For businesses looking for an alternative to RingCentral, there are various options that can provide different services and features. These include VoIP-only solutions like Vonage Business, full-service offerings like 8×8, cloud-based options like Mitel MiCloud Connect, and digital PBX systems like Zoom Voice. Each provides features that might be more suitable for certain types of businesses, such as those with distributed teams or special requirements in terms of scalability, hardware support, and pricing. Additionally, companies should consider any customizations they need before deciding, as some alternatives may offer tailored solutions more suitable for their business than RingCentral’s one-size-fits-all approach.
What Is RingCentral?
RingCentral is an all-inclusive communications platform that allows organizations to enhance their functionality and capabilities regarding voice calls, teleconferencing, messaging, and other conversation solutions.
One of its strengths is its integration with third-party applications to simplify a company’s day-to-day operations further.
A few of the applications RingCentral is compatible with include:
- Google Suite
- Oracle
- DropBox
- Box
- Desk
- Mega NZ
- and many more
Although primarily marketed toward the corporate demographic, the system is available for residential and personal use, albeit with limited features. The standard options for a residential account include:
- Multiple phone numbers
- Call management
- Voicemail
- Mobile integration
Customers who wish to leverage the benefits of RingCentral’s business features have three versions to select from. These separate subscriptions include:
- RingCentral Enterprise: $44
- RingCentral Premium: $34
- RingCentral Standard: $24
Varying services include the number of employees available for integrated communication, the number of talk-time minutes, identifying incoming callers, and the number of application integration options. The higher the plan, the more availability and higher amounts of these features you’ll be able to access.
Regardless of how efficient RingCentral has proven itself, many B2B or B2C consumers may still benefit from alternative platforms with different features and integration options. In the next section, you’ll learn about the 12 best RingCentral alternatives.
12 Best RingCentral Alternatives
Each of the following alternatives was tested and reviewed in no particular order. This isn’t meant to be a rated list but instead an informative collection highlighting the additional options and services that RingCentral users may benefit from using.
1. Phone.com
Phone.com allows users to activate numbers local to their area in addition to toll-free options. This allows for simple residential use or a larger virtual corporate phone system, providing a wide range of consumers with communication options. One of the strengths of the Phone.com service is the fact that it’s completely cloud-based, which eliminates the need for any type of physical installation or complicated wiring system and infrastructure for business use.
The company’s primary demographic is business subscribers, although residential customers make up a small percentage of their client base. With Phone.com, customers can integrate their already-existing phone numbers without relying on a new one through the platform.
However, if a new number is needed or wanted, they still have the option to activate this service. Additional features include system administration controls, unlimited calls (local and long-distance), call routing and forwarding, HighDef text messaging, group calls, and many more in their 40-plus features.
Customers who want to try Phone.com only need to sign up for the service and choose a new number or input their existing one. Phone.com is among the more robust RingCentral alternatives, providing users with many options and features.
2. Talkray
Talkray is a communication application that provides solutions using smartphones instead of VoIP, like many other platforms. With Talkray, users can communicate via regular phone calls, video conferencing, and text messaging. Although these comprise the primary core of communication capabilities, Talkray isn’t without additional features that cater to the business market.
Users can access file sharing in multiple formats, emoji sharing, and push-to-talk (think walkie-talkie style). Although Talkray is a viable business option for smaller organizations, it’s primary demographic includes residential customers who use the application among close friends and family members. One of the number one advantages of Talkray services is that it provides unlimited calls and messaging.
Users only need a stable internet connection to leverage the benefits of this service. Another helpful feature of Talkray is the compression of data used among subscribers. All the data shared across the platform between users is compressed, guaranteeing users that less bandwidth is required, saving them a significant amount of money.
This feature is especially helpful for customers with limited internet accounts each month. Finally, Talkray is potentially a beneficial service for people who have family and friends across the globe. The platform allows group calling to any country worldwide and features an HD calling option to ensure they can talk to their most distant loved ones without interruption or poor quality.
3. Grasshopper
Grasshopper is a user-friendly VoIP communications service that provides users with numbers they can manage using a simple online interface. This is probably one of the most well-known RingCentral alternatives and primarily caters to multiple types of businesses, without many limits for any industry, as the service could potentially deliver solutions in nearly any industry. Grasshopper’s strength lies in its many fantastic options and features. The following list is just a fraction of the features made available for users:
- Call routing
- Voicemail to Email
- Toll-free
- New local numbers or integrate your old one
- Caller greeting and automatic messaging
- Option to play music for calls on hold
- Call screening
- Business text messaging
- and many, many more
An important benefit of Grasshopper is its usefulness for moderate to large businesses without additional hardware installation or software upgrades to function properly. After signing up, every new member receives a 7-day free trial and the option to choose a new number or import their current one.
4. MightyCall
MightyCall is in close competition with the provider “Grasshopper” and features many of the same services that benefit small to medium-sized businesses. Upon signing up, customers may choose from a local, toll-free, or vanity phone number, depending on which suits their business the best. Corporate 800 numbers are also an option, with multiple additions and features available solely for this offering.
