Choosing between a landline and a VoIP connection can be a bit difficult. The choice depends on what features, costs and the frequency of use you are judging the system on. If you are confused about the system and are not sure which is best suited for your business, you should consider reading further to get all the information you need.
What’s The Difference?
There are quite a few differences that can be found between the two communication systems. The most common being the variety of innovative additions made in VoIP over the years as compared to traditional landline systems. It is better to know the fundamental differences between the two to evaluate further which one suits your organization in the best way.
Short for Voice over Internet Protocol, VoIP has become one of the most used technologies in recent times. The technology makes use of the internet to make and receive calls in numerous well-known business institutions. Most telecom companies started offering VoIP services, which we encourage you to compare with a tool like CompareMyRates so you can get the idea of the prices and features a VoIP plan has to offer.
However, you will require a reliable broadband connection to operate the system. That ensures a digital connection rather than a wired connection as seen in landline phones. But you can also opt for services that offer fiber optics and other suitable cables for transmission.
A landline connection is entirely different from how VoIP works. The system makes use of a copper wire that is connected to a wall jack. Landline technology makes use of analog signals using overhead wires. Traditional phones also have a high maintenance cost plus limited features. Landline carriers usually can provide services such as call blocking, caller ID, call waiting and voicemail in most of the cases.
Here a few key differences explained in-depth:
1. Sound Quality
Since most businesses consider communication as one of their primary weapons to gain more clients; sound quality is something you can never compromise.
The best in the business regarding the quality of communication is landline connections. Despite being labeled as outdated, landline connections ensure maximum voice clarity with little or no interruptions. It serves as the best tool for international business calls or domestic calls.
VoIP, when compared to the landline system, is not a superior choice regarding excellent sound quality. The system makes use of an internet connection – so if your connection is poor or laden with technical difficulties now and then – you can expect a drop in sound quality. That leads to voice distortion, interruptions, and echoes which can have a significant impact on what you want to deliver to your clients. The information being provided can be misunderstood leading to further complications which is something you would surely like to avoid.
2. Costs
Costs can be considered as a vital factor when you are still deciding which system to choose for your business.
VoIP has a lower setup cost, a lower running cost and cheaper add-ons as compared to the traditional landline systems. According to different surveys, most businesses have claimed that they saved about 60% on their monthly phone bills by making use of VoIP as compared to landline phones which show the difference in the cost. Most of the VoIP providers offer long-term packages to small startups for future discounts which have proven to be a major difference between VoIP and landline connections.
Maintenance is another issue in landline systems alongside call pricing which has become a major concern especially when it comes to international calling. VoIP mainly requires an efficient internet connection that can serve the company’s purpose with ease.
3. Reliability
An essential factor to consider, reliability is another thing which needs careful thinking and evaluation on your part. Landline connections are considered more reliable than VoIP for several reasons.
Any landline connection is independent of electricity providing an uninterrupted connection in case of sudden power breakdowns. That is an important reason to consider because to ensure stability; you need your customer support to be always available for answering your client’s queries.
In case of a VoIP connection, you can quickly lose the connection due to a power outage. Even in situations where there is a disturbance in your internet connection, you may not be able to deliver your services which make the system comparatively less reliable.
That is why, to deal with reliability issues, most business organizations always keep landline systems as a backup to avoid such situations for an uninterrupted communicating session with their clients.
4. Versatility
A VoIP system when connected to the main computer can be carried around anywhere in your facility which is not possible in case of landline systems. The level of flexibility provided in VoIP connections is relatively higher than in landline connections.
5. Superior Features
VoIP connections consist of numerous features including three-way calling, video calling and conferencing, call forwarding, call blocking, caller ID, call transfer, voicemail, etc. VoIP has more innovative options for your business.
All of these mentioned factors are dependent on your business’s operations. As a small business owner, you might be aware of the importance of communication for the growth of your business. Deciding on a traditional connection or a new connection can be a bit tricky sometimes which is why you have to choose wisely. The services offered by both of these connections should perfectly match what your business requires to prosper. In times where there is no room for failure and looking back, you might need to reconsider your options to secure a bright future for you and your company.
