# Best Unified Communications Software - 2026 Reviews & Pricing

> Find the best UCaaS Software for your organization. Compare top UCaaS Software systems with customer reviews, pricing, and free demos.

Source: https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/ucaas-comparison

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Unified Communications Software

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# Best Unified Communications Software of 2026

Updated July 14, 2026

On this page

1.  FrontRunners
2.  Popular Comparisons
3.  Buyers Guide
4.  Related Software

Filter products

224 results

### Compare Products

Showing 1 - 25 of 224 products

#### Company Size

-   Self-Employed
    
-   2-10
    
-   11-50
    
-   51-200
    
-   201-500
    
-   501-1000
    
-   1000+
    

#### Pricing Options

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-   $$$$$
    
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### Compare Products

Sort by

**Recommendations**: Sorts listings by the number of recommendations our advisors have made over the past 30 days. Our advisors assess buyers’ needs for free and only recommend products that meet buyers’ needs. Vendors pay Software Advice for these referrals.  
  
**Reviews**: Sorts listings by the number of user reviews we have published, greatest to least.  
  
**Average Rating**: Sorts listings by overall star rating based on user reviews, highest to lowest.  
  
**Alphabetically (A-Z)**: Sorts listings by product name from A to Z.

### Product: RingEX

[RingEX](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/office-profile/)

4.24

[(1205)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/office-profile/reviews/)

Best for:Small businesses

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

RingEX is a cloud-based business communications solution that offers tools for Messaging, Video and Phone. Core features of the solution include conferencing, auto-recording and unlimited long-distance and local calling. RingEX is a fully integrated mobile-based phone system that helps keep employees connected via a variety of business and personal devices including smartphones, tablets, desktops and phones. The RingCentral mobile app is integrated with the phone system and keeps employees connected to customers and colleagues from anywhere. Additionally, RingCentral integrates with basic email platforms and other applications such as Salesforce CRM, Box, Dropbox and Google Docs. RingEX gets businesses up and running within minutes. All phones are ready for immediate use and setup. Users can manage their own phone preferences without IT help.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/office-profile/)

### What users love

-   Flexible cloud-based phone system
-   User-friendly and intuitive interface
-   Rich feature set and customization

### To take in mind

-   Slow and unhelpful customer service
-   Inconsistent call reliability and bugs
-   Opaque contracts and billing issues

### Best rated features:

Virtual Call Center

5.0

Multi-Channel Communication

5.0

Event Triggered Actions

5.0

Monitoring

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Virtual Extensions

1.0

Role-Based Permissions

2.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/office-profile/#key-features)

### Core

$30.00/month

$20/month when paid annually.

### Advanced

$35.00/month

$25/month when paid annually.

### Ultra

$45.00/month

$35/month when paid annually.

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/office-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Product: Intermedia Unite

[Intermedia Unite](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/intermedia-unite-profile/)

4.72

[(188)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/intermedia-unite-profile/reviews/)

Best for:Value for money

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Intermedia Unite® brings business communications, collaboration, and customer engagement into one easy-to-use platform—keeping teams connected, productive, and responsive from anywhere. It replaces fragmented tools by combining business phone service, video conferencing, team chat, and file sharing into one seamless experience, so employees can collaborate without switching apps. Unite delivers enterprise-grade calling with 100+ features, integrated customer engagement, and enhanced Microsoft Teams experiences. With mobile and desktop apps, users can call, meet, message, and engage customers from anywhere while maintaining a consistent business identity. AI-powered transcription, summaries, and insights help teams capture details and follow up efficiently. Backed by 99.999% uptime and J.D. Power-certified support, Unite ensures reliable performance—resulting in simpler communications, more productive teams, and better customer engagement.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/intermedia-unite-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Auto-Dialer

5.0

Interaction Tracking

5.0

Online Voice Transmission

5.0

File Sharing

5.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/intermedia-unite-profile/#key-features)

### Unite Pro

$27.99

### Unite Enterprise

$32.99

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/intermedia-unite-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Product: Dialpad

[Dialpad](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/dialpad-profile/)

4.18

[(569)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/dialpad-profile/reviews/)

Best for:Ease of use

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Dialpad is an AI-enabled customer communications platform that includes a phone system, video conferencing, cloud contact center and virtual contact center. The platform is designed for businesses of all sizes and industries such as retail, insurance, technology and professional services. Dialpad's AI capabilities provide notetaking, insights, and productivity features. The platform integrates with various business applications, such as G Suite, Office 365, Salesforce, Zendesk, Okta and others to create a seamless user experience. Additionally, it is built with enterprise-grade security and privacy features to ensure data protection and compliance. Dialpad's comprehensive customer communications platform streamlines operations, enhances productivity and delivers a seamless customer experience. The platform includes three interconnected products: Dialpad Connect for phone calls, Dialpad Support for managing contact centers and Dialpad Sell, an automated sales dialer. Dialpad integrates voice, messaging, video and meetings into one platform accessible from any device with internet access. Additionally, it features a cloud telephony technology, such as WebRTC and the Opus codec, to provide VoIP call clarity.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/dialpad-profile/)

### What users love

-   Flexible business phone features
-   Intuitive and accessible design
-   Unified device connectivity options

### To take in mind

-   Reliability and call handling issues
-   Slow and unresponsive assistance
-   Hidden fees and unclear costs

### Best rated features:

Call Conferencing

5.0

Manual Dialer

5.0

Call Queues

5.0

Recording

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Call Scheduling

1.0

AI/Machine Learning

1.0

Third-Party Integrations

1.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/dialpad-profile/#key-features)

### Standard

$27.00/month

For businesses with upto 10 users

### Pro

$35.00/month

For SMEs with upto 11-99 users

### Enterprise

Custom

Pricing available upon request

For enterprises with 100+ users

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/dialpad-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Product: Ultatel Cloud Business Phone System

