In this age of advanced technologies, every business must choose tools that support its growth and continuity. Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) is an advanced communication technology becoming a preferred choice of most individuals and businesses. This phone system sends voice as digital signals over the Internet instead of using traditional landlines and copper cables. VoIP offers numerous benefits, such as flexibility, cost-effectiveness, and advanced features that any modern business requires.
Some people use desktop computers or rugged phones, while others choose a softphone installed on a laptop or any mobile device to make calls over the Internet. With the increase in demand for VoIP, the number of IP phone providers has also increased. In this highly saturated market, choosing the right VoIP phone for your home or business is challenging.
To help you make the right decision, we have made a list of our top VoIP phone choices for 2024.
What Is An IP Phone?
It is an advanced phone system allowing users to make and receive calls using the Internet instead of traditional landlines. This technology converts voice signals into small digital packets that are compressed and transmitted over the Internet. If you have ever made or received a phone call on Skype, Facebook, or WhatsApp, you have used VoIP technology. A VoIP or IP phone is hardware or software that allows you to connect.
VoIP phone systems offer businesses an affordable and reliable way to keep their workforce connected and stay in touch with customers on the go.
How Does An IP Phone Work?
Whether using a VoIP desk phone or a softphone, all VoIP phones work the same way: making and receiving calls using the Internet instead of a landline.
In traditional telephony, calls are transmitted through the PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) using phone company installation, a specific provider, copper cabling, and cell towers. In comparison, VoIP calls are transmitted through your broadband connection.
Moreover, VoIP phones use digital signals instead of analog ones, providing more advanced technology that allows more agility and flexibility compared to conventional phone systems.
How Is VoIP Different From Traditional Phone Systems?
The terms IP telephony and VoIP are often used interchangeably. IP telephony is a broad term used for telephonic communication over the Internet. VoIP is a type of IP telephony that defines how to prioritize voice traffic and transmit it over the network.
In a traditional phone system, voice calls are transmitted via landline phone. This phone system has many limitations, such as the restriction that you can not use a phone if you do not have access to a landline, which means you are restricted to your desk. This lack of flexibility has caused the demise of conventional phone systems in homes and businesses. Individuals and businesses are searching for agile communication systems that support their growth.
Can Any Phone Work With VoIP?
A SIP phone works best with VoIP, but generally, any phone can work if given a proper setup. You can even use traditional landline phones with an adapter to convert analog signals into digital ones. However, phone calls are registered differently depending on your device.
Here are two different types of VoIP phones:
Hard Phones
A hard phone resembles a conventional telephone in appearance and functionality. The main difference is that it uses your internet connection to transmit voice signals, providing enhanced features. It is a contemporary device specially designed for VoIP and offers comprehensive functionalities essential for your business teams. They operate by directly connecting to your business network through physical plugs.
Softphones
While a hard phone remains on users’ desks, a softphone represents the software version of your telephone. It can be installed on desktop computers, laptops, smartphones, tablets, or iPads, offering full mobility enabled by VoIP telephony. The advantage of a softphone lies in its flexibility. Users can make and receive calls through their preferred devices from any location with an internet connection. This convenience benefits remote workers or those frequently moving, enabling them to conduct business seamlessly without being confined to their desks or office premises.
Why Are Businesses Shifting To VoIP Phone Systems?
Many businesses are shifting from landlines to VoIP due to its benefits. Let’s have a look at significant VoIP benefits:
Cost Savings
Running and maintaining a traditional phone system is costly and difficult to manage. However, when you shift to a VoIP phone system, you can save a significant cost on your communication system. This is primarily because it uses existing internet infrastructure, eliminating the need for separate phone lines.
Businesses can significantly reduce their telecommunications expenses, especially for long-distance and international calls. Additionally, it often offers flat-rate pricing or lower per-minute rates than traditional phone services. Furthermore, features like virtual numbers, conferencing, and voicemail-to-email transcription are typically included at no extra cost, enhancing productivity without additional financial burden. Overall, VoIP’s scalability, flexibility, and efficient use of resources make it a highly cost-effective solution for modern communication needs.
Mobility
VoIP offers unparalleled flexibility by allowing users to make and receive calls from any internet-connected device, whether a desktop computer, laptop, smartphone, or tablet. Employees can stay connected regardless of location, enabling remote work, travel, or on-the-go productivity. Moreover, VoIP systems often come with various customizable features such as call forwarding, virtual numbers, and automated attendants, empowering businesses to tailor their communication setups to meet specific needs. With VoIP, flexibility is not just about where you work; it is about how you work, adapting seamlessly to evolving business requirements and ensuring uninterrupted connectivity wherever you are.
Scalability
With a traditional phone system, you must install extra phone lines and infrastructure whenever you want to scale up. However, VoIP offers unparalleled scalability, making it ideal for businesses of all sizes. Whether a company is a small startup or a large enterprise, VoIP systems can effortlessly accommodate growth without requiring extensive infrastructure upgrades. Adding new lines or extensions is as simple as configuring software settings, eliminating the constraints imposed by traditional phone systems.
