In the fast-paced world of modern business, effective communication is the linchpin of success. Being readily available to your customers and assisting them promptly with any concerns they may have is crucial. To achieve this level of engagement and efficiency, small businesses must leverage cutting-edge business communication solutions, such as virtual phone services. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the top 9 virtual phone services tailored specifically for small businesses, along with essential considerations to guide your selection process.
What is a Virtual Phone Service?
A virtual phone service, also known as a virtual phone system, is a contemporary business communication solution designed to help businesses establish an organized, automated, and streamlined communication channel with their valued customers. When opting for the best virtual business phone services, like CallHippo, you gain access to a plethora of innovative features and functionalities.
Some common features offered by these top virtual business phone service providers include:
- Call forwarding
- Call recording
- Voicemail
- Text messaging
- Intelligent call forwarding
- Global connectivity
- Smart switching
- Interactive Voice Response (IVR)
- Call analytics
- And many other call management features
These features empower small businesses to do much more than just make phone calls. They enable you to:
- Collect, organize, and analyze critical information
- Gain deeper insights into customer concerns for effective problem-solving
- Cultivate a professional image for your business
- Significantly reduce communication costs and effort
- Enhance customer service by maintaining constant contact
- Implement strategies and adapt as needed
However, it’s important to note that each virtual business phone system possesses its unique advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it’s essential to gain a fundamental understanding of each of these best virtual phone number providers before making your decision.
List of 9 Best Virtual Phone Services for Small Businesses
Let’s dive into the top 9 virtual phone systems tailored specifically for small businesses. We will explore their key features, unique selling points, pricing, supported platforms, and other technical and non-technical aspects to help you make an informed choice.
1. EZEVOIP
Rating: 4.3/5
Key Features:
- CRM Integration
- IVR and Dial Groups
- Role-based Access Control
- Reports & Analytics
- Gamification
- Interactive Voice Response (IVR)
- Voice Broadcasting
Pros:
- Best-in-class support and live demos
- 10-day free trial and a tiered pricing structure
- Complimentary product training
Cons:
- The mobile app lacks a few advanced features
Ideal for: Small, medium, and large enterprises
Free Trial Period: 1 month
2. Dialpad
Rating: 4.4/5
Key Features:
- Virtual Receptionist
- Interactive Voice Response (IVR)
- Power Dialer
- Unlimited Calls
- International Phone Numbers
- Contact Center
- Analytics
Pros:
- Highly customizable
- Built-in AI-powered functionalities
Cons:
- Occasional call quality issues
- Usability could be improved
Ideal for: Small & medium businesses
Free Trial: 14 Days
Pricing Plans: Monthly and annual subscription plans
- Standard Plan: $23/User/Month
- Pro Plan: $35/User/Month
- Enterprise Plan: Custom Pricing
(Discounts available with annual subscriptions)
3. RingCentral
Rating: 3.9/5
Key Features:
- Call Monitoring & Call Routing
- Multi-level IVR
- Audio & Video Conferencing
- Local, Vanity, and Toll-Free Numbers
- Call Recording and Call Forwarding
Pros:
- Can handle complex business scenarios
- Software support for multiple devices
Cons:
- Mobile version should be optimized
- Slightly higher prices for small businesses
Ideal for: Small, medium, and large enterprises
Free Trial: 14 Days
Pricing Plans:
- Essential Plan: $29.99/User/Month
- Standard Plan: $37.99/User/Month
- Premium Plan: $44.99/User/Month
- Ultimate Plan: $59.99/User/Month
(Discounts available with annual subscriptions)
4. Grasshopper
Rating: 4.0/5
Key Features:
- Simultaneous Call Handling
- Business Phone Numbers
- Inbound Call Management
- Call Forwarding
- Mobile and Desktop Apps
- Voicemail Transcription
Pros:
- Easy to get started with simple onboarding
- Basic plan includes most features
Cons:
- Limited for managing complex business scenarios
