Cloud calling has become the nerve-center of modern workplaces. In 2025 more than three-quarters of U.S. companies rely on VoIP or UCaaS, and analysts expect the global market to top $150 billion by 2027. The shift is being driven by AI call routing, end-to-end encryption, and tighter integrations with CRMs, project hubs, and customer-service platforms. Below is an updated, insight-packed rundown of the standout providers this year—plus the specific innovations that set them apart.

Headline features (new in 2025):

RingSense AI auto-summaries and task suggestions dropped into Slack or Microsoft Teams.

Dynamic 911 & remote-worker location tracking.

300+ turnkey integrations plus low-code workflow builder.

Strengths

All-in-one voice, video, team chat, fax, and SMS.

Granular call-flow designer with drag-and-drop IVR.

Enterprise-grade analytics with QoS heat maps.

Trade-offs

Tiered pricing starts higher than most SMB-focused rivals.

Feature density creates a learning curve for small teams.

Headline features

Unlimited domestic SMS/MMS in 30 countries.

99.999 % uptime SLA across 19 global data centers.

One-click “Elevate to Meeting” keeps the same call ID when switching to video.

Strengths

Familiar interface for millions of existing Zoom users.

Global Select plan bundles numbers in 45+ countries.

Lightweight desktop/mobile clients (sub-100 MB install).

Trade-offs

Lacks built-in help-desk ticketing or outbound dialer.

International per-minute rates can climb quickly outside bundle zones.

Headline features

NextivaONE workspace merges calls, SMS, email, and social DMs into one timeline.

Visual voicemail with keyword search.

Auto-survey after each call ties CSAT to individual agents.

Strengths

Native, zero-config CRM and help-desk tools.

Unlimited voice/video in North America at entry tier.

U.S.-based 24/7 support consistently tops satisfaction charts.

Trade-offs

UI feels dated compared with newer “flat” designs.

Limited selection of non-U.S. local numbers.

Headline features

Unlimited calling to 48 countries, including most of APAC and LATAM.

Voice for Teams v3 lets you keep Microsoft Teams UI while 8×8 handles PSTN.

Built-in PCI-DSS–compliant call recording.

Strengths

Contact-center modules (ACD, IVR, workforce management) share one SLA and bill.

HIPAA, GDPR, ISO 27001, and FedRAMP Moderate-ready.

Hot-spare data centers on four continents for instant fail-over.

Trade-offs

Onboarding can be complex; expect a multi-week cut-over for large estates.

Some AI add-ons only available above X6 tier.

Headline features

Unified Communications API suite: voice, video, SMS, Verify 2FA, and WebRTC in one console.

End-to-end encrypted calling option for regulated industries.

Low-latency SIP trunking for custom PBX migrations.

Strengths

Highly granular usage-based pricing for seasonal peaks.

AppCenter marketplace with 50+ pre-built add-ins.

Robust fail-over routing rules.

Trade-offs

Entry-level plans lack live support; tickets can take a day to resolve.

Admin portal UI is less intuitive than modern competitors.

Headline features

Live transcription in 70+ languages with sentiment scoring.

GPT-powered “Ai Recap” drafts follow-up emails and CRM notes.

Voice intelligence skill-coaching for reps.

Strengths

Sleek, consumer-grade design speeds onboarding.

Deep Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 calendar/email tie-ins.

Built-in call-quality dashboard shows jitter, latency, and packet-loss in real time.

Trade-offs

Lacks some legacy PBX functions (overhead paging, fax).

CRM integrations limited to top-tier plans.

Headline features

Plug-and-play base station pairs with analog handsets or IP phones.

Remote Device Monitor alerts admins if an employee’s device drops offline.

Virtual receptionist records custom greetings on mobile.

Strengths

Starting price under $20/user with no contract.

Straightforward setup; most teams are live in under an hour.

Landline-style reliability—Ooma switches calls to cellular during outages.

Trade-offs

Feature set caps out at 20 lines per location.

No native video or team-chat tools (must bolt on third-party apps).

