For many SMEs, phones are the front door. Yet too often, small teams overpay for legacy lines, tolerate missed calls, or get locked into bundles that don’t fit how they actually work. With the UK’s PSTN/ISDN switch-off in 2027, every business will need to move to an IP-based solution—so picking the right platform now isn’t just a tech upgrade, it’s a continuity plan.
This guide cuts through the noise to help you find the best small business phone system UK firms can rely on. We focus on UK-specific pricing, support and regulations, not US lists with a British section bolted on. You’ll see clear comparisons of features that matter to small teams: auto attendant/IVR, call queues, call recording (including PCI-friendly workflows), desktop & mobile apps for remote workers, hardware options, and the real-world costs of porting, contracts and handsets.
We’ll also show where a VoIP phone system beats mobile-only setups or old PBXs—for reliability, flexibility and total cost of ownership. And when a vendor is a better fit for larger enterprises, we’ll say so.
Finally, we’ll explain where Plexatalk fits. We’re built for small UK businesses: quick setup, UK-based support, transparent bundles and the essentials—IVR, queues, voicemail-to-email, analytics—without enterprise bloat. Use this guide to compare options side by side, understand UK small business VoIP pricing at a glance, and choose a phone system that helps you answer faster, sound more professional and spend less.
“Best” isn’t the most features—it’s the right business phone system features at a price and reliability level that works for a small team. Here’s the scorecard we use for UK SMEs:
1) Cost clarity (total, not teaser).
Look past headline per-user rates. Add UK numbers, minutes/bundles, call recording, hardware, and porting. Check contract length and exit fees. For many firms, cloud beats on-prem once you include licences, maintenance, and engineer visits.
2) Reliability & call quality.
You need consistent uptime, strong SIP infrastructure, QoS guidance, and fallbacks (mobile apps or call forwarding) if the office internet drops. Ask how they handle 999/112 and failover on UK business phone lines.
3) Features that matter to small teams.
Core small business VoIP features: auto attendant/IVR, ring groups, queues, warm/cold transfer, voicemail-to-email, missed-call alerts, desktop & mobile apps, and basic analytics. Nice-to-haves: call recording with pause/resume, integrations, and simple admin you won’t dread.
4) UK-based support & setup help.
When you’re moving fast, support in your timezone is a lifesaver—especially for number porting and building sensible call flows.
5) Scalability without complexity.
Add users/numbers in minutes, not tickets. Mix devices (desk phones, DECT, softphones) and keep management centralised. Seasonal scaling shouldn’t mean renegotiating contracts.
6) Security & compliance fit.
GDPR-aware data handling, clear retention policies, and PCI-friendly call recording tools (pause/redact) so you’re not storing card data. Admin roles and audit trails help you stay tidy.
Why Plexatalk surfaces early in our rankings
Many vendors are enterprise-first with SME plans tacked on. Plexatalk is built for SMEs first: UK-centric pricing, fast go-live, and the essentials—IVR, queues, recording options, analytics—without enterprise bloat or opaque bundles. If you want a business phone system that balances cost, reliability and the everyday features your team actually uses, Plexatalk is designed to hit that sweet spot while keeping your VoIP phone system simple to run.
The UK is retiring the old copper PSTN and ISDN networks—the fixed lines traditional phone services run on. By the PSTN switch off 2027, every business line must move to an internet-based alternative. In practice, that means your current analogue/ISDN numbers need a BT landline replacement using IP (often called “Digital Voice”) or a cloud VoIP service.
Read our blog post about the switch off or read more from Ofcom on the switch-off here.
If you’re preparing for the ISDN switch off UK and want a straightforward path to VoIP, Plexatalk helps you port numbers, configure call flows, and go live quickly—without enterprise bloat.
Below are the best-known VoIP providers UK teams compare, plus a couple of UK-first options. We’ve kept this very “GetVoIP/PCMag” in style so Google recognises the intent (comparison list), but each entry calls out UK-specific facts: pricing visibility, contracts, and real features small teams use. If you want cheap business phone system UK choices, scan the pricing notes and the “UK relevance” lines.
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Standout for small teams:
If you want the best UK VoIP for small business without enterprise bloat, Plexatalk pairs the essentials (IVR, queues, recording, analytics) with simple pricing and UK support.
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Tip: sanity-check your real business phone system cost UK by totalling: users, numbers, minutes/bundles, any call recording/analytics add-ons, devices, porting, and the contract term (plus any annual uplifts). This narrows the field quickly and avoids surprises after you sign.
Use this to compare business phone systems UK buyers shortlist most often. Focused on the three things SMEs care about: features, pricing clarity, and UK support.
| Provider | Features (highlights) | Pricing snapshot (ex-VAT) | UK support / hosting |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plexatalk SME-first |
|
B500 £10/mo (1 extension + 1 number + 500 UK mins). B500+ adds Yealink T31P. Custom bundles (1k–5k mins) & SIP trunks. Typical ports 7–14 days. |
UK-based support, UK-hosted infrastructure, GDPR-aligned. 999/112 supported with best-practice guidance. |
| RingCentral (RingEX) |
|
Public tiers; many UK deals quote-based. Add-ons may apply for analytics/compliance. |
UK presence, local numbers, global/UK support routes. |
| 8×8 |
|
Tiered plans; UK pricing commonly via sales. Value depends on bundle and term. |
Established UK coverage and billing in £. |
| Zoom Phone |
|
Metered & bundled options; currency varies. UK numbers and rate tables available. |
UK numbers; UK/EU support coverage. |
| BT Cloud Voice |
|
Licence-based pricing; connection/device fees can apply. Contracts and annual uplifts are common. |
BT network, UK billing, straightforward BT landline replacement path. |
| bOnline |
|
Transparent low per-user pricing. Tiers for unlimited UK calls and hardware bundles. |
UK-focused product with £ pricing and support. |
| Vonage Business Communications |
|
UK plan tiers (Express/Core/Pro/Max). Many extras via add-ons; quotes typical. |
Dedicated UK plans, numbers, and billing. |
| Dialpad |
|
Public entry price often shown in USD. UK billing via sales/partners. |
UK numbers; partner-led UK deployments. |
| Gradwell (UK) |
|
Concurrent-call model + published call tariffs. Quotes for tailored setups. |
UK provider with strong channel and support. |
| Andrews & Arnold (A&A) |
|
PAYG per-minute + number rental. Highly transparent tariffs. |
UK engineering-led support and documentation. |
If you want a UK small business phone system provider that prioritises small-team realities, Plexatalk is deliberately SME-first:
Bottom line: If your priority is a clean setup, predictable costs, and responsive UK support, Plexatalk is purpose-built for SMEs. If you need sprawling UC/CCaaS or heavy custom integrations, one of the larger suites might fit—but for most small teams wanting reliable calling, clear pricing and fast go-live, Plexatalk is the pragmatic choice.
When you compare business phone system cost UK wide, most mainstream providers land around £15–£30 per user/month (ex-VAT) for a core VoIP seat with the usual features (apps, auto attendant/IVR, ring groups, basic analytics). That headline often excludes a few things that move the total up or down:
Plexatalk keeps small business phone system pricing simple. Our B500 plan is £10/month per extension and already includes 1 number + 500 UK minutes—ideal for small teams that want predictable VoIP phone system prices UK without combing through add-on grids. Prefer hardware included? B500+ adds a Yealink T31P desk phone on a straightforward minimum term. Growing fast or making lots of outbound calls? Choose Custom bundles (1,000–5,000 minutes) or SIP trunks so you’re not penalised for success.
What you won’t need to guess: IVR/auto attendant, ring groups/queues, voicemail-to-email, missed-call alerts, and desktop/mobile apps are standard—so your baseline is actually usable from day one. Typical number porting completes in 7–14 days, and you can go live immediately on new or temporary numbers while you wait.
If you’re budgeting, plan around £10–£30 per user for most providers—and then check the fine print on minutes, recording, devices and contract terms. With Plexatalk, the headline is the reality: a clear entry price, SME-first features included, and flexible bundles when you need more.
Most business phone system cost UK ranges are £10–£30 per user/month, plus devices and any add-ons like recording. For simple, predictable VoIP phone system prices UK, Plexatalk’s B500 is £10/extension including 1 number + 500 UK minutes, with larger bundles or SIP trunks as you grow.
Yes, via number porting (UK business). Share a recent bill and letter of authority; typical ports complete in 7–14 days. You can go live immediately on new or temporary numbers, and we schedule cutover in business hours to avoid downtime.
Yes. With ~100 kbps per concurrent call, router QoS, and simple failover to mobiles, you’ll get reliable VoIP UK performance. UK-hosted infrastructure and accurate 999/112 details keep service dependable; optional 4G/5G backup protects critical lines.
Absolutely. VoIP for remote workers UK lets staff use desktop and mobile apps or SIP handsets at home under one business number. IVR, ring groups and queues route calls correctly; voicemail-to-email ensures follow-up. Plexatalk is remote-ready with quick onboarding and central admin.
