Buying guide · VoIP & business phone systems

VoIP and business phone tools for Canadian small & mid-sized businesses

Modern phone systems run over the internet, not old copper lines. These VoIP tools help Canadian businesses handle calls, routing, and voicemail more reliably—whether people are in the office, at home, or on the road.

Everything we recommend

If you’d like a business phone setup that’s easier to manage, works from anywhere, and doesn’t feel like a tangle of numbers and hardware, the tools below are a strong place to begin your shortlist.

We may earn a small commission if you sign up with any of these tools and services, at no extra cost to you. We only feature tools that are appropriate for Canadian businesses like yours.

Top pick

8x8 X Series

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing integrated voice, video, and chat in one platform

Why we like it: Integrated voice, video, and chat in one platform

8x8 X Series is a cloud-based VoIP solution commonly used by SMBs for unified communications. It offers integrated voice, video conferencing, and team messaging, helping businesses improve collaboration and reduce communication costs.

Visit 8x8 X Series’s website
Runner-up

Aircall

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing easy-to-use, scalable VoIP with strong call management

Why we like it: User-friendly interface with quick setup

Aircall is a cloud-based VoIP phone system designed for small and mid-sized businesses. It offers intuitive call management features and integrates with popular business tools, helping teams stay connected and productive without complex setup.

Visit Aircall’s website
Also great

CloudTalk

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing scalable, easy-to-manage VoIP with call centre features

Why we like it: Cloud-based system with no on-site hardware needed

CloudTalk is a cloud-based VoIP phone system commonly used by SMBs for managing calls and customer interactions. It offers strengths in call centre functionality and integration options, helping teams stay connected and productive without complex setup.

Visit CloudTalk’s website

Who this is for

You’ll get the most value from VoIP and cloud phone tools like these if:

  • Your business still relies heavily on phone calls for sales, support, bookings, or client communication—and dropped calls or clunky routing are starting to hurt.
  • Your team works in more than one place and you want staff to use the same business number from desk phones, computers, or mobile apps without sharing personal cell numbers.
  • You’d like clearer call flows—such as menus, extensions, queues, or after-hours rules—without needing a telecom specialist every time something changes.
  • You want better visibility into call activity so you can see missed calls, response times, and how often customers get through on the first try.
  • You prefer a predictable monthly subscription instead of juggling phone hardware, multiple providers, and surprise charges.

If this sounds like your situation, the VoIP tools below can help you modernize your phone setup while keeping things understandable for both staff and customers.

Top pick

8x8 X Series

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing integrated voice, video, and chat in one platform

Reliable cloud phone system for seamless team communication

8x8 X Series provides Canadian small and mid-sized businesses with a cloud phone system that combines voice calls, video meetings, and team chat in one platform. It is often used to streamline communication across remote and in-office teams, improving productivity and reducing reliance on multiple vendors.

A solid default if you just want a reliable, business-ready option.

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Runner-up

Aircall

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing easy-to-use, scalable VoIP with strong call management

Reliable cloud phone system for flexible team communication

Aircall provides a cloud phone system that helps SMBs manage calls efficiently from anywhere. It is often used for sales and support teams that need reliable call routing and easy integration with CRM and helpdesk software.

Many customers appreciate its straightforward setup and user-friendly interface, which reduces the need for dedicated IT support.

Great if you want similar benefits with a slightly different feature mix.

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Also great

CloudTalk

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing scalable, easy-to-manage VoIP with call centre features

Reliable cloud-based phone system for flexible business communication

CloudTalk provides a cloud-hosted phone system designed for small and mid-sized businesses. It is often used to streamline customer calls and internal communication with features like call queuing and analytics. Many customers appreciate its ease of use and ability to scale as their business grows.

Worth a look if the top two don’t quite fit how your team works.

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Detailed breakdowns

In the breakdowns below, you’ll see how each VoIP platform approaches call quality, features, integrations, and pricing—so you can pick a system that fits the way your business actually communicates.

8x8 X Series

Our top pick

Reliable cloud phone system for seamless team communication

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing integrated voice, video, and chat in one platform

Why teams choose it: Integrated voice, video, and chat in one platform

Many Canadian SMBs use 8x8 X Series as a comprehensive communication tool that supports voice calls, video conferencing, and team messaging within a single platform. This integration helps reduce complexity and can lower overall communication expenses by consolidating services.