[Ultatel Cloud Business Phone System](https://www.softwareadvice.com/screen-sharing/clarity-business-phone-system-profile/)

4.66

[(41)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/screen-sharing/clarity-business-phone-system-profile/reviews/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

ULTATEL enables people to work together and get the information they need to do their best work, anywhere they are. Our cloud platform brings together phone, video, messaging, texts and business apps, allowing people to connect, meet, and exchange information on any device. We are passionate about using our technology and experience to help businesses address the challenges that matter to them, with an enterprise-grade platform that delivers exceptional service and 99.999% uptime.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/screen-sharing/clarity-business-phone-system-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Call Transcription

5.0

Activity Dashboard

5.0

Call Conferencing

5.0

Two-Way Audio & Video

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Collaboration Tools

3.0

Communication Management

3.0

Online Voice Transmission

3.4

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/screen-sharing/clarity-business-phone-system-profile/#key-features)

### Essential

$18.00/month

Ideal for: Teams & businesses needing reliable, high-quality calling with core AI insights like voicemail transcription and basic call analysis to enhance communication efficiency. Focus on: Crystal-clear voice, essential messaging, and foundational AI to understand your conversations better.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/screen-sharing/clarity-business-phone-system-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Premium

$24.00/month

Ideal for: Businesses seeking robust collaboration tools, deeper call intelligence through a broader AI suite, and enhanced productivity features for everyday operations. Focus on: Advanced call management, integrated AI for sentiment & topic analysis, and seamless team collaboration across devices.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/screen-sharing/clarity-business-phone-system-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Ultimate

$34.00/month

Ideal for: Organizations requiring the most advanced AI capabilities for comprehensive conversational intelligence, enterprise-grade control, premium integrations, and top-tier support. Focus on: Maximizing operational efficiency with a full suite of AI tools, real-time analytics, extensive customization, and strategic communication insights.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/screen-sharing/clarity-business-phone-system-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/screen-sharing/clarity-business-phone-system-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Product: Ringover

[Ringover](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/ringover-profile/)

4.70

[(881)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/ringover-profile/reviews/)

Best for:Small businesses

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Ringover is the no.1 business phone system that gives you unlimited calls to 110 countries, video conferencing, SMS and group messaging, call recording, call whispering and more features focused on improving your teams productivity. No expertise needed. Integrate Ringover with major CRMs (Salesforce, HubSpot, Pipedrive etc.) or with your helpdesk tools in just a few clicks. With Ringover, your professional communications are possible anywhere in the world - all it takes is an internet connection. Greatly scaling up in growth and adopted by over 10,000 users, Ringover is on track to become THE leader in European Cloud telephony, primed for rapid international development in the markets for Spain and the United Kingdom.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/ringover-profile/)

### What users love

-   Comprehensive call tracking features
-   Intuitive and user-friendly interface
-   Responsive and helpful support team

### To take in mind

-   Inconsistent audio and device issues
-   Occasional lags and slowdowns
-   Frequent disconnections and network dependency

### Best rated features:

Contact Database

5.0

Call Scheduling

5.0

Call List Management

5.0

Electronic Signature

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Monitoring

2.8

Call Tagging

3.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/ringover-profile/#key-features)

### Smart

$29.00/month

This plan provides all-in-one calls, video & chat.

### Power

$54.00/month

This plan offers analytics, productivity and integrations.

### Advanced

$64.00/month

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/ringover-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Product: Zoom Workplace

[Zoom Workplace](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/101384-Zoom-Video-Conferencing/)

4.64

[(14628)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/101384-Zoom-Video-Conferencing/reviews/)

Best for:Enterprise businesses

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Not available

Free version: Available

Software Advice Summary

Zoom Workplace brings communication, employee engagement, spaces, and productivity solutions together on a single platform with Zoom AI Companion capabilities woven throughout. Streamline communications with tools that work together effortlessly through solutions like Meetings, Team Chat, Phone, Mail & Calendar, and Scheduler. Elevate a chat to a meeting or phone call to get to a resolution faster. Improve productivity with products that are built for modern work through solutions like Whiteboard, Clips, Notes, Surveys, and Docs. Optimize office experiences and hybrid work collaboration with flexible workspace solutions like Rooms, Workspace Reservation, Visitor Management, and Digital Signage. Whether you’re reserving your desk with Workspace Reservation, preparing for a client visit with Visitor Management, or finding your workstation with our wayfinding feature, you can do it all from the Workspaces tab. Reimagine how your teams work with Zoom Workplace. Streamline communications, improve productivity, optimize in-person time, and increase employee engagement, all with Zoom Workplace. Fueled by AI Companion, included at no additional cost.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/101384-Zoom-Video-Conferencing/)

### What users love

-   Flexible meeting management tools
-   User-friendly and intuitive interface
-   Reliable video collaboration platform

### To take in mind

-   Limited free plan and costly upgrades
-   Occasional video and audio glitches
-   Dependent on strong connectivity

### Best rated features:

Call Recording

5.0

Productivity Tools

5.0

Activity/News Feed

5.0

Moderation

5.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/101384-Zoom-Video-Conferencing/#key-features)

### Product: Livestorm

[Livestorm](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/livestorm-profile/)

4.69

[(398)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/livestorm-profile/reviews/)

Best for:Ease of use

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Available

Software Advice Summary

Livestorm enables powerful, yet pain-free video engagements at scale. Our end-to-end video engagement platform enables organizations to create professional video engagements that can be easily managed in one place. Livestorm is a browser-based platform that doesn't require a download, or setup. You can use Livestorm for on-demand, live, or pre-recorded meetings or events. Livestorm supports all the workflows around a video engagement; including landing pages, registration, email follow-ups, and sharing video recordings. Powerful end-to-end analytics helps you track and measure audience engagement. Our seamless integration with tools like Pipedrive and Intercom helps you manage all your insights in one place.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/livestorm-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Presentation Tools

5.0

Host Controls

5.0

Search/Filter

5.0

Calendar Sync

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Engagement Tracking

1.0

User Management

3.0

Annotations

3.0

Private Chat

4.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/livestorm-profile/#key-features)

### Free

$0.00

### Pro

$110.00/month

This plan is available at $110/month (billed monthly) or at $88/month (billed annually).