You don’t need to overpay or shoehorn your workflows into a US enterprise suite to get the best small business phone system UK teams actually use. Modern UK business phone systems give you the essentials—IVR, queues, call recording options, desktop and mobile apps—without the bloat, long contracts, or opaque add-ons. The key is UK-focused pricing, reliable hosting, and support that understands porting, 999/112 best practice, and the PSTN/ISDN switch-off timeline.
That’s exactly where Plexatalk small business shines. We’re built for SMEs first: clear bundles, quick go-live, UK-based support, and features your team will use from day one. If you’re comparing options, start with what matters—total monthly cost, minutes, devices, and the features you’ll rely on—and you’ll see how straightforward Plexatalk is.
Ready to see the fit for your team?
Compare plans, features and pricing here.
Get the clarity and control you need today, and a future-proof platform for tomorrow.
More and more people across the UK are asking the same question: “Do I really still need a landline?” With rising costs, the push for flexibility, and the upcoming PSTN switch-off in 2027, the answer for many is no.
Traditional landlines tie you to one spot, often with higher call charges and outdated hardware. In today’s world—where customers expect quick responses and businesses need to stay mobile—being stuck to a desk phone just doesn’t cut it anymore.
The good news? You don’t have to lose your number when you ditch your landline. Thanks to VoIP and cloud phone systems, you can take calls directly on your mobile, tablet, or laptop—wherever you are. That means lower costs, more flexibility, and a setup that’s ready for the future.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to move away from your landline, keep your existing number, and enjoy the freedom of taking calls on the go.
Yes, you don’t have to lose your number when you ditch your landline. The process is called number porting, and it lets you move your existing landline number onto a VoIP (internet-based) phone system.
Once ported, your number is no longer tied to a physical landline. Instead, you can receive and make calls in two main ways:
Either way, you keep your trusted number while gaining the freedom and cost savings of a modern system.
If you’re still relying on a landline, there’s never been a better time to move on.
By making the switch now, you’ll save money, avoid the landline phase-out rush, and future-proof your communication.
Moving away from a traditional landline doesn’t mean losing out—it actually unlocks more flexibility and savings. Here are the key benefits:
In short, ditching the landline doesn’t just future-proof your setup—it makes day-to-day life easier and more affordable.
Making the move from landline to VoIP is easier than most people think. Here’s how it works:
That’s it. No complex wiring, no downtime—just a quick, modern upgrade that saves money and makes communication more flexible.
Yes. Through a process called number porting, your landline number can be moved onto a VoIP system. That means callers still dial your usual number, but the call comes through on your mobile, tablet, or laptop.
No, quite the opposite. Most VoIP plans cost less than traditional landlines and offer cheaper call rates. You’ll also save by not paying for a landline package you no longer use.
In 2027, all PSTN and ISDN landlines will be shut off in the UK. If you’re still on a traditional line by then, you’ll need to switch to VoIP or digital calling. Making the move early means lower costs and less hassle.
Yes. With a simple VoIP adapter, you can plug in your existing handset and keep using it just like before—only now it runs over the internet.
Not necessarily. A stable broadband or fibre connection is usually enough. For most households and small businesses, standard fibre or FTTP broadband works perfectly with VoIP.
Yes. With a VoIP app (like Zoiper), you can make outgoing calls that display your landline number—even though you’re dialling from your mobile. That’s especially useful for small businesses that want to appear professional.
In many cases, you can be up and running within a few days. Number porting may take a little longer, but your new service can usually be set up in parallel to avoid downtime.
No. VoIP works just as well for home users who want to cut bills and take calls more flexibly. Families, remote workers, and small businesses all benefit from ditching the landline.
Switching from a landline to VoIP is quick, simple, and cost-effective—and you can keep your existing number. Whether you’re looking to cut household bills or upgrade your business communications, Plexatalk makes it easy. See home pricing here. See business pricing here.
Every missed call is a missed opportunity. In a busy restaurant, café, pub, or takeaway, unanswered calls don’t just mean lost bookings, they can mean lost regulars. That’s why finding out which are the best phone systems for restaurants is more important than ever.
Traditional landlines simply can’t keep up with the way modern hospitality works. Customers expect quick answers, seamless takeaway orders, and reliable service. Whether you run a bustling pub, a cosy café, or a fast-paced takeaway, having the right restaurant phone system can transform how you handle reservations, manage calls during peak hours, and deliver a better customer experience.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know: the different options available (from VoIP for restaurants to cloud phone systems), key features to look for, the typical restaurant phone system cost, and how to choose the right provider. Most importantly, we’ll show why Plexatalk is trusted across the UK hospitality industry to deliver flexible, affordable, and reliable communication solutions.
If you’re ready to stop missing calls and start maximising bookings, read on—or head straight to our pricing page to see how simple upgrading can be.
In hospitality, every call counts. A single missed reservation could mean an empty table during peak hours, while unanswered takeaway orders can quickly add up to lost revenue. The right restaurant phone system ensures your team never misses an opportunity to serve a customer.
Unlike offices, restaurants, cafés, and pubs deal with unique challenges—busy kitchens, noisy bars, and staff constantly on the move. That’s why a standard phone line often isn’t enough. You need a system that’s built for flexibility, reliability, and clear communication.
A local landline presence is still important for customer trust—many diners prefer to call a local number when booking a table or ordering food. But behind the scenes, today’s VoIP for restaurants and cloud phone systems give you the ability to route calls, manage multiple lines, and handle peak-time demand without chaos.
The result? Fewer missed calls, smoother service, and happier customers—whether you’re running a cosy café, a bustling pub, or a high-volume takeaway.
When it comes to choosing the best phone system for restaurants, there are two main options: traditional landlines and modern VoIP/cloud-based systems.
For decades, restaurants relied on PSTN and ISDN landlines. But while they served their purpose, these systems now feel outdated: limited features, higher call costs, and no flexibility. Worse still, with the nationwide PSTN/ISDN switch-off in 2027, restaurants that still depend on them will soon be forced to make a change.
In other words—landlines are not future-proof.
Modern hospitality demands modern solutions. VoIP for restaurants (Voice over Internet Protocol) is internet-based, cost-effective, and flexible enough to adapt as your business grows. Whether you run a café, takeaway, pub, or fine dining restaurant, VoIP is designed to keep you connected.
With a cloud phone system for restaurants, you can:
It’s cheaper, easier to manage, and far more reliable than traditional lines. Put simply, cloud VoIP is the best phone system for restaurants. full stop.
And with Plexatalk, switching is simple. We specialise in restaurant VoIP solutions across the UK, helping businesses like yours cut costs, stay flexible, and never miss a call.
Not all phone systems are built with hospitality in mind. When choosing the best phone systems for restaurants, it’s worth focusing on the features that will genuinely make day-to-day operations easier:
With Plexatalk, all these features come as standard. Our restaurant VoIP systems are designed specifically for UK hospitality businesses—helping you stay connected, reduce costs, and deliver the smooth service your customers expect.
When weighing up the restaurant phone system cost, it’s important to look beyond just the monthly bill. The type of system you choose—landline vs. VoIP—will have a big impact on both upfront and ongoing expenses.
With the PSTN/ISDN switch-off approaching in 2027, sticking with landlines will eventually mean paying again to upgrade.
Because VoIP for restaurants runs over the internet, you’re not tied to a single handset or location—you can take calls from a desk phone, cordless handset, tablet, or even a mobile app.
While some businesses still prefer desk phones or cordless handsets, many restaurants save money by using softphones (apps on mobiles, tablets, or desktops). This reduces upfront costs while keeping staff connected wherever they are.
👉 For most hospitality businesses, VoIP isn’t just the smarter choice—it’s also the most cost-effective. With Plexatalk, you’ll know exactly what you’re paying each month, with no hidden extras. View our pricing to see how affordable upgrading can be.
Every hospitality business is different, but the right restaurant phone system delivers results across pubs, cafés, and takeaways alike. Here are a few examples of how Plexatalk helps UK businesses stay connected and save money:
From reducing missed bookings to cutting costs, Plexatalk provides the best phone system for restaurants across the UK—flexible, affordable, and built for hospitality.
For restaurants, cafés, pubs, and takeaways, the verdict is clear:
If you’re looking for the best phone system for restaurants in 2025, VoIP is the answer. With smart tools like call queues, voicemail-to-email, and mobile apps, you’ll never miss a booking or takeaway order again.
Plexatalk makes switching simple. We provide reliable, affordable VoIP systems across the UK, helping hospitality businesses stay connected, cut costs, and deliver better service.
Ready to upgrade? View our pricing today or get in touch to see how Plexatalk can transform your restaurant’s phone system.
Not all VoIP providers are the same. The right partner will understand the unique challenges of hospitality and offer solutions tailored to your type of business—whether you’re running a busy takeaway, a lively pub, or a cosy café.
