Session initiation protocol (SIP) trunking enables businesses to upgrade their physical phone systems to a cloud-based setup. The best SIP trunking providers boast a high uptime, crystal-clear call quality, and wide compatibility with various desk phone models. You can choose from unlimited and pay-as-you-go payment plans, allowing you to only pay for the calls made or support large call volumes efficiently.
Here are my top SIP trunk providers based on different business use cases:
- Ooma: Best desk phone compatibility
- Zoom Phone: Best flexible deployments
- Nextiva: Best flexible payment plans
- RingCentral: Best for gradual cloud migration
- Twilio: Best for self-service trunk provisioning
- Phone.com: Best for ease of use
Best SIP Trunking Providers Compared
SIP trunking providers | Monthly starting price | Key features | Our rating |
---|---|---|---|
$19.99 per user |
| 4.93 out of 5 | |
$10 per user |
| 4.77 out of 5 | |
$14.95 |
| 4.75 out of 5 | |
$30 per user |
| 4.47 out of 5 | |
$0.0011/min |
| 4.01 out of 5 | |
$18 per user |
| 3.76 out of 5 | |
Ooma: Best desk phone compatibility
Pros
- Offers all the valuable calling features on the base plan
- Provides a la carte services for additional capacity
- Works with most IP-based or analog phone models
Cons
- Requires an enterprise account to unlock SIP trunking
- Doesn’t include a free phone number
- Lacks cloud collaboration capabilities
While many businesses are moving toward softphone apps, desk phones continue to outperform mobile devices, especially when call clarity, reliability, and ease of use are top priorities. If your team still relies on desk phones, Ooma is one of the best SIP trunk providers to support that setup.
A variety of IP desk phones are compatible with Ooma, ranging from basic models for everyday use to high-end phones designed for power users and multi-line support. These phones are pre-configured to work right out of the box, helping you avoid lengthy setups or compatibility issues.
That said, Ooma doesn’t offer the same level of team collaboration tools as other SIP trunk providers like RingCentral or Nextiva. It includes basic video meetings, but you won’t get advanced messaging features. If unified communications is a priority, RingCentral may be a better fit. But for dependable desk phone support with solid call quality, Ooma is hard to beat.
Plans | Standard | Enhanced | Call Center |
---|---|---|---|
Cost | $19.99 per user | $27.99 per user | $49.99 per user |
Ooma Enterprise plans start with the Standard plan that includes over 50 calling features, a virtual receptionist, mobile app, and unlimited calling across North America. The Enhanced plan builds on this with video meetings, customer relationship management (CRM) integrations, voicemail transcription, and advanced tools like business analytics and an open API framework.
For contact center operations, the Call Center plan adds robust call management features such as automatic call distribution, skills-based routing, unlimited queues, and real-time reporting with customizable wallboards.
- Caller info match: Retrieve the full profile of a caller from your CRM, social media, or search engine to gain all the relevant information you need before picking up the phone.
- Conferencing: Invite unlimited attendees from any location using toll-free dial-in numbers. Create multiple meeting rooms with a secure PIN code.
- Advanced call analytics: Choose from various call reports and custom templates that feature key metrics, such as calls by user, ring groups, queue, and call listings. Use data charts and export reports to Excel.
Use the Ooma Office desk phone and mobile app for cloud business calling. (Source: Ooma)
Zoom Phone: Best for flexible deployments
Pros
- Tightly integrates with the Zoom meeting platform
- Leverages AI for its phone and meeting solutions
- Lets you mix and match metered and unlimited call plans
Cons
- Doesn’t include a free toll-free number
- Charges extra for call queue analytics
- Varies its customer support access based on the number of licenses
Zoom Phone stands out for flexible deployments, thanks to its Bring Your Own Carrier (BYOC) feature. This allows businesses to retain existing PSTN contracts and phone numbers while integrating with Zoom’s cloud PBX, offering both premise and cloud peering options for seamless connectivity.
Additionally, Zoom Phone supports global operations by enabling local public switched telephone network (PSTN) access in regions where Zoom doesn’t have native service, ensuring continuity for distributed offices. Its unified platform combines voice, video, and chat, providing a streamlined user experience across devices.
