As businesses increasingly turn to VoIP solutions to improve communication and cut costs, softphones have become the unsung heroes of the digital age. Gone are the days when you needed a clunky desk phone tethered to the office. With a softphone, you can make and receive calls from your computer or mobile device, whether you’re in the office, at home, or even on the go.
In this guide, we’ll dive into some of the most popular softphones or VoIP app’s in the market, looking at their features, what makes them stand out, and key considerations to keep in mind when making your choice.
3CX Softphone
3CX is one of the top choices for businesses that already use the 3CX PBX (Private Branch Exchange) system. Its softphone is highly compatible with this system, making it the go-to option for businesses that want seamless integration. The 3CX softphone is available on Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac, offering broad compatibility for businesses with diverse device needs.
Key Features
- Integrated video conferencing
- Live chat function for websites
- CRM integration for more efficient customer management
- Easy-to-use interface
Considerations
If your business already uses the 3CX PBX, this softphone will likely be a natural choice. Its tight integration with the 3CX system means setup is simple and straightforward. However, if you’re using another PBX system or a hosted VoIP provider, you might find 3CX less useful.
If your team frequently switches between devices, you’ll be glad to know that 3CX supports both desktop and mobile platforms, allowing your employees to stay connected on the go.
Zoiper
Zoiper is another popular softphone used in South Africa, well-known for its cross-platform compatibility and ease of use. It works on a wide range of devices, including Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux. This softphone is also SIP and IAX-compatible, meaning it works with most VoIP systems.
Key Features
- High-definition audio and video calls
- Secure encryption for communications (SSL/TLS)
- Works with multiple VoIP providers
- Customisable interface
Considerations
If your business relies on security for handling sensitive data, Zoiper is a strong option, offering secure call encryption. Additionally, it’s a good choice if you need a solution that works across different platforms. The initial configuration can be done fairly easily, but make sure you test your setup with your chosen VoIP provider to ensure smooth operation. If you’ve got employees who work remotely or frequently travel, Zoiper’s mobile versions allow them to take their business calls from anywhere.
Bria (CounterPath)
Bria is considered a premium softphone, offering professional-grade features that appeal to larger businesses or those requiring advanced communication tools. It’s available across multiple platforms, including Android, iOS, Windows, and Mac, and is a solid option for businesses looking for a high-end softphone solution.
Key Features
- High-definition voice and video calling
- Presence management to show availability status
- Integration with popular CRM systems
- Enterprise-level security and encryption
Considerations
Bria’s more advanced features come at a higher cost compared to other softphones. If your business needs robust security, presence management, or CRM integration, Bria is likely worth the investment. However, if you’re a small or medium-sized business looking for a budget-friendly option, you might want to consider alternatives like Zoiper.
That said, Bria is straightforward to set up, and its mobile apps are highly rated for reliability and performance, so if you value quality and are willing to pay for it, Bria is an excellent choice.
Linkus (Yeastar)
Linkus is Yeastar’s native UC softphone, built to integrate directly with the Yeastar PBX system. It turns desktop and mobile devices into full office extensions, giving users access to calls, messaging, presence, and conferencing without relying on third-party apps.
Key Features
- HD voice and video calling
- Presence management and instant messaging
- Mobile and desktop apps (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android)
- CRM and Microsoft Teams integration
- File sharing and contact sync
Considerations
For businesses already using or considering Yeastar PBX, Linkus is the natural softphone choice. It comes included with the system, which means no extra licensing costs. Its value is strongest for organisations that want a complete, unified platform, but if you’re using a different PBX, Linkus won’t be an option.
Linphone
Linphone is an open-source softphone that has gained a loyal following among those who prefer customisable and flexible solutions. It’s available on Android, iOS, Windows, macOS, and Linux, making it a versatile option for businesses with varied device requirements.
Key Features
- Open-source with options for customisation
- Supports voice and video calls
- Strong encryption options for secure communication
- Free version available
Considerations
If your business has specific requirements or prefers customisable software, Linphone could be a great option. It’s free to use, although there are premium versions available with more advanced features. However, if ease of setup and configuration is a priority for your business, you might find Linphone slightly more challenging compared to more user-friendly softphones like 3CX or Zoiper.
That said, Linphone is highly secure and is ideal for businesses with tech-savvy teams who can take advantage of its flexibility.
