Effective communication is the backbone of any successful business, and for small businesses, having a reliable telephone system is crucial for maintaining professionalism and efficiency. Whether you need a basic landline setup or a cloud-based telephone system for small business, choosing the right solution can improve customer interactions and streamline internal operations.
This guide explores the best telephone systems for small businesses in Singapore, covering different types, essential features, pricing considerations, and top service providers.
For an in-depth buyer’s guide on small business phone systems, check out our detailed article: Small Business Phone System: An Ultimate Buyer’s Guide.
Types of Telephone Systems for Small Businesses
1Traditional Landline Systems
Traditional landlines rely on public switched telephone networks (PSTN). While they offer stable connections, they are becoming less common due to higher costs and limited features.
Pros:
- Reliable and familiar technology
- No dependency on an internet connection
Cons:
- Higher installation and maintenance costs
- Lacks advanced features like call forwarding and remote access
2VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol) Systems
VoIP systems use the internet to make and receive calls, making them a cost-effective and feature-rich option for small businesses.
Pros:
- Lower call costs, especially for international calls
- Cloud-based solutions with remote accessibility
- Advanced features such as auto-attendant, voicemail-to-email, and call recording
Cons:
- Requires a stable internet connection for quality calls
- May experience downtime if the internet is unstable
3PBX (Private Branch Exchange) Systems
PBX phone systems are internal networks that allow businesses to manage multiple phone lines efficiently. There are two types:
- On-Premises PBX: A traditional system that requires physical hardware installed at your office, giving full control but with higher upfront and maintenance costs.
- Cloud PBX: A virtual phone system hosted by a service provider, offering flexibility and reducing maintenance and infrastructure costs.
Pros:
- Suitable for businesses handling a high volume of calls
- Supports multiple extensions and departments
Cons:
- On-premises PBX can be expensive to set up
- Requires IT expertise for maintenance
Essential Features to Look for in a Business Phone System
When selecting a telephone system for small business, consider the following key features:
- Scalability: The system should grow with your business.
- Call Management Features: Includes call forwarding, voicemail, auto-attendant, and conferencing.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Consider upfront installation fees and monthly charges.
- Remote Accessibility: A must-have for businesses with remote teams.
- Integration: Ensure the system integrates with CRM and other software.

Top Telephone System Providers in Singapore
1Singtel BizVoice
Singtel BizVoice is a cloud-based telephone system for small businesses offering affordable and scalable solutions.
- Free local calls
- Voicemail-to-email and call recording
- Scalable for growing businesses
2Velox Networks
Velox specializes in VoIP solutions designed for small and medium enterprises.
- HD voice quality
- Mobile app integration for remote teams
- Cost-effective call plans
3MyRepublic Business Voice
A leading VoIP provider offering business-grade phone services with enterprise features.
- Supports cloud PBX
- Customizable plans for businesses of all sizes
- 24/7 customer support
4StarHub SmartUC
Ideal for businesses looking for a unified communication platform.
- Integrates with Microsoft Teams
- Secure cloud-based calling
- Competitive pricing
Cost Considerations for Small Business Telephone Systems
Understanding the cost of a telephone system for small business is vital for budgeting:
System Type | Setup Cost | Monthly Cost | Features & Benefits |
Landline | High | Moderate | Basic calling |
VoIP | Low | Low | Advanced features, remote access |
Cloud PBX | Moderate | Low | Scalability, integration |
On-Premises PBX | High | High | Suitable for large teams |
Steps to Implement a Business Telephone System
Setting up an efficient business telephone system is essential for seamless communication and operational success. A well-planned implementation ensures that your organization benefits from reliable connectivity, cost-effective solutions, and enhanced productivity. Follow these key steps to establish a system that meets your business needs.
- Assess Business Needs: Determine the number of users and call volume.
- Choose the Right System: Decide between landline, VoIP, or PBX based on your needs.
- Select a Reliable Provider: Compare plans, features, and support services.
- Installation & Setup: Work with your provider to set up and configure the system.
- Train Employees: Ensure your team understands how to use the features. 1/2
Conclusion
Investing in the right telephone system for small business is essential for improving communication, customer service, and overall efficiency. Whether you opt for a traditional landline, VoIP, or cloud-based PBX system, choosing a scalable and cost-effective solution will benefit your business in the long run.
For more details on available phone system products, check out: