# 3CX Pricing: A Comprehensive Guide | Capterra > Check out the 3CX pricing guide to understand the cost of different pricing plans, features, and insights on how to choose the right plan. Source: https://www.capterra.com/p/158704/3CX/pricing --- 3CX Pricing Guide 2025 Last updated on June 11, 2025 Written by [Shephalii Kapoor](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/skapoor/) Writer Edited by [Mehar Luthra](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/mehar-luthra/) Editor Pricing for 3CX [4.4 (465)](#reviews) User rating:[ 4.4 ](#reviews) Based on (465) reviews ## Overview of 3CX pricing 3CX is a communication solution that's featured in the [2024 Capterra Shortlist for Telephony Software](https://www.capterra.com/telephony-software/shortlist/). It provides businesses with a private branch exchange (PBX) and Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) system that supports voice calls, video conferencing, live chat, and call center management tools. 3CX also offers communication tools, such as call routing, CRM integrations, and mobile and desktop apps, so teams can stay connected from anywhere. It has built-in security features that help protect sensitive business calls and data. Unlike other solutions that use a strictly "per-user" pricing model, 3CX pricing is based on a combination of both simultaneous calls (SC) and users. 3CX offers three main pricing tiers: SMB Free, PRO (Professional), and ENT (Enterprise). Each plan is built to meet the needs of different business sizes and communication needs. To help you select the right option for your business, we've studied verified user reviews and industry insights to outline the differences between each 3CX plan and how they align with your business's various communication needs. 3CX SMB $0.00 * * * It Includes - ≤ 10 Extensions - Phone Directory - Headset Integration - Call Parking / Pickup - Call Logging - Ring Groups 3CX PRO $350.00 Flat Rate,Per Year * * * It Includes - Unlimited Extensions - Voicemail Transcription - Intercom / Paging / PA Announcements - Integrated Fax Server - Custom SMTP Server - CRM Integration 3CX ENT $425.00 Flat Rate,Per Year * * * It Includes - Inbuilt Failover - Start / Stop Call Recording Rights - Custom IP Phone Logo - Standby License - Skill-based Routing - Call Transcription The latest information on pricing is available on 3CX’s website. ## Cost breakdown 3CX offers three pricing tiers, each structured around the number of users (extensions) and the capacity for simultaneous calls. The plans vary in features, with higher-tier options offering more advanced call management and integration capabilities. - **SMB Free Plan:** The SMB Free Plan is available at no cost, supports up to 10 extensions, and includes core VoIP features such as call routing, live chat, video conferencing, and voicemail. Hosting is also available on the SMB Free plan by 3CX. This plan best suits small businesses or those looking to test the platform’s basic functions, and who can self-host the software. - **PRO Plan:** The PRO Plan starts at $350 per year, removes the user limit, and the starting price begins with eight simultaneous calls. It includes additional features such as call queues, advanced call reporting, Microsoft 365 integration, CRM connectivity, and call recording. 3CX AI voicemail transcription features are also included with the PRO plan. The cost increases based on the number of simultaneous calls needed. With the PRO or ENT plan, businesses can either self-host the system on their own servers or opt for 3CX’s hosted version, which is free for two months. - **ENT Plan:** The Enterprise (ENT) Plan starts at $425 per year and includes all PRO Plan features with additional capability for larger organizations or businesses with complex needs. This plan adds Microsoft Teams integration, skill-based call routing, custom branding for IP phones, and high-availability (HA) failover support for companies that prioritize security, reliability, and deeper system customization. The ENT plan also includes all available 3CX AI features, including AI voicemail transcription, call transcription, AI call analytics, and 3CX AI. 3CX also offers a free trial of two months, allowing you to test out all the features and functionalities. ### Billing options 3CX offers annual billing only for all paid plans, unlike many VoIP providers that charge on a per-user, monthly basis. The 3CX pricing model allows you to predict costs based on the number of extensions used and the expected simultaneous call volume. Businesses with existing IT infrastructure can also self-host 3CX at no extra cost, while those opting for the PRO or ENT plans using the hosted version will pay an additional fee for managed security, automatic updates, and backups starting at $295 per year after the free trial. ### Feature differentiation Each 3CX plan provides different levels of access to features so that you can scale your communication tools based on your needs. Higher-tier plans offer more users, advanced call management, deeper integrations, and enterprise-level