However, Zoom Phone plans do not include a toll-free number, requiring you to pay an additional monthly fee starting at $5 per number. For a more cost-effective alternative, Twilio offers toll-free numbers at a lower monthly rate.
Plans | Metered | Regional Unlimited | Global Select |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly | $10 per license | $20 per license | $30 per license |
The Metered plan includes unlimited local and internal calling with metered outbound usage, while the Regional Unlimited plan adds unlimited outbound calling. Global Select includes unlimited domestic calling in one of 48 supported countries, along with metered international usage. All plans come with a full suite of business features, including HD voice, voicemail transcription, auto-attendant, call monitoring, and call recording.
- Automatic call distribution groups: Allows incoming calls to be distributed among a group of users for efficient handling of high call volumes.
- Zoom Workplace Pro: Integrates Zoom’s communication tools, including meetings, chat, and phone services, into a unified platform to enhance productivity.
- Configurable anonymous and specified call blocking: Provides a suite of controls to block calls from anonymous or specified numbers, helping users manage unwanted or spam calls effectively.
Zoom Phone works with Yealink desk phone models. (Source: Zoom)
Nextiva: Best flexible payment plans
Pros
- Allows same-day SIP trunk deployment
- Offers omnichannel capabilities, including social media
- Provides 24/7 support via phone, email, and chat
Cons
- Charges a monthly fee on top of the usage fees
- Lacks voicemail transcription and call recording
- Charges extra fees for call transcription and skill-based routing
Nextiva makes it easy to choose a SIP trunking plan that fits your calling habits with its flexible metered and unmetered options. The metered plan starts at $14.95 per month, including 100 minutes and a low $0.008 per-minute rate after that, ideal for businesses with predictable or low call volumes. This option helps you stay within budget while still accessing Nextiva’s robust features and US-based support.
For teams with heavier usage, the unmetered plan at $24.95 per month removes per-minute charges entirely. You also get a toll-free number, volume discounts, and the ability to scale up as your needs grow. Whether you prefer per-minute billing or want unlimited nationwide calling, Nextiva offers plans that let you control your costs without compromising on quality.
Nextiva’s SIP trunk service lacks key features like call recording and voicemail transcription. If you’re looking for a complete phone system, check out Ooma, which includes over 50 standard call features on the base plan.
Monthly plans | Metered | Unmetered |
---|---|---|
Cost | $14.95 per month, plus $0.0008 per minute | $24.95 per month |
The Metered plan includes 100 minutes per month with additional usage charged per minute, while the Unmetered plan allows unlimited nationwide calling. Both plans include US coverage and 24/7 support, with the Unmetered tier adding a toll-free number, scalability, and volume discounts.
- Automatic failover: Automatically switch your PBX system if it fails or goes offline. Nextiva’s cloud connectivity directs calls to another destination.
- Call records: See call details and history reports quickly and securely using the Nextiva admin dashboard.
- Enhanced 911 (E911): Access turnkey E911 functionality that sends an address to emergency services when a call is placed using Nextiva.
Nextiva lets you sync communications across various devices. (Source: Nextiva)
RingCentral: Best for gradual cloud migration
Pros
- Provides complete business phone features
- Infuses artificial intelligence (AI) into voice and video interactions
- Acts as an all-in-one communication platform
Cons
- Imposes strict monthly SMS credits per user
- Requires a multi-year commitment for phone rentals
- Unlocks integrations on pricier plans
If your business is looking to modernize its phone system without ripping out your current setup, RingCentral is the best SIP trunk provider for a smooth, phased transition to the cloud. Instead of forcing a complete migration all at once, RingCentral’s Cloud Connector gives you the flexibility to move at your own pace, whether that’s by department, location, or business unit.
RingCentral’s hybrid approach works for businesses with complex infrastructure or multi-site operations that require more time to transition. You can keep your current investments while gradually giving teams access to voice-over-internet-protocol (VoIP) phone system features like HD video meetings, call transcriptions, and team chat. Start with one group, like your sales or customer service team, and expand cloud access gradually across the organization.
