Choosing the right phone system can have a big impact on how efficiently your business operates and how easily your customers can reach you. If you’re wondering whether to stick with traditional phone lines or move to VoIP handset (Voice over Internet Protocol), this guide is for you.
Let’s break down the key differences and benefits of each.
What’s the Main Difference?
Traditional phone lines use the public switched telephone network (PSTN) the same copper wire infrastructure that’s been around for decades. VoIP, on the other hand, uses your internet connection to transmit voice calls digitally.
The result? Two very different experiences in terms of flexibility, cost and features.
Flexibility
Traditional landlines tie you to a physical location, usually a desk in the office. If you’re not there, you miss the call or rely on voicemail.
VoIP gives you full flexibility. You can make and receive calls on your laptop, smartphone or tablet from anywhere with an internet connection. This makes it ideal for hybrid teams, remote workers and businesses with multiple locations.
Cost
Traditional phone systems typically come with higher monthly line rental fees, call charges and hardware costs. Setting up extra lines can be expensive and time-consuming.
VoIP, by contrast, is cost-effective. Call charges are often much lower especially for international calls and there’s no need for dedicated copper lines. You only pay for what you need and scaling is easy.
Call Quality
Modern VoIP systems provide crystal-clear call quality, often better than traditional lines, as long as you have a stable internet connection. Any issues with quality are usually down to poor connectivity, not the VoIP handset system itself.
Features
Traditional phone systems offer basic functionality: dial tone, voicemail and maybe call forwarding if you’re lucky.
VoIP systems are loaded with features that help businesses communicate smarter:
- Auto-attendants (virtual receptionists)
- Call forwarding and routing
- Voicemail-to-email
- Mobile apps
- Video calling
- CRM integration
These tools make it easier to provide top-tier customer service and keep teams connected.
Maintenance & Support
If something goes wrong with a traditional phone line, repairs can be slow and costly, especially with the UK’s PSTN network scheduled for switch-off in 2025.
VoIP systems are cloud-based and easier to maintain, with updates and support managed remotely. You don’t need to worry about ageing hardware or future obsolescence.
Should You Make the Switch?
If you have a reliable internet connection and want a more modern, flexible and cost-effective phone system, then yes, switching to VoIP is a smart move. It’s scalable, future-proof and ideal for the way we work today.
How RGC Can Help
At RGC, we make switching to VoIP easy. Whether you’re looking for a simple solution for a small team or a powerful system for a growing business, we’ll:
- Assess your current setup
- Recommend the best VoIP package
- Handle installation and setup
- Provide ongoing support and training
Ready to Modernise Your Phone System?
Don’t get left behind when the traditional phone network shuts down. Let RGC help you make the switch to VoIP with clarity, confidence and zero hassle.
Contact us today to arrange your free consultation.
