Choosing the right VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone system can truly elevate your small business. Not only can it save you money on your phone bill, but it can also boost productivity and give your team more flexibility. But with so many options available in Canada, how do you find the best fit for your needs?
Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!
In this post, we’ll explore the top VoIP providers in Canada, compare their features, pricing, and customer support, and help you make an informed decision.
How We Picked The Best VoIP for Small Businesses in Canada
To give you the most up-to-date information on the best VoIP systems in Canada, we conducted extensive research, drawing on a variety of sources. Here’s a quick overview of our process:
- Identifying Top Providers: We started by identifying the most popular and well-regarded VoIP providers in the Canadian market. This involved analyzing industry reports and reviewing lists of top providers from reputable sources.
- Analyzing User Reviews: To get a sense of what real users are saying about these providers, we delved into customer reviews from platforms like Gartner Peer Insights, GetApp, TrustRadius, and Capterra. This helped us understand the pros and cons of each provider from a user perspective.
- Comparing Pricing Plans: We carefully examined the pricing plans offered by each provider, considering factors like starting price, per-user costs, and any available discounts for annual billing or larger teams.
- Evaluating Features: We assessed the features offered by each provider, focusing on those that are most important for small businesses, such as unlimited calling, virtual phone numbers, call management capabilities, mobile apps, integrations, and customer support options.
By combining these research methods, we were able to compile a comprehensive overview of the best VoIP options for small businesses in Canada.
Top VoIP Providers for Small Businesses in Canada
Based on our research, here are some of the leading VoIP providers that stand out for small businesses in Canada:
- MightyCall: This is a well-rounded option with a user-friendly interface and a strong emphasis on customer support. MightyCall offers a 7-day free trial so you can try out their service before committing to a paid plan.
- CloudTalk: A feature-rich solution with advanced call management capabilities and seamless integrations with popular CRM platforms. CloudTalk is a great option for small and medium-sized businesses seeking customizable and scalable call solutions.
- RingCentral: A reliable and flexible provider known for its robust mobile app and comprehensive analytics tools. RingCentral is a solid choice for businesses with remote or hybrid workforces that prioritize video conferencing and team messaging.
- Dialpad: Dialpad’s AI-powered features set it apart from the competition. With features like real-time call transcription and automated coaching, Dialpad is ideal for modern teams focused on productivity and collaboration.
- OpenPhone: A top-rated provider with unlimited calling and text messaging to the US and Canada, shared phone numbers, and a focus on team collaboration. OpenPhone’s focus on shared numbers and team collaboration makes it ideal for small businesses with close-knit teams.
- Ooma: A popular choice for its unlimited calling in North America, but with some limitations on text messaging and advanced features. Ooma has addressed previous security concerns by adding multi-factor authentication and role-based permissions.
- 8×8: A good option for international calls. While some users have found 8×8’s interface to be clunky, others have praised its comprehensive features and reliability.
- GoTo Connect: Offers unlimited phone number extensions and Salesforce integration, but lacks some advanced features and has limited SMS capabilities. GoTo Connect is a popular choice for its ease of use, especially for remote teams.
- CallHippo: A decent option for call centers, with various plans and features for different business sizes. CallHippo offers a free plan with basic features, making it a good starting point for small businesses with limited budgets.
- Net2Phone Canada: Offers live support and unlimited calling, but has received negative reviews for call quality and billing issues. Net2Phone Canada is an affordable option with unlimited calling, but its call quality and customer support have received mixed reviews.
- Callture: A Canadian-based provider with simple pricing plans and a good selection of hardware options, but limited advanced features. Callture is a good option for businesses that need a simple and affordable VoIP solution with a focus on hardware.
- Aircall: Known for its ease of use and CRM integrations, but with premium pricing and some reported call quality issues. Aircall is a popular choice for its ease of use and integrations, but it comes with a higher price tag than some competitors.
