BT business phone pricing review – Getting the best price

BT (British Telecommunications) is a leading provider of communication solutions for businesses in the UK. With a broad range of products and services tailored to meet the needs of small, medium, and large enterprises, BT’s business phone systems offer flexibility, scalability, and advanced features. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the different BT business phone systems available, including their pricing, key features, and the pros and cons of each.

Overview of BT business phone systems

BT offers a variety of business phone systems designed to suit the needs of different business sizes and industries. The main options include traditional landline systems, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) systems, and cloud-based communication solutions. Each of these systems comes with its own set of features, pricing, and capabilities.

Phone System	Price (per user per month)	Key Features	Pros	Cons
BT Cloud Voice Express	From £14.50	HD voice calls, auto-attendant, voicemail-to-email, call forwarding, mobile app	Easy setup, scalable, no on-site hardware needed	Requires reliable internet, limited advanced features
BT Cloud Voice	From £17	HD-quality voice calls, call handling, conference calling, mobile/desktop apps, unified communications	Customisable, scalable, enhanced security	Higher costs as business scales, some technical know-how required
BT One Phone	From £35	Mobile and landline integration, call management, voicemail, call recording, remote working	Ideal for mobile teams, simplifies call management	More expensive, learning curve for some users
BT Cloud Work	From £20	VoIP calls, video conferencing, team messaging, integration with apps, call analytics	All-in-one solution, easy integration, reliable support	Requires strong internet connection, higher pricing
BT Essential Digital Phone Line	From £11.95	Basic call handling, call forwarding, voicemail, line rental, caller display	Affordable, easy to use, no internet needed	Limited features, not scalable

5. BT Essential Digital Phone Line

The BT Essential Digital Phone Line is designed for small businesses that need a straightforward and cost-effective phone solution. It’s ideal for those who do not require the advanced features of VoIP or cloud-based systems.

• Price: From £11.95 per month (excluding VAT)
• Key features:
• Basic call handling and call forwarding
• Voicemail services
• Line rental included
• Caller display feature

Pros:

• Affordable for small businesses and start-ups
• Easy to use and maintain
• No need for a high-speed internet connection

Cons:

• Limited features compared to VoIP and cloud-based systems
• Not as scalable as digital solutions

Which BT business phone system is right for you?

Choosing the right BT business phone system depends on your business size, communication needs, and budget. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:

• Small businesses: If you’re looking for a basic yet efficient phone system, BT Cloud Voice Express or BT Essential Digital Phone Line could be the ideal choice due to their affordability and ease of use.
• Growing businesses: For businesses that need more advanced features and scalability, BT Cloud Voice offers a great balance between functionality and price.
• Mobile workforce: If your team is always on the move, BT One Phone provides the flexibility to manage calls seamlessly from anywhere.
• Large enterprises: For large-scale operations requiring unified communications, BT Cloud Work is the best choice, offering a full suite of collaboration tools and integration capabilities.

Getting the best prices

When choosing a BT business phone system, it’s important to consider not only the advertised prices but also the potential hidden fees and ways to secure the best deals. Here’s a breakdown of what to watch out for and how to maximise your savings when investing in a BT business phone system.

Hidden fees to consider

While BT’s business phone systems have clear pricing structures, there can be additional costs that businesses should be aware of:

1. Setup and installation fees: Depending on the complexity of the system you choose, there may be one-time charges for setup or installation. VoIP and cloud-based systems often have lower installation fees, but traditional phone lines could incur higher costs.
2. Maintenance and support fees: Some plans may require additional charges for ongoing technical support or maintenance. It’s essential to clarify what’s included in the standard package and what may require extra fees.
3. Hardware costs: While many VoIP systems offer the flexibility to use your existing devices, you may still need to purchase compatible IP phones or headsets, which can increase the initial investment.
4. Early termination fees: If you sign up for a contract with BT and decide to end it before the term expires, you may incur early termination fees. Be sure to review the contract terms carefully to understand these potential costs.
5. International call charges: For businesses making frequent international calls, it’s important to check BT’s rates for overseas calls. VoIP solutions may offer lower international rates, but they can still vary depending on the destination.

Discounts and promotions

BT often provides discounts and special promotions to new and existing customers, which can help reduce the overall cost of their business phone systems. Here are some ways to take advantage of these opportunities:

1. Bundle offers: Bundling your BT business phone system with other BT services like broadband or mobile plans can often lead to significant savings. These bundles usually come with discounted rates and the convenience of managing multiple services under a single contract.
2. Seasonal promotions: Keep an eye out for seasonal deals, especially around the end of the financial year or during major sales events like Black Friday. BT frequently offers limited-time discounts that can lower your monthly costs or even provide free installation.
3. Contract negotiation: If you are considering a long-term commitment with BT, don’t hesitate to negotiate the terms of your contract. Larger businesses or those willing to sign multi-year agreements often have more leverage to negotiate better prices and additional benefits.
4. Loyalty discounts: Existing BT customers may be eligible for loyalty discounts or special rates if they choose to upgrade their phone systems or add new services. It’s worth speaking to a BT representative to see if you qualify for any exclusive deals.

Tips for getting the best prices

To ensure you’re getting the best deal on your BT business phone system, consider these tips:

1. Compare multiple providers: While BT is a leading provider, it’s always a good idea to compare its offerings with other business phone system providers in the market. This will give you a clearer picture of the value you’re getting for your money.
2. Evaluate your needs: Carefully assess your business’s communication requirements before selecting a plan. Avoid paying for features or capacity that your business does not need. For example, small businesses might benefit from a more basic plan like BT Cloud Voice Express, while larger companies could make full use of the features in BT Cloud Work.
3. Opt for scalable solutions: Choose a system that allows you to add or remove users easily without incurring high costs. Scalable VoIP and cloud-based systems like BT Cloud Voice and BT Cloud Work can help you manage expenses as your business grows.
4. Look for value-added features: Some BT plans include additional services like call analytics, video conferencing, or integration with other software at no extra cost. Make sure you’re taking advantage of these features to maximise the value of your investment.
5. Request a custom quote: For businesses with specific needs or larger teams, contacting BT for a custom quote can lead to better pricing. Custom quotes are often more competitive than standard package rates, especially for businesses with complex requirements.

Final thoughts – BT business pricing review

BT offers a range of business phone systems tailored to meet the diverse needs of UK businesses. From basic digital phone lines to sophisticated cloud-based solutions, BT’s products provide flexibility, scalability, and reliability.

While the prices may vary depending on your chosen package, the investment in a BT business phone system can significantly enhance your business’s communication capabilities.

Whether you are a small business looking for a simple solution or a large enterprise needing an advanced system, BT has a product to match your requirements. Carefully consider your business needs and budget to select the most suitable phone system for your organisation.

FAQ – BT business pricing