Are you thinking about investing in a VoIP phone? Whether you want to use it for business or for your social life, a VoIP is a great way to save money. Instead of having to pay standard broadband, you can have your phone system switched to your internet service. However, the main question you need to consider is in relation to whether you get a hardphone or a softphone – the choice is entirely up to you!
What are Hardphones and Softphones?
When switching from ISDN to VoIP, you can integrate a hardphone and softphone into an internet-based system. There are a range of different types of smartphones that can take on a VoIP system. If you want a Hardphone, you essentially are looking to buy a phone that looks like a phone. It can have a receiver that lifts from the device, buttons or even a touch screen. Even if a Hardphone looks like a traditional device, don’t be fooled by them. They are still computer systems that can tap into your internet and may even be able to take video calls.
If you are thinking about a softphone, you are just looking for software that can hook you up to a VoIP service. They can be placed on any type of device, including PCs, iPads or even your headphones and microphone. Softphones are extremely useful when it comes to a business owner who is looking for personalised communication in relation to their office.
Why should I get a Hardphone for my switch to VoIP?
Sometimes some systems can appear more complex than they actually need to be. For those who prefer a more traditional form of communication, a hardphone is the perfect way to slowly adapt to a new system. It has its own display with all the functions of a new VoIP system.
One benefit of a Hardphone is in relation to the system it operates. The functionality of a softphone will depend on the device it is installed into. As a hardphone is already a device, this allows it to offer more quality calls. A softphone may have additional apps that need to be run at the same time as its VoIP service. As a hardphone is solely focused on making calls, this should make it easier to use in general.
Why should I get a Softphone for my switch to VoIP?
Hardphones are known to be expensive because they will come as a full device rather than just software. A Softphone, on the other hand, tends to be cheaper because you only need the software. In some cases, the software may even be completely free. Sometimes, you may only need to pay for a headset, service provider fees and software licensing. They are far more mobile than hardphones and can allow you to run a variety of apps at the same time. If you are looking for a system that can be installed on multiple devices and can be easily customised to your business needs, a Softphone is for you.
Ultimately, whether you choose to opt for a hardphone or softphone for your VoIP system depends on your personal preferences, needs, and requirements.