Here’s what to look for when choosing a phone system in the UK for your catering business:
That’s exactly where Plexatalk comes in. We specialise in cloud phone systems for restaurants, designed to cut costs, boost flexibility, and make communication effortless. With us, you get clear pricing, UK-based support, and a setup built around the way your hospitality business actually works.
Ready to see how simple upgrading can be? Check our pricing
The clock is ticking. By 2027, all PSTN and ISDN landlines in the UK will be switched off, meaning restaurants, cafés, pubs, and takeaways still relying on traditional phone systems will need to migrate.
For hospitality businesses, this isn’t just a technical change—it’s a chance to future-proof communication. Waiting until the last minute could mean higher costs, rushed installations, and unnecessary disruption.
Switching early to a cloud phone system for restaurants gives you lower call costs, modern features, and the peace of mind that your business is ready for the future.
As the UK upgrades its digital infrastructure, FTTP (Fibre to the Premises) broadband is rolling out nationwide. Unlike traditional connections, many FTTP packages are now broadband-only—meaning no bundled landline option.
For restaurants, cafés, pubs, and takeaways, this shift makes VoIP phone systems the natural choice. With VoIP, you can:
In short, FTTP and VoIP go hand-in-hand. Upgrading your broadband doesn’t have to mean losing your number or disrupting your service—it’s actually the perfect time to modernise.
Learn more in our full guide to keeping your landline while switching to FTTP
When choosing the best phone system for restaurants, hardware plays an important role. The right handsets make all the difference to how smoothly your team can handle calls.
In practice, many restaurants use a mix of both—desk phones at reception for reservations, and DECT handsets for mobile staff who need to stay connected while working across different areas.
For a deeper comparison, check out our full guide on DECT vs Desk Phones.
Yes. With Plexatalk’s VoIP for restaurants, you can usually transfer (or “port”) your existing landline number. That way, your customers keep calling the number they already know and trust.
Most restaurants, cafés, and pubs can be set up in just a few days. Because our cloud phone system for restaurants runs over the internet, there’s no complicated wiring or downtime.
Absolutely. A café phone system doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. With Plexatalk, even single-site businesses benefit from features like call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, and mobile apps.
That’s where cloud really shines. Our multi-branch restaurant phone systems connect every site under one platform. Staff can transfer calls between branches, share minutes, and provide a seamless experience for customers.
For estate agents, communication isn’t just important, it’s everything. Buyers want instant updates, sellers expect regular feedback, and landlords and tenants rely on clear, professional support. Every call could be a new instruction, a potential offer, or the key to closing a deal. That’s why the right phone system is more than just a tool; it’s the backbone of a successful agency.
Modern estate agent phone systems go far beyond a standard landline. With features like call routing, call recording, CRM integration, and mobile apps, they make sure no lead is ever missed and that your team can stay connected whether they’re in the office or out on viewings. In such a competitive industry, these advantages can mean the difference between securing a client or losing them to a rival.
But let’s address the big question every agency has: how much do estate agent phone systems cost? Pricing can vary widely depending on the number of users, the features you need, and whether you choose a cloud-based system or on-premise setup. In this guide, we’ll break down the real costs, what affects them, and how to get the best value for your business.
When it comes to calculating the cost of an estate agent phone system, there’s no one-size-fits-all price. Several factors determine whether you’re paying a modest monthly fee or investing more upfront for a tailored setup.
1. System Type – Traditional landlines usually involve higher setup and maintenance costs, while VoIP and cloud-based systems are more affordable, flexible, and scalable. Most modern estate agencies choose VoIP because it offers advanced features at a lower ongoing cost.
2. Number of Users – A solo agent may only need one handset or softphone, whereas a multi-branch agency with dozens of negotiators will require multiple licenses and extensions. Most providers charge on a per-user, per-month basis, so costs scale with your team.
3. Features Required – Basic call handling is cheap, but tools like call forwarding, call recording, CRM integration, and voicemail-to-email can raise the price. The upside is that these features often pay for themselves through improved efficiency and client service.
4. Contract & Support – Some providers offer upfront purchase options, while others use a monthly subscription model. You’ll also need to factor in setup fees, installation, and ongoing support costs.
Understanding these variables is the first step to finding the right system at the right price.
Estate agents weighing up phone systems quickly notice a big difference between traditional setups and modern VoIP or cloud-based solutions.
Traditional Phone Systems – These usually involve a significant upfront investment. A small office might spend £1,000–£5,000+ on hardware, installation, and line rental, with additional costs for maintenance and upgrades over time. For many estate agents, this upfront spend is hard to justify, especially when scaling or adding new branches.
Cloud & VoIP Phone Systems – By contrast, cloud systems operate on a predictable subscription model. Most providers charge between £15 and £30 per user, per month, which includes call management, voicemail, and access to mobile or desktop apps. This model makes budgeting simpler and removes the need for costly hardware.
Example in Practice – A five-agent branch using a VoIP system could expect to pay around £75 to £150 per month, not including optional extras like call recording or CRM integration. Even with add-ons, this usually works out far cheaper than running a legacy landline setup.
For estate agents, this shift means lower costs, more flexibility, and fewer surprises on the bill — all while getting more powerful communication tools.
When comparing estate agent phone system prices, it’s easy to focus only on the headline per-user rate. But many agencies find their actual bill is higher than expected because of overlooked extras.
International Calls & Out-of-Bundle Charges – While most VoIP packages include unlimited UK calls, international calls or high-volume outbound campaigns can add up quickly. It’s worth checking how rates compare with your typical call patterns.
Paid Add-Ons – Features like call recording, advanced analytics, or CRM integration are often available, but not always included in the base package. These add-ons can cost a few extra pounds per user, per month — small amounts that add up across a whole branch.
Hardware Costs – Cloud systems work well with softphones and mobile apps, but many agents still prefer desk phones or headsets for day-to-day use. Quality hardware such as Yealink or Polycom devices typically adds £50–£150 per handset upfront.
Contracts & Exit Fees – Some providers tie agencies into long-term contracts. Leaving early or scaling down users can trigger hefty penalties, so flexibility is key.
By accounting for these hidden costs upfront, estate agents can budget more accurately and avoid unexpected surprises on their monthly bills.
It’s tempting to focus only on the lowest monthly cost when choosing a phone system, but for estate agents, the cheapest option can often turn out to be the most expensive in the long run. Missed calls, poor call quality, or system downtime don’t just create frustration — they can cost you instructions, deals, and clients.
A “budget” system might look appealing on paper, but if it drops calls during a busy Saturday morning or fails to route buyers to the right negotiator, the lost business can far outweigh the savings. In a market where responsiveness is everything, reliability isn’t optional — it’s a revenue driver.
That’s why many agencies choose providers that guarantee high uptime, offer responsive support, and allow the system to scale easily as new staff or branches are added. Paying slightly more per user for a system that integrates with your CRM, provides call analytics, or supports remote working is an investment that delivers long-term returns.
For estate agents, the goal isn’t just to get the cheapest phone system — it’s to find the right balance of price, features, and support so every call adds value to your business.
With so many providers on the market, estate agents can find it difficult to compare phone system pricing. Some providers lure you in with low advertised rates, only to add on setup fees, long-term contracts, and essential features sold separately. A fair and transparent plan looks very different — and it’s what agencies should be demanding.
First, no setup fees. Cloud-based systems are plug-and-play, so charging hundreds for “installation” is often unnecessary. Transparent providers make onboarding quick and cost-free.
Second, a clear per-user monthly cost. Whether you have three negotiators or thirty, you should know exactly what you’ll pay each month without hidden extras creeping in.
Third, the right features included as standard. For estate agents, that means call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, mobile apps, and CRM integration — not basic call handling with everything else locked behind a paywall.
Finally, flexible contract terms. Agencies grow and change; your phone system should scale with you. Transparent providers offer rolling or short-term contracts rather than tying you in for years with steep exit penalties.
When your plan is simple, predictable, and built around your agency’s real needs, you can focus on clients — not the small print.
At Plexatalk, we believe estate agents deserve straightforward pricing without inflated extras. That’s why our phone system for estate agents starts at just £10 per user, per month — significantly below the UK market average of £15–£30.
Every plan includes 500 outbound minutes per user, per month, helping keep your calling costs predictable. More importantly, the features you actually need as an estate agency come built in. From call recording for compliance and training, to mobile flexibility that lets negotiators stay connected on the go, to seamless CRM-friendly integration, Plexatalk is designed around how agents really work.
Our system is also built to grow with you. Whether you’re a small independent with three staff or a multi-branch agency with dozens of users, you can scale up easily without expensive new hardware or disruptive installations. And unlike many providers, we don’t bury essential functions behind pricey add-ons or tie you into rigid contracts.
With no hidden fees, no long-term lock-ins, and a clear per-user cost, Plexatalk makes it easy for estate agents to budget with confidence — and focus on what matters most: winning instructions and closing deals.
