10 Best VoIP Solutions for Small Businesses in South Africa

1. Cloud PBX: The All-in-One Hosted Phone System

A cloud PBX is a hosted business phone system that manages your extensions, call routing, voicemail, auto-attendant, and other phone features over the internet.

Instead of maintaining an on-site PBX, your provider hosts the system for you, making it easier to scale, manage, and support.

How does Cloud PBX Work?

All call routing, voicemail, auto-attendant, and other telephony functions are handled in secure data centres and delivered to you as a service.

Your team connects using internet-enabled devices – desk phones, softphones on computers, or mobile apps – all sharing the same business phone system and number range. There’s no on-site switchboard to maintain, and updates happen automatically.

Why does a small business need Cloud PBX?

This solution is ideal for small businesses that want enterprise-grade functionality without the upfront capital outlay. Whether you have a five-person team or fifty, a cloud PBX grows with you.

Key features include:

• Auto-attendant: A professional virtual receptionist greets and routes callers
• Call forwarding: Never miss important calls, even when you’re out of the office
• Video conferencing: Face-to-face meetings built directly into your phone system
• Unified communications: Seamlessly integrate voice, video, and messaging across devices

What does Cloud PBX cost for small businesses?

Pricing in South Africa typically starts from R50 to R400 per extension per month, depending on features. Most providers offer month-to-month contracts, so you can scale up or down without penalty.

United Telecoms offers the United Voice Cloud – a feature-rich cloud PBX built for South African businesses. Choose from three packages (Essential, Classic, and Pro) to match your needs.

All include access to the UVC softphone for desktop and mobile, plus tools like call recording, CRM integration, and real-time analytics. You can keep your existing 011 or 021 number or select a new one.

Ready to upgrade your business communications? Explore United Voice Cloud today or contact our team for a personalised demo.

5. Microsoft Teams Phone System: Business Calling Inside Microsoft Teams

If your team already uses Microsoft Teams every day, this option adds business calling directly into that environment.

Rather than managing a separate telephony interface, users can handle calls, voicemail, and transfers inside Teams.

How the Microsoft Teams Phone System Works

The Microsoft Teams Phone System integrates your existing telephony infrastructure with your Microsoft 365 environment. When enabled, Teams becomes a softphone that can make and receive external voice calls, just like a traditional desk phone.

Users can dial from within Teams, transfer calls, access voicemail, and manage business communications alongside chat and meetings. Presence syncing ensures colleagues know when you’re on a call, and all functionality works across desktop, web, and mobile apps.

Why is a Teams Phone System ideal for small businesses?

This solution is ideal for businesses already invested in the Microsoft ecosystem.

You might benefit if:

• Your team uses Microsoft Teams daily for collaboration
• You want to reduce the number of apps staff need to manage
• Remote and hybrid workers need consistent phone access anywhere
• You’re looking for a cost-effective alternative to Microsoft’s native calling plans

Teams Phone System Pricing

In South Africa, Microsoft Teams phone solutions typically range from R100 to R300 per user per month, depending on whether you need additional licensing. Some providers offer this as an add-on to existing Microsoft 365 subscriptions.

United Telecoms offers United Voice MS Teams Phone System from just R115 per user per month – with no expensive licensing beyond your standard Microsoft 365 subscription.

The solution enables full PBX features inside Teams, including calling, SMS, voicemail, call recording, and presence syncing. You can keep your existing business numbers and integrate with on-premise PBX, cloud PBX, or SIP trunk infrastructure. All pricing is scalable and month-to-month.

Turn Microsoft Teams into your complete phone system today. Chat with our team about integration.

6. VoIP Softphone: App-Based Calling for Remote and Hybrid Teams

A VoIP softphone is not a separate phone system on its own.

It is the software interface that lets users make and receive business calls on a computer or smartphone, usually as part of a cloud PBX or hosted VoIP service.

Instead of being tied to a desk handset, your team can make and receive calls using the same business number from anywhere with an internet connection.

How a VoIP Softphone Works

Softphone applications install on your device and connect to your cloud PBX using VoIP technology. When a call comes to your business number, it rings on your softphone just like a physical desk phone.

You can dial out, transfer calls, access company directories, and use advanced features like call recording and voicemail – all from a single interface. Most softphones work across multiple devices simultaneously, so your cell phone, laptop, and desk phone can all ring together.

Why is a VoIP Softphone ideal for small businesses?

This solution is essential for businesses with remote, hybrid, or field-based staff.

You might benefit if:

• Your team works from home, on the road, or across multiple locations
• Employees use their own devices and need a separate business line
• You want to avoid the cost of purchasing physical handsets for every user
• Staff need access to business calling capabilities without carrying two cell phones

Softphone Pricing

Most softphone functionality is included in a cloud PBX subscription rather than priced separately.

In South Africa, cloud PBX extensions that include softphone access typically range from R50 to R200 per user per month. Mobile apps are usually included at no extra cost with higher-tier packages.

United Telecoms includes the UVC Softphone with every United Voice Cloud subscription.