While RingCentral starts at $30 per user per month, which is higher than some alternatives, you’re also getting more out of the platform. The price reflects its enterprise-grade reliability, built-in redundancy, and a rich suite of unified communications tools. However, if your business doesn’t need a full-featured cloud solution and prefers a more à la carte setup, Phone.com might be a more cost-effective option.
Plans | Core | Advanced | Ultra |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly | $30 per user | $35 per user | $45 per user |
Annually | $20 per user | $25 per user | $35 per user |
The Core plan includes unlimited domestic calling, interactive voice response (IVR), business SMS, video meetings for up to 100 participants, and AI call transcription. The Advanced plan adds auto call recording, CRM integrations, multi-site support, internet fax, AI-powered call notes, and action item capture. Ultra builds on this with 200-participant video meetings, device analytics, and unlimited file storage.
- Advanced reporting: Get real-time business-critical information on one screen. Use custom reports to generate actionable insights to improve customer service performance and engagement.
- Team messaging: Send instant updates via one-on-one chats or group threads. This collaboration feature lets users chat, share files, and hop into meetings with one click.
- Video conferencing: Host and participate in virtual meetings and increase engagement with advanced features like screen and file sharing. RingCentral comes with unlimited HD meetings that support up to 200 video participants.
Configure your phone settings on any RingCentral-connected device. (Source: RingCentral)
Twilio: Best self-service trunk provisioning
Pros
- Has various customization options
- Supports unlimited SIP trunking
- Offers in-depth fraud prevention measures
Cons
- Requires advanced coding knowledge
- Exclusively caters to developers and sellers
- Can be pricey if long calls add up
Twilio’s Elastic SIP Trunking offers a developer-friendly platform and powerful programming solutions so you can create, configure, and scale SIP trunks within minutes. This eliminates the need to wait for sales reps or support teams to get your phone system set up in over 70 countries. Its intuitive dashboard and extensive documentation make it easy for tech-savvy teams to manage voice infrastructure on their own terms.
With its unlimited SIP trunking capacity, Twilio supports businesses with increasing call traffic. It also offers a wide array of phone services that allow you to create custom application programming interfaces (APIs). Other advanced functionalities include voice analytics, quality monitoring, and alert triggers.
While it has many features and self-service tools, Twilio is more expensive compared to other SIP trunking providers with pay-as-you-go pricing. Nextiva offers a more budget-friendly alternative, with its metered plan includes 100 minutes upfront at only $14.95 per month. This makes it a cost-effective choice for businesses with moderate call volumes.
SIP service | Termination | Origination | Phone number | Call recording |
---|---|---|---|---|
Starting price | $0.0011/min for U.S. calls | $0.0034/min for calls to a local number | $1.15 per month for a local number | $0.0025/min |
Twilio uses usage-based pricing, with separate rates for call termination and origination. You only pay for what you use, with costs based on call type (local or toll-free) and destination. Pricing also varies by geographic region, high-cost areas, and toll-free routes. Committed-use discounts are available for accounts meeting minimum monthly spending requirements.
- Voice insights: Get a complete picture of your call performance. Twilio gives users access to call quality metrics and reporting tools, including finer details like packet loss and jitter.
- Call recording: Users can add secure call recording with public key encryption. Recording controls include start, stop, pause, and resume call recording.
- Omnichannel capabilities: Streamline communications by combining different points of contact into one platform. Twilio supports chat-based channels for your website and both iOS and Android apps.
Twilio provides a self-service console for its SIP trunk users. (Source: Twilio)
Phone.com: Best for ease of use
Pros
- Charges local rates for calls in Italy, Israel, and the U.K.
- Has 50+ call handling features
- Provides a free phone number
Cons
- Does not readily provide clear information about SIP trunking on its website.
- Charges extra for call recording
- Requires Zapier to connect third-party apps
Phone.com stands out for its ease of use, offering a simple setup process and an intuitive online dashboard. You can easily manage SIP trunks, add phone numbers, and adjust call routing settings without needing technical expertise. Its platform is designed with small business users in mind, making it ideal for teams without dedicated IT staff.
