Quick Overview
- 1#1: 3CX - Full-featured open standards PBX software with integrated desktop and mobile softphone apps for business VoIP communications.
- 2#2: Zoiper - Multi-platform SIP softphone supporting high-quality voice, video calls, and instant messaging over VoIP.
- 3#3: Linphone - Open-source softphone for secure voice, video, and text communication using SIP protocol across desktop and mobile.
- 4#4: MicroSIP - Lightweight, portable SIP softphone for Windows offering crystal-clear VoIP calls with minimal resource usage.
- 5#5: Bria - Professional unified communications softphone with advanced features for voice, video, and collaboration.
- 6#6: Jami - Decentralized, open-source communication platform providing peer-to-peer VoIP calls without central servers.
- 7#7: FreePBX - Web-based GUI for managing Asterisk-based PBX systems with extensive VoIP telephony features.
- 8#8: Asterisk - Open-source software framework for creating customizable VoIP PBX and communication applications.
- 9#9: VitalPBX - Modern, full-featured PBX software built on Asterisk for scalable business VoIP deployments.
- 10#10: FusionPBX - Multi-tenant web interface for FreeSWITCH PBX offering advanced VoIP call routing and management.
We selected and ranked these tools based on a focus on feature utility, call quality reliability, cross-platform usability, and value, ensuring a balanced guide that meets diverse user needs, from small businesses to individual power users.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores key features, functionality, and user experience of leading VoIP phone software tools including 3CX, Zoiper, Linphone, MicroSIP, Bria, and more. Readers will gain insights to choose the right solution for their needs, whether for business operations, personal use, or cross-device compatibility.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 3CX Full-featured open standards PBX software with integrated desktop and mobile softphone apps for business VoIP communications. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 2 | Zoiper Multi-platform SIP softphone supporting high-quality voice, video calls, and instant messaging over VoIP. | specialized | 8.9/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 9.0/10 |
| 3 | Linphone Open-source softphone for secure voice, video, and text communication using SIP protocol across desktop and mobile. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.5/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 4 | MicroSIP Lightweight, portable SIP softphone for Windows offering crystal-clear VoIP calls with minimal resource usage. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.7/10 | 10.0/10 |
| 5 | Bria Professional unified communications softphone with advanced features for voice, video, and collaboration. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 6 | Jami Decentralized, open-source communication platform providing peer-to-peer VoIP calls without central servers. | specialized | 8.1/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.2/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 7 | FreePBX Web-based GUI for managing Asterisk-based PBX systems with extensive VoIP telephony features. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.1/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 8 | Asterisk Open-source software framework for creating customizable VoIP PBX and communication applications. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.8/10 | 4.0/10 | 10/10 |
| 9 | VitalPBX Modern, full-featured PBX software built on Asterisk for scalable business VoIP deployments. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 8.9/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.6/10 |
| 10 | FusionPBX Multi-tenant web interface for FreeSWITCH PBX offering advanced VoIP call routing and management. | enterprise | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 6.4/10 | 9.5/10 |
Full-featured open standards PBX software with integrated desktop and mobile softphone apps for business VoIP communications.
Multi-platform SIP softphone supporting high-quality voice, video calls, and instant messaging over VoIP.
Open-source softphone for secure voice, video, and text communication using SIP protocol across desktop and mobile.
Lightweight, portable SIP softphone for Windows offering crystal-clear VoIP calls with minimal resource usage.
Professional unified communications softphone with advanced features for voice, video, and collaboration.
Decentralized, open-source communication platform providing peer-to-peer VoIP calls without central servers.
Web-based GUI for managing Asterisk-based PBX systems with extensive VoIP telephony features.
Open-source software framework for creating customizable VoIP PBX and communication applications.
Modern, full-featured PBX software built on Asterisk for scalable business VoIP deployments.
Multi-tenant web interface for FreeSWITCH PBX offering advanced VoIP call routing and management.
3CX
enterpriseFull-featured open standards PBX software with integrated desktop and mobile softphone apps for business VoIP communications.
Easy ISO-based installation on any hardware, including Raspberry Pi, for rapid on-premises deployment
3CX is a software-based IP PBX and unified communications platform that delivers voice calling, video conferencing, live chat, SMS, and mobile apps for businesses. It supports flexible deployment options including self-hosted on Windows/Linux/Raspberry Pi, cloud providers like AWS, or fully hosted by 3CX. With seamless integration for SIP trunks, IP phones, and CRMs like Salesforce, it offers advanced features such as ACD queues, IVR, fax server, and call reporting for scalable telephony.
Pros
- Comprehensive UC features including video, chat, and mobile apps
- Flexible deployment (self-hosted, cloud, or managed hosting)
- Free edition for small teams and broad SIP device compatibility
Cons
- Past security vulnerabilities requiring vigilant updates
- Steep learning curve for advanced configurations
- Support quality varies by license edition
Best For
Growing businesses needing a scalable, feature-rich self-hosted VoIP PBX with unified communications.
