Trying to pick between RingCentral and OpenPhone? It’s not always easy to know which virtual phone system gives you more for your money. Both have useful features, but they’re designed for different kinds of businesses.
Don’t worry — we’ll keep things simple. In this article, we’ll walk you through their features, pricing, and what people like (or don’t like) about each one.
By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which one might be the better fit for you, and you might even find a better alternative than these two. Let’s start!
What is RingCentral?
Source: ringcentral.com
RingCentral is a phone system that lets businesses handle calls, messages, and video meetings all in one app. It’s designed to be simple, so you don’t have to juggle multiple tools to stay connected.
RingCentral lets you make and receive calls using your phone, computer, or desk phone from any location. It also offers helpful features like call forwarding, auto-attendants, and team messaging.
RingCentral works with popular tools like Microsoft Teams, Salesforce, and Google Workspace. If you need a phone system that’s easy to manage and helps you stay in touch with your team and customers, RingCentral could be a decent choice.
What is OpenPhone?
Source: openphone.com
OpenPhone is a phone system designed for teams. It combines calls, texts, and contacts in one app that works on all your devices. This helps teams stay connected and manage customer communication from one place.
OpenPhone offers shared phone numbers, allowing multiple team members to handle customer calls and messages together. It also includes AI features that can transcribe and summarize calls while providing suggested next steps.
The system supports automations and integrations to improve efficiency. As your team grows, you can easily add new numbers and set custom rules to route calls properly.
OpenPhone also includes a mini CRM that helps you manage your contacts with custom properties and notes, making it easier to keep track of customer details.
What is Talkroute?
Talkroute is a virtual phone system designed for businesses of all sizes. It helps teams manage calls, texts, and video meetings using one simple app that works on desktops, web browsers, and smartphones.
With Talkroute, you can make and receive business calls from anywhere without needing new equipment. It also allows you to send and receive text messages using your business number, helping you stay connected with customers.
Talkroute’s video meeting feature supports up to 100 participants, making it easy for teams to collaborate. The system also includes voicemail management with message transcription and customizable greetings.
Businesses can personalize their phone system with features like call routing, schedules, and custom greetings. Talkroute offers various phone number options, including toll-free, local, and vanity numbers. If you already have a business number, you can transfer it to Talkroute.
With its flexible features and user-friendly apps, Talkroute helps businesses stay connected and manage communication from anywhere.
Outgrown your old phone system? Discover how Talkroute scales with your business. Book a demo now.
Comparing Features: RingCentral vs OpenPhone
RingCentral and OpenPhone both provide helpful features for businesses, but they cater to different needs. While each system offers solid communication tools, the right choice depends on your team’s priorities.
Phone System And Calling
RingCentral offers unlimited calls within the United States and Canada. Each plan also includes a business phone number or toll-free number at no extra cost. This can be helpful for businesses that want a professional number without paying extra.
OpenPhone also offers unlimited calls within the US and Canada. However, toll-free numbers are not automatically included, so businesses may need to add this feature separately.
Both systems allow you to make and receive calls using a desktop, web browser, or mobile app, making them flexible options for teams working remotely or in multiple locations.
Features And Tools
RingCentral includes a variety of features designed to improve communication. Its interactive voice response (IVR) system helps direct callers to the right department or team member.
RingCentral also offers single sign-on (SSO) for added security and analytics tools for IT administrators. These features provide useful insights into call activity and performance.
In addition to calling features, RingCentral provides HD audio and video conferencing. This can help businesses that rely on virtual meetings to stay connected with their teams and customers.
OpenPhone, while lacking built-in video conferencing, offers several features designed to support team collaboration. Its shared phone number feature allows multiple team members to handle customer calls and messages together.
OpenPhone also offers AI-powered call summaries and searchable transcripts, which can make it easier for teams to track important details from past conversations.
Security And Data Protection
Both RingCentral and OpenPhone prioritize security, though they take different approaches.
RingCentral includes security features like single sign-on, which helps users access their accounts more securely.
OpenPhone protects customer data with 256-bit AES encryption and stores information securely on Amazon Web Services (AWS). In addition, OpenPhone follows SOC 2 compliance standards, providing added assurance that customer data is handled responsibly.
Integrations
RingCentral integrates with popular tools like Google, Microsoft, and various APIs, making it a practical choice for businesses that already use these platforms.
OpenPhone also offers several useful integrations. It connects directly with Salesforce, Google, HubSpot, Gong, Slack, and Zapier. Through Zapier, OpenPhone can connect with thousands of additional tools, giving businesses more flexibility when linking their phone system with other apps.
