The top alternative to Skype is RingCentral because of its sophisticated PBX system, which works for businesses of all sizes. Completely cloud-hosted, this platform serves as an all-in-one communication hub that can support calls, video conferences, faxes, and live chat. Plus, it has native apps for both Android and iOS so you can send/receive text messages, faxes and HD calls on the go. Its main advantage over Skype is that RingCentral has more robust VoIP functionalities.
Have you experienced any of Skype’s reported shortcomings? Maybe you’ve encountered glitches in multi-party calling, integration with your existing audio/video set up or poor video call quality. No doubt Skype is one of the most popular VoIP tools, but you actually have a lot of options whether you’re looking for a robust communication tool for your sales or support team. In this guide, we’ve narrowed down the choices.
Communication is essential in any industry, especially if you want to keep up with modern businesses. VoIP software came about as one of the communication tools that happened to companies, rendering expensive PBX systems and landline nearly unnecessary. Today, we have tools like cloud telephony, voice calls, video and web conferencing, instant messaging, live chat, file sharing, and screen sharing, to name some.
Skype keeps the world talking. Say “hello” with an instant message, voice or video call – all for free, no matter what device they use Skype on. Skype is available on phones, tablets, PCs, and Macs. Video calls – Don’t just hear the cheers, see it! Get together with 1 or 24 of your friends and family on a HD video call. For Windows, Talkhelper Skype Call Recorder add-on is the best call recorder. This is free and is designed to help ease the storing of all Skype interactions. This free call recorder does more than just record your conversation. Skype is one of the best voice over IP services and instant messaging clients that comes bundled with a powerful set of calling, video, messaging and sharing capabilities. The program can be run.
While it is more than adequate for personal use, Skype is reported to fall short when it comes to addressing business needs. In this article, we’ll explore the top 10 alternatives to Skype that you can consider. You’ll understand their advantages over Skype and vice-versa so you can make an informed decision.
VoIP software systems offer plenty of advantages to businesses. Studies have shown small businesses that use VoIP can reduce their expenses on local calls by up to 40% and on international calls by up to 90%. In addition, VoIP can considerably reduce the startup expenses of a new company. All these positive things are seen to drive the VoIP market, which is expected to reach $204.8 billion by 2020. The VoIP industry’s contribution to the economy is predicted to rise at a rate of 15.3% annually. Plus, there are a billion mobile VoIP users around the world.
VoIP has been known to help businesses save both time and money. Unified communications can assist businesses with 100 employees save up to $920,000 a year in productivity. The increased popularity of VoIP systems has been attributed to myriad benefits that they offer including affordability, mobile capabilities, impact on business productivity and scalability. Switching to VoIP platforms brings the following plus points to businesses:
*CTI refers to computer telephone integration (source: cwsdn.com).
As VoIP systems have become must-have tools for business, it is important you select a good system from the plethora of services out there (not to forget, follow virtual meeting etiquette). Remember that with this system, it will be easier for you to get in touch with customers and can be a great complementary software for your CRM tools. It will also close the distance between you and employees from other office locations make it even faster to share information whether you are in your office or on-the-go.
Skype is a great VoIP platform for many but it might not be the right one for your business. We’ve broadened your options with this list of top 10 alternatives to Skype. But first, let’s get a quick overview of Skype.
Skype is a web-based communication application that offers instant messaging, international calls, video chat, group chat, group video conferencing, and collaboration features such as file and image sharing. Preferred by freelancers and businesses of all sizes for its simplicity, this service can be used to contact landlines as well as mobile phones at low rates. In addition, you can expect the best service and tools from Skype as it is owned by Microsoft.
Individual users can utilize the free basic service, while companies can choose to pay $2/user/month to avail business functionalities. With the paid package, you get compatibility with MS Office apps, business conferencing for up to 250 participants, integration with popular third-party systems, and top-rated security via robust encryption and authentication measures.
If you think Skype is too basic for your needs, don’t go away. We have also compiled the top 10 alternatives to Skype and essential facts about them to give you more choices.
How did RingCentral land a spot on our list of top 10 alternatives to Skype? For one, it is a cloud phone platform that businesses can use for voice communications, online meetings, business conferences, and more. Since the app is cloud-based, companies can save the costs of a conventional communication setup that includes software, hardware, training, maintenance, operators, space, etc.