Best Value Overall: Nextiva (all-channel engagement + low entry cost)

Best for Remote/Hybrid Teams: Zoom Phone

Best Enterprise Suite: RingCentral MVP

Best AI Toolkit: Dialpad Ai Voice

Best Global Dialing: 8×8 X Series

Best Dev-Friendly: Vonage Business

Best Under-20-Seat Option: Ooma Office

Leverage these insights—and the feature checklist above—to shortlist providers, schedule demos, and run a brief proof of concept for your power users. The right VoIP partner will not only slash telephony costs but also tighten collaboration and unlock AI-driven efficiencies across your entire organization.

RingCentral is a popular cloud-based communications service for businesses of all sizes. It allows companies to handle calls and texts across multiple devices with ease.

Many consider RingCentral one of the best VoIP service providers in 2024, with over 400,000 brands using their platform. Their system works well for companies that want to avoid expensive on-premises phone systems.

RingCentral offers four different pricing plans. Each plan includes different features, making it simple for businesses to choose what fits their needs and budget.

One helpful feature is automatic call transcription. The system instantly transcribes calls and meetings, capturing every word spoken. For one-on-one calls, users receive complete transcripts of their conversations.

Small businesses find RingCentral particularly useful. The company uses modern cloud technology to offer more than just basic phone systems. Small business owners can start with a free trial to test the service.

RingCentral calls itself the number one business communications solution. Their reputation comes from years of providing reliable service to companies worldwide.

The RingCentral RingEX plan works well for businesses that want to move away from traditional phone systems. It offers flexibility without the high costs of older technologies.

Users can access RingCentral through computers, smartphones, and desk phones. This flexibility lets employees stay connected whether they’re in the office or working remotely.

The platform integrates with many business tools and software. This makes it easier for companies to keep their communications connected with other systems they already use.

Nextiva stands out as a top choice for businesses seeking reliable VoIP solutions. This service provides unlimited nationwide calling, text messaging, conferencing, and team chat features starting at $18.95 per month.

Over 100,000 brands trust Nextiva for their communication needs. The system has earned high marks from both verified reviews and VoIP industry experts, with U.S. News rating it as the best VoIP phone system for businesses.

Small businesses particularly benefit from Nextiva’s offerings. The platform is designed to be user-friendly while providing professional features that help small teams communicate effectively with customers and each other.

For businesses looking at pricing options, Nextiva offers competitive rates with plans starting at $30 per month for small business VoIP solutions. These plans include the essential features most small companies need.

What makes Nextiva popular is its reliability and ease of use. The system works well for companies that need a straightforward phone solution without complex setup requirements.

Nextiva also offers a range of compatible VoIP office phones for businesses in 2025. These phones come with various features to meet different business needs and budgets.

Some Reddit users have noted that while Nextiva is excellent for larger companies, it might be more feature-rich than what very small businesses need. It’s sometimes considered more comprehensive but possibly more complex than some alternatives.

The service now supports over one million users, showing its widespread adoption across various industries. This large user base speaks to the system’s stability and customer satisfaction levels.

Businesses can choose from different tiers of service based on their specific needs and growth plans. This scalability makes Nextiva suitable for both new startups and established companies looking to upgrade their communication systems.

Zoom Phone stands out as a top VoIP solution for businesses of all sizes. This cloud-based phone system offers unlimited domestic calls and comes with SMS messaging capabilities that keep teams connected.

Users can access helpful features like voicemail transcription and call recording. These tools make it easier to keep track of important conversations without taking detailed notes during calls.

The system works well for small businesses looking for an affordable option. Pricing starts at just $10 per user, making it one of the most budget-friendly VoIP services available.

Zoom Phone integrates seamlessly with other Zoom products. This means teams can switch between video meetings and phone calls without changing apps, creating a smoother workflow.

Security remains a key strength of the service. Businesses can trust that their communications stay protected, which matters greatly when handling sensitive customer information.

Many organizations have switched to Zoom Phone from older systems and reported positive results. One Reddit user shared that their company moved from Mitel to Zoom Phone and found it to be “a fantastic experience and reliable.”

The system offers excellent call handling features. Teams can route calls, set up auto-attendants, and manage queues with ease, helping them provide better customer service.

Zoom’s strong reputation in communications technology gives users confidence in their phone system choice. Many companies already familiar with Zoom meetings find the transition to Zoom Phone straightforward.