Read more about our phone systems for estate agents.
| System Type | Upfront Costs | Monthly Cost (Per User) | Key Features / Considerations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Landline | £1,000–£5,000+ | Line rental + maintenance | Expensive to install, harder to scale, limited modern features |
| Typical VoIP Provider | Low / none | £15–£30 | Flexible, scalable, but some features sold as add-ons |
| Plexatalk for Estate Agents | £0 | £10 | Includes 500 mins, call recording, CRM-friendly, mobile apps, no hidden fees |
Phone systems are no longer just a back-office utility for estate agents — they’re a critical tool for winning instructions, keeping clients informed, and closing deals. The cost can vary depending on the size of your agency, the features you need, and the provider you choose. But one thing is clear: you don’t have to overspend to get an enterprise-grade solution.
The most important factor is value. A system that’s reliable, scalable, and tailored to estate agency workflows will pay for itself many times over in reduced missed calls, greater efficiency, and stronger client relationships. By choosing wisely, you can avoid hidden fees, inflated add-ons, and long-term lock-ins that drain resources without adding real benefit.
At Plexatalk, we make that choice simple. Our £10 per user, per month plan gives you predictable costs, the essential features estate agents rely on, and the flexibility to grow as your business does. With clear pricing and no nasty surprises, you can invest in communications with confidence.
Most cloud-based estate agent phone systems cost between £15 and £30 per user, per month. However, Plexatalk offers plans from just £10 per user, per month, with essential features included. Pricing usually depends on the number of users, features required, and contract type.
Many providers charge installation or setup fees, often £100–£500 depending on the system. At Plexatalk, there are no setup fees — cloud-based systems are plug-and-play, making it quick and cost-free to get started.
Common hidden charges include international calls, out-of-bundle minutes, paid add-ons (like call recording or CRM integration), and hardware purchases. Some providers also impose early exit fees on long-term contracts. Plexatalk avoids these surprises with clear, transparent pricing.
Yes. Traditional systems can cost £1,000–£5,000+ upfront, plus ongoing maintenance. VoIP uses a simple subscription model, usually £10–£30 per user, per month, with far lower running costs and greater flexibility.
Absolutely. Most VoIP systems are billed per user, so you can add or remove users as your team expands. Plexatalk makes this seamless, with no penalties or disruptive installations.
Not always. Many agencies use softphones and mobile apps to avoid hardware costs. If you prefer desk phones or headsets, these typically range from £50–£150 each, but they’re a one-off purchase.
On average, estate agents switching from legacy systems save 30–50% on communication costs. Lower monthly bills, reduced maintenance, and features like voicemail-to-email or CRM integration help improve efficiency while keeping costs predictable.
Yes, you can call 999 from a VoIP phone in the UK, but it’s not quite as straightforward as using a traditional landline or mobile. VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) routes your calls over the internet rather than the copper wires or mobile networks used by legacy systems. That means the reliability of your emergency call depends on factors like your broadband connection, router, and even the power supply in your home or office.
Unlike standard phone lines, a VoIP system does not automatically transmit your location when you dial 999 or 101. Instead, you’ll need to register a fixed address with your provider so that emergency services can find you if you cannot speak or if the call is disconnected. If your VoIP setup is portable — for example, using a softphone app on a laptop or mobile — the address on record may not reflect your actual location at the time of the emergency.
These differences don’t mean VoIP is unsafe for emergency use, but they highlight why understanding the limitations is crucial. With the right setup and awareness, you can make sure your VoIP line remains a reliable way to contact the emergency services when you need them most.
The question of whether you can call 999 or 101 from VoIP isn’t just a technical curiosity — it’s a pressing concern in 2025. That’s because the UK’s PSTN switch-off is now well underway, with millions of households and businesses migrating from the old copper-based phone network to all-digital voice services. For many people, this change isn’t voluntary; traditional lines are being phased out, leaving VoIP as the default option.
This transition naturally raises anxiety around emergency calls. When you’ve relied on picking up a landline for decades, the idea that your ability to call for help could now depend on your internet connection or a mains power supply feels unsettling. People are asking: “What if my broadband goes down? What if there’s a power cut? Will I still be able to dial 999 and speak to someone?” These are not abstract worries — they touch on trust, safety, and peace of mind.
Addressing these fears is critical, because emergency access is not negotiable. Whether it’s reporting a burglary on 101 or calling 999 for life-threatening situations, people need to know that their voice service won’t let them down when it matters most. By acknowledging these concerns and explaining how VoIP providers ensure continuity, we can build confidence that digital voice isn’t a step backward, but a secure and future-proof solution.
To understand the concerns around VoIP, it helps to look at how 999 calls work on traditional landlines and mobiles. The old PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) has been in place for decades, and one of its biggest strengths is reliability. Copper lines are powered directly from the exchange, which means your landline will still work during a power cut. When you pick up the handset and dial 999, the network automatically routes the call and transmits your exact location to the emergency operator. That’s why paramedics or police can be dispatched even if you’re unable to speak.
Mobile phones offer a different but equally robust safety net. Instead of a fixed address, emergency services use your SIM and network triangulation to pinpoint your location. Many modern smartphones also send additional GPS or Wi-Fi location data, improving accuracy when seconds count. Whether you dial 999 or 101, the call is handled with location awareness built into the system.
This baked-in reliability is what people have come to expect from emergency calls. You pick up the phone, you get through — no need to think about internet connections, power supply, or whether your address is on file. As we transition to digital voice, this contrast highlights why people have legitimate questions about how VoIP fits into the same life-saving framework.
Yes, you can dial 999 (and 112) through a VoIP service in the UK, but the way these calls are handled differs significantly from traditional landlines or mobiles.
VoIP relies on a stable broadband connection and mains electricity. If either fails, your ability to call 999 or 101 is lost. By contrast, the old PSTN copper lines were powered directly from the exchange, so they continued working even during a power cut.
With PSTN or mobile calls, your location is automatically shared with emergency services. VoIP calls, however, are routed over the internet and are not inherently tied to a physical address. This means emergency operators cannot see where you are unless that information is provided another way.
To address this gap, Ofcom requires VoIP providers to register each user’s physical address. This stored address is used to route emergency calls and direct responders. If the address is out of date—or if you are calling from a different location while using a portable VoIP setup—the information sent to the operator may be misleading.
Ofcom enforces strict rules (known as General Condition 4) requiring providers to support access to 999 and 112. Providers are also expected to supply accurate location data where technically possible. Failures in this area are taken very seriously; in recent years, some providers have been fined for supplying incorrect location data on emergency calls, as these errors could delay life-saving assistance.
As the UK transitions from the old PSTN network to all-digital voice, Ofcom has put in place clear rules to protect access to emergency services. These regulations apply directly to VoIP providers and cover four key areas:
All providers offering telephone services must ensure customers can call 999 and 112. This includes making clear to customers that VoIP services may not work in the event of a power cut or broadband failure unless a backup is provided.
Because VoIP calls are not automatically tied to a location, providers are required to register and maintain an up-to-date physical address for every customer. This ensures emergency services know where to send help if a caller cannot speak.
Ofcom guidance specifies that providers must offer a free backup solution giving at least one hour of emergency call access during a power cut. This is especially important for vulnerable users, such as those without reliable mobile coverage or those dependent on telecare devices.
Ofcom regularly monitors compliance and has issued open letters reminding providers of their obligations under the General Conditions. Where failures occur, Ofcom can issue penalties of up to 10% of a provider’s turnover. In 2023, the industry also signed the PSTN Charter, committing not to migrate customers who rely on telecare until enhanced protections are in place, often providing backup solutions that go beyond the one-hour minimum.
Read more about Ofcom on access to Emergency Services.
While VoIP does support 999 and 112 calling, it comes with some important limitations that users need to be aware of. These don’t make VoIP unsafe, but they do highlight the importance of planning ahead and ensuring your setup is resilient.
1. Power Cuts
Traditional PSTN landlines continue to work during power failures because they are powered from the exchange. VoIP services, however, rely on your router and broadband equipment being plugged into mains electricity. In a power cut, your VoIP line will stop working unless you have a backup solution in place, such as a battery supply.
2. Internet Outages
No internet means no VoIP. If your broadband drops, you won’t be able to make or receive calls—including emergency calls. This is one of the biggest practical differences from older landlines.
3. Location Challenges
With a PSTN line, emergency services instantly know where you are. With VoIP, that’s not the case. Unless your provider has your address registered and up to date, operators can’t automatically trace your location. You’ll need to state your address clearly when calling.
4. Rural and Mobile Dead Zones
In rural areas with patchy mobile coverage, VoIP often becomes the main way of staying connected. But if your broadband fails in these locations, you may have no fallback option at all—unless you’ve prepared an alternative.
These limitations don’t mean VoIP is unreliable. They simply show why awareness, preparation, and provider support are crucial in keeping emergency access dependable.
VoIP can be a safe and reliable way to reach the emergency services, provided you take a few sensible precautions. By preparing in advance, you can reduce risks and ensure your system works when you need it most. Here is a practical checklist:
Register your address with your VoIP provider. This is essential. It ensures that if you dial 999 or 112, your call is routed correctly and operators have a fallback location on record. Update it immediately if you move.
