Finding the right cloud PBX solution can save businesses money while improving communication. 📞
Just like that, free cloud PBX systems offer essential calling features, making them a smart choice for startups and small businesses. 🚀
They are easy to set up and manage, which helps teams stay connected without extra costs.
With many options available, choosing the best one can be tricky. 🤔
So, in this blog, we will explore what a cloud PBX is, the top 6 free cloud PBX solutions, and also discover the important factors when selecting the right cloud PBX.
🔑KEY HIGHLIGHTS:
- A cloud PBX is a contemporary phone system that enables businesses to make and receive calls via the Internet instead of using traditional phone lines.
- 3CX, OnSIP, LiveAgent, FreePBX, Bitrix24, and Callcentric are some of the best free cloud-hosted PBX providers for business success.
- The most important factors to consider when selecting free cloud PBX are the provided features, cost and budget, security and data protection, network performance, and reliable customer support.
- You should choose a cloud PBX provider that has data encryption and firewalls with data privacy regulations.
What is a cloud PBX?
A cloud PBX is a modern phone system that allows businesses to make and receive calls over the Internet rather than traditional phone lines. It operates like a traditional office phone system, but all through the internet. This eliminates the need for expensive hardware.
In contrast to traditional PBX systems, a cloud PBX is hosted remotely and connects phones using VoIP or SIP technology. This allows for a strong and affordable solution without hosting on-site hardware.
Additionally, cloud PBX systems are simple to set up and ideal for remote work. As a result, these systems are equipped with key features like call routing, voicemail, conferencing, Interactive Voice Response (IVR), ring groups, auto attendant, etc.
Best 6 free cloud PBX providers: At a glance
Here are the top 6 free cloud PBX services that offer reliable hosted PBX and cloud calling.
Let’s explore why they stand out as the best free cloud-hosted PBX systems:
| Name | Pricing Plans | User Limits |
| 3CX | Free forever plan | Up to 10 users |
| OnSIP | No-cost plan with unlimited extensions | Allowing up to 100 users |
| LiveAgent | Free forever plan | No limit on the number of users |
| FreePBX | Fully free open-source PBX | Unlimited users |
| Bitrix24 | Free forever plan | Unlimited users |
| Callcentric | Two no-cost plans offering unlimited in-network calls with per-minute charges. | Unlimited users |
Top 6 free cloud PBX options for business success
With numerous free options available, it’s vital to choose one that provides the necessary features and flexibility for your team.
Let’s take a brief look at the top free cloud PBX options:
1. 3CX
3CX is a free cloud PBX for small businesses that comes with essential functions like web conference, live chat, WhatsApp integration, etc.
It supports up to 10 users and offers free hosting, which makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a hosted PBX solution. In addition, it is deployed with mobile and desktop applications.
Key features
- Call reporting
- Video conferencing
- Call monitoring
- Automatic call distribution
Pros
- Responsive and helpful customer support team.
- Auto-provision feature for plug-and-play phones.
- High call quality with SIP redundancy and failover.
- Easy CRM VoIP integration with mobile and desktop apps.
Cons
- SMS/MMS is only available in the Professional plan.
- Confusing graphical user interface.
- Limited customization options for the platform.
- Can be challenging to set up for non-technical users.
Pricing
Note: When the free edition no longer meets your needs, you can easily upgrade to a PRO or Enterprise commercial key for additional features and users, with prices listed accordingly.
| SCs Simultaneous Calls | 3CX Pro (per year) | 3CX ENT (per year) | Hosting by 3CX |
| 8 SC | $350 | $425 | $295 |
| 16 SC | $750 | $950 | $395 |
| 32 SC | $1,395 | $1,750 | $795 |
| 64 SC | $2,895 | $3,695 | $795 |
Best for
- Companies seeking WebRTC-based video and voice solutions.
2. OnSIP
Designed for organizations that need an adaptable and scalable communications solution, OnSIP is a free cloud-based business phone number system. It is particularly known for its ease of setup, use, and integration with other tools such as Slack, Google Workspace, Zoho CRM, and MS Teams.
Furthermore, it offers a free cloud PBX plan and a mobile app, providing businesses with flexibility and ease of use.
Key features
- Developer APIs
- Data channel
- Voicemail to email
- Auto attendants
Pros
- Free SIP-to-SIP calling within the OnSIP network.