Different pricing plans let businesses choose the right fit for their needs. Organizations can select options based on call volume and feature requirements.

Setup and management require minimal technical knowledge. This makes Zoom Phone accessible even to companies without dedicated IT staff.

Call quality remains consistently high, which helps maintain professional communications with clients and partners. The cloud-based system adapts well to various internet connections.

Dialpad offers a comprehensive VoIP phone system designed for businesses of all sizes. This cloud-based solution combines voice, video, and messaging features in one platform, making communication easier for teams.

What makes Dialpad stand out is its AI-powered technology. The system can automatically transcribe calls and provide real-time insights, helping businesses improve their customer service.

Dialpad’s VoIP phone system has been rated #1 on G2, showing high customer satisfaction. The platform works well for both small businesses and large enterprises looking to streamline their communications.

The service includes key features like call routing, forwarding, and transferring. Users can make and receive calls from any device, which is perfect for remote work situations.

Dialpad offers a 14-day free trial of their service. This gives businesses a chance to test the platform before making a commitment.

For recruitment firms, Dialpad provides specialized solutions that help with remote interviews and high-volume outreach. These features can improve efficiency in hiring processes.

The system integrates with many popular business tools. This makes it easier to keep all work in one place without switching between different apps.

Pricing for Dialpad is based on the number of users and features needed. While not the cheapest option on the market, many businesses find the AI capabilities worth the investment.

Customer support is available to help with setup and troubleshooting. The company also provides resources to help users get the most out of their system.

Unlike some competitors that focus on larger businesses, Dialpad works to provide solutions for companies of all sizes. Their reliable cloud VoIP service balances advanced features with ease of use.

Google Voice is a business phone system that works through the internet. It offers a simple way to make and receive calls using a special Google Voice number.

This service lets you use your phone number on both smartphones and computers. You can place and receive calls from anywhere as long as you have internet access.

One big advantage of Google Voice is its price. It’s one of the most affordable cloud phone systems available today. Small businesses looking to save money on phone service often choose it for this reason.

Setting up Google Voice is straightforward. Users don’t need much technical knowledge to get started. The system works well with other Google products, making it ideal for businesses already using Google Workspace.

For home users, Google Voice can replace a traditional landline. Some people connect devices like the Obi200 to make all home phone jacks work with Google Voice. This setup helps save money on monthly phone bills.

Google Voice shows the same number when calling from different devices. This feature helps keep business communications consistent. Customers see the same number regardless of which device the call comes from.

The system also includes useful features like voicemail transcription. This converts voice messages to text, making them easier to review quickly. Users can read voicemails instead of listening to them.

Call forwarding is another helpful option. Users can send calls to multiple phones, ensuring they never miss important business calls. This works well for small teams or solo entrepreneurs who are often on the move.

Text messaging is built into Google Voice too. Users can send and receive SMS messages through the same system they use for calls. This keeps all communications in one place for better organization.

For businesses that need basic phone service without complicated features, Google Voice provides a good balance. Its user-friendly design makes it accessible to everyone on a team.

8×8 stands out as a powerful VoIP solution for businesses of all sizes. This platform brings together business communications and customer interaction data in one place, making it easier to manage all your communication needs.

The system offers a comprehensive suite of tools including VoIP phone services, video conferencing, and messaging. These features help teams connect with customers more effectively while gathering better insights from their interactions.

One notable advantage of 8×8 is its ability to provide HD calling and cloud PBX features that can elevate employee communications. For companies with global operations, 8×8 offers unlimited international calling, which can significantly reduce costs.

The 8×8 Platform for CX helps businesses connect teams and customers while providing sharper insights into communications. This data-driven approach enables companies to make better decisions about their customer engagement strategies.

Though 8×8 works well for larger companies, some small businesses might find it pricey and somewhat complex compared to simpler options. However, its robust feature set often justifies the investment for growing businesses.

The mix-and-match plans allow companies to tailor the service to their specific needs. This flexibility makes 8×8 suitable for businesses at different growth stages that need different levels of service.

According to business reviews, 8×8 offers global support alongside its communication tools. This can be especially valuable for companies with international customers or team members spread across different time zones.

The platform integrates VoIP, video, and messaging tools into one system. This integration reduces the need for multiple communication platforms and creates a more streamlined experience for both employees and customers.