### Business

Custom

Pricing available upon request

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/livestorm-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Product: Telnyx Suite

[Telnyx Suite](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/telnyx-profile/)

4.75

[(195)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/telnyx-profile/reviews/)

Best for:Customer support

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Telnyx Suite is a comprehensive cloud communication platform that provides communication capabilities via voice, SMS, fax, and IP services. Telnyx provides global high-speed connections for low latency, high uptime service. The Telnyx Suite includes SIP trunking, messaging API, voice API, lookup API, programmable fax API, and wireless services.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/telnyx-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Reminders

5.0

Collaboration Tools

5.0

VoIP

5.0

Fax Management

5.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/telnyx-profile/#key-features)

### Basic

$1.00/month

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/telnyx-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Product: CTM

[CTM](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/calltrackingmetrics-profile/)

4.65

[(158)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/calltrackingmetrics-profile/reviews/)

Best for:Features

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Not available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

CTM is a conversation analytics software designed to provide tracking and insights for sales and marketing teams. It helps organizations analyze campaign performance and customer interactions to support data-driven decision-making. Businesses, marketing agencies, and sales departments use the platform to gain visibility into customer engagement and optimize their processes. The software includes AI-powered conversation intelligence that analyzes call recordings, transcriptions, and live conversations to extract customer insights. It connects calls, chats, form submissions, and texts to specific advertisements using tracking numbers and dynamic number insertion, enabling accurate lead attribution. Features include lead management with geo, weight, and skill-based routing, a customizable softphone system, and workflow automation tools to streamline sales processes. Reporting tools offer both high-level summaries and detailed campaign and conversion data. The platform adheres to security standards, including SOC 2 compliance, and supports regulatory requirements such as HIPAA, HITECH, GDPR, and CCPA. It offers sub-account structures, white-label options, and custom billing features for agencies managing client accounts.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/calltrackingmetrics-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Call Tagging

5.0

Campaign Scheduling

5.0

Performance Management

5.0

Data Security

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Multi-Touch Attribution

2.8

Call Scripting

3.0

File Transfer

3.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/calltrackingmetrics-profile/#key-features)

### Product: Spoke Phone

[Spoke Phone](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/spoke-phone-profile/)

4.71

[(56)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/spoke-phone-profile/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Spoke is the leading platform for high-value, complex, and regulated conversations. Spoke guides employees to say and collect the right things so deals move forward and customers get better experiences. Spoke integrates with everything, personalizing conversations, driving productivity, and ensuring compliance. Trusted for over 250,000 conversations every day with features such as calls, SMS, WhatsApp, Team Inbox, programmable routing, Personalized IVRs, caller insights, forms, analytics, +more. The Problem Today, only a small portion of your employees are equipped or have the skills to have highly-contextual, complex, and personalized customer conversations. The Solution Spoke empowers every employee with the information and skills to hold high-quality compliant conversations that drive positive customer and business outcomes. To achieve this, Spoke Phone combines the best parts of traditional business phone systems, high-cost contact centers, and leading business process automation, and has made it all easy to use on a mobile phone or desktop. By integrating a customer’s information, processes, and automation into calls, SMS, and WhatsApp conversations occurring on mobile phones, desktops, and other devices, Spoke drives business to a new level.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/spoke-phone-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Compliance Management

5.0

VoIP

5.0

App Management

5.0

Security Management

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Call List Management

3.0

Access Controls/Permissions

3.5

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/spoke-phone-profile/#key-features)

### Standard

$15.00/month

The plan requires a Twilio account.

### Pro CX

$35.00/month

The plan requires a Twilio account.

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/spoke-phone-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Product: VirtualPBX

[VirtualPBX](https://www.softwareadvice.com/digital-workplace/virtualpbx-profile/)

4.72

[(38)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/digital-workplace/virtualpbx-profile/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

VirtualPBX gives you a complete business phone system for $15/user/month with every feature already included. No confusing plans. No feature gates. No surprises. Just smarter voice for your business, whether your team is at a desk, on the road, or working from home. Add AI FrontDesk whenever you're ready for intelligent 24/7 call handling, and grow into advanced messaging or contact center capabilities as your needs evolve. Most importantly, you're backed by knowledgeable, U.S.-based support from people who genuinely know the platform and understand small business. Because having the right technology is important—but having the right people behind it matters too.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/digital-workplace/virtualpbx-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Online Voice Transmission

5.0

Sentiment Analysis

5.0

Interaction Tracking

5.0

Softphone

5.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/digital-workplace/virtualpbx-profile/#key-features)

### Smarter Voice

$15.00/month

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/digital-workplace/virtualpbx-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Product: VoIPstudio

[VoIPstudio](https://www.softwareadvice.com/contact-center/voipstudio-profile/)

4.73

[(55)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/contact-center/voipstudio-profile/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

VoIPstudio is a cloud-based call center management solution designed for businesses of all sizes. It offers features that include automatic call distribution (ACD), interactive voice response (IVR), call logs, speech to text and remote offices. The solution suits the needs of organizations in financial services, media, retail and tourism. The solution’s speech-to-text feature sends executives automated email transcript of their voicemail messages. It further helps managers read through their voicemails on email on the go and while attending meetings. Further, its ACD Queues feature automates call distribution among team members to minimize wait time. The pricing is on a monthly subscription basis that suits individual users as well as large enterprises. The platform can be integrated with third-party software such as Avaya One X, Microsoft Dynamics CRM, Cisco, Oracle Sales Cloud and Salesforce. Learn about our review policy: voipstudio.com/review-transparency-policy/... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/contact-center/voipstudio-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Real-Time Analytics

5.0

Communication Management

5.0

Fax Management

5.0

Real-Time Reporting

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Online Voice Transmission

1.0

Call Logging

3.8

API

4.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/contact-center/voipstudio-profile/#key-features)

### VoIPstudio

$6.00/month

Start a free 30-day trial today, no credit card required.

