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Small businesses need more than a single line phone system to function, but the cost can be prohibitive. In this article, we’ll outline some of the best options that are available in 2019.
The “2-line phone system for small business” is a type of phone system that allows businesses to have two lines on one phone. This type of phone system is typically used in smaller businesses, since they don’t need the extra features that other types offer.
A multi-line phone system is a piece of equipment that supports two or more voice-over-internet-protocol (VoIP) phone lines, enabling businesses to make and receive several calls at the same time. Some desk phones, known as internet protocol (IP) phones, link to Bluetooth-enabled headsets and sync with mobile phones, while others give basic functionality comparable to old landline systems.
The finest multi-line phone systems for small companies, according to our study, are:
- VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly V: The greatest overall and multi-line phone system for businesses who want an extensible system with all the bells and whistles.
- GXV3370 by Grandstream: Ideal for businesses looking for a VoIP phone system with video conferencing capabilities.
- VVX 150 Poly: Ideal for small enterprises who want a simple two-line VoIP phone system.
- Cisco 7841: For small organizations who desire VoIP desk phones with the appearance and feel of classic versions, the Cisco 7841 is a better option.
- W52P Yealink: Ideal for work-from-home entrepreneurs that desire the freedom to work inside or out.
- Mitel MiVoice 5330E Mitel MiVoice 5330E Mitel MiVoice 5: Designed for sales teams or customer support agents that handle a large number of calls.
A Quick Overview of Multi-Line Phone Systems
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If you don’t want to buy your multi-line phone from a retail or ecommerce shop, some of the leading VoIP-based business phone system providers provide a selection of phones for small enterprises. Prices in these outlets vary from $70 to more than $300 apiece. Small businesses may also lease desk phones from companies like RingCentral, providing them more flexibility and fewer upfront expenses.
If you’re not sure whether or not to switch to a VoIP service, educate yourself on what VoIP is and how it might help your business.
VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly V: Best Multi-Line Phone System Overall
VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly V
4.24 OUT OF 5 I I I I I I I I I I I Our ranking is based on our experts’ weighted assessment of hundreds of comparable items and services.
What We Enjoy
- RingCentral is RingCentral-certified.
- Compatibility with desktop computers
- Future extension module support
What Isn’t There
- It’s more expensive than other phone models.
- Its smartphone-like UI may be confusing to others who aren’t as tech-savvy.
- Smaller businesses may not need the most extensive capabilities.
VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly V Pricing
- On Amazon, it starts at $269*.
*Please note that the A/C adapter is not included. It may be purchased separately for $24.99.
The VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly V is a popular multi-line phone system for small business and earns a top spot for the best VoIP phones. It supports up to 16 VoIP lines. The multi-touch, gesture-based user interface resembles a tablet or smartphone, making it easy for tech-savvy employees to navigate and learn how to use it.
Although it doesn’t have a built-in camera like the GXV3370 by Grandstream, users can expand capability by connecting the Poly VVX camera for video conferencing. It also Compatibility with desktop computers, allowing workers to use their mouse and keyboard to navigate phone settings and VoIP calling features.
While the VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly V is built with growing companies in mind, business users wanting a comprehensive yet streamlined solution should consider the Cisco 7841. It also supports headsets and VoIP features, including music on hold and call park, but looks Similar to a traditional phone.
VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly V Features
- The 4.3-inch display, which is bigger than the Cisco 7841 display but smaller than the massive 7-inch display featured on the GXV3370 by Grandstream, gives the sleek, intuitive interface a contemporary design. The color touchscreen is crisp and stands out against the monochrome display on the Cisco.
- Tablet functions: The VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly V is the only multi-line phone system on our list that integrates with Microsoft Exchange calendars. It also supports quick access to corporate directories, sends reminders or alerts, and connects with productivity apps via open application programming interfaces (APIs).
- Connect headsets through RJ-9 or USB connection, or over Bluetooth, for maximum flexibility. To save local voice call recordings, use a USB flash drive. Do you need a fast response to a query from a coworker? Any VVX device, even the more cheap VVX 150 Poly, may use the intercom capability.
Better Built-In Video Conferencing with the GXV3370 by Grandstream
GXV3370 by Grandstream
3.94 OUT OF 5 I I I I I I I I I I I Our ranking is based on our experts’ weighted assessment of hundreds of comparable items and services.
What We Enjoy
- Syncs with mobile phones and tablets
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connection
- Video quality in high-definition (HD)
What Isn’t There
- pricier than comparable non-video models
- Some VoIP providers may not provide installation assistance for this model.
- Smaller businesses may not need all of the features.
GXV3370 by Grandstream Pricing
The GXV3370 by Grandstream is an IP video phone with a built-in camera, Bluetooth interface, and Wi-Fi connectivity. Created with volume users in mind, it provides a phone directory with room for 1,000 contacts and a high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI) output for connecting the device to a larger screen. This feature is also found on the VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly V.
The 7-inch, 720p backlit LCD screen is clear and supports HD video conferencing. Moreover, the system offers multiple protocol support, a speakerphone, and expands to as many as 16 phone lines. Users can even stream internet radio through the GXV3370 by Grandstream.
Even though the extra bells and whistles add to the price, it’s less expensive than the VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly V, which supports a webcam accessory. If you need more phone lines, try the Mitel MiVoice 5330E Mitel MiVoice 5330E Mitel MiVoice 5, which supports up to 20 lines.
GXV3370 by Grandstream Features
- Call management: Call forwarding, hold, transfer, caller ID, voicemail, and call waiting may all help callers have a better experience. Plus, the visible ringer light and voice message waiting indication help you keep on top of calls and messages.
- Advanced tools: The GXV3370 by Grandstream provides software development kit (SDK) support for apps, takes secure digital (SD) cards, allows web browsing, and has an alarm, built-in calendar, and a clock. In addition, the Grandstream multi-line phone system offers local and cloud call recording.
- Multiple protocol support: The GXV3370 by Grandstream works with several IP private branch exchange (PBX) and VoIP services, including Google Voice, Skype, Zoom, and WhatsApp. It works with RingCentral, but they don’t provide installation support. For preconfigured phones or provisioning assistance, consider the VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly V.
The VVX 150 Poly is the best two-line VoIP phone system available.
VVX 150 Poly
3.76 OUT OF 5 I I I I I I I I I I I Our ranking is based on our experts’ weighted assessment of hundreds of comparable items and services.
What We Enjoy
- High-definition voice quality
- Can be acquired via VoIP service providers such as Nextiva.
- Affordably priced and simple to use
What Isn’t There
- Small 2.5-inch screen
- Wireless headsets are not supported.
- There is no Wi-Fi or USB port.
VVX 150 Poly Pricing
- On Amazon, it starts at $94.23.
- Purchase for $64 via 808.
The VVX 150 Poly is a straightforward and inexpensive two-line VoIP phone system. It’s one of the most affordable options on our list and may be purchased through VoIP providers like 8×8 and Nextiva. Small business owners can use it as their main phone or place it in a shared or common area.
Although the VVX 150 Poly is a low-priced model, it features incredible sound and noise-canceling capabilities thanks to the Poly HD Voice and Poly Acoustic Clarity features. Moreover, business users appreciate its three-way audio conferencing and voicemail support.
However, for more flexibility, consider the Cisco 7841. It supports up to four lines and has a screen that’s an inch bigger yet offers the same simplicity found in the VVX 150 Poly.
VVX 150 Poly Features
- Voice quality: The VVX 150 Poly lets users hear everything the caller says without frustrating background noise. It uses acoustic echo cancellation and background noise suppression to reduce unwanted sound while the Poly Acoustic Clarity™ technology delivers clear audio.
- Custom keys: Like the Mitel MiVoice 5330E Mitel MiVoice 5330E Mitel MiVoice 5, the VVX 150 Poly offers four context-sensitive, programmable, display-based keys. It also comes with a four-way navigation key cluster and a “Home” feature button.
- SIP compatibility: The VVX 150 Poly is one of the most compatible options on our list as it’s supported by more than 60 calling platforms. It also features a web-based configuration tool, making setup easy.
Cisco 7841: Best for Making the Switch from Landlines to VoIP
Cisco 7841
3.55 OUT OF 5 I I I I I I I I I I I Our ranking is based on our experts’ weighted assessment of hundreds of comparable items and services.
What We Enjoy
- Similar to a traditional phone
- HD audio
- Many VoIP services, including 8×8 and RingCentral, are compatible.