Scalability
RingCentral is designed to handle multiple calls at once, but it has some limitations. According to RingCentral’s support resources, if your system is already handling six calls, you can only place one outbound call.
This may make it less suitable for businesses that expect to manage several outgoing calls at once. Because of this, RingCentral may be a better fit for sole proprietors and small teams rather than larger organizations.
OpenPhone is also well-suited for small to medium-sized teams. Its shared phone number feature allows multiple agents to manage incoming calls and messages, helping smaller teams provide better customer support.
However, like RingCentral, OpenPhone may not be the best choice for larger businesses that need to handle a high volume of calls at the same time.
RingCentral vs Openphone: Comparing Their Pricing Plans
RingCentral and OpenPhone both provide business phone systems, but their pricing structures and included features differ.
RingCentral’s Core Plan vs. OpenPhone’s Starter Plan
RingCentral’s Core plan costs $30 per user each month, while OpenPhone’s Starter plan is priced at $19 per user each month.
RingCentral’s Core plan includes unlimited domestic calling, business SMS/MMS, a call menu (IVR), and HD video meetings for up to 100 participants. It also offers integrations with Google and Microsoft, single sign-on, shared voicemail, and real-time analytics for IT administrators.
OpenPhone’s Starter plan, while more affordable, offers fewer features. It includes one local or toll-free phone number per user, calling and messaging within the US and Canada, voicemail transcripts, the OpenPhone API, and email ticket support. Unlike RingCentral’s Core plan, it does not include video meetings or advanced analytics.
For businesses that need video conferencing, IT analytics, or broader integration options, RingCentral’s Core plan offers more value. However, OpenPhone’s Starter plan is a more budget-friendly choice for businesses that only need basic calling and messaging features.
RingCentral’s Advanced Plan vs. OpenPhone’s Business Plan
RingCentral’s Advanced plan is priced at $35 per user each month, while OpenPhone’s Business plan costs $33 per user each month.
RingCentral’s Advanced plan includes everything from the Core plan plus auto call recording, advanced call monitoring, unlimited internet fax, and CRM integrations with Salesforce and HubSpot. It also expands analytics storage to six months and offers cloud backup through the Archiver tool.
OpenPhone’s Business plan offers several useful features as well. It includes everything in the Starter plan plus group calling, custom ring orders, call transfers, HubSpot and Salesforce integrations, phone menus, analytics and reporting, auto-call recording, and live chat support.
Both plans focus on businesses that require better call management and reporting. However, RingCentral’s plan offers broader fax capabilities and deeper IT analytics, while OpenPhone’s Business plan emphasizes team collaboration with its shared number and custom call routing features.
RingCentral’s Ultra Plan vs. OpenPhone’s Scale Plan
RingCentral’s Ultra plan costs $45 per user each month, while OpenPhone’s Scale plan is priced at $47 per user each month.
RingCentral’s Ultra plan includes everything from the Advanced plan plus customizable analytics, 12 months of reporting history, HD video meetings for up to 200 participants, device analytics, and unlimited file and recording storage.
OpenPhone’s Scale plan focuses more on automation and AI support. It includes everything in the Business plan plus AI call tags, conditional call routing (coming soon), dedicated onboarding support, and priority live chat and email support.
RingCentral’s Ultra plan is a better fit for businesses that prioritize detailed reporting, expanded video meeting capacity, and extensive data storage. Meanwhile, OpenPhone’s Scale plan may be a better choice for teams seeking AI-driven insights and faster customer support.
Pros and Cons of RingCentral vs OpenPhone
Both RingCentral and OpenPhone have their advantages and drawbacks. Here’s an overview of what users find helpful and what they often struggle with in each system.
Pros and Cons of RingCentral
RingCentral is a popular communication platform used by businesses for calls, messaging, and video conferencing. Here’s a look at its pros and cons.
Pros
RingCentral offers several features that make it a suitable choice for businesses seeking a versatile communication platform. Many users appreciate its ease of use, noting that the platform is simple to navigate despite having a variety of features.
RingCentral’s phone call quality is another positive aspect, with users often reporting clear and consistent connections.
RingCentral’s feature set is also well-received. Tools like video conferencing, team messaging, and call management help businesses stay connected and organized. Additionally, many users find RingCentral’s system to be dependable for managing day-to-day communication needs.
While customer support reviews are mixed, some users have had positive experiences with RingCentral’s 24/7 support.
Cons
Despite its strengths, some users have experienced issues with RingCentral. One common complaint is inconsistent customer support, with some users facing delays or unresolved issues.
RingCentral’s pricing structure has also been a concern for some businesses. Certain key features are only available in higher-priced plans, which may leave smaller businesses feeling limited.