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/contact-center/voipstudio-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Product: Monster VoIP

[Monster VoIP](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/monster-voip-profile/)

4.70

[(44)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/monster-voip-profile/reviews/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Monster VoIP is a Unified Communications as a Service (UCaaS) solution that helps voice-over-internet-protocol (VoIP) providers streamline client interactions by leveraging various communication tools such as business phone systems, messaging and video conferencing. Using the auto attendant feature, enterprises can manage calls, configure music-on-hold and automatically route incoming calls to available agents. Monster VoIP provides multilingual mobile applications for iOS and Android devices, which can be utilized by businesses to make audio/video calls, store new contacts in a built-in database and utilize pre-defined provider lists to add new accounts. Managers can use the screen sharing functionality to conduct online presentations and hold virtual meetings with several participants, improving collaboration across the organization. Key features of Monster VoIP include call recording, eFax, file sharing, voicemail management and click-to-call. Pricing is based on monthly subscriptions and support is extended via live chat, phone, email and other online measures.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/monster-voip-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Access Controls/Permissions

5.0

Call Recording

5.0

Archiving & Retention

5.0

On-Demand Recording

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Alerts/Notifications

4.0

Online Voice Transmission

4.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/monster-voip-profile/#key-features)

### Basic

$27.00/month

The plan is also available on a yearly basis.

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/monster-voip-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Product: Kixie PowerCall

[Kixie PowerCall](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/kixie-powercall-profile/)

4.63

[(295)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/kixie-powercall-profile/reviews/)

Best for:Value for money

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Kixie: AI-Powered Revenue Communication for High-Performing Teams Kixie is a next-generation revenue engagement platform that helps teams connect with leads and customers effortlessly. By combining AI, automation, and seamless CRM integration, Kixie transforms the way businesses handle calling and texting—enhancing productivity while keeping conversations personal and impactful. Effortless CRM Integration for Maximum Efficiency Kixie works natively with top CRMs, allowing teams to get up and running in seconds. No complicated setup, just an intuitive system that enhances workflows, improves response times, and helps teams engage with prospects and customers at scale. Outbound Sales: More Conversations, More Deals Boost outbound sales productivity with Kixie’s powerful dialing and texting automation. Designed to increase connection rates by up to 400%, Kixie equips your team with: ✔️ AI-Powered Local Presence Dialing for better answer rates ✔️ Multi-Line PowerDialer with AI-driven Human Voice Detection ✔️ Spam Risk Reduction to keep calls reaching the right people With Kixie, reps spend less time dialing and more time closing deals. Marketing: Engage and Nurture Leads at Scale Speed matters in marketing outreach. Kixie ensures your team connects with leads instantly and nurtures them effectively through: 📞 Automated calling and texting for immediate follow-up 📩 Personalized, scalable outreach without added manual effort Marketing teams can accelerate conversions while maintaining meaningful engagement. Inbound Sales & Customer Success: Handle High Volumes with Ease Keeping up with inbound calls and messages shouldn’t slow your team down. Kixie streamlines inbound workflows with: 🔹 Intelligent CRM-Based Call Routing for seamless customer connections 🔹 Shared SMS Inboxes & Auto-Responses for faster team collaboration 🔹 Call Queues & IVR to improve customer experience and reduce wait times By automating the busywork, Kixie helps Inbound Sales & CS teams triple productivity while maintaining a human touch. RevOps & Leadership: Gain Insights, Optimize, and Scale Revenue Operations and Sales Leaders can track performance in real time with advanced analytics, including: 📊 AI-powered Conversation Intelligence for coaching and strategy refinement 🎧 Live Call Monitoring & Coaching to support reps in the moment 📈 Data-Driven Reporting to identify growth opportunities With Kixie, leaders get the tools they need to build, scale, and refine high-performing teams. 🚀 Ready to take your revenue team to the next level? Get started today with a free trial at kixie.com.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/kixie-powercall-profile/)

### Best rated features:

SIP Trunking

5.0

Sales Activity Management

5.0

Call Queues

5.0

Third-Party Integrations

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Automatic Outbound Dialer

1.0

Call Conferencing

3.0

Call Scheduling

3.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/kixie-powercall-profile/#key-features)

### Integrated

Custom

Pricing available upon request

### Professional

Custom

Pricing available upon request

### Outbound PowerDialer

Custom

Pricing available upon request

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/kixie-powercall-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Product: Vonix

[Vonix](https://www.softwareadvice.com/cloud-communication/vonix-profile/)

4.78

[(23)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/cloud-communication/vonix-profile/reviews/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Vonix flex is a business VoIP solution that provides hands-on support and reliable service with all business phone plans for small and medium businesses across the U.S. This cloud-based communication platform helps businesses connect from anywhere at any time. With simple set-up and a direct line to the reliable in-house support team, Vonix will assist businesses every step of the way. Set-up can all be done remotely so that businesses can simply plug in and start calling. Vonix Flex is a unified communication platform built with small businesses in mind. Businesses are able to add accounts and manage lines as companies grow. Users have access to features like interactive voice menus, voicemail transcription, call recording, custom call routing, text messaging, and call analytics. With the Vonix desktop application, simple click to call features, users can staying connected while working remotely. Plus, users can call and text from a business number on any device through the mobile softphone app. Enterprise and call center accounts can access even more advanced features. Vonix offers the simple yet powerful Polycom suite of products to customers who choose desk hardware. Vonix’s softphone solution is available for Apple and Android devices.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/cloud-communication/vonix-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Chat/Messaging

