Teams Phone vs VoIP which is right for you?
Should you turn Microsoft Teams into your phone system, or run a standalone VoIP system? Both are valid — here's an honest comparison of when each one wins.
Providers are compared on what each publishes: list prices and the conditions attached to them, minimum terms and mid-contract rises, what the price includes (calls, set-up, porting, support hours), UK-based support, and whether failover is offered. Telexico’s own entries are our list prices. Where a provider has changed its terms since the date shown, the published source wins; tell us and we will correct it.
Compiled and reviewed by Mickey Mall, Director, Telexico Communications Ltd, Wolverhampton. Updated October 2026.
Teams Phone vs standalone VoIP.
Microsoft Teams Phone
- Calling inside the app your team already uses.
- Best if you live in Microsoft 365.
- One platform for chat, meetings and calls.
- Needs the right licensing + a calling solution. See Teams Phone.
Standalone VoIP
- A purpose-built phone system, independent of Microsoft.
- Best if you don't use Teams, or want richer call features.
- Often stronger for reception consoles, call centres and advanced routing.
- See VoIP phone systems.
Our honest take.
If your team genuinely lives in Microsoft Teams all day, Teams calling (via Operator Connect or Direct Routing) is usually the simplest, tidiest choice. If you don't use Teams much, or you need reception consoles, call-centre features or advanced routing, a standalone VoIP system is often stronger.
We deliver both and will tell you honestly which fits — no pushing one product. Get a recommendation →
The services behind the comparison.
Everything we'd put in front of you instead — designed, installed and supported by a UK team.
Phone systems
Connectivity
AI & more
Compare it properly, with no hard sell.
Send us your current setup and bill. We'll review what you have, what you pay, and where we can simplify or improve it — and tell you honestly if you're better off where you are.
Frequently asked questions
Is Microsoft Teams Phone better than VoIP?
Neither is universally better. Teams Phone is best if your team already lives in Microsoft 365; a standalone VoIP system is often stronger for reception consoles, call centres and advanced routing. We provide both.
Can Microsoft Teams replace a phone system?
Yes — with the right licensing and a calling solution (Operator Connect or Direct Routing), Teams becomes a full phone system that calls any number. We set that up.
Is Teams calling cheaper than VoIP?
It depends on your Microsoft licensing. For Microsoft-heavy offices it's often simpler and cost-effective; for others a standalone VoIP system can be cheaper. We compare both for you.
Can I keep my numbers either way?
Yes — we port your existing numbers whether you choose Teams calling or a standalone VoIP system, — nothing switches until the new line is live —.
Where to next?
Already with another provider? Send us your bill for a free review →