For businesses looking to scale their operations, 8×8 provides the infrastructure needed to grow without major communication disruptions. The system can accommodate additional users and features as a company expands.

Aircall offers a modern VoIP system designed for business teams. It combines phone capabilities with helpful tools that make customer service better.

Setting up Aircall is quick and easy for small businesses. Their Onboarding Portal provides step-by-step instructions to help new users get started right away.

One standout feature of Aircall is its reliability. The service maintains a 99.95% uptime, which means fewer dropped calls and service interruptions. This happens because they work with top global voice carriers.

Businesses can try Aircall before buying. They offer a free trial period that lets companies test their features without making a financial commitment.

The system includes many useful features. Call routing sends calls to the right team member. Toll-free numbers make it easier for customers to reach the business. Companies can also get international numbers to appear local in different markets.

For customer service teams, Aircall adds extra value. The platform includes queue call back options, which let customers keep their place in line without staying on hold. Smart routing directs callers to the best available agent.

Managers will appreciate the analytics tools. Aircall provides data about call volumes, wait times, and agent performance. These insights help businesses improve their phone service over time.

Call monitoring is another helpful feature. It allows supervisors to listen in on calls for training purposes or step in if needed. This helps maintain quality service across the team.

Aircall works well with other business software. The system can connect with CRMs, helpdesk platforms, and other tools to keep customer information organized and accessible.

The VoIP service focuses on improving business communication. It helps teams stay connected whether they work in an office or remotely.

Intermedia Unite stands out as a robust unified communications platform designed specifically for small to medium businesses. It combines phone systems, video conferencing, and collaboration tools in one package.

This VoIP system has earned recognition for its quality. PC Magazine has awarded Intermedia Unite for being the “Best VoIP for Ease of Use,” making it user-friendly for teams of all technical skill levels.

The platform offers strong call routing features that help businesses manage their communications effectively. These features allow calls to be directed to the right person or department quickly.

Companies looking for a complete communications solution will find that Intermedia Unite provides all the tools needed in one place. This saves time and reduces the need to manage multiple separate systems.

Price is another advantage of this system. Reviews indicate it has competitive pricing when compared to similar VoIP solutions, making it accessible for businesses with budget constraints.

Intermedia Unite works through a VoIP app that connects users to the cloud telephony system. This app is among the top VoIP applications available in the market today.

The comprehensive functionality of Unite helps teams collaborate better. With tools for meetings, calls, and teamwork all integrated, employees can communicate more smoothly across different channels.

Business owners appreciate that Intermedia Unite offers a complete package without requiring multiple subscriptions or services. This all-in-one approach simplifies billing and system management.

For companies seeking to upgrade their phone systems, Intermedia Unite provides modern features while maintaining ease of use. The cloud-based platform allows for flexibility and remote access.

Vonage Business offers VoIP phone service starting at $13.99 monthly. This cost-effective solution works well for companies of all sizes looking to upgrade their communication systems.

Small businesses find Vonage particularly helpful. Their small business VoIP solutions provide secure and efficient communications that save both time and money.

The system boasts impressive reliability. Vonage maintains a 99.999% uptime record based on their performance from July 2021 through February 2022.

One standout feature is their SIP-enabled business phones. These phones are tested and certified for business use, offering all the modern features you’d expect from top-tier VoIP equipment.

Vonage Business Communications isn’t just about phone calls. The platform includes dependable VoIP features and video conferencing tools, making it a complete communications solution.

Setup is straightforward, even for those without technical backgrounds. Vonage provides clear instructions and support to get your system running quickly.

The system scales well as businesses grow. You can add lines and features as needed without major infrastructure changes.

Mobile integration allows employees to make and receive business calls from their personal devices. This feature proves useful for remote workers and those frequently away from their desks.

Call quality remains clear and consistent. Users report few issues with dropped calls or poor connections when using Vonage services.

Customer service representatives are available to help with any questions or technical issues. This support becomes valuable when setting up more complex features or troubleshooting problems.

OpenPhone stands out as a top choice for small businesses looking for a VoIP system. Their plans start at just $15 per user per month, making it budget-friendly for growing companies.