MicroSIP
MicroSIP is a lightweight, open-source softphone designed for users who need a simple, no-frills solution. It’s available for Windows and is often praised for its low resource usage and straightforward setup.
Key Features
- Lightweight and resource-efficient
- Supports SIP for VoIP calls
- Simple and clean user interface
- Free to use
Considerations
If your business primarily uses Windows devices and you’re looking for a softphone that won’t bog down your systems, MicroSIP could be the perfect fit. It’s particularly well-suited to smaller businesses or those that don’t need advanced features. However, if your team uses multiple operating systems or needs mobile support, this might not be the right option, as it’s limited to Windows only.
For businesses looking for a barebones solution with minimal setup, MicroSIP is an efficient and cost-free option.
Comparing the Most Popular Softphones
| Softphone | Rating | Best For | Key Features | Platforms |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3CX | 4.4 | Businesses using 3CX PBX | Integrated video conferencing, live chat, CRM integration, easy-to-use interface | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS |
| Zoiper | 4.3 | Remote teams, cross-platform use | HD audio/video, encryption (SSL/TLS), multi-provider support, custom interface | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
| Bria | 4.3 | Enterprises needing advanced features | High-definition calls, presence management, CRM integration, enterprise-level security | Windows, Mac, Android, iOS |
| Linkus (Yeastar) | 3.9 | Businesses using Yeastar PBX | HD voice/video, presence, chat, CRM & Teams integration, file sharing | Windows, macOS, Android, iOS |
| MicroSIP | 4.2 | Lightweight use on Windows | Low resource usage, SIP support, free to use | Windows |
| Linphone | 4.0 | Open-source flexibility and security | Encrypted calls, open-source, video support, SIP compliant | Windows, Mac, Linux, Android, iOS |
Choosing the Right Softphone (VoIP App)
When selecting a softphone for your business, there are a few key factors to consider:
1. Compatibility
Ensure that the softphone you choose is compatible with your current VoIP system or provider.
2. Platform Support
Does the softphone work on the devices your team uses? Mobile compatibility is particularly important for remote workers.
3. Features
Think about the specific features your business needs, whether it’s video conferencing, security encryption, or CRM integration.
4. Ease of Use
Some softphones are easier to configure and use than others. If your team isn’t particularly tech-savvy, simplicity might be a key factor.
5. Budget
While some softphones are free, others come with a price tag. Consider your budget and whether paying for extra features is necessary for your business.
Comparison of Popular Softphones for Remote Work, Call Centers, and Hybrid Environments
| Softphone | Remote Work | Call Centre | Hybrid Work |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3CX Softphone | Ideal for remote teams with cross-platform support (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android) and easy device switching | Advanced features such as call routing, queuing, and monitoring make it well-suited to call centre operations | Seamless transition between office and remote work with a unified communications platform |
| Zoiper | Supports multiple platforms, secure encrypted calls, and works well for remote teams | HD calls and encryption make it a strong option for remote call centre operations | Seamless device switching between office and remote work, flexible configurations for varied needs |
| Bria (CounterPath) | High-definition voice/video calling and enterprise-grade security for clear communication when working remotely | CRM integration, presence management, and enterprise-level security make it suitable for call centres | Consistent experience across all platforms (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android) for hybrid teams |
| Linkus (Yeastar) | Provides remote workers with full office extension functionality via desktop or mobile apps (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android) | Integrated presence, chat, CRM connectivity, and call management make it practical for customer-facing teams | Unified communications features such as messaging, conferencing, and file sharing support hybrid working models |
| MicroSIP | Lightweight and efficient for remote work on Windows, but lacks mobile support | Simple to deploy, but limited in call centre functionality such as routing or CRM integration | Restricted to Windows, making it less effective for hybrid teams needing cross-platform support |
| Linphone | Open-source, customisable, and secure for remote teams needing flexibility and encryption | Highly adaptable, suitable for call centres with specific requirements, but lacks more advanced features | Works across platforms, well-suited for hybrid teams, though requires more technical set-up |
Ultimately, the best softphone for your business will depend on your unique needs. If you require advanced features and enterprise-grade integrations, Bria is a strong choice. For those seeking flexible or budget-friendly options, Zoiper, Linphone, or even lightweight tools such as MicroSIP may be more suitable. Businesses using 3CX or Yeastar PBX should also consider their native softphones, which offer seamless integration and ease of use.
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