The best business VoIP services in 2026: Expert tested and reviewed

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) phone systems are now considered the standard if you want to attract customers. Users expect a range communication methods including phone lines, text and app messaging, and video conferencing. There's not much that is more frustrating than being stuck in a phone queue with a poor-quality line. This is where VoIP solutions shine as convenient, often affordable, scalable, and bolstered by smart features such as smart routing or AI. 

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Whether you're looking for VoIP, text messaging, video conferencing, collaborative tools, or an entry-level solution suitable for a growing business, there is a massive range of providers. These are the best providers on the market that combine business calling with advanced features, scalability, and value for money.

In ZDNET's February update, we completed an overhaul of our guide for 2026, including a refresh of the services we recommend. 

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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 that businesses of almost any size will appreciate. It also offers valuable optional extras like AI transcription. 

If you're a smaller business looking for a VoIP service that provides 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. 

When I compiled my top choices, I sought out the experiences of ZDNET authors and users themselves. 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 2026

RingCentral is one of the most well-known and respected VoIP services in the U.S., making it my top choice for VoIP services in 2026.

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.

The company is very interested in AI and has rolled out smart features utilizing LLMs including call routing and quality improvement. 

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 that it is generally reliable, although some customers reported call drops. 

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 $20 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. If you think you will need frequent on-call support, this likely isn't the best option for you.  

RingCentral features: Variety of line options | Video meetings | Team collaboration suite | Mobile apps | AI tools including greetings, call routing | Mobile app | 24/7 support (mixed reviews)

• Video meetings
• Omnichannel customer service platforms
• Mobile apps
• AI tools including a robust transcription service

• Advanced features locked to expensive plans
• Customer service needs improvement

RingCentral is one of the most well-known and respected VoIP services in the U.S., making it my top choice for VoIP services in 2026.

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.

The company is very interested in AI and has rolled out smart features utilizing LLMs including call routing and quality improvement. 

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 that it is generally reliable, although some customers reported call drops. 

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 $20 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. If you think you will need frequent on-call support, this likely isn't the best option for you.  

RingCentral features: Variety of line options | Video meetings | Team collaboration suite | Mobile apps | AI tools including greetings, call routing | Mobile app | 24/7 support (mixed reviews)

If call quality is your top priority, consider 8x8's VoIP services. It's gathered solid customer reviews related 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 VoIP. These expansion opportunities include adopting multi-channel and global support, call center and agent functionality, appointment scheduling, collaborative tools, AI, and 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.

Improvements made to the service over the past year include AI tool integration to improve productivity, enhancements to workforce management solutions, and analytics.

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 that the 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 | AI tools including Agentic CX

• Custom plans
• Private Branch Exchange (PBX)
• Microsoft Teams integration
• Call center functionality
• Omni-channel

• A lack of pricing transparency

If call quality is your top priority, consider 8x8's VoIP services. It's gathered solid customer reviews related 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 VoIP. These expansion opportunities include adopting multi-channel and global support, call center and agent functionality, appointment scheduling, collaborative tools, AI, and 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.

Improvements made to the service over the past year include AI tool integration to improve productivity, enhancements to workforce management solutions, and analytics.

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 that the 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 | AI tools including Agentic CX

If you're interested in harnessing artificial intelligence for your VoIP needs, check out 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. VoIP providers are still putting these technologies to good use, and typically through agentic AI technologies.

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, as well as 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 artificial intelligence. 

While customer feedback on support is a mixed bag, users note the intuitive nature of the platform and its excellent features. This is the ideal option for customers seeking to discover how AI-based VoIP can benefit 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 | Enterprise plans available | Quick launch service

• AI focus
• Clean and intuitive interface
• AI feedback scorecards
• Real-time analytics, call transcriptions

• Basic plan features are limited

If you're interested in harnessing artificial intelligence for your VoIP needs, check out 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. VoIP providers are still putting these technologies to good use, and typically through agentic AI technologies.

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, as well as 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 artificial intelligence. 

While customer feedback on support is a mixed bag, users note the intuitive nature of the platform and its excellent features. This is the ideal option for customers seeking to discover how AI-based VoIP can benefit 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 | Enterprise plans available | Quick launch service

If you plan to use a VoIP service for collaboration, and especially in the Microsoft ecosystem, you will want to explore the features offered by Intermedia Unite.

Why we like it: Intermedia Unite sports stand-out features such as 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 available for Teams and collaborative use. 

In terms of integrations, you can use Intermedia Unite software with other third-party apps, including Slack, Chrome, Zoho CRM, Salesforce, and Zendesk. 

