The 11 best small business phone systems for 2025 and beyond
Senior Product Marketing Manager, UCaaS
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Unified Communications for Small Businesses
Talk, message, meet, and support customers—all in one beautiful workspace.
What is a phone system for a small business, exactly?
Today, a small business phone system typically refers to a VoIP-based software solution. These systems enable businesses to make and receive inbound and outbound calls, often including features like call transferring and forwarding.
There are two main options available: VoIP systems, which utilize internet connections and offer flexibility with pay-as-you-go models, and PBX systems, which require more upfront investment and maintenance. VoIP systems often come with softphone apps for mobile devices, while PBX systems may involve more hardware and IT support.
Additionally, some phone systems are branded as "unified communications" platforms, integrating various communication channels like SMS and instant messaging.
Ultimately, these systems serve as the backbone of modern business communication, connecting businesses with clients, partners, and remote employees.
🗒️ You don't have to be a CIO to shop smart like one
Grab the CIO Buyer's Guide, (written by our own CIO, who's done a lot of phone system shopping in her time!), which will walk you through what features to look for, nuances to pay attention to when comparing providers, and more!
Looking for the best small business phone system?
With Dialpad, you get not just phone calls, but also video meetings and messaging. Test-drive it with a 14-day free trial! Signup takes just a few minutes, and you'll get set up with a virtual phone number!) Or, take a self-guided tour to play around with it on your own first!
👉 FURTHER READING:
See how Dialpad stacks up against RingCentral.
👉 FURTHER READING:
See how Dialpad stacks up against 8x8.
👉 FURTHER READING:
Learn more about Dialpad vs Vonage.
👉 FURTHER READING:
See how Dialpad stacks up against Nextiva.
👉 FURTHER READING:
See how Dialpad stacks up against Grasshopper!
Need an easy-to-set-up—but still powerful—small business phone system?
Try Dialpad free for 14 days! It only takes a few minutes to get started. Or, take a self-guided interactive tour of the app first!