- Limited collaboration tools
Free Trial: 7 Days
Ideal for: Small and Medium Enterprises
Pricing:
- Solo Plan: $29/User/Month (1 Number, 3 Extensions)
- Partner Plan: $49/User/Month (3 Numbers, 6 Extensions)
- Small Business: $89/User/Month (5 Numbers, Unlimited Extensions)
(Discounts available with annual subscriptions)
5. Ooma Office
Rating: 4.5/5
Key Features:
- Virtual Receptionist
- Ring Groups
- Enhanced Call Blocking
- Voicemail Transcription
- Integration with Google, Salesforce, and Office 365
- Call Analytics
Pros:
- User-friendly and easy-to-navigate interface
- Impressive call quality
Cons:
- Admin and user dashboards can be challenging to navigate
- Music on hold not included with Ooma business plans
Ideal for: Small and medium businesses
Free Trial: 30 Days
Pricing Plans:
- Essentials Plan: $19.95/User/Month
- Pro Plan: $24.95/User/Month
- Pro Plus Plan: $29.95/User/Month
(Discounts available with annual subscriptions)
6. Nextiva
Rating: (Rating not provided)
Key Features:
- Corporate Dial Plan
- Call Recording
- Unlimited Web Conferencing
- Free Local Phone Numbers
- Advanced Call Management
- VoIP Switchboard
- Three-way Calling
Pros:
- Knowledgeable customer support representatives
- User-friendly and easy-to-navigate interface
Cons:
- Lengthy onboarding process
- Not the most budget-friendly option for small businesses
Ideal for: Small, medium, and large enterprises
Free Trial: 30 Days
Pricing Plans:
- Essential Plan: $23.95/User/Month
- Professional Plan: $27.95/User/Month
- Enterprise Plan: $37.95/User/Month
(Discounts available for higher user counts and annual subscriptions)
7. OpenPhone
Rating: (Rating not provided)
Key Features:
- Advanced IVR (Interactive Voice Response)
- Round-robin Call Distribution
- Voicemail Transcriptions
- Local US, Canadian, and Toll-Free Numbers
- Call Recording & Call Forwarding
- Integration with 3000+ Applications via Zapier
Pros:
- Seamless integration with multiple tools
- Cost-effective phone solution
Cons:
- Occasional call quality issues
- Room for improvement in customer support
Ideal for: Small & medium businesses
Free Trial: 7 Days
Pricing Plans:
- Standard Plan: $13/User/Month
- Premium Plan: $25/User/Month
- Enterprise Plan: Custom Pricing
(Discounts available with annual subscriptions)
8. Phone.com
Rating: (Rating not provided)
Key Features:
- CRM Integration
- Do Not Disturb Compliance
- Call Screening
- Call Recording and Call Transfer
- Reports and Analytics
- Account Management
Pros:
- Simple and user-friendly interface (UI)
- Affordable pricing plans
Cons:
- Mobile version lacks essential features
- Not suitable for medium or large-sized businesses
Ideal for: Small and Medium Enterprises
Free Trial: 30 Days
Pricing:
- Basic Plan: $12.99/User/Month
- Plus Plan: $19.99/User/Month
- Pro Plan: $29.99/User/Month
(Discounts available with annual subscriptions)
9. eVoice
Rating: (Rating not provided)
Key Features:
- Free Business Phone Number
- Call Forwarding
- Auto Attendant
- Voicemail to Text
- Custom Greetings
- iOS and Android Apps
Pros:
- Easy customization of your business phone number
- Low-cost virtual phone system for small businesses
Cons:
- Not suitable for medium and large-sized businesses
- Limited features compared to other virtual phone services
Ideal for: Small businesses
Free Trial: 30 Days
Pricing:
- Elite Monthly: $14/User/Month
- Elite Yearly: $12/User/Month
(Discounts available with annual subscriptions)
5 Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Virtual Phone Service
- Scalability: Ensure the virtual phone service can grow with your business.
- Features: Assess whether the features align with your business needs.
- Pricing: Consider both upfront and ongoing costs.
- Integration: Check if the service integrates with your existing tools.
- Customer Support: Evaluate the level of support provided.
In conclusion, selecting the best virtual phone service for your small business involves careful consideration of your specific requirements, budget, and growth prospects. The top 9 providers mentioned here offer a range of features and pricing options to cater to various business needs. By weighing these factors and conducting a trial where possible, you can make an informed decision that propels your business to new heights in communication and customer engagement.