- Supports up to 100 users in a free hosted PBX feature.
- Offers HD voice and video calling capabilities.
- Integrates with popular tools like Zendesk and HubSpot in the free plan.
Cons
- External calling requires a paid plan with additional costs.
- International calling is complicated to set up.
- Advanced features are only offered as add-ons.
Pricing
Note: The OnSIP Free Plan offers basic features, but for more advanced features and additional users, OnSIP also offers paid plans with flexible pricing options, such as:
| Plans | Price per month |
| Unlimited plan | $18.95 per user |
| Basic plan | $49.95 per account |
Best for
- Businesses that prioritize flexibility in their phone system.
3. LiveAgent
LiveAgent is a free cloud pbx solution specifically known for its ability to integrate with over 200 apps. This software comes with various tools, such as live chat, a ticketing system, and social media support.
Equipped with a user-friendly interface and customizable tools, the software allows teams to manage customer inquiries efficiently.
Key features
- Call routing
- Universal inbox
- Automatic ticket distribution
- Email forwarding
Pros
- Excellent customer support.
- Improves workflow efficiency.
- Customizable chat buttons
- User-friendly interface.
Cons
- Limited features in the free cloud PBX.
- Poor reporting features.
- Separate management of emails and social networks.
Pricing
Note: LiveAgent’s free plan covers essential features for small teams, while paid plans with flexible pricing offer advanced functionality, more agents, and customization options.
| Plans | Price per month (billed annually) |
| Small business | $15 per agent |
| Medium business | $29 per agent |
| Large business | $49 per agent |
| Enterprise | $69 per agent |
Best for
- Companies that want to centralize all their support-related customer communication.
4. FreePBX
FreePBX is an open-source cloud PBX system that allows businesses to make their phone networks without incurring high costs. It will enable companies to set up a customized communication system, which can scale up as required.
Being open-source, there’s no doubt that businesses can utilize the basic version and opt to add additional features. This flexibility also aligns with the current business communication trend.
Key features
- Ring groups
- Call Parking
- Text to speech
- Interactive voice response
Pros
- Completely free with built-in telephony.
- Highly customizable with integrations.
- Long-standing platform with extensive community support.
- Highly customizable.
Cons
- Steep learning curve, relying on crowdsourced tutorials.
- Additional modules like call recording can be costly.
Pricing
Note: FreePBX offers a free plan with essential features, while paid bundles with 1-year and 25-year licenses provide advanced functionality and more customization options.
| Bundle | 25-year license | 1-year license |
| Starter Bundle | $349 | $169 |
| Advanced Bundle | $1,149 | $579 |
| Call Center Bundle | $2,999 | $1,149 |
| Everything Bundle | $3,449 | $1,729 |
Best for
- Businesses that need a highly customizable, open-source, and cost-effective IP PBX system.
5. Bitrix24
Bitrix24 provides a free cloud PBX solution that integrates CRM and communication tools into a single platform. Besides, it helps companies use basic VoIP features, online storage and integrate with third-party telephony systems.
It offers a “Kanban view” that lets users set custom stages and statuses for CRM records. Also, Bitrix24 has a built-in SIP connector, making it easy to connect with your existing phone service.
Key features
- Video conferencing
- Task assignment
- Create polls
- Cloud CRM integrations
Pros
- Offers team chat with 30 days of history.
- Provides strong data security.
- CoPilot is included in the free forever plan.
- Host unlimited video conferences with up to 48 participants.
Cons
- All features are not available on the mobile app.
- The user interface can be confusing.
- Limited or delayed reports.
Pricing
Note: Bitrix24 offers a free plan with essential features, and its paid plans provide additional functionality, with pricing varying based on the number of users and advanced features included.
| Plans | Price per month per organization |
| Basic plan | $61 (includes 5 users) |
| Standard plan | $124 (includes 50 users) |
| Professional plan | $249 (includes 100 users) |
| Enterprise plan | $499 (includes 250 users) |
Best for
- Organizations that need a comprehensive platform for managing customer relationships, project management, internal communication, collaboration, and even basic website creation.
6. Callcentric
Callcentric offers two complimentary virtual PBX plans: IP Freedom and Pay Per Call. The IP Freedom plan enables your business to make free calls to other Callcentric numbers globally. Similarly, calls are routed over SIP outside the network.