The platform is well suited for businesses that require reliable, cloud-based phone service with features like call routing, auto-attendants, and analytics. It supports remote work scenarios by enabling employees to connect from various devices and locations.

While 8x8 X Series offers a broad feature set, some smaller teams with simpler needs might find it more than necessary, and pricing can be higher compared to more basic VoIP providers. However, its all-in-one approach is often valued by SMBs looking to unify their communication tools under one vendor.

Where this tool fits best

  • Integrated voice, video, and chat in one platform
  • Supports remote and hybrid work environments
  • Includes call analytics and routing features

Things to keep in mind

  • Pricing may be higher than basic VoIP options
  • Feature set may be complex for very small teams
  • Some users report occasional call quality variability
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing integrated voice, video, and chat in one platform

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Aircall

Runner-up

Reliable cloud phone system for flexible team communication

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing easy-to-use, scalable VoIP with strong call management

Why teams choose it: User-friendly interface with quick setup

Aircall is commonly used by small and mid-sized businesses in Canada that require a flexible and scalable VoIP solution. It supports features like call queuing, shared call inboxes, and real-time analytics, which help teams handle customer interactions smoothly.

Its cloud-based nature means teams can make and receive calls from various devices without complex hardware, making it suitable for businesses with remote or hybrid work models. Aircall integrates with many popular business applications, enhancing workflow efficiency.

While Aircall offers strong call management and ease of use, it may not have as extensive a feature set as some larger VoIP providers. It is best suited for SMBs looking for a balance of functionality and simplicity rather than highly customisable enterprise solutions.

Where this tool fits best

  • User-friendly interface with quick setup
  • Good integration with CRM and helpdesk tools
  • Cloud-based for flexible remote work

Things to keep in mind

  • May lack advanced features for large enterprises
  • Pricing can be higher than basic VoIP options
  • Limited offline functionality without internet
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing easy-to-use, scalable VoIP with strong call management

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CloudTalk

Also great

Reliable cloud-based phone system for flexible business communication

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing scalable, easy-to-manage VoIP with call centre features

Why teams choose it: Cloud-based system with no on-site hardware needed

CloudTalk is typically used by SMBs that require a flexible phone system supporting both sales and support teams. It offers features such as call routing, IVR menus, and real-time call monitoring, which help businesses manage customer interactions efficiently. This makes it suitable for companies with growing call volumes or those looking to improve customer service.

One of CloudTalk's strengths is its integration capabilities with popular CRM and helpdesk tools, allowing teams to access customer information during calls. The platform is cloud-based, so it reduces the need for on-premises hardware and simplifies setup and maintenance.

While CloudTalk offers robust call centre features, it may be less focused on traditional office phone system needs compared to some competitors. It is best suited for businesses prioritizing customer communication and call management over basic telephony. Teams looking for a straightforward, scalable VoIP solution with advanced call handling often find CloudTalk a practical choice.

Where this tool fits best

  • Cloud-based system with no on-site hardware needed
  • Strong call centre features like call queuing and monitoring
  • Integrates with popular CRM and helpdesk software

Things to keep in mind

  • May be more complex than needed for simple phone use
  • Some advanced features require higher-tier plans
  • Limited offline functionality without internet connection
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing scalable, easy-to-manage VoIP with call centre features

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Dialpad

Reliable cloud phone system for clear calls and easy team collaboration

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs seeking AI-enhanced voice and messaging integration.

Why teams choose it: AI-powered call transcription and analytics

Dialpad is often positioned as a modern VoIP solution that combines voice calls, messaging, and video conferencing in a single platform. It is commonly used by small and mid-sized businesses in Canada that want to unify their communication tools and improve team collaboration without managing complex hardware.

One of Dialpad's strengths is its AI-powered capabilities, such as real-time call transcription and sentiment analysis, which can help teams better understand customer needs and improve service quality. These features are particularly useful for sales and support teams looking to reduce call times and enhance training.

While Dialpad offers a user-friendly interface and strong integration with popular business apps, it may be best suited for businesses comfortable with cloud-based solutions and looking for advanced communication features. Some SMBs with simpler needs or tighter budgets might find more basic VoIP options more cost-effective.

Overall, Dialpad fits well for Canadian SMBs aiming to improve communication efficiency and gain insights from voice interactions, especially those with remote or hybrid teams.