MightyCall is widely considered an all-in-one communication solution for any organization with the need for a robust business phone system. One of the standout features of MightyCall that separates it from other services is its audio quality.
Aside from the top-tier sound quality, MightyCall contains the standard features you’d see with a business communication platform, including greetings and hold music, call forwarding, voicemail and transcription, and call routing.
However, users also can choose after-hours call routing, so inbound calls aren’t left without a voice at the other end. This provides huge value for organizations that provide services like 24-hour support and other important benefits.
MightyCall seems to be a more in-depth option than its competitor GrassHopper, as it also provides multiple calling extensions and the ability to port multiple numbers instead of just one. One of the only downsides of MightyCall is that you are on a metered plan, so you have a designated number of talk minutes each period.
5. Google Hangouts
Google Hangouts is a staple communication tool in the business world, offering users an option for free calls and integrating into the massive suite of Google Business tools on the platform. There’s no charge for using Hangouts, as users only need an internet connection and the most recent version of the downloadable application on their smartphone.
Each account is connected to another US Phone number, providing one free account per phone. After signing up for Hangouts, each user is granted an anonymous phone number that’s forever linked to their account instead of the device the application is downloaded to.
Because the number is attached to the account and not the device, users can take advantage of this calling service anywhere in the world from any device with talk and calling capabilities.
Hangouts aren’t limited to a single platform but instead is available for iOS, Android, Windows, Mac, and the web. Users on laptops or desktop computers may use the Desktop Windows application or the web version of Hangouts. In addition to simple calling features, users can access video chat, voicemail, call blocking, and group chat. Google Hangouts is one of the best free RingCentral alternatives.
6. Ooma Telo
Ooma Telo provides residential and business customers with VoIP service at an extremely modest price. Instead of functioning like traditional landlines, VoIP uses broadband routers to forward calls across an internet connection.
This allows for much higher speeds, which make features like HD calling and video conferencing more feasible. New users to the platform can take advantage of the new number provided by Ooma Telo or may opt to continue using their old one, porting it using Ooma.
Because it’s not fully cloud-based, Ooma Telo requires each user to purchase a box at roughly $100. However, after purchasing and connecting the box, the rest of the service is essentially cost-free, save for a few charges that may arise after international calls. Additional features on the platform include caller ID, 911 access, call logs, voicemail, and free domestic calling.
Ooma Telo is more beneficial for residential users instead of for the corporate demographic. However, smaller organizations and startups may still benefit from this platform’s features.
7. Telzio
Telzio is another cloud-based option that covers a wide variety of business customers, including small startups to million-dollar corporations. The most incredible feature of Telzio is the possibility of paying only $1 per month for services. Although Telzio doesn’t include some more technical applications, it does an excellent job of providing the basics that any business needs, regardless of size.
With Telzio, users can place simple phone calls, text, forward, and conference calls and leverage an efficient customer service system. One feature that makes Telzio so unique is its self-contained phone system, meaning that new users aren’t required to port their current numbers.
However, new users do have the option of choosing from over 50 different countries globally, with a variety of different number configurations and area codes as options. Returning to the $1 per month price, users may select one of three packages: Startup, Pro, and Enterprise. “Startup” is the $1 offer, but it’s important to note that each plan has various call-time limitations.
Regardless of your subscription, each level has the same number of features available, with time restrictions being the only contrasting options. Telzio is available for download as a free application on Apple or Android devices. Telzio may be one of the best-valued RingCentral alternatives.
8. VirtualPBX
VirtualPBX provides a robust VoIP communication system and is another company that’s in close competition with Grasshopper. Just like Grasshopper, users can choose a local, toll-free, vanity, or 800 number. This particular platform is available for download on iOS and Android, making it extremely user-friendly and easy to set up.
VirtualPBX has some pretty cool features that Grasshopper doesn’t, including a mobile fax option with a signature, voicemail transcriptions that you can copy directly to email, and converting fax files to PDF Files for email uploading.
The voicemail transcription with the copy-to-email feature is great for organizations that provide phone call training for running sales and marketing campaigns. You could even leverage this for sending out memos to your entire organization if you receive important updates via voicemail that is considered sharable.
Additional features that we thought were useful included auto attendant, a remote functioning option, the ability to add departments, and providing employees with their own extensions.
9. Line2
Line2 provides users with an additional line for business or residential purposes. This platform provides technically advanced features that are in line with current smartphone technology, providing users with moderate-sized businesses with many benefits.
The infrastructure of Line2 uses the cloud for its communication and data requirements, which means you can leverage this system from anywhere in the world that provides a strong internet connection. If you’re in the United States or Canada, you’ll have the luxury of choosing a free toll-free number to add another level of professionalism to your organization.
Line2 also provides international calling and text messaging options, with the option of bringing your old number onboard via porting. A decent number of features exist for Line2 – at least all the ones you expect to see from a cloud-based communications provider. If you’re new to the platform, you’ll receive a free-trial option before committing to the $9.95 per month fee.
