Buying guide · VoIP & business phone systems

VoIP and business phone tools for British small & mid-sized businesses

Modern phone systems run over the internet, not old copper lines. These VoIP tools help British businesses handle calls, routing, and voicemail more reliably—whether people are in the office, at home, or on the road.

Everything we recommend

If you’d like a business phone setup that’s easier to manage, works from anywhere, and doesn’t feel like a tangle of numbers and hardware, the tools below are a strong place to begin your shortlist.

We may earn a small commission if you sign up with any of these tools and services, at no extra cost to you. We only feature tools that are appropriate for British businesses like yours.

Top pick
8x8 X Series

8x8 X Series

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing integrated voice, video, and chat in one platform

Why we like it: Combines voice, video, and chat in one platform

8x8 X Series is a cloud-hosted VoIP solution commonly used by SMEs to unify calls, video meetings, and messaging. It offers global connectivity with features that support hybrid working and outsourced IT management.

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Runner-up
Aircall

Aircall

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing easy-to-manage, app-based call handling

Why we like it: Easy to set up and manage without specialist IT skills

Aircall is a cloud VoIP service commonly used by small businesses to manage calls across devices. It offers straightforward setup and integrates with popular CRM and helpdesk tools, helping teams stay connected whether in the office or remote.

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Also great
CloudTalk

CloudTalk

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing scalable VoIP with straightforward call management

Why we like it: Cloud-based system requires no on-site hardware

CloudTalk is a cloud-hosted VoIP system commonly used by SMEs to manage calls efficiently. It offers features like call routing and analytics, helping teams stay connected whether in the office or remote.

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Who this is for

You’ll get the most value from VoIP and cloud phone tools like these if:

  • Your business still relies heavily on phone calls for sales, support, bookings, or client communication—and dropped calls or clunky routing are starting to hurt.
  • Your team works in more than one place and you want staff to use the same business number from desk phones, computers, or mobile apps without sharing personal cell numbers.
  • You’d like clearer call flows—such as menus, extensions, queues, or after-hours rules—without needing a telecom specialist every time something changes.
  • You want better visibility into call activity so you can see missed calls, response times, and how often customers get through on the first try.
  • You prefer a predictable monthly subscription instead of juggling phone hardware, multiple providers, and surprise charges.

If this sounds like your situation, the VoIP tools below can help you modernize your phone setup while keeping things understandable for both staff and customers.

Top pick

8x8 X Series

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing integrated voice, video, and chat in one platform

Reliable cloud-based phone system for flexible business communication

8x8 X Series provides a cloud-based phone system that helps UK small businesses manage voice calls, video conferencing, and team messaging from a single platform. It is often chosen for its ease of use and ability to support flexible working arrangements.

Many organisations use it to maintain reliable communication whether staff are in the office, at home, or on the move.

A solid default if you just want a reliable, business-ready option.

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Runner-up

Aircall

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing easy-to-manage, app-based call handling

Cloud-based phone system for flexible team communication

Aircall provides a cloud-based phone system that UK SMEs use to handle business calls without traditional hardware. It supports call routing, shared inboxes, and integrates with common business apps, making it easier for teams to manage customer communication from anywhere.

Great if you want similar benefits with a slightly different feature mix.

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Also great

CloudTalk

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing scalable VoIP with straightforward call management

Reliable cloud-based phone system for flexible business communication

CloudTalk provides a cloud-based phone system designed for small and medium-sized businesses. It helps teams handle calls with features such as call queuing, recording, and real-time analytics, supporting flexible working arrangements.

Many UK organisations use it to improve customer communication without the need for complex on-premise hardware.

Worth a look if the top two don’t quite fit how your team works.

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Detailed breakdowns

In the breakdowns below, you’ll see how each VoIP platform approaches call quality, features, integrations, and pricing—so you can pick a system that fits the way your business actually communicates.