State your location at the start of the call. Because VoIP does not automatically transmit location details, it is good practice to confirm your address to the call handler as soon as the call begins.
Set up call forwarding to mobile. If your broadband connection fails, calls can be automatically redirected to your mobile. This maintains continuity of service.
Use a UPS (battery backup). A small uninterruptible power supply for your router and VoIP equipment can keep your line working for at least an hour during a power cut.
Install your provider’s mobile app. If Wi-Fi goes down but 4G or 5G is available, the app allows you to continue making VoIP calls, including to 999.
Request a backup unit if you are vulnerable. Ofcom requires providers to offer at least one hour of emergency backup, free of charge, to those who rely on their line and have no alternative.
By following these steps, you can make calling 999 on VoIP as safe and dependable as on a traditional landline.
Yes. VoIP services in the UK must support access to 999 and 112 under Ofcom regulations. However, they rely on your internet connection and mains power, so service can be affected by outages.
Yes. Because VoIP calls are not automatically tied to a physical location, you must provide your provider with an up-to-date address. This ensures calls are routed correctly and emergency responders know where to send help if you cannot speak.
Not by default. Traditional landlines worked during power cuts, but VoIP equipment requires mains electricity. Unless you have a battery backup (UPS) or your provider has supplied one, your VoIP line will stop working in a blackout.
You should not dial 999 as a test. If you want to confirm your VoIP line supports emergency calls, contact your provider directly. Some providers offer test numbers or other ways to verify setup without using 999.
Not all. Only providers offering access to the public telephone network are required to support emergency services. Always check with your VoIP provider that your service includes 999 and 112 access before relying on it.
The shift to digital voice has raised very real concerns across the UK, especially in rural communities. Stories in the national press have highlighted residents in remote areas who worry about being left isolated if storms bring down power lines or broadband connections. For these households, the landline was often the only dependable way to call for help when mobiles had no signal.
Ofcom’s own monitoring reports echo these worries. They note that while the vast majority of customers experience no problems, power cuts and connectivity failures remain the biggest risks for VoIP users relying on 999 access. In some cases, people have been temporarily cut off during severe weather, unable to reach the emergency services until power or internet was restored. These incidents, though relatively rare, illustrate why backup solutions are so important.
Public confidence in emergency access is not just a technical issue—it’s a matter of trust. When someone dials 999, they need to know the call will go through. That’s why Plexatalk takes these issues seriously. We don’t just meet the minimum requirements set by Ofcom; we work to exceed them. From providing guidance on battery backup options to offering mobile app alternatives and forwarding features, our focus is on making sure customers stay connected when it matters most.
As the UK moves fully to digital voice, it is essential that VoIP services deliver not only convenience but also peace of mind. Plexatalk is built with safety and reliability at its core, giving you the confidence that emergency access will always be there when you need it.
Full compliance with Ofcom’s rules. Plexatalk meets all Ofcom requirements for 999 and 112 access. That includes ensuring your calls are routed correctly and that emergency operators receive accurate information when every second counts.
Emergency address registration as standard. We make sure your location details are collected and kept up to date, so responders can be dispatched quickly and accurately if you are unable to speak during a call.
Automatic failover options. With call forwarding and our mobile app, Plexatalk ensures you can still make and receive calls if your broadband connection drops. The mobile app works seamlessly over 4G or 5G, keeping you connected during outages.
Resilience in power cuts. Our service is fully compatible with UPS (battery backup) units, helping to maintain your VoIP connection even during blackouts.
Dedicated support for vulnerable users. Plexatalk goes beyond the minimum, offering tailored support and backup solutions for customers who rely most heavily on their line.
By choosing Plexatalk, you’re not just adopting VoIP—you’re investing in a service designed for safety, reliability, and trust, ready to support you in any situation.
The move to VoIP has raised understandable concerns about emergency access—but the bottom line is simple: yes, you can call 999 from VoIP in the UK, provided your service is set up correctly. By registering your address, preparing for power and broadband outages, and choosing a provider that takes Ofcom’s safety rules seriously, you can ensure your VoIP line is every bit as dependable as a traditional landline.
At Plexatalk, we don’t just meet the minimum requirements—we go further. With built-in address registration, mobile failover options, and extra support for vulnerable users, our service is designed to keep you connected when it matters most.
Switch to VoIP with Plexatalk and stay confident you can always reach emergency services.
Does VoIP work during a power cut? In short — no. VoIP phones stop working in a blackout because your router, modem, and internet service all rely on electricity. Without power, the internet connection that VoIP requires goes down.
But that doesn’t mean you have to lose service. With the right setup, you can stay connected even during a power cut. For example, an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) can keep your router and VoIP adapter running, while mobile failover ensures calls are diverted to your smartphone when your broadband is offline.
At Plexatalk, we provide both residential and business VoIP services in the UK designed with reliability in mind. By adding simple backup options, you can ensure you never miss important calls — whether it’s a family member during an emergency or a client in the middle of a blackout.
So, while the technical answer to “Does VoIP work without internet?” or “Is VoIP reliable in a power cut?” is no, the practical answer is that you can keep talking with the right VoIP provider and setup.
One of the biggest reasons people ask, “Does VoIP work during a power cut?” is because traditional landlines used to keep working even when the lights went out. The old copper-based PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network) lines carried their own low-voltage electrical current directly from the telephone exchange. That meant even if your house lost mains power, you could still pick up the phone, hear a dial tone, and make or receive calls. For decades in the UK, this reliability during a blackout was seen as one of the strongest advantages of landlines.
VoIP, by contrast, works very differently. Instead of drawing power from the exchange, VoIP services rely on your broadband connection and home equipment — such as your router, modem, and VoIP phone or adapter. All of these devices need electricity to function. If your home loses power, your internet connection goes down, and with it, your ability to make calls. That’s why the answer to “Is VoIP reliable in a power cut?” is usually no — unless you put backup measures in place.
This is where providers like Plexatalk step in. Our residential and business VoIP packages can be paired with simple solutions like battery backup systems or mobile call forwarding. That way, even though VoIP depends on broadband and electricity, you won’t lose your voice service the moment there’s a power outage in the UK.
A common concern is, “Does VoIP work without internet or during a power cut?” The answer comes down to how VoIP is delivered. Unlike the old PSTN lines, VoIP runs over your broadband connection, which depends on equipment inside your home. Your router, modem or ONT (if you’re on fibre), and VoIP handset or adapter all need electricity to function. If there’s a blackout, these devices switch off — and when they’re off, so is your phone service. That means no inbound or outbound calls, including emergency calls to 999.
This reliability issue has been taken seriously by UK regulators. Ofcom requires all VoIP providers to make sure customers — especially vulnerable users — can still call emergency services in the event of a power outage. As a minimum, providers must offer a solution that guarantees at least one hour of backup power. In practice, this usually means a small battery backup device (UPS) that keeps your router and VoIP hardware running long enough to make urgent calls during a blackout.
At Plexatalk, we comply with this rule by ensuring that all residential customers have a way to make emergency calls during a power cut. This may be via our VoIP mobile app, or where that isn’t suitable, a battery backup (UPS) device. Vulnerable customers receive these solutions free of charge, as required by Ofcom.
With the UK’s copper landline network being switched off by 2025, Ofcom has set clear rules for how VoIP services must handle power outages. Since VoIP depends on electricity, Ofcom requires providers to ensure that customers can still contact 999 during a blackout. To meet this, many major providers — including BT, Vodafone, and Zen — supply battery backup devices that keep your router and fibre ONT powered for a limited time. Depending on the model, these can last anywhere from 1 to 7 hours, giving households a safety net in case of a power cut.
Importantly, vulnerable customers can request these backup devices for free. This ensures that those who rely most on their phone service are not left without a way to call emergency services. Ofcom’s full guidance can be found on their official website here.
To comply with Ofcom rules, Plexatalk ensures that all residential customers can make emergency calls during a power cut. For many households, this can be done easily via our VoIP mobile app, which works over 4G/5G. Where a mobile app isn’t suitable — for example, if there’s limited signal or the customer relies on a fixed phone — we provide a battery backup (UPS) option to keep your equipment running for at least one hour. Vulnerable customers can receive these backup solutions free of charge, in line with Ofcom guidance.
So, is VoIP reliable in a power cut? On its own, not really — but with the right setup, you don’t need to lose service during a blackout. Here are some proven ways to keep your phones working when the electricity goes out:
At Plexatalk, we help both residential and business VoIP customers in the UK put these safeguards in place. Whether it’s setting up mobile apps, configuring call forwarding, or advising on the right UPS, we make sure you’re not left asking “Does VoIP work during a power cut?” — because your service stays ready when you need it most.
When discussing VoIP power outage UK scenarios, it’s important to recognise that not all homes and businesses are affected equally. In urban areas with strong mobile coverage, a blackout might be a minor inconvenience — you can usually fall back on 4G or 5G. But for rural households or properties in mobile dead-spot areas, a power cut can mean complete disconnection. If broadband is down and mobile coverage is patchy, you can’t rely on your phone line for emergencies.