With VoIP, businesses can expand their communication networks seamlessly, adapting to changing demands and maximizing efficiency without the limitations of traditional telephony.
Security
VoIP security is paramount to safeguarding sensitive communication data from potential threats. Encryption protocols, such as Secure Real-time Transport Protocol (SRTP) and Transport Layer Security (TLS), help protect voice transmissions from interception and eavesdropping. Choosing a reliable VoIP provider helps you gain more control over your communication data. As your calls are transferred over the Internet, it is essential to choose a reliable IP telephony platform that uses end-to-end encryption to protect your business conversation.
Best VoIP Phones For Home And Business
| VoIP Phone Model | Features |
| Poly VVX 450 | – Color touchscreen – 12-line display – Video support – 4 soft keys – Advanced call-handling features – Gigabit Ethernet ports |
| Yealink SIP-T19P-E2 | – Easy setup – 5-line black and white display – Three-way conferencing – Cost-effective – Energy-efficient design |
| Yealink T57W | – Modern design and look – 7-inch color touch display – Built-in Bluetooth 4.2 – Integrated Power over Ethernet – HD Audio |
| Grandstream GXP 2170 | – 6 SIP accounts – 12 Phone lines – HD Audio – Built-in Bluetooth – Dual Gigabit Ethernet Port |
| Polycom VVX 301 | – Six lines display – Speed dial keys – HD Voice – Easy Setup and management – Backlit 208 x 104-pixel display |
| GrandStream GXV3370 | – Android-based operating system – 7-inch touchscreen display – Video calling and conferencing – Built-in camera and Bluetooth – HD acoustic chamber |
| Yealink SIP-T21P-E2 | – HD voice quality – PoE technology – Three-way audio conferencing – 132 x 64-pixel display |
| Unify CP700 | – Graphical color display – Bluetooth and USB connectivity – Notification LED – Seven fixed function keys – Long battery life – 5-way navigation key |
| Cisco 8861 | – Up to 10 lines display with programmable line keys – High-resolution color display – 2 port Gigabit Ethernet switch – Dedicated RJ-9 headset port – Enhanced security features |
| Cisco SPA 303 | – Three SIP lines – Cost-effective – Dual Switch Ethernet ports – Caller ID |
What To Look For In VoIP Phones For Home And Business?
You should consider several factors when choosing a VoIp Phone for your home or business. Here are some key characteristics that you must keep in mind:
Cost
It is crucial to choose a phone that supports your ROI. Your IP phone should fulfill your business needs and best fit within your budget. If your business only requires a phone with basic features, there is no need to pay excessively for phones with highly advanced features. When making a choice, it is essential to compare value instead of cost to ensure you are making the right choice.
Connectivity
VoIP telephony helps you take advantage of the enhanced connectivity of the modern business world. It means connectivity is important when choosing a phone system for your business. Phones with Wi-Fi connectivity are incredibly convenient, particularly if you seek a cordless phone to replace outdated corded models. With Wi-Fi compatibility, connecting them directly to your router via ethernet cables is unnecessary. Similarly, VoIP phones featuring built-in Bluetooth functionality offer added benefits. Users can use hands-free headsets and enjoy the convenience of a mobile device integrated into a physical desk phone. These features enhance flexibility and usability, making communication seamless and effortless.
Audio Quality
It is essential to recognize that more than just connectivity influences the quality of your phone calls. In today’s business landscape, superior call quality is imperative, making it crucial to select a phone system that prioritizes audio clarity and excellence. Opt for a phone model featuring HD voice quality, ensuring crystal-clear communication. Additionally, seek a service level agreement (SLA) that instills genuine confidence in your phone system’s reliability, providing peace of mind for uninterrupted business communication.
Features And Functionality
As described above, evaluating essential functions and anticipating future needs is crucial when selecting a VoIP phone system for your business. The top-tier VoIP phones should significantly surpass traditional office desk phones’ capabilities. For instance, you may require features like call routing or blocking and the ability to conduct conference calls or video meetings using the hardware. While HD video functionality may be optional, it becomes increasingly relevant as internet connectivity improves. Therefore, considering video compatibility as part of your selection criteria is prudent, ensuring your communication setup remains adaptable to evolving demands.
Top 10 VoIP Phones In 2024
There are several VoIP phones in the market and not every phone will fit your business needs. So, here we provide a comprehensive review of top VoIP phones so you can make an informed decision.
Poly VVX 450
It is a premium VoIP phone best for corporate offices, executives, and knowledge workers. It comprises all the advanced features that a modern business needs. This phone is compatible with Polycom VVX system and SIP base platforms. It has advanced call management features, a 12-line appearance, and a 4.3-inch color display.
Moreover, it has a gigabit Ethernet connection for quick network connectivity. This phone can be a powerful communication tool for your business as it guarantees clear audio for voice and video calls.