8x8 X Series

Our top pick

Reliable cloud-based phone system for flexible business communication

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing integrated voice, video, and chat in one platform

Why teams choose it: Combines voice, video, and chat in one platform

8x8 X Series is designed to support SMEs that require a unified communication platform combining voice, video, and chat. It is commonly used by businesses with hybrid or remote working models, allowing staff to stay connected through desktop and mobile apps. This can help improve productivity and reduce reliance on traditional phone lines.

The platform offers global connectivity and integrates with common business tools, which can be useful for organisations with outsourced IT support or multiple office locations. Its cloud-based nature means updates and maintenance are handled by the provider, reducing the burden on internal IT teams.

While 8x8 X Series provides a broad feature set, some smaller businesses may find the range of options more than they need, and pricing can be higher compared to simpler VoIP services. It is best suited to SMEs looking for a scalable, all-in-one communication solution rather than a basic phone system.

Where this tool fits best

  • Combines voice, video, and chat in one platform
  • Supports hybrid and remote working with mobile apps
  • Cloud-hosted for easy updates and maintenance

Things to keep in mind

  • May be more complex than needed for very small teams
  • Pricing can be higher than basic VoIP options
  • Some features may require additional setup or training
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing integrated voice, video, and chat in one platform

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Aircall

Runner-up

Cloud-based phone system for flexible team communication

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing easy-to-manage, app-based call handling

Why teams choose it: Easy to set up and manage without specialist IT skills

Aircall is often chosen by small and medium-sized UK businesses that want a flexible phone system without the complexity of on-premise equipment. It works well for teams that need to take and make calls on multiple devices, including smartphones and desktops, supporting hybrid or remote working arrangements.

The system integrates with popular CRM and support platforms, which helps streamline workflows and improve customer service. Its user-friendly interface allows non-technical staff to manage call queues, assign calls, and access call analytics with minimal training.

While Aircall offers useful features for call management and collaboration, it may be less suitable for organisations requiring advanced telephony customisation or extensive international calling plans. It is commonly used alongside outsourced IT support or managed service providers to ensure reliable operation and compliance with UK data protection standards.

Where this tool fits best

  • Easy to set up and manage without specialist IT skills
  • Integrates with popular CRM and helpdesk software
  • Supports calls on multiple devices including mobiles and desktops

Things to keep in mind

  • May lack advanced customisation options for complex telephony needs
  • International calling plans can be limited or costly
  • Dependent on stable internet connection for call quality
IT Support & Help Desk VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing easy-to-manage, app-based call handling

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CloudTalk

Also great

Reliable cloud-based phone system for flexible business communication

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing scalable VoIP with straightforward call management

Why teams choose it: Cloud-based system requires no on-site hardware

CloudTalk is often chosen by UK SMEs that require a reliable and scalable VoIP phone system without investing in physical infrastructure. It supports common business needs like call routing, voicemail, and call recording, which can help improve customer service and internal communication.

The platform is suitable for teams that may work remotely or in hybrid setups, as it allows calls to be managed via desktop or mobile apps. This flexibility can reduce downtime and improve responsiveness.

While CloudTalk offers a solid set of features, it may not have the extensive integrations or advanced collaboration tools found in some other VoIP providers. It is best suited for organisations prioritising straightforward call management and ease of use over complex unified communications.

Overall, CloudTalk can help UK SMEs maintain clear and consistent phone communication, supporting productivity and customer engagement without requiring dedicated IT resources.

Where this tool fits best

  • Cloud-based system requires no on-site hardware
  • Supports call routing and recording for better management
  • Accessible via desktop and mobile apps for flexible working

Things to keep in mind

  • Fewer integrations compared to some larger VoIP platforms
  • May lack advanced collaboration features for complex teams
  • Setup and customisation options can be limited for some users
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing scalable VoIP with straightforward call management

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Dialpad

Reliable cloud-based phone system for flexible business communication

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing easy-to-manage VoIP with strong mobile integration

Why teams choose it: Cloud-based system accessible from multiple devices

Dialpad is often chosen by UK SMEs looking for a cloud VoIP solution that supports both office and remote working. It allows users to make and receive calls, send messages, and hold video meetings through apps on smartphones, tablets, and computers. This flexibility suits businesses with hybrid teams or those frequently on the move.