VoIP Features
When choosing a VoIP system, it’s essential to consider the features that are most important for your business. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the features offered by each provider:
| Provider | Unlimited Calling | Virtual Numbers | Call Management | Mobile App | Integrations | Video Conferencing | Call Recording | AI Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MightyCall | Within US and Canada | Local and toll-free | Call forwarding, call routing, auto-attendant | Yes | HubSpot, Salesforce, Zoho | No | Yes | No |
| CloudTalk | Within US and Canada | 160+ countries | Call forwarding, IVR, skills-based routing | Yes | HubSpot, Salesforce, Pipedrive | Yes | Yes | Sentiment analysis, topic extraction |
| RingCentral | Within US and Canada | 90+ countries | Call forwarding, IVR, call screening | Yes | Microsoft Teams, Slack, Google Workspace, Salesforce | Yes | Automatic and on-demand | Live transcription, meeting insights, noise reduction |
| Dialpad | Within US and Canada | 70+ countries | Call forwarding, call routing, auto-attendant | Yes | Google Workspace, Microsoft 365 | Yes | Yes | Call transcription, sentiment analysis |
| OpenPhone | Within US and Canada | US and Canada | Call forwarding, IVR, ring order | Yes | HubSpot, Salesforce, Gong, Zapier | No | Yes | Call summaries, AI contact suggestions |
| Ooma | US, Canada, Mexico, Puerto Rico | US and Canada | Call forwarding, ring groups, virtual receptionist | Yes | Microsoft Office 365, Google Workspace | Yes | On Pro and Pro Plus plans | No |
| 8×8 | 14 countries | 100+ countries | Call forwarding, call routing, auto-attendant | Yes | 70+ integrations | Yes | Yes | Conversation IQ |
| GoTo Connect | 50+ countries | US and Canada | Call forwarding, call routing, auto-attendant | Yes | Salesforce, Zendesk | Yes | Yes | Call summaries, sentiment analysis |
| CallHippo | Unlimited in US and Canada | 50+ countries | Call forwarding, IVR, call queuing | Yes | 100+ integrations | Yes | Yes | Call transcription, sentiment analysis |
| Net2Phone Canada | 40+ countries | US and Canada | Call forwarding, call routing, auto-attendant | Yes | Salesforce, Klipfolio, Slack | Yes | Yes | No |
| Callture | Within US and Canada | US and Canada | Call forwarding, call transfer, call queuing | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Aircall | Within US and Canada | 100+ countries | Call forwarding, IVR, call queuing | Yes | Salesforce, HubSpot, Zendesk, Intercom | Yes | Yes | Call transcription, sentiment analysis |
Unlimited Calling
Most providers offer unlimited calling within Canada and the US, but be sure to check for limitations on international calls or toll-free minutes. For example, MightyCall and CloudTalk offer unlimited calling within North America, while 8×8 extends this to 14 countries. If your business requires frequent international calls, it’s crucial to choose a provider with a comprehensive and affordable international calling plan.
Virtual Phone Numbers
Virtual phone numbers are essential for establishing a professional presence and making it easier for customers to reach you. Most providers offer a variety of local and toll-free numbers, allowing you to choose numbers that are relevant to your business or target audience.
Call Management
Features like call forwarding, call routing, and auto-attendant can help you manage incoming calls efficiently. Call forwarding allows you to redirect calls to another number, ensuring you never miss important calls. Call routing directs calls to the appropriate department or individual based on pre-set rules, improving response times and customer satisfaction. Auto-attendant acts as a virtual receptionist, greeting callers with a professional message and directing them to the right person or department.
Mobile App
A mobile app allows you to make and receive calls from anywhere, using your business phone number. This is particularly useful for small businesses with remote or mobile employees, as it allows them to stay connected and productive while on the go.
Integrations
Integrations with CRM platforms and other business tools can streamline your workflow and improve productivity. By integrating your VoIP system with your CRM, you can automatically log calls, access customer information, and track interactions, eliminating manual data entry and improving customer service.
Video Conferencing
Some providers include video conferencing features, which can be helpful for team meetings and client communication. Video conferencing allows you to connect with colleagues and clients face-to-face, regardless of location, fostering collaboration and improving communication.
Call Recording
Call recording can be useful for training, quality assurance, and compliance purposes. By recording calls, you can review customer interactions, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that your team is adhering to company policies and industry regulations.
AI Features
AI-powered features like call transcription and sentiment analysis can provide valuable insights and improve customer service. Call transcription automatically converts voice conversations into text, making it easier to review calls and extract key information. Sentiment analysis can detect the emotional tone of a conversation, helping you identify potential customer issues and improve customer satisfaction.