Additionally, businesses that are new to VoIP systems may find RingCentral’s setup process challenging without extra guidance.
Pros and Cons of OpenPhone
OpenPhone is a communication platform designed for businesses to manage calls and messages. Let’s take a look at its pros and cons.
Pros
OpenPhone’s platform is often praised for being easy to use. Users appreciate its simple, intuitive design, which makes managing calls and messages straightforward.
Many users highlight OpenPhone’s text messaging features as a major strength, with its tools helping businesses manage customer communication efficiently. OpenPhone’s phone number management is another positive point, allowing users to assign multiple numbers or share numbers across team members with ease.
In terms of features, OpenPhone offers useful tools like voicemail transcripts and AI-powered call summaries, which help teams stay organized and informed. Some users have also reported positive experiences with OpenPhone’s customer support.
Cons
While OpenPhone’s simplicity is a strength, some users have found its feature set too basic for their needs. Missing features and limited functionality have been noted by some businesses seeking more advanced tools.
Connection issues have also been reported, with some users experiencing frequent dropped calls or unreliable connections. Additionally, while some users praise OpenPhone’s customer support, others have faced slow response times and unresolved concerns.
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What Makes Talkroute The Better Option Than Both RingCentral and OpenPhone
Talkroute is a solid choice for businesses that want a simple and flexible phone system. Unlike platforms that can feel overwhelming, Talkroute keeps things easy to manage while still offering useful features. Whether you’re making calls, sending texts, or hosting video meetings, Talkroute’s app makes it easy to stay connected without jumping between tools.
One of Talkroute’s biggest strengths is its flexibility. It gives you control over how and where your calls are handled.
Whether you need to forward calls to mobile phones, landlines, or desktop apps, Talkroute allows you to create custom call paths that fit your business’s needs. This makes it easier to manage calls no matter where your team is working.
Talkroute is also known for being dependable. While some platforms struggle with connection issues or frequent dropped calls, Talkroute users often praise its reliable performance.
For businesses that want a communication tool that’s simple, flexible, and easy to use, Talkroute is a suitable option that helps teams stay connected without the usual hassle.
Talkroute’s Key Features
Talkroute offers a variety of features designed to help businesses manage their communication more easily. Here are some of the standout features that make Talkroute a suitable choice for businesses.
Call Forwarding & Routing
Talkroute allows you to forward calls to mobile phones, landlines, desktop apps, and other devices. You can set custom ring strategies, create call paths, and schedule when certain phones should ring.
This flexibility makes it easy to manage calls whether you’re in the office or on the go.
Text Messaging
With Talkroute, you can send and receive SMS and MMS messages from your business phone number. Messages can be managed through the Talkroute app or browser, keeping all communication in one place.
For added convenience, text-to-email notifications keep you updated even when you’re not logged in.
Video Meetings
Talkroute’s video conferencing feature allows you to host or join meetings with up to 100 participants. Features like screen sharing, chat, and a whiteboard make collaboration easy.
Whether you’re meeting with clients or teammates, Talkroute’s video tools help you stay connected.
Apps for Every Device
Talkroute offers apps for MacOS, Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, and web browsers. This allows you to manage calls, texts, and meetings from virtually any device, giving you the flexibility to work from anywhere.
Voicemail Management
Talkroute’s voicemail tools make it easy to stay on top of messages. You can receive voicemails by email, manage them in the app, or access transcriptions for quick reference. Custom greetings and multiple mailboxes help businesses keep voicemails organized.
Customizable Menus and Extensions
With Talkroute, you can create custom menus and extensions to direct callers to the right team members or departments. Whether you need simple menu options or multi-level submenus, Talkroute gives you the tools to create a phone system that works for your business.
Call Recording
Talkroute allows you to record both incoming and outgoing calls. This is helpful for training, resolving disputes, or keeping a record of important conversations. With unlimited storage, you can always access past recordings when needed.
Talkroute’s Affordable Pricing Plans
Talkroute offers flexible pricing plans that cater to businesses of different sizes with no hidden fees or long-term contracts. Whether you’re starting out or managing a larger team, there’s a plan that can meet your needs.
Here’s a closer look at each plan:
Basic Plan
The Basic plan costs $19 per month and includes one phone number and one mailbox. It provides unlimited calling, text messaging, and video meetings. This plan also includes call forwarding, desktop and mobile apps, and 24/7 support.
For small teams or startups looking for essential features without extra costs, the Basic plan is a solid choice. Additional users can be added for $5 each.