This is especially concerning for vulnerable users who may depend on their landline for medical support, care services, or urgent calls. Public forums and UK news outlets have already raised concerns about the retirement of copper landlines, with headlines questioning “Is VoIP reliable in a power cut?” and highlighting the risks to older or isolated residents. The issue is real, and regulators like Ofcom have acknowledged it.
The good news is that solutions exist. From UPS devices that keep your router alive, to automatic call forwarding and VoIP mobile apps, there are practical ways to avoid being cut off. That’s why Plexatalk provides mobile app access for most households, and free UPS backup for vulnerable users who cannot rely on mobile coverage, ensuring compliance with Ofcom rules.
With the copper network being retired across the UK, more people are asking, “Does VoIP work during a power cut?” and “Is VoIP reliable in a blackout?” The truth is, reliability depends on how well your VoIP service is set up — and that’s where Plexatalk makes a difference.
Our residential and business VoIP services are designed with resilience in mind. Every customer gets access to the Plexatalk mobile app, so you can make and receive calls over 4G/5G if your home internet goes down. We also include automatic call forwarding as standard, meaning your calls can be redirected instantly to your mobile if there’s a broadband or power outage.
For businesses, we’ve tested our hardware with a range of UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) units, ensuring your routers, switches, and VoIP desk phones can be kept online during a blackout. This keeps offices operational and customer-facing even when the mains power is off.
We also provide extra support for vulnerable customers, in line with Ofcom guidance. That means recommending the right backup solutions and supplying options where needed, so no household or business is left unprotected during a VoIP power outage in the UK.
With Plexatalk, you don’t just get a phone service — you get peace of mind that your connection is there when you need it most.
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So, does VoIP work during a power cut? Technically, no — without power, your router, modem, and VoIP equipment can’t function, which means no calls in or out. But that doesn’t mean VoIP has to leave you stranded in a blackout. With simple backup options like UPS units, mobile apps, and call forwarding, you can keep your line active even when the lights go out.
At Plexatalk, we believe VoIP should give you more reliability, not less. That’s why our services come with built-in safeguards: a mobile app for backup calling, automatic call forwarding, hardware tested with UPS devices, and extra support for vulnerable customers in line with Ofcom guidance. Whether you’re a family worried about emergency calls, or a business that can’t afford downtime, we’ll make sure your VoIP setup is ready for anything.
VoIP doesn’t have to leave you cut off during a power cut — you just need the right setup.
👉 Talk to us today about keeping your landline working during blackouts. Plexatalk can help you stay connected.
Many UK households are being switched over to BT Digital Voice, but what exactly does that mean for everyday phone users? The truth is, Digital Voice isn’t some brand-new invention—it’s simply VoIP technology (Voice over Internet Protocol) rebranded and packaged by BT.
That’s why the question “BT Digital Voice vs VoIP” matters. When you strip away the marketing, both use the same underlying technology. The difference comes down to cost, flexibility, and customer experience. If you’re looking for a BT Digital Voice alternative, independent providers like Plexatalk can offer a more affordable, feature-rich, and customer-focused way to run your home or business phone service.
BT Digital Voice is BT’s replacement for traditional landlines, shifting customers onto internet-based calling instead of the copper wire phone network. In simple terms, BT has retired old landline technology and rebranded its phone service as “Digital Voice.”
But here’s the reality: BT Digital Voice is not a new invention. It’s simply VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)—the same technology that independent providers like Plexatalk have offered for years. The only difference is that BT has packaged it with their own router and locked it into their ecosystem.
So while BT presents Digital Voice as something unique, the truth is it’s no different from the residential VoIP UK services already available on the market. The difference is that with a provider like Plexatalk, you’re not tied into one company’s hardware or pricing structure. You get the same underlying technology—only with more flexibility, more features, and better value.
VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol. In plain terms, it simply means making phone calls over your broadband connection instead of the old copper landline network.
At home, VoIP is surprisingly easy to use. You can connect it to your existing home phone, run it through an app on your smartphone, or even use a dedicated VoIP handset. Unlike being tied to a fixed landline, VoIP gives you flexibility in how—and where—you make and receive calls.
The main benefits of VoIP are:
This is why so many households across the UK are considering residential VoIP UK services from companies like Plexatalk—because they deliver the same technology as BT, but with more choice and better value.
| Feature | BT Digital Voice | Plexatalk VoIP |
|---|---|---|
| Works with any router? | ❌ No – locked to BT router | ✅ Yes – works with any broadband connection |
| Use on the go? | ⚠️ Limited – BT Digital Voice app tied to BT broadband | ✅ Yes – works with any standard VoIP app (Zoiper, Grandstream Wave, Bria, etc.) |
| App flexibility | ❌ One proprietary app | ✅ Any VoIP app, softphone, or desktop client |
| Hardware choice | ❌ Restricted to BT handsets & ecosystem | ✅ Wide range of VoIP phones, adapters, PCs & mobiles |
| Pricing | Bundled, often higher | Transparent, affordable plans (insert Plexatalk pricing highlight) |
| Best for | Customers tied into BT ecosystem | Anyone wanting flexibility, portability & cheap VoIP for home |
While BT Digital Voice is marketed as simple and convenient, its closed ecosystem comes with significant downsides for UK households:
For many households, these limitations mean BT Digital Voice isn’t the most practical or cost-effective solution. That’s why more people are looking for a BT Digital Voice alternative that offers freedom, flexibility, and affordability.
BT Digital Voice may be the default option for many households, but it’s not the only choice. By choosing an independent BT Digital Voice alternative like Plexatalk, you unlock freedom, flexibility, and better value.
Switching to VoIP with Plexatalk gives you the same core technology as BT Digital Voice—only with more control, more flexibility, and more value.
If you’re looking for a true BT Digital Voice alternative, Plexatalk makes switching simple. Our residential VoIP UK plans start from just £4/month, giving you a cost-effective way to stay connected without being tied down.
With Plexatalk, you get the same core technology as BT Digital Voice, but with more freedom, better support, and a lower monthly cost.
BT Digital Voice isn’t a revolutionary service—it’s simply VoIP dressed up with BT’s branding and locked into their ecosystem. The real difference comes down to choice: BT restricts you, while independent providers like Plexatalk give you the freedom to use VoIP how it was meant to be used.
With Plexatalk, you get flexibility, portability, and transparent pricing that fits modern households—without the hidden costs or limitations.
Technologically, they are largely the same. Both use internet connections to transmit voice data. The key difference lies in branding and equipment. VoIP services like Plexatalk offer flexibility and affordability, whereas digital landlines are often tied to proprietary hardware and service bundles.
A digital landline replaces traditional analogue phone lines with an internet-based system. It’s essentially VoIP but marketed differently by companies like BT to make it appear unique.
A digital landline adapter allows you to connect your existing analogue telephone to a digital service, enabling it to work with VoIP or digital landline systems.
BT and other providers are phasing out analogue systems (PSTN) to modernise their infrastructure. However, by branding their offering as “digital voice”, they create an opportunity to upsell proprietary equipment and services. Keep in mind that your BT number can be ported to most if not all VoIP providers.
Switching to VoIP is simple with providers like Plexatalk. Visit Plexatalk VoIP for Home for easy-to-use solutions tailored to households.
Absolutely. VoIP solutions like those offered by Plexatalk (Business VoIP Services) provide cost-effective, scalable options that are ideal for companies of any size.
TalkTalk has been a familiar name in UK homes since the early 2000s, providing broadband, TV, and landline services. But with customer numbers falling, financial struggles making headlines, and the national landline switch-off approaching, many households are now asking: What happens to my landline if I leave TalkTalk?
The good news is: you don’t need to lose your number. With Plexatalk, you can switch from TalkTalk and keep your landline number. You can choose any broadband provider you like — even those that don’t support landlines or digital voice services. We’re here to make the move simple, stress-free, and future-proof.
TalkTalk began life in the early 2000s as part of the Carphone Warehouse group before becoming an independent company. Over the years, it built up a reputation as one of the UK’s budget-friendly telecom providers, offering broadband, pay TV, mobile, and fixed-line phone services. For many households, TalkTalk became the go-to for bundled packages that combined internet and landline in one affordable deal.
However, things have changed in recent years. TalkTalk’s market share has been steadily shrinking — from around 14% of the broadband market in 2022 to closer to 11% in 2025. That may not sound dramatic at first, but it represents hundreds of thousands of customers leaving for alternatives. The company has also faced ongoing headlines about rising debt, late payments to suppliers, and even rumours of a potential BT buyout.
It’s little wonder that customers are starting to ask difficult questions: Is my service stable long-term? What happens to my landline if I switch? With the TalkTalk landline switch-off looming as the UK moves towards digital-only phone services, those questions feel more pressing than ever.
The reality is that you don’t need to feel tied to TalkTalk’s network. If you want a TalkTalk Digital Voice alternative or simply want to make sure you keep your landline number when leaving TalkTalk, providers like Plexatalk make the process straightforward.