Its strengths include clear call quality and a user-friendly interface that requires minimal IT support, which is helpful for organisations without dedicated telecoms staff. Dialpad also integrates with popular productivity tools, aiding smoother workflows and reducing the need to switch between apps.

However, some smaller businesses might find the pricing less competitive compared to simpler VoIP providers, especially if advanced features are not required. Additionally, while it offers good mobile app functionality, organisations with complex telecom needs or heavy call volumes may want to consider more specialised systems.

Overall, Dialpad suits SMEs prioritising ease of use, mobile access, and cloud flexibility, particularly those balancing office and remote work without extensive telecom management resources.

Where this tool fits best

  • Cloud-based system accessible from multiple devices
  • Strong mobile and desktop app support
  • Clear call quality suitable for small teams

Things to keep in mind

  • Pricing may be higher than basic VoIP options
  • Advanced features might be unnecessary for very small teams
  • Not tailored for very high call volumes or complex setups
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing easy-to-manage VoIP with strong mobile integration

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GoTo Connect

Reliable cloud phone system for clear calls and flexible working

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing a unified phone and video platform with easy setup

Why teams choose it: Combines voice, video, and messaging in one platform

Many UK SMEs use GoTo Connect to replace traditional phone lines with a cloud-based system that combines voice calls, video conferencing, and team messaging. This helps reduce the need for separate tools and simplifies communication management.

It is commonly selected by organisations that value ease of use and quick deployment, as the setup process is straightforward and does not require extensive IT support. The platform supports desktop and mobile apps, enabling flexible working whether staff are in the office, at home, or on the move.

GoTo Connect integrates with popular business applications, which can improve productivity by streamlining workflows. However, some smaller businesses might find the range of features more than they need, and pricing may be higher compared to more basic VoIP providers.

Overall, it suits SMEs that want a reliable, all-in-one communication solution with good support and the ability to scale as the business grows.

Where this tool fits best

  • Combines voice, video, and messaging in one platform
  • Easy to set up and manage without specialist IT skills
  • Supports desktop and mobile apps for flexible working

Things to keep in mind

  • May offer more features than very small businesses require
  • Pricing can be higher than basic VoIP-only services
  • Some advanced features may need additional training
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing a unified phone and video platform with easy setup

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Grasshopper

Simplifies business phone management with flexible VoIP features

Best for: Best for small UK businesses needing straightforward virtual phone systems

Why teams choose it: Easy to set up without physical phone hardware

Grasshopper is designed to offer small and growing UK businesses a straightforward way to manage their phone communications without investing in physical phone hardware. It is commonly used by organisations that want to maintain a professional phone presence with features such as multiple extensions, call forwarding, and voicemail transcription.

Many SMEs use Grasshopper to support hybrid or remote working, as it allows calls to be routed to mobile or home phones easily. This flexibility helps teams stay reachable without needing a dedicated office phone system.

While Grasshopper covers essential VoIP needs well, it may lack some advanced collaboration or integration features found in more comprehensive business phone platforms. It suits businesses prioritising ease of use and cost predictability over extensive customisation.

Where this tool fits best

  • Easy to set up without physical phone hardware
  • Supports multiple extensions for small teams
  • Voicemail transcription helps manage messages efficiently

Things to keep in mind

  • Limited advanced collaboration features compared to larger platforms
  • May not integrate deeply with other business software
  • Primarily suited for smaller teams with basic phone needs
VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for small UK businesses needing straightforward virtual phone systems

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MightyCall

Simplifies business calls with flexible cloud-based phone features

Best for: Best for small UK businesses needing straightforward call management without complex setups

Why teams choose it: Easy to set up and manage without technical expertise

MightyCall is often chosen by small UK businesses that want a straightforward VoIP phone system without the need for extensive technical setup. It supports virtual phone numbers, call forwarding, and voicemail, which helps teams handle calls efficiently whether they are in the office or working remotely.

