Virtual Phone Systems vs.
Traditional Business Phone Systems

best virtual phone system comparison

A virtual phone system is a business phone system that operates over the Internet. Unlike traditional business phone systems that require physical hardware and complex installations, virtual phone systems work with your existing phones and can be managed completely online. This makes them less expensive, easier to use, and scaleable — perfect for non-technical entrepreneurs and startups.

Ready to try one out? Give us a try risk-free for 30-days. And you’ll see why Unitel Voice is the virtual phone system you’ve been looking for!

best virtual phone system comparison

A Quick Nontechnical Phone System Comparison of Features & Benefits

A virtual phone system is a business phone system that operates over the Internet. Unlike traditional business phone systems that require physical hardware and complex installations, virtual phone systems work with your existing phones and can be managed completely online. This makes them less expensive, easier to use, and scaleable — perfect for non-technical entrepreneurs and startups.

Ready to try one out? Give us a try risk-free for 30-days. And you’ll see why Unitel Voice is the virtual phone system you’ve been looking for!

How do Virtual Phone Systems Compare to Traditional Business Phone Systems?

1. What key features do virtual phone systems typically include?

Here are the standard features you get with virtual phone systems:

  • Call Forwarding: Calls to a central business number can be forwarded to personal or office phones.
  • Voicemail: Like any traditional phone system, virtual phone systems often include voicemail functionality.
  • Auto Attendant: Also known as a digital receptionist, this feature allows callers to be automatically transferred to an extension without the intervention of an operator.
  • Call Recording: Calls can be recorded for training or legal purposes.
  • Multi-Device Accessibility: Since these systems operate over the Internet, calls can be taken on a variety of devices including smartphones, tablets, laptops, and desktop computers.
  • Local and Toll-Free Numbers: Businesses can choose to have local and/or toll-free numbers regardless of their actual location.
  • Conference Calling: Virtual phone systems often include the ability to host conference calls.

2. What are the biggest differences between virtual phone systems and traditional business phone systems?

Virtual phone systems and traditional business phone systems have several key differences, largely related to infrastructure, cost, flexibility, and features:

  • Infrastructure: Traditional business phone systems, especially Private Branch Exchange (PBX) systems, require significant physical infrastructure. This includes not only the phones themselves but also servers, wiring, and other equipment. Virtual phone systems, on the other hand, are hosted in the cloud and require very little physical infrastructure beyond the devices (like laptops or smartphones) used to access the system.
  • Installation and Maintenance: Because of their physical infrastructure, traditional phone systems often require professional installation and ongoing maintenance. Virtual phone systems are typically much simpler to set up, and maintenance is usually handled by the service provider, reducing the burden on the business.
  • Cost: Traditional phone systems often involve substantial upfront costs for equipment and installation, as well as ongoing costs for maintenance and upgrades. Virtual phone systems typically operate on a subscription model, with a regular fee that includes maintenance and upgrades. This can make virtual systems more cost-effective, especially for smaller businesses.
  • Flexibility and Scalability: Virtual phone systems are highly flexible and can easily scale up or down to meet the needs of the business. Adding or removing users is typically as simple as changing a setting in the software. Traditional phone systems, on the other hand, may require additional equipment or installations to add users or lines.
  • Flexibility and Scalability: Virtual phone systems are highly flexible and can easily scale up or down to meet the needs of the business. Adding or removing users is typically as simple as changing a setting in the software. Traditional phone systems, on the other hand, may require additional equipment or installations to add users or lines.
  • Remote Work: One of the biggest differences between virtual and traditional phone systems is the ability to support remote work. Because virtual phone systems operate over the internet, users can make and receive calls from anywhere with an internet connection. Traditional phone systems are generally tied to a specific physical location.
  • Advanced Features: Many virtual phone systems offer advanced features like voicemail-to-email, call recording, call analytics, and video conferencing, which may not be available or may be more difficult to implement in traditional systems.

However, it’s worth noting that the best choice between a virtual and a traditional phone system can depend on the specific needs and circumstances of the business. Some businesses may prefer the stability and control of a traditional system, while others may value the flexibility and features of a virtual system.

3. Why are virtual phone systems the best choice for solo entrepreneurs and startup teams?

Imagine this: You’re an entrepreneur, running your business from home, a coffee shop, or a co-working space, and you’re using your personal phone number for everything. That’s pretty handy, right? But what happens when you start getting business calls at all hours, your clients get mixed up with your personal contacts, or you need to keep records of business calls?

That’s where a virtual phone system comes in. It’s like a super-charged version of your phone that lives in the cloud. You get a separate business number that you can use from your existing phone (or any other device with internet), so no need to carry around two phones or get another SIM card.

Here are the goodies you get with a virtual phone system:

  • Professionalism: Having a separate business number just looks more professional. You can even get a toll-free number, or a local number from another city or country if you want to give your business a larger presence.
  • Balance: Keep your personal and business lives separate. You can set business hours, so your clients aren’t calling you during your off time. Plus, your personal number stays private.
  • Flexibility: You can take calls, return calls, and check voicemail from anywhere. It’s a game-changer if you travel or work remotely.
  • Features: Most virtual phone systems come with extra features like call forwarding, automated greetings, voicemail transcription, and even conference calling. You’ll feel like you have a personal secretary!
  • Scalability: If your business grows (fingers crossed!), you can easily add more lines or numbers. No need for new hardware or a technician visit.

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