Plus Plan
The Plus plan is priced at $39 per month and includes two phone numbers and three mailboxes. It builds on the Basic plan by adding useful features like menu options, single-digit extensions, simultaneous ring, live call transfer, and custom hours of operation settings.
This plan is ideal for growing businesses that need more control over their call management. Additional users can be added for $5 each.
Pro Plan
The Pro plan costs $59 per month and is designed for larger teams. It includes three phone numbers and ten mailboxes. Along with everything from the Plus plan, it also offers submenus, multi-digit extensions, call recording, scheduled call forwarding, reporting, and access to the Voice Studio for creating custom greetings and messages.
For businesses looking for advanced call management tools, the Pro plan provides strong value. Additional users can be added for $5 each.
Enterprise Plan
The Enterprise plan offers custom pricing for businesses with 20 or more users. It includes everything from the Pro plan plus ten or more phone numbers, 20+ mailboxes, an SLA for improved service support, and dedicated account management.
This plan is ideal for larger businesses that need personalized support and a scalable communication system.
More features for less. See how Talkroute helps your business grow without high costs.
Smart Business Communication at a Smart Price with Talkroute
Talkroute offers businesses a simple yet powerful way to manage their communication without spending a fortune.
With its easy-to-use platform and flexible pricing plans, Talkroute provides the tools businesses need to stay connected while keeping costs low.
Stay Connected from Anywhere
Talkroute makes it easy to manage calls from any location. Whether you’re in the office, working remotely, or on the go, Talkroute’s app allows you to make and receive calls from your desktop, web browser, or smartphone.
There’s no need to purchase new equipment — you can use your existing devices. With unlimited minutes for both toll-free and local dialing, businesses can stay connected without worrying about extra costs.
Text Messaging Made Simple
With Talkroute, businesses can send and receive SMS and MMS messages directly from their business numbers. This feature helps improve customer communication by allowing teams to engage through text messages.
For added convenience, text-to-email notifications ensure you never miss an important message. Both toll-free and local texting are supported, giving businesses more flexibility.
Easy-to-Use Video Meetings
Talkroute’s video conferencing feature helps teams stay connected with up to 100 participants per meeting. Features like screen sharing and a built-in whiteboard make collaboration simple.
Guests can join meetings with just one click — no downloads required — allowing for quick and easy communication with clients, partners, or team members.
Convenient Voicemail Management
Talkroute makes managing voicemail easy. You can access messages through the app, online, or by email.
Custom voicemail greetings let you tailor your message for different teams or departments, while voicemail transcription allows you to read messages for quick updates. With unlimited storage, you’ll never have to worry about running out of space.
Customizable Phone System
Talkroute gives businesses full control over their phone system. You can adjust call routing, customize greetings, and manage schedules with ease.
Whether you need to direct calls to specific team members, set up after-hours routing, or create custom call paths, Talkroute gives you the flexibility to design a system that fits your business.
Stop struggling with your phone system. Try Talkroute’s smarter solution for free!
FAQs About OpenPhone vs RingCentral
Who is RingCentral’s biggest competitor?
RingCentral’s biggest competitor is Talkroute. While RingCentral offers a popular business phone system, Talkroute provides a more affordable solution with unlimited calling, call routing, and call recording included in all plans.
Talkroute is a better choice for small businesses looking for a straightforward system without complicated pricing. It also provides better customer support channels and a simpler, user-friendly interface.
What is OpenPhone used for?
OpenPhone is a VoIP service provider designed for small businesses that need a basic business phone system. It offers features like voicemail transcription, call forwarding, and video conferencing, but it lacks the advanced call monitoring tools that many businesses need as they grow.
What’s better than OpenPhone?
Talkroute is a better option than OpenPhone because it includes all the features businesses need without requiring costly upgrades. Talkroute offers comprehensive VoIP features, better call routing, and improved customer support channels. For small businesses looking for reliable phone systems with clear pricing and useful tools, Talkroute is a stronger choice.
What is the difference between OpenPhone and Zoom Phone?
OpenPhone focuses on providing basic features for small businesses, while Zoom Phone offers a more complex business phone system with additional options like video conferencing and interactive voice response.
However, Talkroute is a better choice than both because it combines the key features businesses need, such as call recording, call routing, and advanced call monitoring, without extra costs or complex setups. Talkroute also offers multiple support channels, making it easier for businesses to get help when they need it.
Stephanie
Stephanie is the Marketing Director at Talkroute and has been featured in Forbes, Inc, and Entrepreneur as a leading authority on business and telecommunications.
Stephanie is also the chief editor and contributing author for the Talkroute blog helping more than 200k entrepreneurs to start, run, and grow their businesses.