Where this tool fits best

  • AI-powered call transcription and analytics
  • Unified voice, messaging, and video platform
  • Good integration with popular business apps

Things to keep in mind

  • May be more complex than basic VoIP needs
  • Pricing can be higher than simpler alternatives
  • Some advanced features require higher-tier plans
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs seeking AI-enhanced voice and messaging integration.

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GoTo Connect

Reliable cloud phone system for clear calls and easy team collaboration

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs seeking an all-in-one VoIP and video conferencing solution.

Why teams choose it: Combines voice, video, and messaging in one platform

GoTo Connect is designed for SMBs that want a single platform to handle voice calls, video meetings, and team messaging. It is commonly used by businesses that need reliable call quality and straightforward setup without complex hardware requirements.

The platform supports features like call routing, voicemail transcription, and mobile apps, making it suitable for teams that work both in-office and remotely. Its integration with other business tools can help streamline workflows and reduce the need to switch between multiple apps.

While GoTo Connect offers a comprehensive set of communication features, it may be less focused on advanced analytics or highly customisable call centre functions compared to some competitors. It is often positioned as a practical choice for SMBs prioritizing ease of use and consistent performance over extensive customisation.

Overall, it suits Canadian SMBs looking for a dependable, cloud-based phone system that supports everyday communication needs and helps maintain productivity across distributed teams.

Where this tool fits best

  • Combines voice, video, and messaging in one platform
  • Good call quality with reliable cloud infrastructure
  • User-friendly interface suitable for non-technical users

Things to keep in mind

  • May lack advanced call centre customisation features
  • Pricing can be higher than basic VoIP options
  • Limited in-depth analytics compared to some competitors
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs seeking an all-in-one VoIP and video conferencing solution.

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Grasshopper

Simplify business calls with flexible, mobile-friendly VoIP solutions

Best for: Best for small Canadian businesses needing easy-to-use virtual phone systems

Why teams choose it: Easy setup with no hardware required

Grasshopper is commonly used by small businesses and solo entrepreneurs who want a straightforward way to manage business calls without investing in physical phone systems. It offers features like call forwarding, voicemail transcription, and custom greetings, which help maintain a professional image.

Its mobile-friendly design allows users to answer calls on their smartphones, making it suitable for teams that are often on the move or working remotely. The system is cloud-based, so there is no need for on-site equipment or complex setup.

While Grasshopper covers essential VoIP needs well, it may not offer the advanced collaboration or integration features found in some other VoIP platforms. It is best suited for businesses prioritizing simplicity and mobility over extensive customization or unified communications.

Where this tool fits best

  • Easy setup with no hardware required
  • Mobile app for managing calls on the go
  • Custom greetings and call forwarding options

Things to keep in mind

  • Limited advanced collaboration features
  • May lack integrations with some business apps
  • Pricing can be higher for larger teams
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for small Canadian businesses needing easy-to-use virtual phone systems

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MightyCall

Simplify business calls with flexible, cloud-based phone solutions

Best for: Best for small Canadian businesses seeking easy-to-use virtual phone systems

Why teams choose it: Easy setup with no hardware required

MightyCall is a cloud-based VoIP phone system tailored for small businesses that need a straightforward way to manage business calls and customer communications. It is often chosen by teams that want to avoid traditional phone hardware and prefer a virtual setup accessible from anywhere.

Typical use cases include routing incoming calls to different team members, setting up business hours and greetings, and managing voicemails and call recordings. Many customers appreciate its ease of use and quick setup, which helps reduce administrative overhead.

While MightyCall offers essential features for call management, it may not have the advanced integrations or extensive analytics found in some larger VoIP platforms. It is best suited for businesses prioritizing simplicity and cost-effectiveness over complex telephony needs.

Canadian SMBs that want a reliable, cloud-based phone system with basic call handling and customer contact management often find MightyCall a practical choice.

Where this tool fits best

  • Easy setup with no hardware required
  • User-friendly interface for managing calls and contacts
  • Supports call routing and voicemail management

Things to keep in mind

  • Limited advanced features compared to larger VoIP providers
  • May lack deep integrations with other business tools
  • Not ideal for businesses needing complex call analytics
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for small Canadian businesses seeking easy-to-use virtual phone systems

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Nextiva

Reliable cloud phone system for clear calls and easy management

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing scalable, all-in-one VoIP and customer service tools.

Why teams choose it: Cloud-based system with reliable call quality

Nextiva is often positioned as a comprehensive VoIP solution for small and mid-sized businesses looking to unify their phone communications and customer service. It supports typical SMB use cases such as handling inbound and outbound calls, managing call queues, and enabling remote work through mobile and desktop applications.