Just a heads up – if you opt for the free-trial period, you’ll be substantially limited to the number of features you’re allowed to access. If Line2 is on your list of things to do, it might be worth it just to go ahead and pay the full $9.95 to get a feel for everything the platform offers.
10. Voiceably
Voiceably is another cloud-based communications system that provides new users with a local phone number. Even though Voiceably caters to business customers, they offer no options for toll-free or 800 numbers. However, the system is extremely easy to deploy and only takes a few minutes to go live.
One of the advantages of using Voiceably is the convenience of not installing any additional hardware or software. This platform is noticeably focused on its customers’ ease of use and convenience. Some of the most pertinent features of Voiceably include call blocking, the ability to sync with multiple devices, conference calls, call recording, virtual fax options, voicemail transcription, and developer API.
For users looking for a more versatile and flexible service that allows a higher level of customization, Voiceably is a fantastic option. Users interested in Voiceably should know that the platform is available in three tiers: Enterprise, Small Business, and Startup. These packages come at prices of $199, $49, and $19 per month.
11. MagicJack
magicJack provides a VoIP platform that allows users to make unlimited calls to any location across the globe. You might have heard of magicJack, as it’s been available as a plug-and-play landline service for many decades. Upon its release as one of the first alternatives to landline phone service, magicJack was marketed as a solution to expensive phone services for a one-time fee of $50.
This purchased a small plug-in inserted into a user’s phone jack in the home and provided something similar to a VoIP service before these systems became popular in the mainstream. Currently, magicJack is available as a true VoIP provider in any home with a WiFi connection.
In addition, they’ve also added the option of installing a smartphone application users can leverage for placing calls to any United States or Canadian number. Currently, magicJack offers service for $29.95 per month or $99.75 for an entire year.
Although magicJack doesn’t offer the feature-rich options of other services or toll-free numbers, it’s a viable option for a residential phone solution or an independent contractor or business owner working from home. magicJack is one of the oldest RingCentral alternatives on the market, and its longevity in the market is a testament to its quality.
12. Calling Vault
CallingVault is marketed toward subscribers who require hosting conference calls on a private basis. This system uses a one-time number generated each time the user intends to call or message certain people.
The number attached to CallingVault is the secondary phone number attached to the user’s current Smartphone account. Despite the temporary, one-time use number, users still have options like call and message blocking and call forwarding.
If users don’t want to share a number publically or want to use the phone system to test the effectiveness of certain ads, CallingVault is a great option. Plus, it’s only $3.25 per month so that it won’t break the bank.
How Should I Choose a RingCentral Alternative?
When choosing a communication platform, it’s important first to outline what you’ll be using it for. You’ll need to decide whether it’s for personal or professional use. If you choose the latter, you need a good idea of the capabilities you require to accommodate your workforce.
Deciding additional features and the number of minutes you’ll require also come into play, in addition to where you’d like to access the services.
In the following sections, we deliver a short guide that might help you choose the best communication platform that meets your needs and delivers a seamless experience. Use these tips to assist you with your next purchase or switch to alternative communication providers.
Look for Versatility
It’s important to look for versatile options when selecting a communications platform. This holds true whether the service is for your home or business. You want a provider with features, but at the same time, you don’t want a one-dimensional provider.
It makes more sense to go with a company that offers ten varying types of services instead of a company that has 20 features, but they’re all similar.
It’s also important to look at the versatility of the phone number options. Does the platform provide toll-free numbers? Is it a virtual phone system providing mobile and desktop app options? You need a business phone system if you’re engaging in business communications. Keep that in mind at all times.
Try and find a platform that provides everything you need for communication to avoid spending money on multiple services. You’ll be twice as happy if you cover all your bases with one platform – not to mention you’re receiving a lot more bang for your buck. Look for features like cross-platform availability, mobile applications, and additional remote options.
Integration Is Important
If you’re using the communication platform for business reasons, it’s probably important that your service has integration options. Take some time to list all the applications and software you use for your daily operations at work. Separate all the functions that would be made simpler if they could be integrated into your VoIP or alternative communications platform.
Cross-reference all provider options starting with this article and arrive at your conclusion based on the provider that provides the most seamless experience. If you haven’t paid much attention to integrating all of your workflow processes, your life changes when you finally have everything synched.
It makes the business run much smoother, saves time, and makes life easier for your employees, driving more profit and leading to happier team members. Let’s go into our final tip that should stay on the heels of integration.
Know Your Prices
You must have a firm grasp of the prices of various communication service providers across the market. This doesn’t mean going for the cheapest-priced option and saving as much money as possible – cheap doesn’t always equal the best.
What we mean by this is to understand what you’re paying for at all times. You should know what additional services cost and have a general idea of how these platforms are priced. This allows you to be sure you’re receiving what you’re paying for. It’s okay to spend the extra money and invest in your business if you’re receiving the proper value in exchange for your money.
In closing, there are many RingCentral alternatives with various features and pricing.
