GuideUC&C9 Nov 2018 · 3 min read

Business Phone Vendors

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Phones are a group of specially designed handsets that eliminate the need for traditional telephone lines by allowing users to make low cost (and often completely cost free) calls over the Internet to any location across the world.

Rob Scott

What are VoIP Phones? (SIP Phones)

Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) Phones are a group of specially designed handsets that eliminate the need for traditional ISDN lines by allowing users to make low cost (and often cost free) calls over the Internet to any location across the world.

In a recent study, it was reported that around 1/3 SMEs are currently using VoIP with 9/10 of those claiming they use the them specifically for their proven ability to drastically reduce telephony costs, whilst 1/4 SMEs stated they were considering a move to VoIP within the next year.

As well as reducing call costs, VoIP Phones have also been proven to increase the productivity of agents on account of their ability to integrate with computers, emails, calendars and much more, while the flexibility they offer gives them much more freedom to work from any location of their choosing.

Moreover, given that VoIP Phones are a hosted, cloud-based solution that requires no on-site equipment other than the plug-and-play handset itself, maintaining the device and ensuring it runs smoothly is something businesses no longer have to worry about (or pay for).

VoIP Phone Vendors

This VoIP phone list refers to all business IP phones, including all proprietary and non-proprietary business phones vendors.

Here's a list of vendors in alphabetical order.

AudioCodes
Avaya
Cisco
Grandstream
Mitel
NEC
Panasonic
Polycom
Samsung
Snom
Unify
VTech
Yealink

SIP Phone Vendors

This SIP phone list refers to open SIP phones which are generally compatible with open SIP PBX platforms and cloud phone systems. See our full list of VoIP phones for all proprietary and non-proprietary business phones.

Here's a list of vendors in alphabetical order.

Alcatel-Lucent Enterprise
AudioCodes
Avaya
Cisco
Grandstream
Htek
Mitel
Polycom
Sangoma
Snom
VTech
Yealink

What are DECT & WIFI Phones?

Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT) and WIFI phones are handsets that connect wirelessly to your business phone system network for added mobility in the office and freedom to roam around and take conversations with you as you walk.

Though both ultimately offer the same end solution (i.e. wireless communications), DECT technology is a system designed specifically to transmit voice alone using a unique transmission frequency that connects directly to your PBX, whereas WIFI accommodates for a plethora of products ranging from Smartphones and iPads to laptops and tablets.

Each product offers its own unique benefits; DECT phones are generally less expensive and offer a single point-to-point line connection that eliminates call interruption, whilst WIFI phones can connect to any WIFI network, thus giving users the freedom to work from any location with WIFI access.

Generally, there are huge advantages from both phone types and deciding which of them is right for your business depends heavily on what you will be using the phone for.

DECT & Wi-Fi Vendors

This directory is exclusively for business grade DECT phone vendors. (home cordless DECT phone manufacturers not included)

Here's a list of vendors in alphabetical order.

Ascom
AudioCodes
Avaya
Cisco
Grandstream
Mitel
Panasonic
Polycom
Snom
Spectralink
Yealink
VTech

What are Conference Phones?

Conference Phones are machines built specifically for use in small and large meeting rooms that allow multiple users to listen and/or talk at the same time without hindering audio quality.

Typically, they include a microphone, a speaker and various other unique features designed specially to help your business get the most from its conference meetings.

In a 2014 survey that compares audio conferencing with face-to-face meetings, it was revealed that 60% of participants found conference calls more time and cost efficient, whilst 62% claimed they lose most time when travelling to and from face-to-face meetings.

With this in mind, by investing in a good Conference Phone you can ensure your business is able to easily connect with clients, partners and colleagues from different cities, countries and time zones without ever having to travel outside of the office.