In recent months, the company introduced a zero-cost migration service and an AI supervisor assistant for business users.

Who's it for: 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. Customers like the reliability and call quality of the VoIP service and note that there is rarely any downtime. 

Two plans are available: Unite Pro and Unite Enterprise, separated into subscriptions for Teams or United. 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 start at $28 per user per month.

Who should look elsewhere: If Microsoft Teams is not part of your existing business ecosystem, investigate other solutions that offer a wider free calling network or a broader range of plans.

Intermedia Unite features: Free calling to 33 countries | Mobile support | Mix and match licensing | Three-way calling | Spam blocking | HD video meetings | CRM integration | AI coaching

• Strong country call network
• Team chat tools
• Mobile support
• AI agent technologies
• Free devices for new customers

• AI restricted to premium plans

If you plan to use a VoIP service for collaboration, and especially in the Microsoft ecosystem, you will want to explore the features offered by Intermedia Unite.

Why we like it: Intermedia Unite sports stand-out features such as 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 available for Teams and collaborative use. 

In terms of integrations, you can use Intermedia Unite software with other third-party apps, including Slack, Chrome, Zoho CRM, Salesforce, and Zendesk. 

In recent months, the company introduced a zero-cost migration service and an AI supervisor assistant for business users.

Who's it for: 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. Customers like the reliability and call quality of the VoIP service and note that there is rarely any downtime. 

Two plans are available: Unite Pro and Unite Enterprise, separated into subscriptions for Teams or United. 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 start at $28 per user per month.

Who should look elsewhere: If Microsoft Teams is not part of your existing business ecosystem, investigate other solutions that offer a wider free calling network or a broader range of plans.

Intermedia Unite features: Free calling to 33 countries | Mobile support | Mix and match licensing | Three-way calling | Spam blocking | HD video meetings | CRM integration | AI coaching

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: According to Nextiva, their "AI-powered Unified-CXM platform delivers personalized experiences throughout the entire customer journey." 

In short, the company specializes in multi-channel customer support and services.

Customers now expect businesses to offer multiple communication channels, 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 $25 per user per month on the Nextiva Engage plan. The company also offers Core, a cheaper alternative solution at $15 per user per month. 

Who should look elsewhere: Nextiva has another plan, NextivaONE. This 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 | New customer promotions

• Multi-channel
• Video meetings
• Flexible plans
• Cheap startup contracts
• Social media suite

• Some VoIP features locked in advanced plans

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: According to Nextiva, their "AI-powered Unified-CXM platform delivers personalized experiences throughout the entire customer journey." 

In short, the company specializes in multi-channel customer support and services.

Customers now expect businesses to offer multiple communication channels, 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 $25 per user per month on the Nextiva Engage plan. The company also offers Core, a cheaper alternative solution at $15 per user per month. 

Who should look elsewhere: Nextiva has another plan, NextivaONE. This 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 | New customer promotions

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 also utilize the cloud to scale up capacity as well as 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 2026?

Below, you will find some of the most important factors to help you decide on the best VoIP option for you in 2026.

Which is the right business VoIP provider for you?

How did I choose these business VoIP providers?

While compiling the list of the best VoIP providers in 2026, 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. I prefer to showcase solutions that allow customers to scale up or down as their requirements change. 
• 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 and, preferably, will offer a variety of plans.
• 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, I like to see VoIP providers leverage new and emerging technologies in interesting ways. Regarding VoIP, features like AI-assisted transcription or sentiment analysis can be a real benefit for customers.
• Support: With any business service, you expect some form of customer support, whether via chat, email, phone, or live help. The best options will provide a variety of channels for customer troubleshooting, although, unfortunately, many VoIP services aren't known for great customer support.
• Customer feedback: I have examined and researched each VoIP provider to learn how existing customers feel about the services provided. I prefer to see an established pedigree of happy clients, solid support, and feedback taken into consideration by providers themselves.

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 automated or smart system to handle call routing and processing. 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. 
• Advanced features: You might also want to explore new technologies and innovations in the VoIP space, such as how AI and LLMs are being applied to call quality, sentiment measurements, or workflow automation. If these interest you, select a provider that is active in this arena. 

How is AI developing into a vital feature for VoIP services in 2026?

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. AI and large language models (LLMs) may also be used to optimize performance and manage traffic loads. 

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 in a shiny AI wrapper. So, it is worth taking new announcements with a pinch of salt before their true benefits and ROI can be measured. 

Latest news in the VoIP, telecoms space

• Easybell and Fonio.ai announced a voice AI solution designed for cloud-based phone systems based in the EU.
• Voip Unlimited