numbers across
- Includes UK landline and mobile calls
- Provides apps for Apple and Android mobiles
- Offers a free 7-day trial with no card required
- UK-based provider who build their own systems
32. 4Com
Some of the features and benefits of 4Com’s business VoIP.
- Provide tailored VoIP solutions
- Offer three types of systems and phone products
- Cheaper and more cost-effective than traditional systems
- Scalable solutions
- Quicker and easier to install
- Simple to use
- Offers a range of features
- Call recording and reporting
- On-hold marketing
- Video services
33. Voipfone
Some of the features and benefits of Voipfone’s business VoIP.
- Offers a choice of VoIP solutions
- PAYG option to build your own package
- Unlimited package with inclusive calls to UK landlines and mobiles
- Free mobile app
- Call forwarding
- Features include queuing, call groups and switchboards
- Offers UK and international phone numbers
- Plug and go hardware
- Offers free sign up and trials
- Caters for a wide range of businesses
34. Skype for Business
Some of the features and benefits of Skype for Business’ business VoIP.
- Provides cloud-based phone systems
- Replaces on-premise PBX
- Can add direct routing and calling plan
- Create custom teams for calls
- Enable shared number with multiple lines
- Call holding facilities
- Easily connect your existing hardware
- Simple deployment
- Make and take calls from anywhere
- 99.9% uptime guarantee
35. Mitel
Some of the features and benefits of Mitel’s business VoIP.
- Combined communication tools
- Uses Google Cloud
- Feature-rich products
- Easy to use and intuitive
- Secure service
- Collaborative tools
- Real-time call management
- Seamless experience across devices
- Customisable settings
- Dedicated support for cloud voice customers
36. Zendesk talk
Some of the features and benefits of Zendesk talk’s business VoIP.
- Cloud-based phone systems
- Designed for call centres
- Built into their support ticketing system to help manage all channels
- Automatic ticket creation
- Call recording
- Reporting facility
- Access full customer history
- Simple and quick set up
- Offers a free trial
- UK-based customer support team
37. Dialpad
Some of the features and benefits of Dialpad’s business VoIP.
- Cloud-based voice systems
- Suitable for conferencing and call centres
- Supports mobile workers
- Can be used on any device anywhere
- Works on a desk phone or mobile app
- Fast deployment
- Integrates seamlessly with other business tools
- Features include call routing, call analytics and spam blocking
- Offers a free 14-day trial
- Includes voice intelligence to provide real-time insights
38. VoIPstudio
Some of the features and benefits of VoIPstudio’s business VoIP.
- All-in-one solution for telecoms
- Cloud-based solutions
- Claims to offer crystal clear communications
- Choice of phone plan to meet your needs with the features you require
- No contract
- Chat and video conferencing
- Integrates with CRMs
- Suitable for businesses of all sizes
- Highly rated on Trustpilot
39. VTSL
Some of the features and benefits of VTSL’s business VoIP.
- A powerful next-generation business phone system
- Easy to use solution
- Feature-rich system
- No contract
- All-inclusive with no hidden call charges, fees or upfront costs
- Reliable and quality network
- Can offer savings of up to 30%
- Work from anywhere on any device
- Scalable with the ability to add new users and offices easily
- Claims to offer high levels of customer service
40. Buzz Connect
Some of the features and benefits of Buzz Connect’s business VoIP.
- Specialist provider of hosted phone systems
- Low-cost solution with competitive pricing
- Simple set up
- Offers systems from 1 to multiple users
- Feature-rich system
- Suitable for agile businesses
- Choice of packages with PAYG, inclusive or unlimited minutes
- Includes a self-service portal and reporting
- Offers a range of VoIP handsets
- Highly rated on Trustpilot
41. SoConnect
Some of the features and benefits of SoConnect’s business VoIP.
- Offers hosted VoIP services
- Monthly rolling contract
- Secure services
- Reliable connection
- Fast installation
- Offers a fully managed service
- Allows you to switch between communication tools
- Provides a range of handsets
- Offers a no-obligation free trial
- Responsive customer service
42. Best 4 Business Communications
Some of the features and benefits of Best 4 Business Communications’ business VoIP.
- Offers a choice of cloud phone solutions
- Simple set up with plug and play technology
- Affordable and scalable solution
- Can be used on any device
- Provides conference bridging
- Includes smart voicemail, voice to email, call recording and reporting
- Allows you to use your main number for text messaging
- Offers a range of handsets
- Provides auto disaster recovery
- UK-based 24/7 support and monitoring
Best 4 Business Communications website
43. Sipgate
Some of the features and benefits of Sipgate’s business VoIP.
- Offers cloud telephony services
- Save time and money on an integrated solution
- A single package for landlines and mobiles including softphone on mobiles and laptops
- Can cover all of the UK and EU
- Rolling monthly contract
- Incorporates fax functionality
- Easy setup
- Scalable solutions with over 150 features
- Offers a free 30-day trial
- 24/7 monitoring
44. Focus Group
Some of the features and benefits of Focus Group’s business VoIP.