As one of our top SIP trunk providers, Phone.com supports a wide range of analog systems, which largely benefit businesses that want to keep their existing hardware while gradually transitioning to VoIP. Like Twilio, Phone.com provides API access to connect your Phone.com account to your private branch exchange (PBX).
Unfortunately, Phone.com lacks clear information about its SIP trunking services on its website, making it difficult for businesses to evaluate features, pricing, and the setup process upfront. If you’re looking for a provider with clearly outlined SIP trunking details, consider Nextiva. Its website offers straightforward plan comparisons, usage rates, and hardware compatibility guidance to help you make an informed decision.
Plans | Basic | Plus | Pro |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly | $18 per user | $27 per user | $40 per user |
Annually | $15 per user | $22.50 per user | $33.33 per user |
All Phone.com plans include unlimited calling, mobile and web apps, IVR, and video conferencing, while the Plus plan adds AI-powered answering, IP desk phone support, voicemail transcription, and business texting. The Pro plan includes everything in Plus, along with advanced features like call recording, analytics, CRM integration, and extended data retention.
- AI Connect: Leverages machine learning to understand the needs of an incoming caller so they are directed to the right destination and book appointments if needed.
- ProSIM: Grants your mobile device with eSIM capabilities so your personal phone becomes an extension of your Phone.com account — no internet connection needed.
- Desk phone support: Phone.com works with various desk phone brands, including Cisco, Grandstream, Yealink, and Poly. They also have limited support for end-of-life models.
Set up your Phone.com vanity number on your laptop and desk phone. (Phone.com)
How I evaluated the best SIP trunking provider
To find the best SIP trunk providers for small businesses, I scored each option across six key areas that matter most: cost, features, support, usability, and expert insights. Each service was evaluated using a weighted rubric to highlight providers that offer great value, performance, and ease of implementation.
20% of Overall Score
I looked at whether each provider offers a free trial and affordable subscription plans under $30 and $60. Providers that balance budget-friendly pricing with useful features earned higher marks.
25% of Overall Score
This includes essential SIP trunking capabilities like call capacity, number portability, failover support, and E911 compliance. Services that offer these features out of the box scored higher for reliability and readiness.
20% of Overall Score
Points were awarded for extras like virtual fax, SMS support, and APIs for customization. I also considered global coverage and BYOC options for businesses with more complex needs.
10% of Overall Score
I assessed how intuitive each platform is to set up and manage, especially for businesses without a dedicated IT team. User-friendly dashboards and clear documentation helped certain providers stand out.
10% of Overall Score
In searching for reliable SIP trunk providers, strong customer service is critical. That said, I looked at 24/7 availability, onboarding assistance, and multiple contact channels. Providers with dependable, around-the-clock support received top scores.
15% of Overall Score
This final score reflects my overall impression of each service’s reliability, scalability, and value for the price. I also considered user reviews and how well each provider meets the needs of modern small businesses.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
SIP trunking typically starts around $15 to $25 per trunk, per month, with metered and unlimited calling options available. Costs may vary based on features, number of channels, and usage volume.
Yes, RingCentral offers SIP trunks through its Cloud Connector program. It allows multiple SIP trunks to connect to your session border controllers (SBCs) based on your infrastructure requirements and geographic distribution.
To get a SIP trunk, you need a SIP trunking service, which is typically offered as part of a broader VoIP or unified communication service. Make sure the platform is compatible with your existing phone system before signing up for a monthly plan that suits your call volume. Once registered, configure the SIP settings on your PBX or IP phone system with the provider’s credentials.
Bottom line
The best SIP trunking service providers revolutionize business operations by transforming on-premise PBX equipment into internet-based phone systems. They offer solutions to cope with varying call volumes and access enhanced communication services.
Based on our evaluation, Ooma is our overall best SIP trunking provider because it provides flexible, easy, and affordable phone solutions across businesses of all sizes. It works with various IP desk phone brands, supports advanced call flows, and boasts a 99.999% uptime availability. Contact Ooma’s sales team now to unlock the power of your existing phone system.