Best Business Phones For Small Business
In today's fast-paced business environment, seamless communication is no longer a luxury; it's a necessity. For value-conscious small business owners, the right phone system can be a game-changer, improving customer interactions, streamlining internal processes, and ultimately, boosting the bottom line.
This review article is crafted for small business owners who are seeking to upgrade or implement a new phone system. We will dive into the best business phone options available, focusing on features, cost-effectiveness, and suitability for diverse needs and budgets. We will help you find a system that fits your specific requirements without breaking the bank.
Why Business Phones Matter for Small Businesses
A reliable phone system projects a professional image, builds credibility with clients, and ensures consistent communication. It allows you to centralize communications, manage calls efficiently, and improve customer service.
Modern business phone systems offer advanced features like automated greetings, call routing, voicemail-to-email, and integration with other business tools. These features can significantly enhance productivity and customer satisfaction.
Shortlist of Recommended Business Phones
Here's a quick overview of our top picks, categorized by budget and needs:
- Best Overall: RingCentral MVP
- Best Value: Ooma Office
- Best for Simplicity: Grasshopper
- Best for Teams: Microsoft Teams Phone
- Best for Budget-Conscious: Vonage Business Communications
Detailed Reviews
RingCentral MVP
RingCentral MVP is a comprehensive cloud-based phone system suitable for businesses of all sizes. It offers a wide array of features including unlimited calling, video conferencing, team messaging, and integrations with popular CRM and productivity tools.
Its robust features come at a higher price point, but the scalability and reliability are worth the investment for growing businesses. The platform is user-friendly, with intuitive interfaces for both administrators and users.
Ooma Office
Ooma Office is a great value option for small businesses with basic phone needs. It provides reliable phone service with essential features like virtual receptionist, call routing, and voicemail at an affordable price.
Ooma's hardware options are limited, and advanced features may require add-ons, but it is a solid choice for businesses looking to cut costs without sacrificing core functionality. The setup is relatively easy, making it a great choice for non-technical users.
Grasshopper
Grasshopper is a virtual phone system designed specifically for solopreneurs and very small businesses. It provides a professional phone presence without the need for a physical office or dedicated hardware.
Grasshopper focuses on providing a business number, call forwarding, and voicemail. While it lacks the advanced features of a full-fledged phone system, it’s a cost-effective solution for establishing a professional image.
Microsoft Teams Phone
If your business already uses Microsoft Teams, Microsoft Teams Phone is a natural choice. It integrates seamlessly with the Teams platform, allowing users to make and receive calls directly from the app.
This option provides a unified communication experience, integrating voice, video, and messaging into a single platform. The cost can be higher depending on the Microsoft 365 plan.
Vonage Business Communications
Vonage Business Communications is a cloud-based phone system that balances features and affordability. It offers a range of plans to suit different business needs, with features like unlimited calling, team messaging, and integrations.
Vonage is known for its reliable service and user-friendly interface. However, customer support experiences can sometimes be inconsistent.
Side-by-Side Specs and Performance Scores
Here's a comparison of the key features and performance scores of our top picks:
| Provider | Pricing (Starting) | Features | Ease of Use | Customer Support | Overall Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RingCentral MVP | $20/user/month | Extensive | Excellent | Good | 4.5/5 |
| Ooma Office | $19.95/user/month | Basic | Good | Average | 4/5 |
| Grasshopper | $29/month | Limited | Excellent | Good | 3.5/5 |
| Microsoft Teams Phone | Varies | Comprehensive | Good | Average | 4/5 |
| Vonage Business Communications | $19.99/line/month | Good | Good | Average | 3.8/5 |
Practical Considerations
Before making a decision, consider these factors:
- Number of Users: Choose a system that can accommodate your current and future number of employees.
- Budget: Factor in both monthly subscription costs and any hardware expenses.
- Features: Prioritize the features that are most important to your business needs.
- Integration: Ensure the system integrates with your existing CRM and other business tools.
- Scalability: Select a system that can easily scale as your business grows.
- Customer Support: Look for a provider with reliable and responsive customer support.
Internet Connection: A stable and high-speed internet connection is essential for VoIP phone systems.
Summary
Selecting the right business phone system is crucial for efficient communication and business success. Consider your specific needs, budget, and growth plans when evaluating different options.
RingCentral MVP stands out for its comprehensive features, while Ooma Office offers excellent value. Grasshopper provides a simple solution for solopreneurs, and Microsoft Teams Phone integrates seamlessly with existing Microsoft environments. Vonage offers a good balance between affordability and features.
By carefully considering the factors discussed in this article, you can make an informed decision that will benefit your small business for years to come.
Call to Action
Ready to upgrade your business phone system? Visit the providers' websites to explore their offerings in detail and request a demo. Take the next step towards improved communication and business growth!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is a VoIP phone system? A: VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone systems use the internet to transmit voice calls, offering cost savings and advanced features compared to traditional phone lines.
Q: Do I need special phones for a VoIP system? A: You can use VoIP phones (hardware), softphones (software on computers or smartphones), or adapt existing analog phones with an adapter.
Q: How much does a business phone system cost? A: Costs vary widely depending on the provider, features, and number of users. Expect to pay anywhere from $15 to $50 per user per month.
Q: Can I keep my existing phone number? A: Yes, most VoIP providers allow you to port your existing phone number to their system.
Q: What is call routing? A: Call routing automatically directs incoming calls to the appropriate person or department, improving efficiency and customer service.