5.0

Computer Telephony Integration

5.0

IVR

5.0

Reporting/Analytics

5.0

### Worst rated features:

CRM

2.0

Activity Tracking

3.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/cloud-communication/vonix-profile/#key-features)

### Basic

$19.99/month

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/cloud-communication/vonix-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Product: IPFone with Webex

[IPFone with Webex](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/ipfone-with-webex-profile/)

4.78

[(9)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/ipfone-with-webex-profile/reviews/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Available

Software Advice Summary

IPFone with Webex is a fully integrated solution that combines calling, meetings, messaging, and file sharing into one app to streamline teamwork and produce great results. It features IPFone voice with Cisco Webex Meetings. Here are some of the key features of IPFone with Webex: -Cloud calling: Powerful, robust, full-featured calling. Make or receive calls from any device: desktop, table, and smartphone. -Enterprise-grade calling features. Messaging: Send messages, share files, and create or edit whiteboards securely. -Meetings: Use high-quality video meetings in your own personal meeting room with screen sharing and annotation from any device for up to 1000 participants. -Team collaboration: Create a virtual workspace where you can get work done with others one-to-one or as team.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/ipfone-with-webex-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Call Routing

5.0

Chat/Messaging

5.0

Voice Mail

5.0

Alerts/Notifications

4.9

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/ipfone-with-webex-profile/#key-features)

### Basic Plan

$17.95/month

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/ipfone-with-webex-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Product: Cloud Softphone

[Cloud Softphone](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/acrobits-profile/)

4.70

[(10)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/acrobits-profile/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Acrobits is a cloud-based softphone solution, which helps small to large businesses configure, develop and deploy communications applications in real time. Key features include QR code scanning, customizable branding, push notifications, web callback and analytics. The solution enables employees to set up call forwarding to phones for the unavailable hours and transfer or receive files from multiple sources. Acrobits helps users upload contact details from phones, detect web phone numbers and send text messages to customers. With its VoWiFi feature, agents can initiate encrypted voice and video calls over a wireless connection. Acrobits offers API-based integration, which helps developers modify the existing system with IP telephony functionalities. It comes with a mobile application for iOS and Android. The solution is available on a monthly subscription and support is provided via email and documentation.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/acrobits-profile/)

### Best rated features:

File Sharing

5.0

Call Monitoring

5.0

Third-Party Integrations

5.0

Access Controls/Permissions

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Chat/Messaging

4.0

Alerts/Notifications

4.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/acrobits-profile/#key-features)

### Generic Full Featre App

$69.00/month

Non-branded softphone app with incoming and outgoing calls. This is the option for those wanting to offer incoming calls and have access to all possible features, including push notifications, video calls, and business features like transfers and conferencing. The price of this option consists of a monthly flat fee and a per-user license fee, the exact numbers depend on the specific features you pick.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/acrobits-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### White Label Softphone

$549.00/month

Create your own fully branded VoIP app and release it to your customers under your company name! With this option, you will receive app installation packages which you can submit to Apple App Store and Android Google Play.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/acrobits-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Generic App for Outgoing Only

$144.00/month

Non-branded softphone app only for making calls. With this option, you get an app for a flat fee, with no per-user costs. It's suitable for VoIP providers who wish to offer cheap outgoing calls to a large number of customers.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/acrobits-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/acrobits-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Product: RingByName

[RingByName](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/ringbyname-profile/)

4.62

[(69)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/ringbyname-profile/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Not available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

RingByName is a cloud-based phone and VOIP service provider that offers e-fax, teleconferencing tools, note sharing, customer relationship management (CRM) features, scheduling, agent activity tracking and more. Interactive voice response (IVR) enables users to record and upload answers to common questions that customers can access over the phone. The e-fax feature allows users to send, receive and view faxes as PDF files on desktop and mobile devices. Users can also create, schedule and send invitations to dial-in teleconference using telephone numbers and PIN codes. Other features include call recording, toll free number support and virtual phone extensions. Users can also schedule meetings, calls and discussions, and these can be shared with teammates using an event scheduling feature. RingByName integrates with third party applications such as QuickBooks, Zoho Connect, Salesforce and Google apps. Pricing is per user per month. Support is offered via email and over the phone.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/ringbyname-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Interaction Tracking

5.0

Activity Tracking

5.0

Third-Party Integrations

5.0

Activity Dashboard

5.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/ringbyname-profile/#key-features)

### Product: InGenius

[InGenius](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/ingenius-profile/)

4.88

[(8)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/ingenius-profile/reviews/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Ingenius is a computer telephony integration (CTI) solution designed to help contact centers track, analyze, manage and report on customer call interactions on a unified platform. It integrates telephony systems with customer relationship management applications, allowing administrators to streamline all operations, from inbound or outbound calling to report generation within the existing business CRM. It includes a screen pop functionality, which automatically displays customer data on agents' screens before calls are answered. A click to dial module equips agents to click and call any number from within the CRM and maintain automated logs for managers to track progress on leads. Additionally, CRM Screen Transfer allows agents to improve productivity by ensuring all information captured by users is automatically transferred when calls are forwarded to subsequent agents. Ingenius facilitates integration with several third-party applications such as Microsoft Dynamics 365, Salesforce, ServiceNow, Twilio, Genesys, Cisco, Avaya and more. Pricing is available on request and support is extended via email and phone.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/ingenius-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Real-Time Analytics

5.0

Live Chat

5.0

Lead Capture

5.0

Call Monitoring

5.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/ingenius-profile/#key-features)

### Basic

$32.00/month

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/ingenius-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Product: Yeastar Cloud PBX

[Yeastar Cloud PBX](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/yeastar-cloud-pbx-profile/)

5.0

[(5)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/yeastar-cloud-pbx-profile/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Yeastar P-Series Cloud PBX is a business communication solution that offers companies of all sizes with a complete package for calls, video, messaging and integrations, out of the box. With inbuilt visual call management, integrated video conferencing, advanced contact center features, and ready-made SMS, WhatsApp, Microsoft Teams, CRMs, and more platform integrations, it boosts user experience at all levels and provides everything across desktop, mobile, and browser with simple user apps.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/yeastar-cloud-pbx-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Call Routing