What Isn’t There
- There is There is no touchscreen available. on this device.
- There are no USB or Bluetooth ports.
- Video conferencing is not supported.
Pricing for Cisco 7841
- On Amazon, they start at $213*.
- RingCentral sells a four-line setup for $209.
*Please note that the power supply is not included. It’ll set you back an additional $19.99.
The Cisco 7841 may be preferable to companies transitioning from a traditional public branch exchange (PBX) or two-line phone system. Read our comparison of a four-line phone system vs. a VoIP system to learn more.
The Cisco 7841 supports up to four lines yet looks and feels like a standard analog desk phone. Its 3.5-inch monochrome display is larger than the two-line VVX 150 Poly but smaller than the touchscreen found on the VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly V.
This paradigm is used by several SIP service providers, including 808 and RingCentral. Along with the scrollable menu, the fixed buttons for voicemail, mute, hold, speaker, and headset are simple to discover and operate.
While the Cisco 7841 is an excellent multi-line phone system for people used to analog desk phones, it may feel outdated for tech-savvy users. In this case, you’re better off going with a desk phone offering Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities, such as the GXV3370 by Grandstream.
Features of the Cisco 7841
- Call handling and management: Despite its landline look, the Cisco 7841 provides VoIP services like as call forwarding, whisper coaching, and call recording, which are identical to those found on higher-end phones.
- Ease of Use: The Cisco 7841, like the Polycom VVX 150, looks like an analog phone, making it simple for teams to take use of VoIP capabilities without paying in training or IT services.
- The Cisco 7841 enables hot desking, which allows several users to use a single desk. It also features an RJ-9 connection for headphones and four programmable line keys.
The W52P Yealink is the best cordless multi-line phone system on the market.
W52P Yealink
3.54 OUT OF 5 I I I I I I I I I I I Our ranking is based on our experts’ weighted assessment of hundreds of comparable items and services.
What We Enjoy
- Long-lasting battery in a cordless cellphone
- Many VoIP companies, like RingCentral and Nextiva, support it.
- Users may work up to 950 feet away from the base station.
What Isn’t There
- The 1.8-inch display is rather modest.
- There is no Bluetooth built-in.
- There is no touchscreen available.
W52P Yealink Pricing
- Amazon has it for $134.44.
The W52P Yealink is a session initiation protocol (SIP)-based cordless phone system designed for small businesses and home offices. It features a cordless handset with HD voice for high-quality audio and offers from five to 10 hours of talk time between recharging.
The base supports up to five handsets, five SIP accounts, and four simultaneous external calls. The W52P Yealink works with several well-known VoIP providers, including Nextiva and RingCentral. Additionally, RingCentral can assist in provisioning your W52P Yealink phone system.
Although the cordless W52P Yealink provides flexibility and convenience, the phone display is smaller than other multi-line phone systems and it doesn’t offer Bluetooth. If that’s important to you, consider the VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly V. Like the W52P Yealink, RingCentral helps with provisioning and also sells the VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly V. It comes with integrated Bluetooth and a 4.3-inch display screen.
W52P Yealink Features
- Portability: Whether you want to work on your outdoor patio or roam around your office, the W52P Yealink is the only model on our list that lets you take calls on your terms. It has a range of up to 50 meters (150 feet) indoors and up to 300 meters (950 feet) outdoors.
- Call functions: The W52P Yealink supports three-way conferencing, paging, call hold and transfer, voicemail, call history, do not disturb (DND), and music on hold. However, it doesn’t work for video conferencing or sync with mobile devices like the GXV3370 by Grandstream.
- Users may rapidly explore numerous categories such as call features, settings, voicemail, intercom, and status thanks to the user interface’s easy menu design (for phone system information).
Mitel MiVoice 5330E Mitel MiVoice 5330E Mitel MiVoice 5: Best for High Call Volumes Mitel MiVoice 5330E Mitel MiVoice 5330E Mitel MiVoice 5: Best for High Call Volumes Mitel MiVoice 5
Mitel MiVoice 5330E Mitel MiVoice 5330E Mitel MiVoice 5
3.34 OUT OF 5 I I I I I I I I I I I Our ranking is based on our experts’ weighted assessment of hundreds of comparable items and services.
What We Enjoy
- Use with VoIP or traditional landlines.