Its strengths include an intuitive user interface and integrated analytics that help managers monitor call volumes and team performance. This can be especially useful for businesses with customer support or sales teams that rely on phone communication.

While Nextiva offers a broad feature set, it may be more suitable for businesses that need a scalable system with customer management tools rather than those seeking a minimalistic or budget-only phone solution. Canadian SMBs valuing ease of use and reliable cloud infrastructure often find it a practical choice.

Where this tool fits best

  • Cloud-based system with reliable call quality
  • Includes mobile and desktop apps for flexibility
  • Integrated call analytics and reporting tools

Things to keep in mind

  • May be more feature-rich than needed for very small teams
  • Pricing can be higher compared to basic VoIP providers
  • Some advanced features may require additional setup
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing scalable, all-in-one VoIP and customer service tools.

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Ooma Office

Reliable VoIP phone system for clear calls and easy setup

Best for: Best for small Canadian businesses seeking straightforward, affordable VoIP solutions

Why teams choose it: Simple setup with cloud-based phone system

Ooma Office is commonly used by small businesses in Canada that want a dependable VoIP phone system with minimal setup hassle. It supports typical office phone features such as virtual receptionist, call forwarding, and conference calling, which help streamline daily communication tasks.

This tool is well suited for teams that do not require advanced integrations or extensive customisation but value clear calls and ease of use. Its cloud-based nature means businesses can avoid investing in physical phone hardware or complex infrastructure.

While Ooma Office offers solid core features, it may not be the best fit for larger teams or those needing deep CRM integrations or advanced analytics. However, for many small businesses, it provides a cost-effective way to maintain professional phone service with predictable monthly costs.

Overall, Ooma Office balances simplicity and functionality, making it a practical choice for Canadian SMBs focused on reliable communication and straightforward vendor relationships.

Where this tool fits best

  • Simple setup with cloud-based phone system
  • Includes virtual receptionist and call forwarding
  • Predictable monthly pricing for budgeting

Things to keep in mind

  • Limited advanced integrations compared to some competitors
  • May lack features needed by larger or complex teams
  • Fewer customisation options for call management
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for small Canadian businesses seeking straightforward, affordable VoIP solutions

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OpenPhone

Simplify business calling with flexible, app-based phone service

Best for: Best for small Canadian teams seeking affordable, easy-to-manage VoIP numbers

Why teams choose it: Easy to set up and use on mobile and desktop

OpenPhone is commonly chosen by small businesses that want a simple, app-driven phone system without the complexity of traditional VoIP setups. It allows teams to use business phone numbers on their existing devices, supporting calls, texts, and voicemail in one place.

This tool is often used by startups, small sales teams, and service providers who need to separate personal and business communications affordably. Its integration capabilities with popular business apps can help streamline workflows and improve customer responsiveness.

While OpenPhone offers good flexibility and ease of use, it may lack some advanced features found in larger, more comprehensive VoIP platforms. It is best suited for teams prioritizing straightforward setup and cost-effective communication rather than extensive telephony features.

Where this tool fits best

  • Easy to set up and use on mobile and desktop
  • Affordable pricing for small teams
  • Supports multiple business phone numbers

Things to keep in mind

  • Fewer advanced telephony features than larger providers
  • May not suit larger teams with complex needs
  • Limited international calling options compared to some competitors
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for small Canadian teams seeking affordable, easy-to-manage VoIP numbers

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Phone.com

Flexible VoIP phone system for cost-effective business communication

Best for: Best for small Canadian businesses seeking affordable, scalable VoIP solutions with essential features.

Why teams choose it: Affordable pricing with flexible plans

Phone.com is often chosen by small businesses looking for a simple, cost-effective VoIP phone system. It is commonly used for basic business calling needs, including local and long-distance calls, voicemail, and call management features. Its pricing structure tends to be flexible, which can help businesses control communication costs.

Typical users include small teams that do not require advanced integrations or extensive customisation but want reliable voice service with essential features. The platform supports mobile and desktop apps, allowing employees to make and receive calls from various devices, which can improve productivity for remote or hybrid teams.

While Phone.com covers core VoIP needs well, it may lack some of the advanced collaboration tools or extensive third-party integrations found in higher-tier competitors. Businesses with more complex communication requirements or larger teams might find other options more suitable. However, for straightforward voice communication with predictable costs, Phone.com is a practical choice.