Available as a desktop app for Windows, Mac, and Linux, plus mobile apps for Android and iOS, it gives your team business-calling capability wherever they go. The softphone supports HD voice, video conferencing, instant messaging, and presence. You can even integrate with your existing CRM.

Take your business phone anywhere. Contact us about a softphone setup for your team.

7. VoIP Phones: Dedicated Desk and Cordless Handsets for Business Calling

VoIP phones are the physical handsets used with a hosted VoIP service, cloud PBX, or SIP-based phone system. They deliver crystal‑clear HD voice quality, dedicated line keys, and access to advanced PBX features without requiring a computer to be switched on.

They suit businesses that want dedicated hardware for day‑to‑day calling rather than relying only on a softphone app.

How VoIP Phones Work

VoIP desk phones connect directly to your network via Ethernet cable or WiFi. They authenticate with your cloud PBX or on‑premise system and register as an extension, just like a softphone would.

Most modern VoIP phones include Power over Ethernet, meaning they draw power from the network cable and don’t need a separate power socket. Cordless models use DECT technology to connect base stations to handsets, giving staff mobility around the office while maintaining call quality.

Why are VoIP Phones ideal for small businesses?

Physical handsets remain popular for good reason. You might prefer them if:

• Your team works from a fixed desk and wants dedicated phone hardware
• You need reliable calling that isn’t dependent on a computer being on
• Staff handle high call volumes and benefit from physical line keys and headsets
• Your office environment suits traditional telephony behaviour
• You want cordless options for warehouse, retail, or open‑plan spaces

VoIP Phone Pricing

VoIP phone prices vary widely based on features and brand.

Entry‑level models start from around R500, while advanced colour‑screen models for reception areas can cost R2,500 or more. Cordless multi‑handset bundles range from R2,000 to R4,000. Many providers offer rental options from R50 to R200 per month to spread the cost.

As a top VoIP provider, United Telecoms supplies a wide range of VoIP desk phones and cordless handsets from leading brands including Snom, Fanvil, Yealink, and Flyingvoice.

Entry‑level options like the Yealink T31G are available from R1,008 outright or R50 per month. For reception areas, the Yealink T33G offers four line keys and HD voice from R1,349. Cordless options like the Yealink W53P give staff mobility from R1,969.

All handsets are pre‑tested for compatibility with United Voice Cloud and come with full support.

Prefer physical phones for your team? Browse our range of handsets or contact us for recommendations.

8. Omnichannel Call Centre: Seamless Customer Engagement Across Voice, Email, and Chat

Standard phone systems handle calls, but modern customers reach out through email, chat, and social media too.

Omnichannel call centre software brings everything together, with powerful voice features such as intelligent call routing, real-time monitoring, and performance analytics.

It’s a complete solution for businesses managing high volumes of interactions across multiple touchpoints.

How Omnichannel Cloud Call Centre Software Works

Cloud call centre solutions add a layer of specialised functionality to your standard PBX. Incoming calls enter smart queues rather than ringing individual extensions.

Automatic Call Distribution, or ACD, routes each caller to the most suitable available agent based on skills, language, or past interactions. Supervisors can monitor calls in real time, whisper guidance to agents, or join the call when assistance is needed.

Every interaction generates data that helps you refine processes and improve customer service.

Why is Omnichannel Call Centre Software ideal for small businesses?

This solution is essential for businesses where customer calls are core to operations.

You might benefit if:

• You have dedicated teams handling inbound sales or support
• Multiple customers often call at the same time, creating wait times
• You need to track agent performance and call outcomes
• Your team handles high volumes of outbound calls
• You want to offer customers options like queue call-back during busy periods

Omnichannel Cloud Call Centre Pricing

Call centre software is typically priced per agent or per feature.

In South Africa, specialised call centre editions add R50 to R150 per user per month to standard PBX pricing. Advanced features such as predictive dialers or CRM integrations may incur additional costs.

United Telecoms offers the United Voice Cloud Call Centre featuring Omnichannel Edition, Agent Edition, and Supervisor Edition.

This software offers a scalable VoIP phone system built for businesses with serious call volumes. The Omnichannel Edition includes unlimited queues, ACD, real-time wallboards, detailed queue statistics, and CRM integrations with platforms like Salesforce, HubSpot, and Zoho. Agent Edition gives your agents unified communication tools tailored for efficiency. Supervisor Edition adds real-time monitoring, call barging, and whisper functionality.

All editions integrate seamlessly with your existing IP phones and headsets.

Not sure which call centre features your team needs? Contact us, and we will guide you through your options.

9. Virtual Landline: A Simple Business Number for Sole Traders and Small Teams

A virtual landline gives you a professional business number without requiring a full phone system.

It is best suited to sole traders, startups, and very small teams that want business calling on a mobile device with minimal setup. Virtual landlines can also utilise geographic numbers to allow you to work from anywhere while creating the impression that you are based locally.

How a Virtual Landline Works

When you sign up for a virtual landline, your business number is hosted in the cloud by your provider. Incoming calls are forwarded to your cell phone or other devices you specify.