This tool suits organisations with limited IT resources that prefer a cloud-based solution to avoid hardware maintenance. It is commonly used by professional services, small retail shops, and charities to maintain reliable phone communication.

While MightyCall offers essential call management features, it may lack some advanced integrations or customisation options found in larger VoIP platforms. This makes it a practical choice for businesses prioritising ease of use and cost predictability over extensive feature sets.

Overall, MightyCall helps reduce call handling complexity and supports flexible working, making it a sensible option for SMEs looking to improve their phone system without added IT burden.

Where this tool fits best

  • Easy to set up and manage without technical expertise
  • Supports virtual numbers and call forwarding
  • Cloud-based with no hardware required

Things to keep in mind

  • Limited advanced features compared to larger VoIP providers
  • May not integrate deeply with other business software
  • Fewer customisation options for call handling
VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for small UK businesses needing straightforward call management without complex setups

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Nextiva

Reliable VoIP system for clear calls and flexible team communication

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing scalable phone systems with strong call management

Why teams choose it: Cloud-based system with no on-site hardware needed

Nextiva is typically used by UK SMEs looking for a dependable VoIP phone system that supports both office-based and remote working. It offers features such as call forwarding, voicemail, and mobile apps, which help teams stay reachable and manage calls effectively throughout the working day.

Its cloud-based nature means there is no need for complex on-site hardware, making it suitable for businesses with limited IT resources or those relying on outsourced IT support. The system is scalable, allowing organisations to add or remove users as their needs change.

While Nextiva provides a solid set of call management tools, some UK businesses may find its pricing and feature set more suited to those requiring comprehensive call handling rather than very basic phone needs. It integrates well with common business workflows but may require some initial setup to align with specific organisational requirements.

Overall, Nextiva is a practical choice for SMEs that want a reliable, flexible phone system to support hybrid working and improve team communication without heavy IT overhead.

Where this tool fits best

  • Cloud-based system with no on-site hardware needed
  • Good call routing and voicemail features
  • Mobile apps support flexible, remote working

Things to keep in mind

  • May be more complex than needed for very small teams
  • Pricing can be higher than basic VoIP options
  • Initial setup may require some technical assistance
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing scalable phone systems with strong call management

See pricing

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Ooma Office

Reliable VoIP phone system for clear calls and simple management

Best for: Best for small UK offices needing straightforward, cost-effective phone solutions

Why teams choose it: Simple setup suitable for non-technical users

Ooma Office is often chosen by small businesses and SMEs in the UK that require a reliable phone system without extensive technical overhead. It supports essential features such as call forwarding, voicemail, and conference calling, which help maintain smooth communication within teams and with clients.

This tool is well suited to organisations with a small number of users who want to avoid complex configurations or high costs. It can be managed easily by non-technical staff or outsourced IT providers, making it practical for businesses without dedicated telecom specialists.

While Ooma Office covers the basics effectively, it may lack some advanced integrations or customisation options found in larger, more expensive VoIP platforms. It is a good fit for businesses prioritising straightforward, dependable phone service over extensive feature sets.

Overall, Ooma Office helps UK SMEs maintain clear and consistent voice communication, supporting day-to-day operations with minimal fuss.

Where this tool fits best

  • Simple setup suitable for non-technical users
  • Clear voice quality for everyday business calls
  • Includes essential features like voicemail and call forwarding

Things to keep in mind

  • Limited advanced features compared to larger VoIP platforms
  • May not integrate deeply with some business software
  • Fewer customisation options for complex call routing
IT Support & Help Desk VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for small UK offices needing straightforward, cost-effective phone solutions

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OpenPhone

Simplify business calls with flexible cloud-based phone service

Best for: Best for small UK teams needing straightforward, app-based phone lines

Why teams choose it: Easy to set up and use across multiple devices

OpenPhone is often chosen by small UK businesses that need a simple, app-driven phone system without investing in physical equipment. It allows teams to make and receive calls and texts on smartphones, tablets, and computers, which supports hybrid or remote working arrangements.

Typical users include professional services, small retail outlets, and startups that benefit from features like shared phone numbers, call forwarding, and voicemail transcription. The system integrates with popular business tools, helping to keep communication organised and efficient.

While OpenPhone offers ease of use and flexibility, it may not provide the extensive advanced features or scalability found in larger VoIP platforms. It is best suited for teams that prioritise straightforward setup and day-to-day reliability over complex telephony needs.

Where this tool fits best

  • Easy to set up and use across multiple devices
  • Supports shared phone numbers for team collaboration
  • Includes voicemail transcription for quick message review

Things to keep in mind

  • May lack advanced features needed by larger teams
  • Limited options for complex call routing
  • Primarily app-based, which may not suit all users
VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for small UK teams needing straightforward, app-based phone lines

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Phone.com

Reliable VoIP phone system for flexible UK business communication

Best for: Best for small UK businesses needing straightforward, cost-effective phone solutions with easy setup

Why teams choose it: Flexible plans suitable for varying call volumes

Phone.com is often chosen by small UK businesses looking for a practical VoIP phone system that balances features with ease of use. It supports common business needs such as call routing, voicemail, and conference calling, which helps teams maintain clear communication internally and with customers.

Many organisations appreciate its flexible pricing plans, which can suit businesses with varying call volumes and budgets. The system is cloud-based, so it requires minimal on-site hardware and can be managed through a simple online portal, reducing the need for specialist IT support.

While Phone.com covers essential VoIP features well, it may not offer the advanced integrations or extensive global coverage that larger or more complex businesses require. It is best suited to SMEs that prioritise straightforward, reliable phone service over extensive customisation.

Overall, Phone.com helps UK SMEs improve communication reliability and cost predictability, supporting both office-based and remote working arrangements with a manageable setup.

Where this tool fits best

  • Flexible plans suitable for varying call volumes
  • Simple online management portal for easy setup
  • Supports essential features like call forwarding and voicemail

Things to keep in mind

  • Limited advanced integrations compared to some competitors
  • May lack extensive global coverage for international calls
  • Not ideal for businesses needing highly customisable phone systems
VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for small UK businesses needing straightforward, cost-effective phone solutions with easy setup

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Quo

Simplify business calls with flexible cloud-based phone service

Best for: Best for small UK teams needing straightforward, app-based phone lines

Why teams choose it: Easy to set up and use across multiple devices

Quo is often chosen by small UK businesses that need a simple, app-driven phone system without investing in physical equipment. It allows teams to make and receive calls and texts on smartphones, tablets, and computers, which supports hybrid or remote working arrangements.

Typical users include professional services, small retail outlets, and startups that benefit from features like shared phone numbers, call forwarding, and voicemail transcription. The system integrates with popular business tools, helping to keep communication organised and efficient.

While OpenPhone offers ease of use and flexibility, it may not provide the extensive advanced features or scalability found in larger VoIP platforms. It is best suited for teams that prioritise straightforward setup and day-to-day reliability over complex telephony needs.

Where this tool fits best

  • Easy to set up and use across multiple devices
  • Supports shared phone numbers for team collaboration
  • Includes voicemail transcription for quick message review

Things to keep in mind

  • May lack advanced features needed by larger teams
  • Limited options for complex call routing
  • Primarily app-based, which may not suit all users
VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for small UK teams needing straightforward, app-based phone lines

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RingCentral MVP

Reliable cloud phone system for flexible, unified business calls

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing a scalable, all-in-one VoIP and collaboration platform

Why teams choose it: Combines voice, video, and messaging in one platform

RingCentral MVP is designed to support SMEs that require a unified communication system combining voice calls, video conferencing, and team messaging. It is commonly used by businesses with hybrid or remote working arrangements, allowing staff to stay connected via desktop or mobile apps.