security. - **Scalability:** The SMB Free plan supports less than or equal to 10 extensions. The PRO and ENT plans do not have a user limit but scale based on the number of simultaneous calls (SC) purchased, starting at 8 SC and going up to 1024 SC for large teams and call centers. - **Call management and routing:** The PRO plan introduces auto-attendants (IVR) and basic call queues to efficiently direct calls. The PRO and ENT plans also strengthen this with skill-based routing, real-time monitoring, and call analytics. - **Integrations and CRM support**: The SMB Free plan includes basic CRM integrations (Zoho, HubSpot). The PRO and ENT plans offer advanced CRM sync, Microsoft 365 integration, and automated call logging. - **Security and compliance:** The SMB Free and PRO plans provide TLS encryption and standard access controls, while the ENT plan includes SAML authentication, enterprise-grade encryption, and failover redundancy for compliance-heavy industries like healthcare and finance. - **Call center and reporting features:** The PRO and ENT plans include live wallboard displays, detailed call reports, and advanced queue management so that supervisors can track agent performance, monitor live calls, and adjust call flows as needed. - **AI features (Add-on):** AI-driven tools, available as an optional add-on, and some included as standard depending on the plan you choose, include automated call transcription, sentiment analysis, and chatbot support for handling customer interactions. ## What users say about 3CX pricing After evaluating thousands of verified reviews on Capterra to better understand how businesses view 3CX’s pricing model, users generally view 3CX as a cost-effective alternative to traditional PBX systems and other VoIP solutions. Many users seem to appreciate the pricing flexibility, especially the Free Plan, and the simultaneous call licensing model on all paid plans is often praised for not using traditional per-user fees, letting organizations scale based on actual call volume. However, some users mention that certain features, such as call center analytics, CRM integrations, and failover support, are only available in the higher-tier plans, which require a larger upfront investment.  Businesses with complex requirements may need to factor in SIP trunk costs and third-party hosting fees, which can add to overall expenses. Here are some of the things users have said about 3CX pricing[\[1\]](#footnotes): Craig F.Web developerComputer Software1-2 years I use the self-hosted version with a cheap VPS and pay less than £5 a month including calls on my landline. (SIP from telnyx.com). 3CX is fantastic. It is a great way to spend over 75% less and get 100% more. September 24, 2024 Edmund H.Infrastructure EngineerEducation Management1-2 years Brilliant, for a business that needs a simple and cost-effective phone system you'd struggle to match 3CX. 3CX is a great value system that is easy to maintain and simple to use. February 10, 2025 Jessica F.Sys AdminInformation Technology and Services1-2 years Low cost, easy to setup and works great for medium - small businesses. March 4, 2024 Thilina D.Insurance ExecutiveInsurance1-2 years The reliability and cost-effectiveness of the system make it a top choice for our call centre's day-to-day work. July 21, 2023 [Read more 3CX reviews here.](https://www.capterra.com/p/158704/3CX/reviews/) ## Detailed breakdown of 3CX pricing plans 3CX provides three pricing tiers, each structured around extensions (users) and simultaneous call capacity rather than strictly per-users. This approach lets businesses select a plan based on expected call volume rather than the number of employees. Here is each 3CX plan, its features, and pricing structure. ### SMB Free Plan **Priced at:** $0 per year (support for up to 10 users) **Ideal for:** Small businesses, startups, and independent professionals seeking a free, entry-level VoIP solution with essential features. This plan may be best for smaller organizations that need internal communication tools but do not need advanced call management or integrations. **Features of the SMB Free plan**[\[2\]](#footnotes): - **User and call capacity:** Supports up to 10 users (extensions). This limitation makes it suitable for small businesses or teams with lower call traffic. - **SIP trunk integration:** Includes one SIP trunk connection, which is required for making and receiving external calls over the Internet. Businesses must choose a third-party SIP provider to enable external dialing. - **Communication tools:** Provides live chat, video conferencing, and call routing, allowing users to handle both internal and external communications without additional third-party software. Basic call-handling features, such as call forwarding and voicemail, are also included. - **Cross-platform applications:** Includes desktop, mobile, and web applications, so users can make and receive calls from a Windows or macOS computer, Android or iOS smartphone, or a browser-based client. The mobile app supports push notifications for incoming calls. - **Hosting options:** Businesses can