5.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/yeastar-cloud-pbx-profile/#key-features)

### Basic

Custom

Pricing available upon request

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/yeastar-cloud-pbx-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Product: Cytracom

[Cytracom](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/cytracom-profile/)

4.67

[(18)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/cytracom-profile/reviews/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Designed to connect MSPs and customers, Cytracom is a complete UCaaS platform that streamlines business communications by centralizing business messaging & calling in one platform. Cytracom contextualizes business calls by providing system integration with Microsoft, Salesforce, Hubspot, Zendesk, and more. As a critical component for day-to-day operations, Cytracom provides a fully-featured platform that includes SMS/MMS messaging, visual voicemail system, call queueing, call recording, auto attendants, contact management, and more. Engage customers 24/7 with unlimited calling within the US and Canada. Leverage Cytracom's iOS and Android compatible app for on-the-go access. Live support is available to provide dedicated assistance for simplifying Cytracom to customers.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/cytracom-profile/)

### Basic

$29.95/month

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/cytracom-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Product: UniVoIP

[UniVoIP](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/officeconnect-profile/)

4.65

[(20)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/officeconnect-profile/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Available

Free version: Available

Software Advice Summary

Cloud Voice for Microsoft Teams from UniVoIP Why Use Microsoft Teams as a Phone System? ● You already have M365, so maximize your existing Microsoft investment - and cut costs drastically. ● True Unified Communications - business calling, collaboration, chat, and video, all on one seamless app. With Cloud Voice for Microsoft Teams, you get Native Voice calling within the Teams client, with no learning curve or complexity, and no need for 3rd-party equipment or plug-ins. ● Future-proof your technology. New features are being added to Teams continuously, with no forklift upgrades needed. What are the Benefits of Microsoft Teams as a Phone System? ● Utilize a cost-effective Cloud Voice solution to connect to the PSTN and use Teams for external calling. ● Eliminate the need to purchase and maintain expensive desktop phone equipment. Use PCs, smartphones and tablets instead - or minimize expense by purchasing a few native Teams phones for strategic people. ● Conduct business in one place and on one Teams client: chat, collaborate, conference, video, and call: True Unified Communications! Why Use UniVoIP’s Cloud Voice for Microsoft Teams? ● Additional important features are overlayed, such as Analog, Faxing, Paging, SMS, and Contact Center. ● A purpose-built platform and dedicated network for Microsoft Teams, making UniVoIP’s solution scalable, efficient and cost-effective, while eliminating integration issues and limitations. ● Fully cloud-native solution. No need for 3rd-party add-ons, equipment, or plug-ins. ● Native Microsoft Teams client Voice calling via any device, empowering users to be truly available, accessible, and manageable from anywhere. ● Easy and rapid activation and deployment. Our industry-first Automated Onboarding allows users to get activated within minutes, as opposed to days or weeks. ● Free ongoing 24/7/365 U.S.-based support.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/officeconnect-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Computer Telephony Integration

5.0

Automatic Call Distribution

5.0

Call Logging

5.0

VoIP Connection

5.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/officeconnect-profile/#key-features)

### Basic

$7.00/month

[See full pricing details](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/officeconnect-profile/#pricing-and-plans)

### Product: Unitel Voice

[Unitel Voice](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/unitel-voice-profile/)

4.55

[(65)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/unitel-voice-profile/reviews/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Not available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Unitel Voice is the business builder's phone system. It lets you run your business from anywhere using any device. Easy to set up and use. Backed by amazing customer support that understands that busy small business owners don't have time for overcomplicated tech. - Built for Business Builders - Run your business from anywhere - Not overcomplicated or overpriced - Amazing USA-Based Support Unitel Voice enables startups and small businesses to look and sound like Fortune 500 companies by adding a toll-free business number to the existing home, office, or cell phone. Unitel Voice stands out because of its dedicated customer service and network reliability. The platform allows organizations to stay connected and know when a customer is calling so they can provide professional answers. Key features of Unitel include call recording, call transferring, SIP trunks, virtual auto attendant, audio conference bridge, call logs, unlimited call handling, call blasting, call announcement, on-hold music, and call blocking.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/unitel-voice-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Video Conferencing

5.0

Automated Attendant

5.0

PBX

5.0

Real-Time Reporting

5.0

### Worst rated features:

SMS Messaging

3.8

Fax Management

4.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/unitel-voice-profile/#key-features)

### Product: Voximplant Platform

[Voximplant Platform](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/voximplant-profile/)

5.0

[(4)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/voximplant-profile/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Not available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Voximplant Platform is a full-featured cloud communications platform as a service that enables organizations in industries such as banking, retail, classifieds and logistics to create and deliver innovative customer communications using voice, video and text messages. Features include phone network connectivity in 58 countries, push notifications, predictive dialing, text-to-speech conversion, voicemail detection and call queueing within a low-touch serverless environment and no-code development options. The platform includes a variety of integration options for existing telephony systems, web, and mobile. Voximplant offers automated call distribution functionality which lets contact centers route incoming calls to suitable and available agents. Marketers can create outbound calling campaigns and conduct phone surveys to collect feedback from customers. Operators can also view caller profiles and record calls for further analysis and reporting. Voximplant offers integration with third-party customer relationship management (CRM) systems, helping agents access customer details from a centralized platform. The solution is offered on monthly subscriptions and usage basis. Support is provided via phone, documentation and online measures.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/voximplant-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Communication Management

5.0

Real-Time Reporting

5.0

Drag & Drop

5.0

Alerts/Notifications

4.5

### Worst rated features:

SMS Messaging

3.0

Live Chat

3.0

API

4.0

Call Recording

4.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/voximplant-profile/#key-features)

### Product: Hosted Contact Center

[Hosted Contact Center](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/hosted-contact-center-profile/)

5.0

[(2)](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/hosted-contact-center-profile/)

### Pricing availability

Free trial: Not available

Free version: Not available

Software Advice Summary

Intelligent Contacts’ Hosted Contact Center is an inbound, outbound, blended and omnichannel contact center solution powered by AI and machine learning. The Intelligent Contacts platform lets agents engage customers across all communication channels—including voice, SMS, email, chat, and more—all within one pane of glass. With intelligent call routing, inbound calls are automatically directed to the most qualified agent. Once connected, the AI-powered agent interface delivers personalized call details, scripted greetings, and a call-flow assistant. For outbound calling, 4 predictive algorithms identify unwanted connections like answering machines and voicemail pickups to increase agent talk time by up to 3x. Through a modern, non-techie admin interface, supervisors can monitor, analyze and report on the performance of agents, teams, and campaigns without needing help from IT. Intelligent Contacts’ Hosted Contact Center includes call recording with advanced speech analytics to automatically score calls based on performance metrics, or flag calls with potential compliance violations. Contact center implementations can be completed in as little as a few days, but most customers typically go live within 2-3 weeks.... [Read more](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/hosted-contact-center-profile/)

### Best rated features:

Call Routing

5.0

Lead Management

5.0

Multiple User Accounts

5.0

Auto-Dialer

5.0

### Worst rated features:

Call Monitoring

3.0

Recording

4.0

Call Recording

4.0

[See all features](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/hosted-contact-center-profile/#key-features)

1

[2](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/ucaas-comparison/?page=2)[3](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/ucaas-comparison/?page=3)[4](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/ucaas-comparison/?page=4)[5](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/ucaas-comparison/?page=5)

...

[9](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/ucaas-comparison/?page=9)

## Popular Comparisons

[

Microsoft Teams vs Slack

](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/microsoft-teams-profile/vs/slack/)[

GoTo Meeting vs Zoom Workplace

](https://www.softwareadvice.com/compare/101384-Zoom-Video-Conferencing/vs/188188-gotomeeting/)[

Ringover vs RingEX

](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/office-profile/vs/ringover/)[

3CX vs Nextiva

](https://www.softwareadvice.com/compare/2683-Nextiva/vs/4936-3cx-phone-system/)[

LiveAgent vs Lime Connect

](https://www.softwareadvice.com/crm/liveagent-profile/vs/userlike/)

## Your Guide to Top Unified Communications Software, September 2022

Software Advice uses reviews from real software users to highlight the top-rated Unified Communications products in North America.

[Learn how products are chosen](https://www.softwareadvice.com/legal-page/frontrunners-methodology/)

#### Explore FrontRunners

-   [Slack](https://www.softwareadvice.com/remote-support/slack-profile/)
-   [Workvivo](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/workvivo-profile/)
-   [Acefone](https://www.softwareadvice.com/cloud-communication/acefone-profile/)
-   [Ringover](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/ringover-profile/)
-   [Whistle Messaging](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/147085-Whistle/)
-   [Ooma Office](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/ooma-office-profile/)
-   [RingByName](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/ringbyname-profile/)
-   [Pumble](https://www.softwareadvice.com/collaboration/pumble-profile/)
-   [11Sight](https://www.softwareadvice.com/video-conferencing/11sight-profile/)
-   [Missive](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/missive-profile/)
-   [Dialshree](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/dialshree-profile/)
-   [Livestorm](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/livestorm-profile/)
-   [MangoApps](https://www.softwareadvice.com/idea-management/mangoapps-profile/)
-   [Blink](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/126757-Blink/)
-   [Dialpad](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/dialpad-profile/)
-   [Flock](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/165028-Flock/)
-   [Front](https://www.softwareadvice.com/crm/front-profile/)
-   [3CX](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/3cx-phone-system-profile/)
-   [Microsoft Teams](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/microsoft-teams-profile/)
-   [Workplace from Meta](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/165817-Workplace/)
-   [AirSend](https://www.softwareadvice.com/collaboration/airsend-profile/)
-   [YOOBIC](https://www.softwareadvice.com/internal-communications/yoobic-profile/)
-   [CallTrackingMetrics](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/calltrackingmetrics-profile/)
-   [GoTo Meeting](https://www.softwareadvice.com/collaboration/gotomeeting-profile/)
-   [Vonage Business Communications](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/vonage-profile/)

“Usability” includes user ratings for Functionality and Ease of Use.

“Customer Satisfaction” includes user ratings for Customer Support, Likelihood to Recommend and Value for Money.

Reviews analysis period: The reviews analysis period spans two years and ends the 15th of the month prior to publication.

“Unified communications” (UC) is a buzzword for technologies that connect voice, email, text messaging, instant messaging (IM) and other business communication channels through intuitive user interfaces and software integrations. UC software systems focus communications functionality around the end user and provide a consistent experience across multiple devices (laptops, IP phones, smartphones, tablets, headsets etc.).

**Unified-Communications-as-a-Service (UCaaS)**, meanwhile, is simply a term for cloud-based UC, which is typically delivered on a subscription basis (in other words, you pay per-month rates for user licenses instead of one-time license fees).

This guide is intended to help you research UCaaS solutions for your organization. It covers the following topics:

[What Are Unified Communications and UCaaS?](#WhatAreUnifiedCommunicationsandUCaaS)

[On-Premise UC, UCaaS and Hybrid Deployment Models](#OnPremiseUCUCaaSandHybridDeploymentModels)

[UCaaS Functionality](#UCaaSFunctionality)

[Key Considerations for Buyers](#KeyConsiderationsforBuyers)

## What Are Unified Communications and UCaaS?

Traditional business phone systems primarily focused on managing the voice channel. This created a disjointed experience for employees who had to use other applications for email, instant messaging and so on. Moreover, these systems didn’t offer the flexible configuration settings users need to personalize their various communication methods. Even worse, legacy phone systems were difficult to integrate with other types of business software.

UC emerged around the turn of the millennium, as phone systems designed for VoIP service began to evolve in response to these issues. Unlike traditional phone systems, UC systems put users at the heart of communications. These systems allowed users to manage all workplace communications from a single system with a unified interface, accessible through tablets, smartphones, laptops and a range of other devices.

_iPad video conferencing with_ ShoreTel _Mobility 8_

In addition to streamlining the user experience across devices, UC systems and cloud-based UCaaS systems also help users manage communications by providing real-time control over their contact preferences (e.g., whether they’re available for a phone conversation). Moreover, UC and UCaaS systems can integrate with [customer relationship management (CRM) systems](https://www.softwareadvice.com/crm/), accounting systems and other vital software categories to add communications capabilities to workflows involving multiple types of software.

The net result in successful UC implementation: new possibilities for collaboration throughout your organization. UC can also reduce the costs associated with using multiple communication systems. For example, **instead of paying for a phone system, a video conferencing system and a stand-alone audio conferencing service, under UC, businesses only need a single communications provider**.

Here are the most important communications channels managed by UC and UCaaS software systems:

This is just a high-level overview of the basic modes of communication handled by these systems; it is not an exhaustive listing of capabilities. UC and UCaaS systems are capable of extensive functionality and are quite technically complex, with administrator manuals that can be thousands of pages long.

The first UC systems required the deployment of physical hardware, such as servers and switches, on businesses’ premises. Now, organizations can choose between deploying UC on-premise, in the cloud (UCaaS) or both.

## On-Premise UC, UCaaS and Hybrid Deployment

The choice between UCaaS and on-premise UC is an important one. Whereas UC was once confined to enterprises with very deep pockets, UCaaS providers make the technology affordable for a much wider range of organizations by significantly cutting upfront costs. UCaaS solutions can also be easier to manage for organizations with limited IT resources.

On the other hand, on-premise UC systems have disaster survivability benefits: They allow for redundant connections to the public switched telephone network (PSTN) for maintaining service during Internet outages.

Some UC and UCaaS providers allow for cloud deployments at certain sites (such as branch locations) and on-premise deployments at others (such as campuses). This is known as the **hybrid deployment model**.

In the hybrid model, even though the system has been deployed in different ways across multiple sites, it’s still a single system that can be centrally administered (typically, from the main campus). In addition to survivability benefits, hybrid deployments allow businesses to continue using legacy communications equipment in which they’ve already invested heavily.

You’ll need to factor in networking requirements, legacy investments and organizational structure along with costs when deciding whether to go with on-premise, UCaaS or hybrid deployment.

The systems listed on this page are all UCaaS products.

## UCaaS Functionality

The following table lists some additional capabilities of UC and UCaaS systems:

**Administrator console**

Administrators have a unified interface for controlling applications and features, as well as for managing the organization’s dial plan across multiple locations and networks.

**Desktop client**

Clients are installed on end users’ desktops or laptops. Users can communicate across multiple channels, and manage both contact preferences and call routing preferences via the client.

**Mobile client**

Extends major communication channels, such as voice calling, instant messaging, email and conferencing, to mobile devices. Users can make and receive calls with mobile devices using their work numbers. Mobile clients also allow users to access the system remotely to manage settings and preferences.

**Single identity number**

Users make and receive calls using a single work number, regardless of whether they’re communicating on a softphone, headset, IP desk phone, smartphone, tablet etc.

**Mass notification**

UC systems can handle mass notifications in emergency scenarios with capabilities such as SMS blasting.

**API**

Most UC platforms offer APIs for extending the functionality of the system through the development of custom applications or integrations.

_Buddy list in_ Nextiva’s _VoIP App Interface_

## Key Considerations for Buyers

The UC marketplace is complex and continually evolving. Keep the following considerations in mind while evaluating vendors to home in on the systems that will best meet your needs.

-   **Integrations with office productivity suites.** Increasingly, UCaaS providers are developing pre-built integrations with popular office productivity suites, including Microsoft Office 365 and Google Apps for Work. (Such integrations were once a niche filled by middleware vendors.) If you’re already locked into the Google or Microsoft ecosystem, look for vendors that have already done the work of integration so you don’t have to.
    
-   **Combined UC/contact center deployments.** Some UCaaS providers also specialize in deployments for multi-channel contact centers (those that handle communications channels such as email, SMS text, instant messaging, live chat, social media etc.). These vendors can deploy a contact center system that integrates seamlessly with the UC system used by the rest of your organization. Example vendors include [RingCentral](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/office-profile/), [ShoreTel](https://www.softwareadvice.com/product/25391-MiVoice-Business-Solution/), Nextiva, 8x8 and Jive.
    
-   **Conferencing requirements.** The continued evolution of [Web conferencing](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/online-meeting-comparison/) has vastly reduced the costs and technological complexity of both audio and video conferencing. However, UC solutions still differ in the conferencing capabilities they offer users. For instance, not all vendors’ mobile clients can support multi-party video conferencing on tablets and smartphones. Others are limited in their Web conferencing features.
    
    In particular, the use of WebRTC (an API for browser-based video conferencing) is still evolving. Vendors are actively developing solutions based on WebRTC, while solutions already on the market have implemented it to widely varying degrees. Make sure your short list only includes vendors that offer the conferencing features you need to support your business’s collaboration styles.
    

### Related Unified Communications Software

-   [Collaboration Software](https://www.softwareadvice.com/collaboration/)
-   [Mobility Software](https://www.softwareadvice.com/mobility/)
-   [Screen Sharing Software](https://www.softwareadvice.com/screen-sharing/)
-   [Telephony Software](https://www.softwareadvice.com/call-center/computer-telephony-integration-comparison/)
-   [VoIP Software](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/)
-   [Web Conferencing Software](https://www.softwareadvice.com/voip/conference-calling-comparison/)