The short answer is yes — you can keep your landline number when leaving TalkTalk. In fact, number portability is a legal right regulated by Ofcom. This means your phone number belongs to you, not to TalkTalk, and you’re entitled to take it with you if you change providers.
However, the process isn’t always straightforward. How easy it is to switch from TalkTalk and keep your landline depends on the type of package you’re on and how the switch is handled. If you’re in a bundled deal (for example, broadband and landline together), some providers may tell you the number can’t be moved separately. Others may only offer a digital phone service tied to their own internet connection, which limits your choices.
That’s where Plexatalk comes in. As a specialist VoIP provider in the UK, we make it simple to move your landline number away from TalkTalk — even if you decide to take broadband from another company that doesn’t offer phone lines at all. Your number comes with you, so you won’t have to give friends, family, or businesses a new contact number.
Whether you’re looking for a TalkTalk Digital Voice alternative or just peace of mind ahead of the TalkTalk landline switch-off, Plexatalk ensures your landline stays with you, not your old provider.
The UK’s phone network is changing. Openreach is in the process of switching off the old copper-based PSTN (Public Switched Telephone Network), with the full shutdown due by the end of 2025. For TalkTalk customers, this means the traditional landline service is coming to an end.
Like BT and other major providers, TalkTalk is moving customers over to internet-based phone lines, often referred to as “digital voice” or VoIP. While this is the future of home phone services, the way TalkTalk structures its offering can be limiting. In most cases, the digital phone line is tied directly to their broadband packages. That means if you want to keep a home phone, you may be forced into a bundle that includes broadband, TV, or even mobile services you don’t necessarily want or need.
For many households, particularly those who value keeping a landline number without being locked into a specific broadband deal, this can feel restrictive.
That’s where Plexatalk comes in. We provide a TalkTalk Digital Voice alternative that works with any internet connection. Whether you’re with BT, Sky, Virgin, or a smaller ISP, our VoIP service ensures you can keep your landline number when leaving TalkTalk. No unnecessary bundles, no complicated setup — just a simple, reliable home phone service on your terms.
For many households, TalkTalk has been a familiar and affordable name in broadband and phone services. But in recent years, more and more customers have been asking if it’s time to move on — and the reasons are clear.
First, there have been repeated reports of overcharging landline-only customers, many of whom are older or less internet-reliant. Paying more for a simple phone service doesn’t sit well, especially when alternatives are cheaper and more flexible. Add to that a steady stream of complaints about service reliability and customer support, and it’s understandable why frustration has grown.
On top of that, TalkTalk’s financial struggles have made the headlines. Rising debt, delayed supplier payments, and speculation about buyouts have left some customers wondering: Can I rely on TalkTalk in the long term? With a shrinking market share — dropping from around 14% in 2022 to about 11% in 2025 — there’s also concern that fewer customers means less investment in improving services.
The upcoming TalkTalk landline switch-off only adds to the uncertainty. Many people simply want a stable, no-nonsense solution for keeping their landline number without being tied into bundles or worrying about their provider’s future.
That’s where Plexatalk stands out — offering a straightforward TalkTalk Digital Voice alternative that lets you switch from TalkTalk and keep your landline with ease.
As the UK moves towards the landline switch-off, many providers — including TalkTalk — only offer digital voice services that are tied to their own broadband packages. This can leave you stuck with bundles or internet deals you may not want. Plexatalk takes a different approach.
We’re an independent VoIP provider in the UK, which means we’re not tied to any one internet company. You’re free to choose the broadband that suits your household best — whether that’s Sky, Virgin, BT, a local community fibre network, or another ISP — while still enjoying a reliable landline service. With Plexatalk, you can switch from TalkTalk and keep your landline number, without compromise.
Unlike TalkTalk’s Digital Voice service, your number stays yours. Once it’s moved to Plexatalk, you can keep it forever, no matter how many times you change internet providers. That peace of mind is especially important if you’ve had the same landline number for years and don’t want to lose touch with friends, family, or important contacts.
Plexatalk also gives you modern features traditional landlines never offered, such as voicemail-to-email, call forwarding, and easy-to-use mobile apps. And with transparent pricing and no hidden fees, you’ll always know exactly what you’re paying for.
If you’re looking for a TalkTalk Digital Voice alternative, Plexatalk is the flexible, future-proof solution that puts you in control.
Switching away from TalkTalk doesn’t have to be complicated — in fact, Plexatalk makes the process simple and stress-free. Here’s how it works:
1. Pick your broadband provider
First, decide which internet provider suits you best. It could be Sky, Virgin, BT, a local community fibre company — or even TalkTalk itself if you’re happy with their broadband. The choice is entirely yours, because Plexatalk works with any internet connection.
2. Tell us your landline number
When you sign up, just give us your existing TalkTalk landline number. Thanks to Ofcom’s number portability rules, you have the right to keep it.
3. We handle the transfer
Plexatalk arranges the number porting on your behalf, moving it safely from TalkTalk to our service. There’s no need for you to deal with complex forms or long phone calls.
4. Plug in and go
Once your number has been transferred, you simply connect our easy-to-use VoIP adapter to your internet router, or use our mobile app if you prefer.
5. Enjoy your new freedom
That’s it. You now have a reliable home phone service, modern features like voicemail-to-email and call forwarding, and the reassurance that your number is safe with you — not tied to TalkTalk.
With Plexatalk, you can switch from TalkTalk, keep your landline, and finally enjoy the flexibility you deserve.
No — your number is ported seamlessly. You’ll stay connected right up until the moment the transfer completes, so you won’t be left without a line.
Yes. With our simple VoIP adapter, most standard home phones and cordless sets work exactly as they did before. You don’t need to buy new equipment unless you want to.
Once your number has been moved, TalkTalk will close the landline part of your account. If you’re still in a broadband contract, you can keep it or move elsewhere. We’ll guide you on what to expect with your final bill.
If your broadband goes down, you can still make and receive calls using our mobile app. Many customers like the extra flexibility this provides.
Our pricing is transparent and often far lower than TalkTalk’s landline or Digital Voice charges — with no hidden extras. You pay only for what you actually need.
Meet Graham, a TalkTalk customer from Southampton. Like many people, Graham had been with TalkTalk for years, mainly because it seemed simpler to keep everything under one roof. But when his bills kept creeping up and he heard about the upcoming TalkTalk landline switch-off, he started looking for alternatives.
Graham had just signed up with Toob, a fast-growing full fibre broadband provider in his area. Toob doesn’t offer a traditional landline service — which left Graham with a problem. He still wanted to keep his home number, especially for emergency calls and as a reliable way for friends and family to reach him.
That’s when he found Plexatalk. We were able to port his TalkTalk landline number quickly and smoothly, even though his new broadband provider doesn’t include a phone line. The process was seamless: Graham gave us his number, plugged in our easy VoIP adapter, and was up and running without disruption.
Now Graham enjoys ultra-fast broadband from Toob and a dependable landline service from Plexatalk. He pays less overall than he did with TalkTalk, and he has peace of mind knowing his number is secure for the future.
For Graham, Plexatalk proved to be the ideal TalkTalk Digital Voice alternative — flexible, affordable, and built around his needs.
If you’re worried about the TalkTalk landline switch-off, frustrated with rising costs, or simply ready for better service, Plexatalk is here to make the move simple. We take care of the technical side — from number porting to setup — so you don’t have to.
With Plexatalk, you’ll enjoy:
Getting started couldn’t be easier. You can sign up online in just a few minutes, or book a free consultation if you’d like to talk through your options first. Either way, our friendly team will guide you through every step of the switch.
You don’t have to wait for TalkTalk’s next price rise or worry about being tied into bundles you don’t want. Take control today with a reliable, flexible TalkTalk Digital Voice alternative that works on your terms.
Make the switch to Plexatalk — and keep your landline for as long as you want it.
BT is in the process of switching all customers to Digital Voice — their own VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) phone service. While this is part of the UK-wide move away from the old copper landline network, it’s left many households worried. Will you be forced to stay with BT? Will you lose your trusted landline number after the switch?
The good news is: you don’t have to stick with BT, and you don’t have to lose your number. You can keep your landline when switching from BT – just not with a traditional copper line.
At Plexatalk, we specialise in making the transition to VoIP simple, stress-free, and flexible. Unlike BT Digital Voice, our VoIP home phone service works with any internet provider — even those that don’t offer a phone line. That means you can shop around for the best broadband deal, while still keeping your landline number and enjoying reliable, crystal-clear calls.
With the BT landline switch-off coming closer, now is the perfect time to look at your options. Plexatalk offers a BT Digital Voice alternative that puts you in control — no lock-in, no hassle, just the freedom to keep your landline number and stay connected on your terms.
For decades, BT has been the default choice for home phone and broadband. But times are changing, and more and more households are looking for alternatives. Why?