The Pay Per Call plan is ideal for businesses with occasional calling needs. You only pay for the calls you make and aren’t charged a monthly fee when there are no inbound or outbound calls.
Key features
- Conference room
- Voicemail
- Broadband connection
- Do Not Disturb mode
Pros
- Added account security through two-factor authentication (2FA).
- Offers flexible pricing with cost-effective minute bundles.
- Extensive global coverage with calls to more than 35 countries.
- Provides budget-friendly international calling plans.
Cons
- SMS incurs monthly and per-message fees, which can be costly.
- Customer support is slow and hard to reach.
- Services may experience frequent potential outages.
- Setup can be challenging for non-technical users.
Pricing
Note: CallCentric offers a free Cloud PBX plan. However, with paid options, you can get additional features based on usage and region, and all plans include a setup fee.
| Plan | Monthly fee | Setup fee |
| North America Basic | $1.95 | $1.50 |
| North America 500 | $6.95 | $1.50 |
| North America 1000 | $12.95 | $1.50 |
| North America 2500 | $29.95 | $1.50 |
| North America Residential | $19.95 | $1.50 |
| World Select Residential | $29.95 | $1.50 |
Best for
- Businesses with minimal call needs, offering a simple and easy-to-install solution.
How to select the best cloud PBX solution?
To select the best cloud PBX solution, consider some of the important factors, such as:
- Provided features: Look for a provider who offers the features needed by your business, like call management, voicemail, and integration with existing software. This is crucial for scaling your business over time, as having the right tools in place makes growth much easier.
- Reliable customer support: Access to 24/7 support can be useful when technical difficulties occur. Choose a provider that provides strong customer service across different channels, such as phone, chat, or email.
- Cost and budget: From a strategic perspective, compare pricing plans to pick a provider that conveys the best value to your company. Also, keep in mind that some services have hidden fees or will charge you an extra cost to add certain features.
- Network performance and call quality: A reliable internet connection is necessary in order to ensure clear calls and dependable service. Confirm that your cloud PBX provider has effective bandwidth management and low latency to avoid dropped calls or poor audio quality.
- Security and data protection: The Cloud PBX solution must have strong security to prevent hacking or data leaks. So, make sure you choose a provider that has data encryption and firewalls with data privacy regulations. Plus, frequent security updates are also essential to enhance business communication.
Conclusion
Selecting the best free cloud PBX improves the communication process while maintaining budget-friendly options. Businesses should focus on various required features such as call routing, voicemail, video conferencing, CRM integration, call recording, etc.
Compare their features, pricing, and customer support to find the best solution that fits your business needs. Also, security, network availability, and ease of installation are very important factors for business VoIP services to scale your company.
So, take your time to evaluate and choose a cloud PBX that meets your company’s requirements.
FAQs
What is the difference between cloud PBX and traditional PBX?
The difference between a cloud PBX and a traditional PBX is that a cloud PBX is hosted on remote servers, which reduces the need for physical hardware. In contrast, a traditional PBX is an on-site system that relies on dedicated equipment to handle phone lines and internal calls within a business.
Are free cloud PBX solutions really reliable for business use?
Yes, free cloud PBX solutions can be reliable for business use, especially for small to medium-sized businesses. While they offer essential features like call routing and voicemail, some limitations in support or advanced features may apply. However, it’s important to evaluate each provider based on your specific needs.
Can I scale up my free cloud PBX plan as my business grows?
Yes, you can scale up your free cloud PBX as your business grows. You can often add more users, extensions, and advanced features by upgrading to a paid plan or adding extra modules.
What features do I get with a free cloud PBX solution?
With a free Cloud PBX solution, you get essential features like call routing, voicemail, call forwarding, and auto-attendants. Many providers also include basic call management tools, such as call logs and voicemail-to-email.
Do free cloud PBX solutions offer customer support?
Yes, free Cloud PBX solutions do offer customer support, but it is often more limited compared to paid plans. The support may not be as comprehensive, and response times can vary.
What is SIP trunking, and how does it work with IP phones and desk phones?
SIP trunking allows businesses to make outbound calls over the internet using supported SIP trunks. It works smoothly with IP phones and desk phones, which provides a cost-effective communication solution.