- Provides cloud-based phone systems
- Offers free handsets, set up and calls
- Flexible solutions that are easy to implement
- Reliable and agile systems
- A smart and agile solution to accept calls anywhere
- Includes a range of call management features
- Scalable solution to grow with your business
- Manage it through the online portal
- Can add collaboration, mobile applications and CRM integration
- Highly rated on Trustpilot
45. Pioneer Global Services
Some of the features and benefits of Pioneer Global Services’ business VoIP.
- Offers hosted cloud PBX solutions
- Reduced overheads and maintenance
- Includes free and low-cost calls to the UK and internationally
- No long-term contracts
- Can be used on a range of devices
- Provides a single unified solution
- Offer geographic numbers
- Feature-rich systems
- Includes auto-attendant, voicemail, fax to email
- 24/7 connectivity
Pioneer Global Services website
46. Talking Technology
Some of the features and benefits of Talking Technology’s business VoIP.
- Offers reliable VoIP business phone services
- Has a choice of packages including PAYG or unlimited calls
- Some packages include mobile or desktop app
- Free handsets included on their unlimited package
- Features include call forwarding, call transfer, call queue and call recording
- Can integrate with CRM systems
- Easy setup
- Includes onboarding and training
- Offers a range of handsets
- 24/7 support online
How much do Business VoIP Systems Cost in the UK?
The cost of a business VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) system in the UK can vary widely depending on several factors, such as the size of the business, the number of users, the features required, and the provider chosen.
Cost Estimates
- Small Businesses: For small businesses with a few users, costs can range from £5 to £15 per user per month. This typically includes basic features like call routing, voicemail, and conference calling.
- Medium-Sized Businesses: For medium-sized businesses with more users and a need for additional features such as video conferencing, CRM integration, and advanced call analytics, costs can range from £15 to £30 per user per month.
- Large Businesses and Enterprises: For large businesses and enterprises with a high number of users and a requirement for a comprehensive range of features and customizations, costs can exceed £30 per user per month.
Additional Costs
In addition to the monthly per-user fees, there may also be set-up and hardware costs, which can range from a few hundred to several thousand pounds, depending on the complexity of the system.
It is worth noting that these are approximate figures and costs can vary significantly between providers. It is recommended that you contact several VoIP providers and request quotes based on your specific business requirements to get an accurate estimate of the costs involved.
Which Business VoIP Providers Include Phones?
There are several business VoIP providers in the UK that offer phones included in their monthly prices, either as a rental or part of a bundled package. However, this can depend on the specific plan and provider.
Some providers that are known to offer phone hardware as part of their VoIP services include:
- RingCentral: They offer a range of IP phones that can be rented or purchased as part of their VoIP service plans.
- 8×8: Provides a range of VoIP plans that include the option to rent or purchase IP phones.
- Vonage: Offers VoIP plans with the option to rent or purchase a range of compatible IP phones.
- Gamma: Provides a range of business communication solutions, including VoIP with the option to include IP phone hardware.
Please note that the availability of phones included in monthly prices can vary between plans and providers. I would recommend contacting the providers directly or checking their websites for the most accurate and up-to-date information on their offerings.
How Does a Business VoIP System Work?
A business Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) system allows users to make telephone calls over the internet, rather than through traditional copper telephone lines or cellular networks. Here’s how it works:
- Conversion of Voice to Digital Data:
- When you speak into a VoIP phone, your voice is converted into digital data packets.
- Data Transmission:
- These data packets are then sent over the internet to the recipient.
- Reconversion of Digital Data to Voice:
- The data packets are then reconverted back into voice at the recipient’s end, allowing them to hear your message.
- Communication with Non-VoIP Systems:
- If the recipient is using a traditional phone, the VoIP system will connect to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) to complete the call.
- Business Features:
- Business VoIP systems often include additional features such as auto attendants, voicemail, call forwarding, and conference calling.
- Integration with Other Systems:
- Some VoIP systems can be integrated with other business tools, such as customer relationship management (CRM) software, to provide additional functionality.
Key Components of a Business VoIP System:
- VoIP Phones or Softphones:VoIP phones are specially designed to handle VoIP calls, while softphones are software applications that allow you to make VoIP calls using your computer or mobile device.
- VoIP Service Provider:This is the company that provides the VoIP service and infrastructure.
- Internet Connection:A reliable and high-speed internet connection is essential for clear and high-quality VoIP calls.
- Routers and Switches:These devices handle the flow of data packets on your network.
- Private Branch Exchange (PBX):A PBX is a private telephone network used within a company. With VoIP, you can have a virtual PBX hosted by your service provider, or an on-premise PBX that is maintained by your IT team.
- Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) Trunking:SIP trunking is a method of sending voice and other unified communications services over the internet. It works with a PBX to allow users to make and receive calls.
By using a business VoIP system, companies can often save money on long-distance and international calls, as well as enjoy greater flexibility and additional features compared to traditional telephone systems.