Where this tool fits best

  • Affordable pricing with flexible plans
  • Easy setup suitable for small teams
  • Supports mobile and desktop calling apps

Things to keep in mind

  • Limited advanced collaboration features
  • Fewer third-party integrations compared to some competitors
  • May not scale as well for larger teams
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for small Canadian businesses seeking affordable, scalable VoIP solutions with essential features.

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RingCentral MVP

Reliable cloud phone system for seamless team communication

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing scalable, feature-rich VoIP with global reach

Why teams choose it: Combines voice, video, and messaging in one app

RingCentral MVP is commonly positioned as a comprehensive cloud communications platform that supports voice, video, and messaging in a single app. Canadian SMBs often use it to replace traditional phone systems and unify their communication channels, which can improve team collaboration and customer responsiveness.

The platform offers a wide range of features including call management, auto-attendants, and integrations with popular business tools. This makes it suitable for businesses that want a scalable solution with advanced capabilities beyond basic calling.

While RingCentral MVP is feature-rich, it may be more complex and costly than simpler VoIP options, so it tends to suit SMBs with growing communication needs and some IT support. It is often chosen by teams that value flexibility and global reach, as it supports international calling and remote work scenarios.

Overall, it is a solid choice for Canadian SMBs looking for a reliable, all-in-one cloud phone system that can evolve with their business.

Where this tool fits best

  • Combines voice, video, and messaging in one app
  • Scales well for growing small and mid-sized businesses
  • Supports integrations with popular business software

Things to keep in mind

  • May be more complex than basic VoIP solutions
  • Pricing can be higher for smaller teams
  • Some features may require additional setup or training
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing scalable, feature-rich VoIP with global reach

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UniTel Voice

Reliable VoIP service for clear calls and flexible features

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs seeking straightforward VoIP with scalable options

Why teams choose it: Clear call quality with reliable cloud hosting

UniTel Voice is typically used by small and mid-sized businesses looking for a reliable and flexible VoIP phone system without complex setup requirements. It supports essential features such as call routing, voicemail, and mobile apps, which help teams maintain communication across different locations.

Many customers appreciate its straightforward pricing and the ability to add or remove lines as their team size changes. The system is cloud-based, so it reduces the need for on-site hardware and simplifies management.

While it offers a solid set of features for everyday business communication, it may not have as many advanced integrations or customisation options as some larger providers. It suits businesses that want dependable voice service with easy scalability rather than highly specialised telecom solutions.

Overall, UniTel Voice is a practical choice for Canadian SMBs that value clear calls, simple management, and flexible plans that adapt to their evolving communication needs.

Where this tool fits best

  • Clear call quality with reliable cloud hosting
  • Flexible plans that scale with business growth
  • Easy setup with minimal hardware requirements

Things to keep in mind

  • Fewer advanced integrations compared to larger providers
  • Limited customisation for complex telecom needs
  • May lack some enterprise-level features
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs seeking straightforward VoIP with scalable options

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Vonage Business Communications

Reliable cloud phone system for flexible business communication

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing scalable, feature-rich VoIP with global reach

Why teams choose it: Comprehensive calling features including call forwarding and voicemail

Vonage Business Communications is commonly used by small and mid-sized businesses in Canada that require a flexible and scalable phone system. It supports a variety of calling features such as call routing, voicemail transcription, and mobile app access, which help teams stay connected regardless of their location.

Many businesses appreciate its integration capabilities with popular productivity tools, which can enhance workflow and customer interactions. The cloud-based nature of the service reduces the need for on-premises hardware, simplifying setup and maintenance.

While Vonage offers a robust feature set, it may be more suitable for businesses that anticipate growth or need advanced calling options rather than those seeking a minimal, budget-friendly phone system. Its pricing and feature complexity might be more than what very small or simple operations require.

Overall, Vonage Business Communications is often positioned as a reliable choice for Canadian SMBs looking to modernize their phone systems with a provider that supports both office and remote work scenarios.

Where this tool fits best

  • Comprehensive calling features including call forwarding and voicemail
  • Supports mobile and desktop apps for flexible communication
  • Integrates with popular business productivity tools

Things to keep in mind

  • Pricing may be higher than basic VoIP options
  • Feature set can be complex for very small businesses
  • Some users report occasional call quality variability
Cloud Services VoIP & Phone Systems

Best for: Best for Canadian SMBs needing scalable, feature-rich VoIP with global reach

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