You can try these functionalities out for yourself if you sign up for RingCentral free trial here.
Try out RingCentral with their free trial
With RingCentral, your business teams and employees working from remote locations can transcend geographical limitations. They can utilize mobile applications for iOS and Android to send and receive text messages, faxes, and HD calls, all while getting real-time notifications. These functionalities allow businesses to eliminate physical offices and use virtual cloud-based ones. It is not only your company that can save a lot of money; even your international customers are also able to save up to 30% on teleconferencing and overseas calls expenses.
Why Choose RingCentral Over Skype?
Why Choose Skype Over RingCentral?
If you think this platform is too robust for your needs you can check these RingCentral alternatives.
8×8 VoIP Phone Service offers tools such as smartphone integration, internet faxing, web conferencing, and an online dashboard for call management controls. This platform is used by businesses in industries like transportation, construction, finance, insurance, and healthcare as well as companies that have offices in multiple locations. With its simple configuration, you can easily run a virtual office from your mobile device or desktop. Some of its top features include directory assistance, ring groups, hosted PBX, extension dialing, call forwarding, and recording. Other highlights are seamless integration with leading business systems, flexible pricing on a per-user basis, and excellent tech support by knowledgeable professionals for prompt issue resolution. If you wish to scout for other systems, browse these 8×8 VoIP Phone Service alternatives.
Why Choose 8×8 VoIP Phone Service Over Skype?
Why Choose Skype Over 8×8 VoIP Phone Service?
Slack is a real-time messaging application that enables you to communicate easily and effectively in one place. The app offers search and archiving tools and can be accessed from anywhere, anytime. It integrates seamlessly with dozens of leading external services. Slack is ideal for team collaborations as it provides external and internal sharing tools that make distributing files as effortless as possible. You can easily search and find the files you need using the advanced search, sorting, and filter options. Mobile users can utilize the native apps for Android and iOS to be productive on the go. A unique feature is read state synchronization which updates your inbox on your computer or laptop when you read a message on your mobile phone. For more good options, browse these Slack alternatives.
Why Choose Slack Over Skype?
Why Choose Skype Over Slack?
Formerly known as ShoreTel Sky, Mitel Sky offers a suite of cloud-based phone solutions that are designed to help you with video conference calls, standard phone calls, mobile communications, active web sharing, customer engagement, and more. It is an ideal system for companies that do not wish to incur the cost of setting up an on-site communications platform. As it is cloud-hosted, the vendor takes care of all configurations and system management, so you can focus on boosting your business without worrying about installations, updates, or recurrent expenses. Enterprises can use Mitel Sky for web conferences and meetings by enabling participants to share video files, design attractive presentations, and actively participate in all discussions. In addition, the application seamlessly blends with multiple software systems thanks to partnerships with leading CRM and ERP platforms. Want to broaden your options? Take a look at these Mitel Sky alternatives.
Why Choose Mitel Sky Over Skype?
Why Choose Skype Over Mitel Sky?
Google Hangouts is offered on Gmail and Google+ and you can use it for text, voice, and video chats. It is an ideal platform for both one-on-one as well as group chats. You can also use it on mobile devices by downloading the Android or iOS app. Google Hangouts can be utilized by both individuals and businesses. The platform’s interface is based on social networks, and it ensures data security by using the latest protection standards. In addition, as it is part of the Google stable, Google Hangouts effortlessly integrates with leading business apps including Sprint, Freshservice, Zendesk, West Unified Communications, Slack, and others. Last but not least, the pricing packages are cost-effective even for businesses with limited budgets. Check out other similar solutions with these Google Hangouts alternatives.
Why Choose Google Hangouts Over Skype?
Why Choose Skype Over Google Hangouts?
Viber is a mobile messaging application that you can use to make phone calls and send messages to other Viber users for free. This instant messaging and VoIP software system is compatible with popular mobile operating systems. In addition to chat and voice calls, you can exchange pictures and audio and video files. Viber also allows users to call and send messages using 3G or Wi-Fi connectivity, and you can make international calls to unregistered mobile and landline numbers at low rates. Key features include Viber games, service messages, public chat, news feeds, group chat, and HD video calls. If you want a solution with advanced tools, browse these good Viber alternatives.