Pricing
Free for up to 10 simultaneous calls; paid editions (Standard/Pro/Enterprise) from $150/year per SC hosted or perpetual self-hosted licenses starting at $395 per SC.
Zoiper
specializedMulti-platform SIP softphone supporting high-quality voice, video calls, and instant messaging over VoIP.
Universal protocol support including rare IAX2 alongside SIP and WebRTC, enabling broad compatibility with legacy and modern VoIP systems
Zoiper is a cross-platform VoIP softphone client available on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, and web browsers, supporting SIP, IAX2, and WebRTC protocols for voice, video calls, instant messaging, and presence. It integrates seamlessly with popular VoIP providers and PBX systems like Asterisk, offering features such as call recording, transfer, conferencing, and secure encryption via SRTP and TLS. The app is lightweight and reliable, making it suitable for both personal and business use.
Pros
- Excellent cross-platform support across desktop, mobile, and web
- Robust protocol compatibility including SIP, IAX2, and WebRTC with advanced codecs
- Secure calling with SRTP/TLS encryption and reliable push notifications
Cons
- Free version includes ads and lacks some pro features
- User interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern competitors
- Occasional connectivity issues reported with certain providers
Best For
Businesses and power users seeking a reliable, multi-protocol VoIP client compatible with custom PBX setups.
Pricing
Free version with ads; Pro one-time licenses from $29.95 per platform, with business editions up to $99.95 and optional subscriptions for mobile push.
Linphone
specializedOpen-source softphone for secure voice, video, and text communication using SIP protocol across desktop and mobile.
Native ZRTP end-to-end encryption for secure calls without relying on third-party services
Linphone is a free, open-source VoIP softphone that uses the SIP protocol for voice, video calls, and instant messaging across platforms like Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android. It supports advanced codecs such as Opus for HD audio and H.264/VP8 for video, along with features like end-to-end encryption via ZRTP, group conferencing, and NAT traversal. Developed by Belledonne Communications, it's highly customizable for developers and power users.
Pros
- Fully open-source with no licensing costs
- Extensive codec support and encryption options
- Cross-platform availability and strong NAT traversal
Cons
- Clunky, dated user interface on desktop
- Complex initial setup for non-technical users
- Occasional bugs in video conferencing
Best For
Tech-savvy users, developers, or organizations needing a customizable, free open-source VoIP client.
Pricing
Completely free and open-source with no paid tiers.
MicroSIP
specializedLightweight, portable SIP softphone for Windows offering crystal-clear VoIP calls with minimal resource usage.
Fully portable—no installation required, launches instantly from any folder or USB drive
MicroSIP is a lightweight, portable SIP softphone for Windows that enables voice and video calls over IP using standard SIP protocols. It supports multiple accounts, SRTP encryption, STUN/TURN for NAT traversal, and high-quality codecs like Opus and VP8. As an open-source tool with no installation required, it runs directly from a USB drive, making it suitable for on-the-go use.
Pros
- Completely free and open-source with no hidden costs
- Portable executable—no installation needed, runs from USB
- Low resource usage and supports modern codecs like Opus
Cons
- Windows-only, no native support for macOS, Linux, or mobile
- Basic, dated user interface lacking modern polish
- Limited advanced features like call recording or CRM integration
Best For
Windows users seeking a simple, no-frills, portable SIP client for basic VoIP calling without any cost.
Pricing
100% free (open-source, no paid tiers or subscriptions).
Bria
enterpriseProfessional unified communications softphone with advanced features for voice, video, and collaboration.
Stretto media engine delivering superior HD audio/video quality and echo cancellation
Bria, developed by CounterPath, is a robust softphone application for making voice and video calls over IP using SIP protocol. It supports multiple accounts, HD audio/video, instant messaging, presence, and features like call recording in enterprise editions. Available on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android, it caters to individuals and businesses seeking reliable VoIP communication without hardware phones.
Pros
- Cross-platform support for desktop and mobile devices
- High-quality HD audio and video with Stretto media engine
- Flexible compatibility with most SIP VoIP providers
Cons
- Enterprise features like advanced call recording require additional licensing
- User interface feels somewhat dated compared to modern UCaaS platforms
- Limited native integrations with CRM or productivity tools
Best For
Small businesses or remote professionals needing a reliable, multi-device softphone for SIP-based VoIP calling.
Pricing
Bria Solo: $49.95 one-time purchase per device; Bria Enterprise: subscription starting at ~$10/user/month (contact sales for quotes).
Jami
specializedDecentralized, open-source communication platform providing peer-to-peer VoIP calls without central servers.
Fully decentralized peer-to-peer networking with no central servers required
Jami is a free, open-source, peer-to-peer VoIP platform that enables secure voice and video calls, instant messaging, and file sharing without relying on central servers or phone numbers. It uses a decentralized Distributed Hash Table (DHT) for user discovery and employs end-to-end encryption to protect communications. Available on Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, and Android, Jami prioritizes privacy and works well for personal use across devices.