- User settings and keys that may be customized
- The usage of buttons makes it simple to utilize VoIP services.
What Isn’t There
- This is not a touchscreen display.
- It isn’t compatible with RingCentral’s VoIP services.
- There are no video conferencing features available.
Mitel MiVoice 5330E Mitel MiVoice 5330E Mitel MiVoice 5 Pricing
The Mitel MiVoice 5330E Mitel MiVoice 5330E Mitel MiVoice 5 is a multi-line phone system for small business supporting up to 20 lines. It stands out for features designed to improve the productivity levels of your customer service and sales teams.
Unlike other phones, such as the W52P Yealink, this Mitel model offers a large backlit screen. This allows users to easily browse through 24 programmable keys, 12 fixed function keys, and three context-sensitive keys. Additionally, the hands-free speakerphone and wideband handset provide clear audio.
Unfortunately, the MiVoice 5330E isn’t supported by RingCentral and may take longer to set up with other VoIP providers. Consider the GXV3370 by Grandstream for quicker deployment and assistance from VoIP providers like Nextiva and RingCentral.
Mitel MiVoice 5330E Mitel MiVoice 5330E Mitel MiVoice 5 Features
- Customizable keys and settings: Set up 24 keys to contact other workers or keep suppliers, managers, or VIP customers on fast dial using a browser-based desktop interface. Alternatively, the 12 fixed-function keys may be used to quickly access contacts, phone capabilities, the web, and user settings.
- The Mitel 5330E is adaptable, working with cordless headsets and phones that use the digital enhanced cordless telecommunications (DECT) protocol. Unlike the other IP phones on our list, this MiVoice device supports both VoIP and analog phone lines, allowing business owners to utilize a landline as a backup if the internet goes down.
- Features of VoIP: Use the menu keys to access services like call history, call forwarding, visual voicemail, and call details, or program your most-used VoIP capabilities into three context-sensitive softkeys.
How Did We Assess Multi-Line Telephone Systems?
When it comes to functionality and the maximum number of lines that may be accommodated, multi-line phone systems differ widely. While some company owners want to establish a system with merely the cheapest VoIP phones, others want sophisticated features like built-in Wi-Fi and touchscreens for the users who will be handling the most calls. We looked at a variety of scenarios and selected the best multi-line phone systems for each one.
Scoring 4.24 out of 5 based on our evaluation criteria, the VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly V is the winner as the best multi-line phone system for VoIP. It’s a user-friendly device that supports up to 16 lines. Moreover, it comes with enterprise-grade features, including Bluetooth, and works with many session initiation protocol (SIP) services, such as RingCentral. The VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly VVX 601 Poly V is an excellent choice for small business owners who want desk phones with the latest technologies.
To see how we evaluated multi-line phone systems for a small company, click on the headings below:
30% of the overall score
We examined pricing for multi-line phone systems from a variety of suppliers to uncover cost-effective options for small businesses. We also looked at models that VoIP providers were selling or leasing.
30% of the overall score
We tested a variety of phone systems to confirm that they all encrypt calls and have a loudspeaker. We also looked at how many lines each phone can accommodate and whether or not the phones had a headphone connection.
20% of the overall score
We looked for phones with touchscreens, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth since many business users want their desk phone to look like a smartphone. We also looked for USB ports and video conferencing capabilities (either built-in or extra).
20% of the overall score
We calculated our expert score by weighing each multi-line phone system’s general popularity, distinctive or noteworthy features, simplicity of use, and price-to-value ratio.
*Percentages based on total score
Conclusion
A multi-line phone system is an investment in the communications of your organization. Top-of-the-line devices include web browser capabilities and act like a tablet, but they may be overkill for small firms with low-volume call demands. Simplier versions, on the other hand, may be less expensive and have shorter learning curves for employees.
In the end, everything comes down to your company’s demands and budget. If you choose an older or reconditioned device, keep in mind that older phones may have less bandwidth than newer models, so check for voice quality. Check out our VoIP codecs page for additional information on audio quality.
The “multi-line phone system experience” is a multi-line phone system that allows for multiple lines. The systems are designed to help small businesses.
Related Tags
- best 2-line phone for small business
- best phone system for small business
- 3-line phone system for small business
- small business phone system
- multiple phone lines one number