Why Choose Viber Over Skype?
Why Choose Skype Over Viber?
A unique app that offers open instant messaging, Jabber has been recently recognized as an XMPP (Extensible Messaging and Presence Protocol), as required by the IETF internet regulations for online messaging. As a result, this program can be used as a wireless app on mobile devices. Jabber functions as an XML-based open source system and uses an email-based interface that includes the utilization of the ‘@’ suffix. This enables the platform to read email addresses from all providers and display their origin. Though it was founded as a free basic tool, the solution now offers paid packages for businesses with advanced functionalities and technical support. Peruse these Jabber alternatives to learn of other viable options.
Why Choose Jabber Over Skype?
Why Choose Skype Over Jabber?
Previously known as Zoho Chat, Zoho Cliq is a software solution that facilitates real-time messaging, video calls, and audio calls. It aims to boost collaboration and communication within corporate teams using its multi-platform functionalities, exceptional file sharing tools, and robust daily task automation options. Accessible on desktop and mobile devices, the software also comes with SSL encryption to ensure that your data is protected at all times. Furthermore, Zoho Cliq deeply integrates with Zoho products and third-party applications. Should you think this platform is not the best option for your operations, worry not. We have a list of some other Zoho Cliq alternatives.
Why Choose Zoho Cliq Over Skype?
Why Choose Skype Over Zoho Cliq?
Workplace by Facebook snags the second spot on our list for its flexibility and ease-of-use. Designed with an interface that looks exactly like the social media site, this software serves as a private social network where corporate teams can share information, organize events, and plan projects. It is equipped with instant messaging capabilities, live video streaming, and productivity features, making it a boon for companies that want to foster better collaboration in the workplace. Moreover, it is equipped with API capabilities that enable it to support custom integrations and bots as well as third-party applications. If you think that this platform isn’t for you, you may check out these Workplace by Facebook alternatives.
Why Choose Workplace by Facebook Over Skype?
Why Choose Skype Over Workplace by Facebook?
Fuze is an online, enterprise-grade communication solution that brings together messaging, voice, video and content collaboration features in one platform. It is designed for today’s businesses that require reliable communication tools. As such, the software delivers high-quality video experience, modern group messaging, and rich voice conferencing that enables deep collaboration and instant communication. In fact, all it takes is a clickable link for your guest to join a Fuze meeting without needing to use any app or plugin. A browser and connected device are all that’s needed to use the software. Go through our Fuze alternatives to see a checklist of other similar apps.
Why Choose Fuze Over Skype?
Why Choose Skype Over Fuze?
Skype and all the alternatives mentioned in this article are some of the best communication tools in the industry. They offer comprehensive features as well as easy-to-use interfaces that can help optimize your operations and promote better collaboration in the workplace. However, if you still feel like you should continue browsing for more products, you should first understand what to look for in a VoIP system. Here, we have listed down some of the most important factors to consider when purchasing a communications tool. This way, it will be easier for you to narrow down your choices and pick the best possible platform for your operations.
Security Options. Plenty of information passes through your communication channels on a daily basis. Be it your clients’ personal information, important company data, or other details about your products and services, you should always be prepared to keep these data safe from prying eyes. As you browse for a VoIP solution, you should try to look one that offers security options such as SSL encryption, two-factor authentication, and password protection.
As with any business technology tool, it is always our advice that you carefully study what you will use it for, that is, the reasons to invest in VoIP systems. A VoIP system must first and foremost meet your business requirement with the budget you’ve set. It may be the most expensive system in the market, but if it fails to improve your business when it comes to delivering optimum customer service and enhancing your bottom line then your investment would have been for naught. It may be the most affordable system but if it addresses your communication needs, then you got yourself a cost-effective platform that gave you value for your money.
In fact, do not get a VoIP system until you learn the fundamentals of communication software because you may not need a full PBX system after all.
Will you be using it for effectively connecting your teams in the office and in the field? Will it be at the heart of your customer service hub? Identify your use case scenario and set your priorities straight. If you want a complete platform that can do everything a VoIP system is supposed to do and has all the necessary tools, then you can try any of the options above starting with our number one pick.
You can sign up for RingCentral free trial and experience for yourself what it can do for your business.