Pros
- Fully decentralized P2P architecture enhances privacy
- End-to-end encryption for all communications
- Cross-platform support with no subscription costs
Cons
- Username-based discovery can be cumbersome for new users
- Potential connectivity issues due to NAT traversal in P2P
- Limited enterprise features and integrations
Best For
Privacy-focused individuals or small teams seeking a free, serverless VoIP solution without data collection.
Pricing
Completely free and open-source with no paid tiers or subscriptions.
FreePBX
enterpriseWeb-based GUI for managing Asterisk-based PBX systems with extensive VoIP telephony features.
Modular architecture with over 100 modules for features like advanced reporting, CRM integration, and failover
FreePBX is a free, open-source web-based GUI for the Asterisk PBX platform, simplifying the setup and management of VoIP phone systems for businesses of all sizes. It offers robust features like extensions, trunks, IVR menus, call queues, conferencing, and voicemail through an intuitive interface and extensive module ecosystem. As a self-hosted solution, it provides full control over communications infrastructure without recurring licensing fees.
Pros
- Highly customizable with thousands of free and commercial modules
- Scalable from small offices to enterprise deployments
- Strong community support and regular security updates
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-technical users
- Requires manual server setup and ongoing maintenance
- Security hardening is essential and user-managed
Best For
IT-savvy businesses or MSPs seeking a powerful, cost-free, self-hosted VoIP PBX with extensive customization options.
Pricing
Completely free open-source core; optional paid commercial modules ($0-$500+) and Sangoma support plans starting at $25/month.
Asterisk
enterpriseOpen-source software framework for creating customizable VoIP PBX and communication applications.
Flexible dialplan scripting that allows precise control over call flows and logic without proprietary restrictions
Asterisk, available at asterisk.org, is an open-source framework used primarily to build powerful private branch exchange (PBX) systems for VoIP telephony. It supports a wide array of protocols like SIP, IAX, and MGCP, enabling features such as call routing, interactive voice response (IVR), voicemail, conferencing, and call recording. As a server-side solution, it powers custom VoIP phone systems for businesses and service providers worldwide.
Pros
- Extremely feature-rich with support for advanced telephony functions like IVR, queues, and bridging
- Fully open-source and free, with no licensing fees
- Highly scalable and customizable through modular architecture and dialplan scripting
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring Linux and telephony expertise
- Complex configuration via text files and command-line tools
- Lacks a modern graphical user interface out-of-the-box
Best For
IT professionals and developers seeking a highly customizable, open-source PBX for enterprise VoIP deployments.
Pricing
Completely free and open-source under GPL license; optional commercial support available from partners.
VitalPBX
enterpriseModern, full-featured PBX software built on Asterisk for scalable business VoIP deployments.
Integrated Security Guard with real-time monitoring, GeoIP blocking, and automated brute-force protection
VitalPBX is a robust, Asterisk-based open-source PBX platform offering unified communications for voice, video, messaging, and fax over IP. It provides a web-based GUI for easy management of extensions, IVR, call routing, queues, and advanced modules like CRM integration and call centers. Designed for scalability, it supports businesses from small offices to enterprises with features like endpoint management and security tools.
Pros
- Intuitive web-based interface simplifies PBX administration
- Extensive module library for call centers, CRM, and more
- Strong built-in security with intrusion detection and failover
Cons
- Resource-intensive for very large deployments without optimization
- Some premium modules require paid subscriptions
- Documentation lags behind for niche configurations
Best For
Small to medium-sized businesses needing a scalable, user-friendly PBX with advanced features at a reasonable cost.
Pricing
Free Community Edition; Standard edition starts at $250/year (up to 25 extensions), with Professional and Enterprise tiers scaling up.
FusionPBX
enterpriseMulti-tenant web interface for FreeSWITCH PBX offering advanced VoIP call routing and management.
Multi-tenant domain isolation for securely hosting multiple independent PBX instances on a single server
FusionPBX is an open-source, multi-tenant web-based GUI for FreeSWITCH, enabling robust VoIP PBX management for voice, video, and messaging services. It offers advanced features like IVR, call centers, conferencing, fax-to-email, and unlimited extensions with SIP trunking support. Designed for scalability, it suits enterprises needing customizable telephony without vendor lock-in.
Pros
- Highly customizable with modular architecture
- Multi-tenant support for shared hosting
- Comprehensive telephony features including call recording and analytics
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring Linux/FreeSWITCH knowledge
- Outdated interface needing design refresh
- Complex setup and maintenance for non-experts
Best For
Tech-savvy IT teams or MSPs managing scalable, multi-tenant VoIP for mid-to-large enterprises.
Pricing
Completely free and open-source; optional paid support and modules available.
Conclusion
The top VoIP software options showcase diverse strengths, with 3CX leading as the top choice, offering a full-featured open standards PBX solution for business needs. Zoiper impresses with its high-quality multi-platform communication capabilities, and Linphone stands out for its secure, open-source design, making them excellent alternatives for different priorities. This lineup ensures there’s a tool to suit nearly every user, from small teams to those focused on specific features.
Explore 3CX to experience its comprehensive business VoIP benefits—discover why it tops the list for seamless, scalable communication.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison