The best business VoIP Services in 2025: I hand-picked the top VoIP phone systems
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Cloud-based Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone systems now go far beyond analog business telephony services. These are the best providers on the market that combine business calling with advanced features, scalability, and value for money.
In the business world, VoIP -- a type of internet protocol (IP) telephony -- is now a standard solution utilized by organizations of every size. It's convenient, often affordable, scalable, and can be bolstered by smart features your business needs. Whether or not you're looking for VoIP, text messaging, and video conferencing, or a beginner-friendly, basic solution for a growing business, you have a massive range of providers to choose from.
What is the best business VoIP provider right now?
ZDNET's top recommendation for a business VoIP provider is RingCentral. Available from $20 per user per month, RingCentral provides a high-quality VoIP service and functionality that businesses of almost any size will appreciate. It also offers valuable optional extras such as artificial intelligence transcription. We are keeping an eye on AI development in the VoIP space, as some of its benefits include data analytics, customer support chat and bots, meeting transcription, and smart routing.
If you're a smaller business looking for a VoIP service providing the essentials, you could opt for DialPad's service instead. This is a more affordable option at $15 per seat per month, and it still excels at the basics.
Also: The best password managers for businesses: Expert tested
When I compiled my top choices, I also considered the reputation and history of each VoIP provider on our list, ensuring that I only selected vendors who provide the services and features businesses need today.
The best business VoIP Services of 2025
RingCentral is one of the most well-known and respected VoIP services in the US, and for good reason.
Why we like it: Used by more than 400,000 businesses worldwide, RingCentral provides team messaging and collaboration tools, text messaging, call quality analytics, fax, call recording, cloud storage, and even an AI-backed transcription service.
RingCentral provides more than just a VoIP phone system. You can take advantage of a huge variety of additional extras. After you create a free account, you can set up a business line with your existing phone number, create a new, business-only line, or select a toll-free number.
Who's it for: Business users may find this option particularly interesting, especially if they are on the smaller side. Customer feedback on call quality indicates it is generally reliable, although some say they have experienced call dropping. RingCentral's IP phones only require a 90kbps connection, but if you are having issues, it's worth investigating whether or not end-user hardware is appropriate. In addition, check whether or not your internet speeds can support the right number of phones. (You can test capacity here).
Plans begin at $20 per month per user. The entry-level plan includes domestic calling, SMS texting, HD meetings, voicemail, as well as Google and Microsoft integrations. Premium plans begin from $25 per user per month.
Who should look elsewhere: Customers say they like the features and services on offer, but many feel that billing practices could be improved. Furthermore, customer service needs improvement, and so if you think you will need on-call support, this isn't likely to be the best option for you.
RingCentral features: Variety of line options | Video meetings | Team collaboration suite | Mobile apps | AI tools | 24/7 support (mixed reviews)
If call quality is your top priority, I would consider 8x8's VoIP services, which have gathered solid customer reviews relating to call quality, soft phone usage, and interoperability.
Why we like it: 8x8's website and sales approach could do with an overhaul -- especially when you consider that many competitors are transparent about pricing. Given its high levels of positive reviews for call quality, 8x8 is still a top contender in the VoIP space.
8x8 focuses on unified communications, offering customers the chance to go beyond just VoIP. These expansion opportunities include adopting multi-channel and global support, call center and agent functionality, appointment scheduling, collaborative tools, AI, as well as centralized management via an admin console. You can also set up a Private Branch Exchange (PBX), which allows you to create an internal switchboard as well as accept calls from outside the network.
Who's it for: A number of small to medium-sized businesses will find this solution meets their needs, but it should be noted that a vast number of complaints relate to 8x8 support. Still, if call quality is king, 8x8 might be your best bet.
Who should look elsewhere: Anyone who is new to VoIP services might find support does not adequately meet their requirements, and so you might be better off with a different solution. Furthermore, a definitive price requires you to contact sales, although reports suggest pricing begins at roughly $24 per user per month, depending on customer needs. This lack of transparency may deter some users.
8x8 features: Custom plans | Enterprise-grade features | Robust APIs | Business app integration | Multi-channel | Mobile compatibility
If you plan to use a VoIP service for collaborative purposes, you will want to explore Intermedia Unite services.
Why we like it: Intermedia Unite stands out from the crowd with features like mobile and desktop apps, auto attendance, call transfers, three-way calling, voicemail transcription, archiving, team chat, video meetings, and analytics.
It's particularly useful for Microsoft Teams users, with a standalone plan on offer for Teams and collaborative purposes.
In terms of integrations, you can use Intermedia Unite software with other third-party apps including Slack, Chrome, Zoho CRM, Salesforce, and Zendesk. Recently, the company also introduced AI Agent Assist, a support system for customer support agents, including real-time analytics and information retrieval.
Who's it for: Customers like the reliability and call quality of the VoIP service and note that there is rarely any downtime. Considering the popularity of Microsoft Teams and this service's focus on interoperability, I consider this one of the best options for existing Teams users.
Three plans are available: United for Teams, Unite Pro, and Unite Enterprise. Plans start at $23 per user per month, but keep in mind that some features -- including AI assistance and video conferencing -- are only available on premium plans, which star at $28 per user per month.
Who should look elsewhere: Anyone who wants up to 200GB of file storage for each user, as this is only available on the top-tier plan. If Microsoft Teams is not part of your existing business ecosystem, you may also want to investigate other solutions.
Intermedia Unite features: Free calling to 33 countries | Mobile support | Mix and match licensing | Three-way calling | Spam blocking | HD video meetings | Free device promotion
If you're interested in harnessing artificial intelligence for your VoIP needs, consider DialPad.
Why we like it: AI is one of the hottest buzzwords in the industry. Lofty claims of AI power need to be taken with a pinch of salt, but that doesn't mean VoIP providers are not putting these technologies to good use.
DialPad is affordable and focuses on AI applications to improve productivity, streamline operations, and manage customer relationships. You can use AI to help you manage call and meeting summaries, call transfers, and post-call surveys, team coaching, live call categorization, and to develop business-related responses to queries.
AI-based "assist cards" are also available to help your operators in real-time.
Who's it for: This service describes itself as a communications platform but focuses on streamlining VoIP, business operations, and customer support through AI. While customer feedback on support is a mixed bag, users note the intuitive nature of the platform and its excellent features. This is the best option for customers hoping to explore how AI-based VoIP can enhance their businesses.
Who should look elsewhere: DialPad's pricing begins at $15 per user per month. However, the basic plan is limited. If you want features like customer relationship management software integrations, single sign-on (SSO), or Microsoft Teams integration, you must opt for a package starting at $25 per user per month or look elsewhere.
DialPad features: AI-focused | CRM integrations | Call transcription | Messaging services | Video meeting | CRM integration | Analytics and reporting
Nextiva is a great VoIP option if you're looking for a solution focused on multi-channel support with the flexibility for hybrid and remote work.
Why we like it: Nextiva says it's "AI-powered Unified-CXM platform delivers personalized experiences throughout the entire customer journey." Marketing fluff aside, the company specializes in multi-channel customer support and services.
Customers now expect businesses to provide multiple channels for communication, not just traditional phone lines. As such, even Nextiva's basic plans -- Digital and Core -- include calls to the U.S. and Canada, social media channels, messaging apps, SMS, email, and web chat. To help budding startups, Nextiva monitors review sites, forums, and blogs for brand-associated content.
Consider Nextiva digital communication first, VoIP second.
Who's it for: It's an excellent option for multi-channel support, including VoIP, although you must choose the right plan for toll-free numbers, routing, and callbacks. Customers generally applaud the Nextiva onboarding service and appreciate the support on offer.
Subscriptions begin at $20 per user per month, but there is another solution provided by the same company if you want something cheaper.
Who should look elsewhere: Nextiva has another plan, NextivaONE, which is potentially a better option if you are an emerging business and you want to keep a tight rein on costs. For the equivalent of $15 per user per month, the annual plan -- suitable for up to 10 seats -- includes business calling, texting, video meetings, contact routing, and social media tools.
Nextiva features: Unified comms: social media channels, messaging apps, and more | Toll-free numbers | Skill-based routing | AI workflows | Video meetings | Payment gateways
What is a VoIP phone system?
Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) allows you to make a phone call through the internet rather than traditional phone lines, also known as analog lines.
If you've already used WhatsApp calling or Zoom, you have used a VoIP system. Your voice is translated into data and then converted back into sound -- a regular phone signal -- before it reaches an end device. Typically, you will need an internet connection, a router, and a device capable of handling VoIP communications such as a dedicated VoIP handset, a smartphone, or a PC.
VoIP is gradually replacing analog Private Branch Exchange (PBX) systems, used by companies to operate phone switchboards and extension numbers. VoIP services can reduce the cost associated with physical lines, they can utilize the cloud to scale up capacity, and they can handle internal, domestic, and international calls.
VoIP is also very useful for hybrid and remote working setups, as VoIP-ready phones or apps can replace traditional office phone lines.
What is the best business VoIP provider of 2025?
Below you will find some of the most important factors to help you decide on the best VoIP option for you.
Business VoIP provider | Cost (starts at) | Call quality feedback | Video conferencing | AI |
RingCentral | $20 per user per month | Excellent | Yes | Yes |
8x8 | $24 per user per month | Excellent | Limited by plan | Limited by plan |
Intermedia Unite | $23 per user per month | Good | Limited by plan | Limited by plan |
DialPad | $15 per user per month | Good | Limited by plan | Yes |
Nextiva | $20 per user per month | Good | Limited by plan | Limited by plan |
Which is the right business VoIP provider for you?
Choose this business VoIP provider… | If you want or need... |
RingCentral | The best business VoIP provider overall. RingCentral goes beyond basic VoIP and provides employee tools, artificial intelligence, and more. |
8x8 | The best business VoIP provider for call quality. 8x8 is pushing toward the enterprise market and omnichannel functionality. |
Intermedia Unite | A feature-rich, reasonably priced VoIP option geared toward Microsoft Teams. You can take advantage of VoIP as well as video conferencing, AI, analytics, and a range of call center features. |
DialPad | An AI-first VoIP solution. DialPad leverages automaton and AI to help you manage calls, meetings, analytics, and feedback. |
Nextiva | A multi-channel VoIP solution suitable for remote work. Nextiva's modern approach will likely appeal to startups and small businesses. |
How did I choose these business VoIP providers?
While compiling the list of the best VoIP providers in 2025, I considered the following factors:
- Scalability: VoIP services suitable for business users must be scalable. There's no point in starting small to cap costs and then being unable to expand as your business grows.
- Cost: Ongoing costs are a factor when a business makes any form of investment. The VoIP providers I have chosen must meet different budgetary needs.
- Features: I want to see VoIP providers offer more than barebones service. I have included solutions that provide features like transcription, video conferencing, chat, and analytics.
- Mobile: Mobile connectivity is a staple for communication today, and it is important that VoIP providers offer customers some form of mobile support.
- AI: In general, we like to see VoIP providers leverage new and emerging technologies in interesting ways. Regarding VoIP, features like AI-assisted transcription can be a real benefit for customers.
- Support: With any business-based service, you expect some form of customer support, whether by chat, email, telephone, or live help. The best options will provide a variety of channels for customer troubleshooting.
- Customer feedback: I have examined and researched each VoIP provider to learn how existing customers feel about the services provided.
What are the most important VoIP features for your business
If you're considering replacing a traditional analog setup or starting off with VoIP, consider these VoIP features and what the most important aspects are for your business.
- Call management: You might want an automatic or smart system that handles call routing and processing for you. This could include virtual waiting rooms, voicemail and transcription services, grouping, and messaging.
- Capacity: Consider whether you need high-volume capacities for your VoIP system. A benefit of VoIP is that it is generally scalable based on the number of seats you require and how many calls you expect to handle.
- Reach: Some VoIP services are limited to domestic calling such as within the U.S. and Canada only, and others may charge for international calling. Many businesses now also prefer softphone capacity, which allows customers to reach out through mobile and PC apps and software.
- Call quality: Call quality should feature as a prominent aspect of any VoIP service you select. If your VoIP setup will be constantly used, you should opt for a solution with robust audio, low downtime, and low drop rates.
How is AI developing into a vital feature for VoIP services in 2025?
In the same manner as many industries, VoIP providers are adopting artificial intelligence features to stay competitive and to lure in users with the promise of streamlined operations, automatic content generation, and improved data analytics.
You can find AI linked to automatic call transcription, for example, alongside implementations in customer assistance chatbots, environmental noise cancelation -- to improve call quality -- and call routing. The latter may be able to help route customers to their desired location more efficiently.
Sometimes it's less artificial intelligence and more simply "smart" features packaged up with a shiny phrase. So, it is worth taking new announcements with a pinch of salt.
In recent news in the VoIP-AI space:
- The VoIP services market is predicted to expand by $21.59 billion from 2024 to 2028, driven by cost efficiency measures and AI, although regulatory hurdles may prove to be a stumbling block.
- Squaretalk has unveiled an AI-powered voice agent with inbuilt KYC compliance automation technologies intended to streamline and secure customer onboarding in the VoIP space.
- At Enterprise Connect 2025, Zoom launched a set of new AI-backed features focused on orchestration, automation, and writing assistance.
FAQs on VoIP services
What percentage of businesses use VoIP?
Business communications firm Blueface suggests that around 35% of businesses worldwide have adopted some form of VoIP, with approximately 60% of organizations being open to the idea of phasing out traditional phone lines.
The market is also expected to expand further, with researchers suggesting the market will grow to $236.25 billion in 2028.
Is my internet good enough for VoIP?
A benefit of VoIP is that it requires very little bandwidth. While the speed and reliability of your internet connection will determine the quality of a VoIP call, the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) estimates that a typical VoIP call only requires 0.5Mbps. This is far less than your typical YouTube video or social media visit. If you have a basic Internet package, VoIP calling is likely possible.
What are the disadvantages of VoIP?
While VoIP can work with a minimal internet connection, it still needs one to operate because there is no offline functionality, unlike traditional analog systems. Weak connections will result in laggy calls with poor latency.
In addition, VoIP systems are likely usable during power outages and usually unsuitable for emergency situations. You should also consider the potential security ramifications of VoIP as they are more prone to cyberthreats than standard phone lines.
What's the difference between VoIP and Wi-Fi calling?
VoIP and Wi-Fi calling are similar in some respects but not the same. Wi-Fi calling a smartphone feature that lets you make calls through your internet connection instead of using cellular services. In comparison, VoIP is a dedicated service that uses an available internet connection to make a call with a compatible device.
Is VoIP worth it for small businesses?
Yes, especially when you consider the cost savings element of these services. For example, it may be cheaper and quicker to set up VoIP than traditional phone lines in an office. This can provide more flexibility where employees work without relying on hardwired lines or hardware. VoIP services can also provide useful features such as video conferencing and collaborative tools.
Are there alternative business VoIP providers worth considering?
If our above recommendations do not appeal to you, there are other worthwhile VoIP services available. Check out the alternatives below.