Multi-Line Phone Systems for Small Businesses? Here are 7 Good Ones
For small businesses, communication is everything. Investing in a high-quality multi-line phone system streamlines business communication, allowing seamless contact with customers, teams, and partners. The right multi-line system can integrate with multiple communication channels, enhance productivity, and improve customer experience. This is why choosing the best system will be a big help for your business.
7 Multi-Line Phone Systems to Look At
1. Podium – The Omnichannel Solution
Podium stands out as a versatile multi-line phone system for small business owners who want an all-in-one communication platform. Its integration of customer communication channels into a single inbox makes it easy to handle messages, calls, and even online chats from one place. Podium’s interface combines text, social media, and Webchat into a unified omnichannel inbox, perfect for businesses focused on enhancing customer experience and team collaboration.
With its essential plan starting at $249 per month, Podium allows business owners to provide outstanding service across multiple communication lines. It also includes reputation management tools, helping businesses manage online reviews alongside other customer interactions, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an integrated approach to customer engagement.
Key Features
- Unified communication across multiple channels
- Integrated Webchat and text messaging
- Tools for reputation management
- Secure payments system for quick transactions
2. RingCentral – The Customizable Cloud Solution
RingCentral delivers a cloud-hosted PBX system tailored to businesses seeking advanced customization. Known as one of the best multi-line phone systems in the U.S. and Canada, RingCentral offers essential features like call transfer, caller ID, and voicemail. Small businesses can choose from multiple plans, with the basic plan priced at $30 per month, although more advanced customization requires the top-tier plan.
This multi-line phone system for business also integrates seamlessly with various tools and services, enabling remote teams to stay connected. RingCentral’s scalability and flexibility make it a great solution for companies planning for growth.
Key Features
- Cloud-hosted PBX with extensive customization
- Unlimited calling within the U.S. and Canada
- Variety of integrations, including with popular business tools
- Scalable plans for business growth
3. Nextiva – Reliable Call Quality with Security
Nextiva’s multi-line phone system offers secure, high-quality communication, making it perfect for industries handling sensitive data, like healthcare. This VoIP-based system offers customizable plans, with entry-level pricing starting at $17.95 per month. Nextiva provides HIPAA-compliant features, adding an extra layer of security for data-sensitive businesses.
Nextiva’s features allow users to mix and match plans to create a tailored system, giving businesses the flexibility they need. However, voicemail transcription is only available with the top plan, which may be a consideration for some small businesses.
Key Features
- HIPAA-compliant, ideal for data-sensitive industries
- High-quality calls for smooth communication
- Mix-and-match plans for custom solutions
- Integration with CRM software and more
4. Ooma – User-Friendly for Startups and Growing Businesses
For small business owners looking for a user-friendly interface, Ooma provides an excellent option. This multi-line phone system starts at $19.95 per user per month, with over 50 features included in the essential plan. This cost-effective system provides a strong solution for small businesses or startups needing immediate onboarding.
While it lacks video communication and certain integrations in its base plan, Ooma’s core features, such as call forwarding, intercom, and virtual receptionist, make it a solid choice for smaller operations.
Key Features
- Over 50 standard features on the essential plan
- User-friendly interface and easy onboarding
- Affordable pricing tailored for startups
- Call forwarding and virtual receptionist for professional service
5. Zoom – The Flexible Pay-As-You-Go Plan
Zoom’s multi-line phone system extends beyond video conferencing, offering both pay-as-you-go and unlimited calling plans. This flexible approach allows businesses to manage expenses according to call volume, making it ideal for those with fluctuating call needs. While international calling isn’t standard, Zoom’s competitive pricing and call management features make it a solid option for domestic operations.
Zoom also integrates with its well-known video platform, making it a strong choice for businesses that conduct frequent video meetings alongside regular calls.
Key Features
- Flexible pay-as-you-go and unlimited calling plans
- Integration with Zoom’s video conferencing services
- Affordable for businesses with variable call volumes
- Streamlined communication with all-in-one access
6. 8×8 – The International-Friendly Choice
8×8’s multi-line phone system is well-suited for businesses with international contacts, offering unlimited international calling and global numbers. Supporting 46 languages for video communication, 8×8 ensures businesses stay connected worldwide. This platform includes real-time monitoring, enabling efficient team collaboration and accountability.
8×8 provides two straightforward plans that can be enhanced with add-ons to meet specific needs. This system is perfect for teams working across multiple time zones, making it an efficient choice for companies with a global presence.
Key Features
- Unlimited international calling
- Real-time monitoring for efficient team management
- Video communication in 46 languages
- Simple plans with customizable add-ons
7. Dialpad – AI-Powered Features for Smart Communication
Dialpad’s AI-powered VoIP multi-line phone system offers innovative features like voicemail transcription and call analysis on every plan, starting at $15 per month when billed annually. Dialpad leverages AI to streamline communication, making it an ideal choice for businesses looking to implement advanced tech in their operations.
Dialpad’s AI features allow teams to access insights from calls and transcriptions quickly, helping to improve customer support quality and team productivity.
Key Features
- AI-powered voicemail transcription and analytics
- Affordable starting plan
- Advanced call insights for improving service quality
- Built-in scalability for growing businesses
Choosing the Right Multi-Line Phone System for Your Business
Selecting the best multi-line phone system for a small business depends on your unique needs and operational goals. From Podium’s omnichannel capabilities to RingCentral’s cloud-based flexibility, each system offers distinct advantages.
For businesses prioritizing ease of use and instant setup, Ooma and Zoom are strong contenders. Nextiva and 8×8 provide enhanced security and international connectivity, appealing to data-sensitive or globally distributed teams. Dialpad’s AI features may be especially appealing to tech-forward businesses seeking smart, data-driven communication tools.
Considerations When Selecting a Multi-Line Phone System
- Look for a solution that fits your budget, with the right features included in your plan.
- Choose a system that can grow with your business, accommodating additional users or new locations.
- Make sure the system integrates with other tools your business relies on, like CRM or project management software.
- User-friendly systems save training time and improve team productivity.
- Reliable support is key to minimizing downtime and addressing technical challenges.
Step Up Your Business Communication Game
The right multi-line phone system does more than facilitate calls; it boosts efficiency, enhances customer service, and supports your business growth. This is why it’s important that you take your time in choosing the right phone system for your business. You want to ensure that you’re getting the right service and features that your business needs.