The platform offers a range of features including call forwarding, voicemail, and integrations with popular business tools, which can help improve productivity and reduce communication delays. Its cloud-based nature means there is no need for on-premise hardware, simplifying setup and ongoing management.

While RingCentral MVP provides a comprehensive solution, it may be more feature-rich and potentially more costly than simpler VoIP options, which might be more suitable for very small teams or those with straightforward calling needs. It is well suited to organisations that value scalability and integration capabilities, and that have some IT support to manage configuration and user training.

Overall, it is a practical choice for UK SMEs looking to modernise their phone systems and support flexible working, while maintaining reliable call quality and centralised control.

Where this tool fits best

  • Combines voice, video, and messaging in one platform
  • Supports desktop and mobile apps for flexible working
  • Cloud-based with no on-premise hardware needed

Things to keep in mind

  • May be more complex than basic VoIP systems
  • Potentially higher cost for smaller teams
  • Some features require user training or IT support
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing a scalable, all-in-one VoIP and collaboration platform

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UniTel Voice

Reliable VoIP phone system for clear calls and flexible working

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing straightforward VoIP with easy call management

Why teams choose it: Clear voice quality suitable for daily business calls

UniTel Voice is often chosen by UK SMEs looking for a straightforward VoIP solution that covers essential phone system needs without unnecessary complexity. It supports clear voice calls and basic call management features such as call forwarding and voicemail, which help teams stay connected and responsive.

This tool suits organisations with a mix of office-based and remote workers who need reliable phone access without extensive IT overhead. It integrates with common devices and offers a user-friendly interface, making it accessible for non-technical staff and easy to manage alongside outsourced IT support.

While it may not have the advanced collaboration or CRM integrations found in some other VoIP systems, UniTel Voice provides a practical balance of features and simplicity. It is a reasonable choice for businesses prioritising cost predictability and straightforward call handling over more complex unified communications.

Where this tool fits best

  • Clear voice quality suitable for daily business calls
  • Simple call management tools for non-technical users
  • Supports remote and office-based working setups

Things to keep in mind

  • Limited advanced collaboration features compared to some competitors
  • May lack deep CRM or third-party software integrations
  • Not tailored for very large or complex call centre operations
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing straightforward VoIP with easy call management

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Vonage Business Communications

Reliable cloud-based phone system for flexible business communication

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing scalable VoIP with strong mobile and desktop apps

Why teams choose it: Supports mobile and desktop apps for flexible working

Vonage Business Communications is commonly used by small and medium-sized UK businesses that require a flexible and scalable phone system. It supports both office-based and remote staff through mobile and desktop applications, making it suitable for teams with hybrid working arrangements.

The service offers features such as call forwarding, voicemail, and integration with other business tools, which can help improve productivity and customer service. Its cloud-based nature reduces the need for on-site hardware, simplifying setup and ongoing management.

While it provides a solid range of features, some SMEs may find the pricing structure less straightforward compared to simpler VoIP providers. It is best suited to organisations that value reliable call quality and the ability to scale as they grow, rather than those seeking the most basic or lowest-cost option.

Overall, Vonage Business Communications is a practical choice for UK SMEs looking to modernise their phone systems with a provider that supports flexible working and integrates well with common business workflows.

Where this tool fits best

  • Supports mobile and desktop apps for flexible working
  • Cloud-based system reduces need for on-site hardware
  • Offers integration with common business tools

Things to keep in mind

  • Pricing can be complex for smaller budgets
  • May include features not needed by very small teams
  • Some users report occasional setup complexity
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for UK SMEs needing scalable VoIP with strong mobile and desktop apps

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