You can make outbound calls that display your business number rather than your personal mobile number. Most virtual landline services include a mobile app that separates business and personal calls on the same device, along with basic features like voicemail, call forwarding, and do-not-disturb scheduling.

Why is a Virtual Landline ideal for small businesses?

This solution is ideal for businesses not ready for a full PBX system.

You might benefit if:

• You’re a solopreneur, freelancer, or startup founder
• You want a professional business number without office overheads
• Your team is small (1-3 people) with basic call handling needs
• You need to keep personal and business calls separate on one device
• You’re testing the waters with VoIP before committing to a larger system

Virtual Landline Pricing

Virtual landlines are among the most affordable VoIP solutions small businesses can adopt.

In South Africa, pricing typically ranges from R100 to R200 per month for a single user with basic features. Adding additional users or minutes bundles increases the monthly cost incrementally.

United Telecoms offers virtual landlines from R135 per month for a single user, including a geographic number of your choice.

For R295 per month, you get 400 inclusive minutes to South African mobiles and landlines. Additional users can be added for R95 per month each, making it easy to build a scalable VoIP system as you grow.

All plans include iOS and Android mobile apps, so you can make and receive business calls on your cell phone while keeping your personal number private. IP handset compatibility is also included if you prefer a desk phone later.

Want a professional business number that rings on your mobile? Contact us to enquire about a suitable setup for your business.

10. Bundled VoIP + Connectivity: Internet and Business Calling from One Provider

Sometimes the simplest approach is best.

Bundled VoIP and connectivity packages combine your internet connection and phone service into a single offering from one provider. Instead of managing separate contracts with an internet service provider and a telephony company, you get both from one source with one monthly bill and one support team to call when something goes wrong.

How Bundled VoIP + Connectivity Works

These packages include both the data connection your business needs to get online and the VoIP service that handles your voice calls.

Depending on the package, your provider supplies the necessary router or LTE device, configures it for optimal voice performance, and delivers your phone service over that same connection.

This integrated approach ensures your network is set up correctly for voice traffic from day one, with quality of service settings that prioritise phone calls over regular data usage.

Why is a Bundled VoIP + Connectivity package ideal for small businesses?

This solution is perfect for businesses that want simplicity and single-point accountability.

You might benefit if:

• You’re setting up a new office and need both internet and phones
• You don’t want to manage multiple suppliers and contracts
• You want guaranteed compatibility between your connection and phone system
• Your team relies on reliable voice quality and can’t troubleshoot network issues
• You prefer one monthly bill and one support number

Bundled VoIP + Connectivity Pricing

Pricing varies based on connection type and speed.

In South Africa, LTE VoIP bundles start from around R400 per month for smaller teams. Fibre bundles range from R800 to R4,000+ per month, depending on speed and whether you choose best-effort or managed service. Most bundles include the router, unlimited remote support, and your VoIP service with a choice of numbers.

United Telecoms offers LTE VoIP Packages starting from R430 per month for up to 8 users, including an LTE voice router and SIM card.

For fibre users, United Voice FTTB Lite packages start from R899 per month with 25Mbps uncapped fibre and your VoIP service included. Premium FTTB packages from R1,649 per month add managed service guarantees and dedicated support.

All bundles include a choice of geographic or non-geographic numbers, unlimited remote support, and the full United Voice service with monitoring and telephone management tools.

One provider, one bill, one support team. Contact us to learn more about bundled VoIP and connectivity today.

Final Thoughts on the Best VoIP Solutions for Small Businesses

Every small business in South Africa has unique communication needs. Choosing the right VoIP solution depends on your requirements (features, team and budget).

Ask yourself these questions before deciding:

• How many people need phones?
  • Solopreneurs may only need a virtual landline. Teams of five or more typically benefit from a full cloud PBX with extensions and advanced features.
• What’s your call volume like?
  • If your team spends hours on the phone each day, unlimited calling packages offer better value than per-minute billing.
• Do you have existing phone hardware? Keeping your current desk phones?
  • SIP trunking lets you modernise without replacing everything.
• Where does your team work?
  • Remote and hybrid teams need softphone apps and mobile access. Office-based teams may prefer physical VoIP desk phones.
• Do you already use Microsoft 365?
  • If your team lives in Teams, adding Microsoft Teams phone integration keeps everything in one place.

What to do next: Review the solutions above that match your situation. Compare features and pricing. And if you’re unsure which path is right for you, speak to an expert who can assess your needs.

United Telecoms offers a full range of VoIP solutions, from entry-level virtual landlines for solopreneurs to full cloud PBX systems for growing teams or enterprises. Plus, specialised options like Microsoft Teams integration and contact centre software.

Need help choosing the right VoIP solution for your small business? Contact United Telecoms today for expert advice tailored to your needs.

Choosing the right VoIP provider, VoIP package, and internet connection ensures you have the best telephony infrastructure for your business to run your VoIP system.  Our guides on the best VoIP providers, best VoIP packages, best business fibre packages and business LTE deals in South Africa are great resources.