One of the biggest reasons is cost. BT bundles broadband, phone, and sometimes extras you may never use into one expensive package. If you’re mainly interested in keeping your landline number for family and friends, paying for add-ons you don’t need can feel like poor value.
Another common frustration is customer service. Long waiting times, confusing bills, and a lack of flexibility leave many customers feeling tied down.
And then there’s the BT Digital Voice migration. Since BT is moving everyone to VoIP anyway, many people are asking the obvious question: why stick with BT at all?
That’s where an independent provider like Plexatalk comes in. With us, you get a BT Digital Voice alternative that works with any internet connection, so you’re not tied to BT’s broadband just to keep a home phone. You keep your landline number, enjoy straightforward pricing, and get the flexibility to choose the broadband deal that suits you best.
When BT announced the landline switch-off, the first worry for many households was simple: Will I lose my phone number? After all, that number may be the one your friends, family, and even important services have known for years.
The good news is: yes, you can keep your landline number. Thanks to Ofcom regulations, most UK numbers can be transferred (“ported”) from one provider to another. That means you don’t need to start over with a new number just because BT is moving you to Digital Voice.
Here’s how number porting works in plain English: when you switch to a VoIP home phone service like Plexatalk, we request the transfer of your existing landline number. Behind the scenes, the number is moved from BT’s system to ours. You don’t need to do any complicated setup — we handle the process for you.
At Plexatalk, we’ve made this seamless. There’s no downtime, no confusing paperwork, and no risk of losing your number. You simply plug in your phone, connect to your broadband, and carry on as normal — but with more flexibility, lower costs, and freedom from BT.
By January 2027, BT will switch off the old copper phone network (known as the PSTN). This change affects every household in the UK. Instead of a traditional landline, all calls will be delivered using VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) — in other words, your home phone will run over your internet connection.
BT calls their version of this service Digital Voice. On the surface, it might sound straightforward: your existing phone number moves onto a VoIP line, and you carry on making calls. But there’s a catch. BT Digital Voice only works if you also take BT broadband. That means if you want to shop around for cheaper or faster internet, you can’t use BT’s phone service.
This lock-in limits your choice at a time when flexibility matters most. Not all broadband providers support a phone service, and some focus on internet-only packages. With BT Digital Voice, you’re forced to keep everything under one roof — whether it’s right for you or not.
That’s why many people are choosing BT Digital Voice alternatives like Plexatalk, where you keep your landline number but stay free to pick any broadband provider in the UK.
VoIP isn’t just a replacement for the landline — it’s a smarter, more flexible way to stay connected. Unlike BT Digital Voice, which locks you into BT broadband, independent VoIP home phone services like Plexatalk work over any broadband connection. That means you’re free to switch internet providers without worrying about losing your landline number.
Another advantage is simplicity. With a small adapter, you can keep using your existing home phone handsets, so there’s no need to buy new equipment. You’ll still be able to make and receive calls exactly as before — just over your internet instead of the old copper network.
But VoIP also unlocks features that traditional phone lines could never offer. With Plexatalk, you can get voicemail delivered straight to your email inbox, block unwanted nuisance calls, or even make and receive calls on your mobile app using your home number.
For families who want to stay connected, or home workers who rely on a professional line, VoIP is the perfect solution. It’s flexible, affordable, and future-proof — a true BT Digital Voice alternative that puts you in control.
Making the move away from BT doesn’t have to be complicated. At Plexatalk, we’ve streamlined the process so you can keep your landline number, reduce costs, and enjoy more flexibility — all with minimal effort. Here’s how it works:
No — when we port your number from BT to Plexatalk, the process is seamless. Your number stays active, and we ensure there’s no downtime.
Yes. With a simple adapter, your current cordless or corded phones will work just like before — only now they’ll run over your broadband.
If your internet connection drops, you can still make and receive calls apps like Zoiper. That way, you stay connected wherever you are.
Many systems can be adapted to work over VoIP, but it’s important to check with your alarm or healthcare provider before switching. Our team can help you explore options to keep critical services running smoothly.
Plexatalk typically works out cheaper because you’re not forced into bundled services you don’t need. You get a straightforward monthly price for your home phone, plus the freedom to choose the broadband deal that suits you best.
Sometimes the best way to see the difference is through someone else’s experience. Take Mr. and Mrs. H, a retired couple in Kent. Like many, they had been with BT for decades and were worried when they received letters about the BT landline switch-off. They didn’t want to lose their number — the same one friends and family had used for over 30 years.
They also weren’t happy with rising bills. Their BT package bundled broadband, a landline, and extras they didn’t use. When they heard about Plexatalk, they decided to give it a try.
Here’s what happened:
Mrs. H told us: “We thought it would be stressful, but it was so simple. We kept our number, saved money, and can now choose whichever broadband we like. We wish we’d done it sooner.”
Their story shows how easy it is to switch — and how much peace of mind Plexatalk can bring.
The BT landline switch-off is coming — but that doesn’t mean you have to lose your number, pay more than you need to, or stay tied to BT. With Plexatalk, switching is simple, affordable, and stress-free.
All you need to do is sign up here or get in touch with our team. We’ll check your number, explain your options in plain English, and guide you through the switch.
And don’t worry — you don’t need to be “techy” to get set up. We handle the number port, provide any equipment you need, and make sure you’re up and running without hassle. In most cases, you’ll simply plug in your existing phone or download our app and carry on as normal.
So why wait? Join thousands of UK households already enjoying lower costs, more flexibility, and the peace of mind that comes with Plexatalk’s VoIP home phone service.
Keep your landline. Keep your freedom. Switch today.
Running a kebab shop is fast-paced and relentless. The busiest hours often mean juggling queues at the counter, online delivery orders, and a constant stream of phone calls. In that environment, every missed call is a missed sale — and with margins tight in the takeaway business, lost orders quickly add up.
That’s why the phone system you choose isn’t just a “nice to have.” It’s one of the most important tools for keeping customers happy, ensuring smooth operations, and protecting your bottom line.
Plexatalk is designed with small, fast-moving businesses like kebab shops in mind. It combines reliability, smart features, and affordability so you never have to worry about missed calls or clunky systems slowing you down.
Phone orders are the lifeblood of most kebab shops — but traditional phone systems often create more problems than they solve. Common challenges include:
These pain points don’t just create stress; they directly cut into revenue and customer satisfaction. That’s where a smarter system like Plexatalk makes all the difference.
By January 2027, the UK’s traditional landline network (PSTN) will be switched off. That means the phone lines kebab shops have relied on for decades will no longer work in their current form.
For a busy takeaway, this is critical. If your phone stops working, you don’t just lose calls — you lose orders, regular customers, and revenue.
The good news? Switching to VoIP isn’t just a replacement, it’s an upgrade. With Plexatalk, your kebab shop can:
Instead of waiting for the switch-off to cause disruption, kebab shops can get ahead of the change now — and turn it into an opportunity to serve customers better.
Plexatalk is built to handle the pressures of a busy takeaway environment, ensuring calls are answered quickly and customers never feel ignored. Here’s how it tackles the biggest phone challenges kebab shops face:
With Plexatalk, your phone system becomes a tool for growing sales and improving service, not a source of stress during peak hours.
Switching to a modern phone system for your kebab shop isn’t just about handling calls more smoothly — it delivers everyday advantages that directly impact sales, service, and growth. With Plexatalk, you’ll benefit from:
For takeaway businesses where every call counts, Plexatalk ensures your kebab shop phone system works as hard as you do — boosting revenue, improving efficiency, and keeping customers satisfied.
“Before Plexatalk, we constantly lost calls during the dinner rush. The phone would ring busy, customers gave up, and we knew those were missed sales. Since switching, calls now queue automatically, and staff can answer between serving customers. Orders are up, mistakes are down, and our regulars love that they can always get through — even on a Friday night.”
This kind of transformation shows how the right phone system for your kebab shop can have an immediate, measurable impact on revenue and customer loyalty.
For kebab shops, every phone call is a potential order — and every missed call is lost revenue. With Plexatalk, you get a reliable, professional phone system for your kebab shop that keeps customers happy, increases orders, and grows with your business.
Ready to upgrade your phone system?
👉 Contact the Plexatalk team to discuss your shop’s needs.
👉 Or view our pricing plans to see how affordable it is to get started.
With Plexatalk, your kebab shop won’t just answer calls — it will answer more orders.
The best phone system for kebab shops is one that helps you answer every call, even during peak hours. Plexatalk’s VoIP system includes call queues, ring groups, and mobile forwarding so your shop never misses an order.
Yes. With Plexatalk, you can port your existing landline number at no extra cost. This means your regular customers can keep calling the number they already know.
Not necessarily. You can connect your existing handsets with an adapter, or upgrade to VoIP phones for extra features and reliability.
With features like call queues, ring groups, and voicemail-to-email, calls are managed more efficiently. Customers are less likely to hang up, so you retain more orders.
Traditional PSTN landlines will stop working by January 2027. Switching to a VoIP phone system ensures your kebab shop stays connected — with the added benefit of modern features.