This VoIP phone system for small businesses helps teams get up and running quickly. Users can start making calls in minutes after sign-up, without complex setup processes.

OpenPhone offers unlimited calls to the US and Canada as part of its basic package. This feature alone makes it valuable for companies with high call volumes.

The system includes all essential calling features businesses need. Call routing, forwarding, and transfers come standard with the service. These tools help teams manage communications efficiently.

Small business owners praise OpenPhone’s reliability. According to user reviews, the system is robust without breaking the bank. Many have used it for months without major issues.

The interface is clean and easy to navigate. Even team members without technical skills can learn to use it quickly. This simplicity saves training time and reduces frustration.

OpenPhone works well with other business tools. It offers numerous integrations with popular apps and services. These connections help streamline workflows and boost productivity.

The mobile app receives positive feedback from users. It allows teams to take business calls from anywhere, keeping them connected while on the go.

Customer support has earned a good reputation among OpenPhone users. When issues arise, the support team responds quickly to resolve problems.

Some users consider OpenPhone to be the future of business phone systems. Its modern approach to communication sets it apart from older, more traditional VoIP providers.

For businesses that want modern features without complexity, OpenPhone delivers. It balances functionality with user-friendliness better than many competitors.

The company regularly updates its service with new features. This shows their commitment to improving and staying current with business needs.

VoIP technology transforms how businesses communicate by sending voice calls over the internet instead of traditional phone lines. This approach offers significant cost savings while providing advanced features that outdated phone systems can’t match.

VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol, a technology that lets you make phone calls using your internet connection rather than a regular phone line. The system works by converting your voice into digital data packets and sending them through the internet to the recipient.

Think of it like email for your voice. Your words travel as digital information and then convert back to sound at the other end.

The basic components of a VoIP system include:

Internet connection (broadband recommended)

VoIP service provider

Devices (desk phones, computers, smartphones)

Most businesses choose VoIP because it costs less than traditional phone services. Google Voice’s Starter plan is priced very low compared to other options, making it perfect for small teams just getting started.

Traditional phone systems use copper wires and circuit switching to carry calls. VoIP uses your existing internet connection instead, which immediately cuts costs by removing the need for separate phone lines.

The differences become clear when comparing features. Traditional phones offer basic calling with few extras. VoIP systems provide:

Advanced call routing

Video conferencing

Text messaging

Team collaboration tools

Integration with other business software

VoIP benefits go beyond just saving money. Employees can take calls from anywhere with internet access, which improves flexibility and supports remote work.

Unlike traditional phones that need physical installation, VoIP is quick to set up and easy to scale. Adding new lines doesn’t require technician visits or hardware changes—just a few clicks in your account settings.

Modern VoIP systems offer powerful features that transform how businesses handle communications. These systems combine essential calling functions with advanced tools that help companies stay connected and productive.

Call quality is the foundation of any good VoIP system. The best systems deliver crystal-clear audio that rivals traditional phone lines. Modern VoIP technology uses HD voice capabilities that make conversations sound natural and easy to understand.

Reliability factors include:

Network stability – Enterprise-grade systems use redundant servers

Uptime guarantees – Top providers offer 99.999% uptime

Backup options – Automatic rerouting during outages

Many systems now include automatic quality monitoring that adjusts to changing network conditions. This helps prevent the echo, lag, and dropped calls that plagued early VoIP systems.

Call routing features ensure that calls reach the right person quickly. Most solutions offer call waiting, forwarding, and transfer functions that keep communication flowing even when staff members are unavailable.

The best VoIP systems connect seamlessly with other business tools. This creates a unified workflow that boosts productivity and simplifies tasks.

Popular integrations include:

CRM platforms like Salesforce and HubSpot

Collaboration tools such as Microsoft Teams and Slack

Email systems including Outlook and Gmail

Calendar applications for scheduling and reminders

These connections let employees make calls directly from other apps and automatically log call details. For example, a sales rep can call a prospect from within the CRM and have notes, duration, and outcomes recorded automatically.

API access allows businesses to create custom integrations for specific needs. Many systems also offer pre-built connectors that work without technical setup. This flexibility helps companies build communication systems that match their exact workflow requirements.

VoIP technology offers customized solutions across different industries, adapting to unique communication needs while reducing costs and improving efficiency.

