An IP phone system essentially uses the internet connection for telephony within a company or organization. This has several clear advantages over outdated systems and methods, such as an analog phone system. However, there is also a difference between an IP phone system and a hosted phone system.

For a company considering a VoIP solution, it’s good to understand how this works. The main reason is that it can make a significant difference in terms of costs. It’s clear that a VoIP service is the perfect option for those who embrace modern working methods. However, the best VoIP option can vary by company.

What Is the Difference from a Hosted Phone System?

With an IP phone system, your company has its own system. This is not the case with a hosted phone system. For small businesses or freelancers, having their own IP phone system often doesn’t make much sense. It’s quite an investment, and you’re unlikely to recoup it. However, it may become attractive to switch later on, especially if your company grows rapidly.

In that case, you’ll need to scale up several things, and hosted telephony might be one of them. It’s hard to pinpoint the exact threshold or moment when having your own IP phone system becomes more sensible. This depends on the company, the provider, and other factors. Generally, this moment usually comes when you have around 15 to 20 employees. However, for various reasons, this moment may come earlier or later.

Which Option Is the Best Choice?

Now that we know the main difference, it’s helpful to list some characteristics of both types. This makes it easier to determine the best choice for each company:

Hosted Phone System

  • Can be used at any location and requires little maintenance
  • Initial investment is low, and upgrading or downgrading is always possible
  • Very easy to use but offers fewer features

IP Phone System

  • High initial investment but low monthly costs thereafter
  • Everything is easy to manage and user-friendly
  • Updates and changes require a certain level of knowledge

The Advantages of Choosing a Cloud Phone System from Belfabriek:

  • Complete all-in-one phone system: business phone, online calling software, web portal, and apps (iPhone, Android)

  • All useful (optional) features like call recording, menu, and queue are included at no extra cost.

  • No new hardware or phones needed

  • Easily register all possible premium numbers: 0800/0900, 085/088, local (010, 020), international (e.g., Germany, Belgium, United States).

  • Fixed rate of €45/month.

  • Install our business telephony apps easily via QR code for both Android and iOS.

And last but not least, for (small) entrepreneurs and organizations that have suffered revenue loss due to COVID-19, we can send your first Yealink business phone, worth €75, for free. These phones are pre-configured, providing a plug & call experience. Additionally, a 5-year warranty is included. The Yealink T-43U SIP is not just any business phone but, in our humble opinion, the pinnacle of hardphones. Our experts know the phone inside and out. Although the phone is extremely user-friendly, you can rest assured that our specialists can quickly assist you if any questions arise.