Reliable communication is a key component of every successful business. However, copper phone lines are on their way out. Many businesses are transitioning from landlines to VoIP technology for its higher quality, better flexibility, lower cost, and many other advantages.
Should your business make the switch? We compare VoIP vs. landline phone systems below to help you choose the best fit for your communication needs.
What’s the Difference Between VoIP and Landlines?
VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol, a type of phone system that allows you to make calls via an internet connection. On the other hand, landline phones traditionally use copper wires and switch boxes to connect calls.
VoIP services can be accessed from anywhere with any device, but landlines cannot, because they need a physical connection to the phone network. In short, VoIP is digital, while landlines are analog.
Pros and Cons of VoIP vs. Landline Phones
VoIP Pros
Connect From Anywhere
VoIP technology allows you to make phone calls from anywhere you have a good internet connection. Calls to a VoIP phone can even be re-routed to a mobile device, so your employees don’t have to be anchored to their office chairs to answer important customer calls. This flexibility makes it easier to run mobile businesses and manage hybrid or remote workforces.
High Sound Quality
As long as you have a stable internet connection, you can expect clearer and more consistent sound quality with VoIP calls than with landlines. Landline phone calls are more prone to frustrating delays and annoying line noise such as static.
Low Cost
VoIP phone systems are typically cheaper than landline systems, so you can support more phone lines and easily manage multiple locations. Plus, you won’t get charged for your call minutes or face extra fees on international calls.
Scalability
A VoIP phone system can easily grow along with your business because you can add or remove phone lines at any time. The system is also easy to set up, so your business can move to a new location anytime without issues or delays.
Reliability
When you have a strong internet connection, VoIP phones are very reliable. There’s no need to worry about interruptions caused by the bad weather or service outages that affect landlines.
VoIP Cons
Limited by the Internet
The only drawback with VoIP technology is that you must have a stable internet connection for it to work. Otherwise, you might face dropped calls, static, and other issues. So if your business deals with slow internet speeds or spotty connectivity, then you may need to upgrade your internet plan, or stick with the landlines.
Landline Pros
Reliability
Although landlines can sometimes experience outages, they are still quite reliable. You don’t have to worry about the strength of your internet connection in order for your call to go through.
Landline Cons
Expensive
Landline systems need a physical connection for every phone, which can lead to expensive installation costs. Adding extra features can also increase costs, while many affordable VoIP plans come with a variety of advanced features. Plus, you have to pay more for international calls on a landline.
Outdated
Landline phone systems are becoming a thing of the past. They are not flexible enough to keep up with the recent increase in remote workforces over the past few years, and are difficult and expensive to scale, so they have become outdated. In fact, copper-wire phone lines are actually being phased out because POTS lines are going away. If you must have a landline, you’ll need to look for a wireless solution.
Affordable VoIP Phone Systems in Northern California and Reno, Nevada
If you’re ready to ditch the landlines and switch to a VoIP phone system, contact WiZiX Technology Group. We offer several affordable VoIP phone plans that can help reduce operating costs for your business. Our VoIP phone services also come with a wide range of impressive features. Call us at 866-846-1411 today to request a quote.
Images used under creative commons license – commercial use (2/20/2023). Photo by Julian Hochgesang on Unsplash