Small businesses can benefit greatly from VoIP phone systems. These systems offer enterprise-level features at budget-friendly prices, making advanced communication tools accessible to smaller operations.

VoIP eliminates the need for expensive traditional phone infrastructure. A small business can set up a professional phone system with features like auto-attendants, call routing, and voicemail-to-email without investing in costly hardware.

Cost savings are significant. Many VoIP providers offer plans starting around $20-30 per user monthly, with unlimited calling to the US and Canada. These systems grow with your business—adding new lines takes minutes, not days.

Key features small businesses appreciate include:

Virtual receptionist to handle incoming calls

Call analytics to track customer interactions

Mobile apps for taking business calls anywhere

Integration with CRM and other business tools

Remote work environments thrive with VoIP technology. Employees can make and receive business calls from anywhere using their computers, smartphones, or dedicated VoIP phones.

Modern VoIP services enable seamless collaboration through video conferencing, screen sharing, and instant messaging—all within the same platform. This eliminates the need for multiple communication tools.

Remote workers maintain a professional image as calls can be routed through the company’s main number. Clients never need to know they’re calling someone’s home office.

VoIP supports team cohesion with features like:

Presence indicators showing who’s available

Virtual meeting rooms for quick team discussions

Call forwarding to reach employees wherever they are

Shared phone directories for company-wide access

Security features protect sensitive conversations with encryption and secure authentication, addressing common remote work concerns.

Choosing the right VoIP service involves considering several key factors that impact business operations and budget. Each provider offers different features that may work better for specific business needs.

Small businesses should first evaluate their call volume and number of users needed. This helps determine the most cost-effective plan.

Internet connection quality is crucial since VoIP relies entirely on your bandwidth. A minimum of 100 kbps per line is recommended for clear calls.

Feature requirements matter too. Think about what you need: auto-attendants, call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, or mobile apps. Not all providers offer the same tools.

Scalability is important for growing businesses. Choose a system that easily adds lines as your company expands.

RingCentral is known for its 99.999% uptime guarantee, making it one of the most reliable options. They maintain multiple data centers for redundancy.

Nextiva offers excellent call quality with their proprietary technology that optimizes voice traffic. They consistently rank highly in customer satisfaction surveys for call clarity.

Zoom Phone leverages their video conferencing infrastructure for stable connections. However, they’re newer to the VoIP market than some competitors.

It’s worth checking if providers offer quality of service (QoS) tools that prioritize voice traffic on your network.

Businesses typically save 30-50% on phone costs after switching to VoIP. The biggest savings come from eliminating traditional phone lines.

Hardware costs drop significantly. Many VoIP services work with existing computers and smartphones, requiring no special equipment.

Long-distance and international calls cost much less with VoIP. Some plans include unlimited calling to certain countries.

Maintenance expenses decrease since most updates happen automatically through the provider. This eliminates the need for on-site technicians.

Most top providers offer integration with popular business tools. RingCentral connects with over 200 applications including Salesforce, Microsoft 365, and Google Workspace.

CRM integration allows calls to be logged automatically. Customer information appears on screen during calls, improving service quality.

Email systems can connect to receive voicemails and call notifications. This creates a seamless communication experience.

Many VoIP systems offer APIs for custom integration with proprietary software. This flexibility makes it adaptable to unique business needs.

Internet reliability issues can impact call quality. Businesses in areas with unstable internet may need backup solutions or dedicated lines.

Staff training takes time. Employees used to traditional phones may need help adapting to new features and interfaces.

Power outages affect VoIP phones since they require electricity. Having backup power solutions is important for critical communication needs.

Security concerns exist with any internet-based system. Choosing providers with strong encryption and security protocols helps minimize risks.

Nextiva consistently ranks highest for customer support. They offer 24/7 availability through multiple channels and dedicated account representatives for business customers.

RingCentral provides comprehensive support options, including phone, chat, and detailed online resources. Their support team also has specialized departments for technical issues.

Dialpad offers strong service level agreements (SLAs) with financial compensation for downtime. Their customer success managers help with implementation and optimization.

Google Voice, while cost-effective, provides more limited support options compared to dedicated VoIP providers like Nextiva or RingCentral.