Features
- Color touchscreen
- 12-line display
- Video support
- 4 softkeys
- Advanced call-handling features
- Gigabit Ethernet ports
Yealink SIP-T19P-E2
It is an entry-level VoIP phone suitable for budget-conscious small businesses. This single phone line offers some advanced features like other VoIP devices, but it may lack the excitement factor despite its excellent value. It only has one line, which is why it is not suitable for businesses with high call volumes. This phone also supports three-way conferencing, call hold, anonymous calling, and SMS, which means it still has more features than traditional phones.
Features
- Easy Setup
- 5-line black and white display
- Three-way conferencing
- Cost-effective
- Energy-efficient design
Yealink T57W
If you are looking for an ultimate VoIP phone regardless of cost, the Yealink T57W emerges as a top contender. This high-end model encompasses many features and functions, including HD voice and video capabilities. Video conferencing with this phone is a delight, thanks to its 7-inch color touch display screen boasting an impressive resolution of 800×480 pixels.
Features
- Modern design and look
- 7 inches color touch display
- Built-in Bluetooth 4.2
- Integrated Power over Ethernet
- HD Audio
Grandstream GXP 2170
This VoIP phone suits small offices, remote workers, and home offices. It supports 12 phone lines and offers HD audio quality and Bluetooth connectivity.
It ensures reliable and efficient communication while being user-friendly and compatible with most SIP-based VoIP systems.
Features
- 6 SIP accounts
- 12 Phone lines
- HD Audio
- Built-in Bluetooth
- Dual Gigabit Ethernet Port
Polycom VVX 301
Polycom VVX 301 is a cheap VoIP phone for small enterprises and call centers. It offers HD voice quality and basic call functionalities.
It does not allow video calling or Bluetooth connectivity. However, it offers noise cancellation and crystal-clear audio and is highly compatible with various SIP-based systems.
Features
- Six lines display
- Speed dial keys
- HD Voice
- Easy Setup and management
- Backlit 208 x 104-pixel display
GrandStream GXV3370
It is Grandstream’s most updated and advanced phone. Although it is expensive, its features pay for the hefty cost. It has a 7-inch display and a built-in camera, which makes it ideal for real-time video conferencing. It is an intuitive IP phone that also works on Android and has a 16-line appearance.
Features
- Android-based operating system
- 7-inch touchscreen display
- Video calling and conferencing
- Built-in camera and Bluetooth
- HD acoustic chamber
Yealink SIP-T21P-E2
It is another entry-level VoIP phone. It offers a great IP solution with excellent functionality. It has a 5-line data display and HD voice quality.
This phone can support two VoIP accounts and uses power over Ethernet technology, which means it does not require an additional power supply.
Features
- HD voice quality
- PoE technology
- Three-way audio conferencing
- 132 x 64-pixel display
Unify CP700
For businesses seeking a feature-rich and affordable desk phone, the Unify CP700 is the top choice. With its large display, dual audio stream Bluetooth support, and intuitive user interface, it caters to professionals, executives, and busy call handlers alike. The phone enhances call-handling capabilities and ensures superior audio quality, fostering efficient communication with increased interoperability.
Features
- Graphical color display
- Bluetooth and USB connectivity
- Notification LED
- Seven fixed function keys
- Long battery life
- 5-way navigation key
Cisco 8861
The Cisco 8861, tailored for contact centers, corporate offices, and large-scale enterprises, stands out as a VoIP phone distinguished by its exceptional security features and video capabilities. It seamlessly integrates with SIP-based systems like Cisco Unified Communications Manager (CUCM). Boasting an elegant design, the Cisco 8861 is a robust and versatile communication tool that ensures superior quality to other VoIP phones.
Features
- Up to 10 lines display with programmable line keys
- High-resolution color display
- 2 port Gigabit Ethernet switch
- Dedicated RJ-9 headset port
- Enhanced security features
Cisco SPA 303
The Cisco SPA 303 presents a cost-effective VoIP phone solution tailored for small businesses. Despite its budget-friendly nature, it accommodates three phone lines and provides essential call-handling features like caller ID, hold, and conferencing. While it may not offer advanced functionalities, it is a practical option for businesses focusing on cost-effectiveness and fundamental functionality in VoIP service and hardware.
Features
- Three SIP lines
- Cost-effective
- Dual Switch Ethernet ports
- Caller Id
Conclusion
Selecting the right VoIP phone for your home or business involves considering various factors such as cost, connectivity, audio quality, features, and scalability. VoIP technology offers numerous benefits, including cost savings, mobility, scalability, and enhanced security, making it a preferred choice for modern communication. With a wide range of VoIP phones in the market, it’s essential to carefully evaluate your requirements and choose a phone that best aligns with your business objectives. Whether you opt for premium models like the Poly VVX 450 or budget-friendly options like the Cisco SPA 303, each phone offers unique features tailored to different business needs. Investing in the right VoIP phone ensures seamless communication, increased productivity, and continued business growth in the digital age.