Customer Support Options
Reliable customer support is crucial when you’re dealing with essential business communication tools. Here’s a summary of the customer support options offered by each provider:
| Provider | Support Channels | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| MightyCall | Phone, email, chat | 24/7 |
| CloudTalk | Email, chat | 24/7 for Essential and Expert plans |
| RingCentral | Phone, chat, online case filing | 24/7 |
| Dialpad | Phone, chat, online help center | 24/7 for Pro and Enterprise plans |
| OpenPhone | Chat, email | 24/7 chatbot, live chat for Business plan during business hours |
| Ooma | Phone | 24/7 for business services |
| 8×8 | Phone, chat, online case filing | 24/7 |
| GoTo Connect | Phone, online case filing | 24/7 |
| CallHippo | Email, chat, phone | 24/7 |
| Net2Phone Canada | Phone, chat, email | 24/7 |
| Callture | Email, chat, phone | Business hours |
| Aircall | Chat, online case filing | 24/5 for English chat |
When evaluating customer support, consider the availability of support channels, response times, and the helpfulness of support agents.
Look for providers that offer multiple ways to get in touch and have a reputation for providing timely and effective assistance.
VoIP Pricing Plans in Canada
VoIP pricing can vary significantly depending on the provider and the features you need. Here’s a quick overview of the starting prices for the providers we’ve discussed:
| Provider | Starting Price (per user/month) |
|---|---|
| MightyCall | $15 |
| CloudTalk | $25 |
| RingCentral | $20 |
| Dialpad | $20 |
| OpenPhone | $15 |
| Ooma | $19.95 |
| 8×8 | Not publicly available |
| GoTo Connect | $24 |
| CallHippo | $0 (with limitations) |
| Net2Phone Canada | $29.99 |
| Callture | $26.50 |
| Aircall | $30 (3-user minimum) |
Remember that these are just starting prices, and the actual cost will depend on the specific plan and features you choose. Many providers offer discounts for annual billing or larger teams. For example, MightyCall offers a 25% discount on annual plans.
Choosing the Right VoIP for Your Business Needs
With so many VoIP providers available, it’s important to choose a solution that aligns with your specific business needs. Here are a few scenarios and recommendations to help you make the right decision:
- Strong CRM Integrations: If you need a VoIP with strong CRM integrations, consider CloudTalk or Aircall. Both providers offer seamless integrations with popular CRM platforms like Salesforce and HubSpot, allowing you to automatically log calls, access customer information, and streamline your workflow.
- International Calling: If you prioritize international calling, 8×8 might be a good option. They offer unlimited calling to 14 countries, making it a cost-effective solution for businesses with a global reach.
- AI-Powered Features: If you’re looking for a VoIP system with advanced AI capabilities, Dialpad is a strong contender. Their AI-powered features, such as real-time call transcription and sentiment analysis, can help you boost team productivity and improve customer service.
- Team Collaboration: For small businesses with close-knit teams, OpenPhone’s focus on shared numbers and team collaboration might be the perfect fit. Their shared phone number feature allows multiple team members to manage calls and texts from the same number, improving responsiveness and customer communication.
- Limited Budget: If you’re working with a limited budget, CallHippo’s free plan could be a good starting point. It offers basic features like call forwarding and voicemail, allowing you to get started with VoIP without a significant financial investment.
Summary
VoIP is revolutionizing the way small businesses in Canada communicate. It offers cost savings, increased flexibility, and advanced features to streamline communication and boost productivity. Based on our research, the top VoIP providers for small businesses in Canada are:
- CloudTalk: Offers a comprehensive suite of features, including advanced call management, CRM integrations, and AI-powered tools, at a competitive price.
- Dialpad: Stands out for its AI-powered features, such as real-time call transcription and sentiment analysis, which can significantly improve team productivity and customer service.
- OpenPhone: Ideal for small businesses with close-knit teams, thanks to its focus on shared numbers and team collaboration features.
By carefully considering your needs and researching the top providers, you can find the perfect VoIP solution to help your business succeed in Canada’s competitive market.
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