choose to self-host the system on their own Linux, Windows, or cloud servers, or opt for 3CX’s cloud hosting, which is free for life with the SMB Free plan. _3CX chat management system (_[_Source_](https://www.capterra.com/p/158704/3CX/)_)_ ### PRO (Professional) plan **Priced at:** $350 per year (8 SC, unlimited users) **Ideal for:** Mid-sized businesses, sales teams, and call centers that need advanced call management, workflow automation, and live monitoring. It may be best suited for organizations that rely on customer support and require deeper integrations with third-party tools. **Features of the PRO plan**[\[2\]](#footnotes): - **Unlimited users and scalable call volume:** Unlike the SMB Free Plan, the PRO plan removes the 10-user cap, allowing you to add unlimited extensions. It starts at 8 SC and scales up to 1024 SC, letting businesses increase capacity based on actual call traffic needs. - **Call queues and advanced call routing:** Introduces call queues, ring groups, and skill-based routing, ensuring incoming calls are directed to the right agents based on availability, expertise, or predefined rules. - **Call recording and voicemail-to-email:** Allows you to record calls for training, compliance, and quality assurance. Includes voicemail-to-email functionality, making it easy for employees to retrieve messages on the go. - **Microsoft 365 and CRM integration:** Seamless integration with Microsoft 365, Salesforce, HubSpot, and other CRM platforms, allowing for automated call logging, real-time customer data access, and streamlined workflows. - **Call reporting and agent performance analytics:** Provides detailed insights into call volumes, queue efficiency, and agent performance, helping businesses optimize staffing levels, and improve response times and customer service. - **Included AI features:** The PRO plan includes some AI features as standard, such as AI voicemail transcription through Google Gemini, and Open AI. _3CX Wallboard for live call analytics (_[_Source_](https://www.capterra.com/p/158704/3CX/)_)_ ### ENT (Enterprise) plan **Priced at:** $425 per year (8 SC, unlimited users) **Ideal for:** Large enterprises, government agencies, and organizations that require high-security features, failover capabilities, and unlimited call center agents. This plan is built for businesses that manage high call volumes and mission-critical operations. **Features of the ENT plan**[\[2\]](#footnotes): - **Failover and high availability (HA) support:** If the primary system goes down, 3CX automatically switches to a backup server, keeping calls running without disruption. This could be useful for businesses that rely on uninterrupted communication, such as large enterprises and customer support teams. - **Enterprise-grade security and compliance:** Includes SAML authentication for secure access, encrypted call logging to protect sensitive conversations, and intrusion detection to monitor for unauthorized activity. These added security features help businesses meet compliance requirements for regulations like HIPAA and GDPR. - **SLA-backed 24/7 premium support:** Enterprise customers get round-the-clock support with priority response times and dedicated account management. This ensures faster troubleshooting and expert assistance for businesses that can't afford downtime. - **Expanded API capabilities:** Provides advanced options for integrating 3CX with custom software, CRMs, and automation tools. This plan gives more control over call flows, reporting, and backend systems compared to the PRO plan. - **All 3CX AI features included:** In the ENT plan, all AI features come standard. This includes full access to 3CX AI, call transcription, voicemail transcription through Google Gemini and Open AI, and call analytics. ## Total cost of ownership for 3CX When considering 3CX as a business communication solution, it’s important to look beyond the base cost. Understanding the total cost of ownership will help you assess the full financial impact, including upfront setup fees, ongoing maintenance, and any additional expenses that may arise.  Here's a breakdown of the cost factors associated with 3CX. ### Upfront costs Upfront costs mean the initial investment required to implement 3CX. These costs vary depending on the deployment method, hardware needs, and whether the system is managed in-house or hosted by 3CX. - **Licensing fees:** 3CX pricing is based on simultaneous calls rather than per-user fees, which helps control initial investment costs. Businesses must choose a plan that aligns with their expected call volume. - **Hosting costs:** You can self-host 3CX on your own servers (Windows, Linux, or private cloud) or opt for 3CX-hosted deployment, which incurs additional hosting fees on the PRO and ENT starting at $295 per year after a 2-month free trial period. - **Hardware costs:** While 3CX supports softphones (software-based phones), businesses that prefer physical VoIP desk phones must budget for SIP-enabled hardware. - **SIP trunk setup:** To make and receive external calls, businesses need a SIP trunk provider. Some providers offer pay-as-you-go pricing, while others require monthly or annual contracts. - **Installation and configuration:** For businesses without in-house IT expertise, hiring a VoIP specialist to configure SIP trunks, call routing, and security settings may add additional one-time costs. ### Additional costs to consider Beyond the initial setup, you should factor in potential recurring expenses that can affect the overall cost of ownership. - **SIP trunking costs:** Since 3CX requires a third-party SIP trunk provider for external calls, businesses need to factor in monthly calling plans or per-minute charges, which vary based on call volume and destination. - **Call recording and storage:** Businesses that rely on call recording for compliance or training may require additional storage solutions, whether cloud-based or on-site. - **Advanced integrations and APIs:** While 3CX includes built-in CRM integrations, certain third-party software or custom API development may require additional costs. - **Security and compliance features:** Enterprise customers needing advanced security such as SAML authentication or encrypted call logging may need additional IT infrastructure or third-party tools to meet regulatory requirements. - **Premium support:** While standard support is included with paid plans, businesses that require 24/7 priority support or dedicated account management may need to upgrade to enterprise-level support. - **AI-powered features:** 3CX has introduced AI tools like call transcription and analytics, currently available at no extra cost for Enterprise users during the Update 4 Beta. However, pricing has yet to be finalized, so check with 3CX for updates on AI feature costs. ### Self-managed vs. Hosted by 3CX 3CX allows businesses to either self-host the system or use 3CX’s hosted services. With a self-managed deployment, businesses can install 3CX on Linux, Windows, or private cloud servers, maintaining full control over system configuration, updates, and security without incurring recurring hosting fees. For those looking for a fully managed solution, 3CX offers a hosted option that includes automatic updates, backups, and security monitoring. This reduces the need for in-house IT management while ensuring performance optimization. The hosted service is available for all 3CX pricing tiers, including SMB Free, PRO, and ENT, with pricing for hosting on the PRO and ENT plans starting at an additional $295 per year after a free 2-month trial period. #### Services needed to implement or manage 3CX The level of IT expertise required to deploy and maintain 3CX varies depending on whether it is self-hosted or managed in the cloud. - **IT or VoIP specialist:** Businesses without in-house IT teams may need to work with a managed service provider (MSP) or VoIP consultant to handle setup, configuration, and troubleshooting. - **Network infrastructure upgrades:** Ensuring high call quality may require Quality of Service (QoS) configurations, increased bandwidth, and security improvements like firewall adjustments and VPN access for remote workers. - **Ongoing maintenance:** Self-hosted deployments require regular updates, backup management, and security monitoring to guarantee system stability and prevent downtime. - **Training and user adoption:** To guarantee smooth adoption and minimize disruption, employees may need initial training on 3CX’s interface, mobile apps, and call routing features. #### Internal resources needed for ongoing platform management For businesses running 3CX as a long-term solution, designating internal team members to manage the system guarantees smooth operation and minimal disruptions. - **3CX administrator:** Responsible for configuring call flows, user permissions, and SIP trunk settings, ensuring the system is optimized for business needs. - **IT support team:** Handles system troubleshooting, software updates, and security patching, especially for self-managed deployments. - **Training and onboarding coordinator:** Makes sure new employees are properly onboarded, trained on call-handling procedures, and aware of features like voicemail-to-email and live chat. - **Compliance and security officer:** Monitors encryption settings, certifies that data protection policies are followed, and oversees call recording regulations for businesses in industries that require them. ## How to choose the right 3CX pricing plan Selecting the best 3CX plan depends on your business size, communication needs, compliance requirements, and budget. Here’s how to evaluate which pricing tier is the right fit for your organization. _Key considerations while choosing the right 3CX plan_ - **Assess your business needs:** The first step in choosing the right 3CX plan is determining how many users will need access, the expected call volume, and any industry-specific requirements. Small businesses with 10 or fewer users and low call traffic may find the SMB Free plan sufficient for basic communication while growing teams needing automated call routing and CRM integration should consider the PRO plan. Organizations with dedicated customer support teams, sales departments, or multi-location operations will benefit from the PRO or Enterprise plans, which include advanced call center features, skill-based routing, and detailed analytics. Businesses in regulated industries such as finance or healthcare should also evaluate security and compliance needs, as only the Enterprise plan includes SAML authentication and enterprise-grade encryption. - **Consider your budget:** Budgeting for 3CX goes beyond the base licensing fee. While the SMB Free plan lets businesses test core features at no cost, scaling up requires selecting a paid plan based on simultaneous call volume. For mid-sized businesses, the PRO plan, which starts at $350 per year, provides the best balance of functionality and affordability by offering advanced call center tools. If your business requires top-tier security, failover support, and unlimited call center agents, you should consider the Enterprise plan, starting at $425 per year. Beyond licensing, you should also factor in potential costs for SIP trunking, implementation, and ongoing maintenance. Self-hosting 3CX eliminates recurring cloud hosting fees while opting for 3CX’s hosted service simplifies IT management but adds a yearly fee starting at $295 after a 2-month trial period. - **Compare features offered in each plan:** Each 3CX plan is designed to support different levels of communication complexity. The SMB Free plan includes VoIP calling, mobile apps, and live chat, making it a good entry-level option for startups or small businesses with simple phone system needs. The PRO plan expands on this with call routing, voicemail-to-email, and basic CRM integrations. The PRO plan introduces advanced call queues, skill-based routing, and real-time agent monitoring for companies that require more robust call center functionality. It also integrates with Microsoft 365 and popular CRMs like Salesforce and HubSpot. The ENT plan is best suited for large-scale operations that need failover support, high-availability deployment, and enhanced security controls. ## How to maximize the value of your 3CX subscription Making the most of your 3CX subscription means using all available features, taking advantage of support resources, and optimizing your system for efficiency. Here’s how to get the best results from your plan: _Ways to maximize the value of your 3CX subscription_ ### Utilize all features of the tool 3CX offers features in addition to VoIP calling that aim to help improve communication, automate workflows, and enhance customer interactions. For example, if you're on the PRO or ENT plan, you can set up advanced call routing, monitor real-time agent performance, and track analytics to keep operations running smoothly. CRM integrations help automate call logging and customer tracking, while tools like voicemail-to-email and live chat make it easier to manage customer inquiries. ### Fully leverage customer support and resources Knowing where to go for help can save time and keep your system running efficiently. Free plan users can access the community forum, online documentation, and video tutorials for troubleshooting common issues. Paid plans come with ticket-based support, while ENT plan users receive 24/7 priority assistance and access to a dedicated account manager for faster issue resolution. Businesses can also take advantage of 3CX’s free training courses to help IT teams learn how to configure and manage the system more effectively. ### Additional tips for getting the most out of your plan - Train employees regularly so they’re comfortable using call queues, softphones, and other main communication features. - Set up automation for voicemail-to-email, scheduled reports, and smart call routing to save time and effort. - Monitor call data to track peak call times, analyze agent performance, and adjust staffing as needed. - Test CRM and helpdesk integrations to ensure smooth integration between 3CX and your business tools. - Keep software updated to maintain performance, security, and access to new features. ## Is 3CX worth it? Whether 3CX is worth investing in will depend on your business's communication needs, budget, and scalability demands. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide: ### Value for money 3CX is a well-rated business phone system that provides VoIP and PBX solutions for organizations of all sizes. Based on verified Capterra user reviews, 3CX has earned strong ratings for its cost-effectiveness, flexibility, and feature set. Many users highlight that the pricing model is based on simultaneous calls instead of per-user fees. Users also appreciate that 3CX’s SMB Free Plan allows small businesses to test the platform without upfront costs. However, some reviewers mention that certain advanced features—such as analytics, CRM integrations, and failover support—are only available in higher-tier plans, which may require a larger investment for businesses with complex needs. Here are some review excerpts from verified users of 3CX that helped us understand its value proposition relative to cost[\[1\]](#footnotes): Nicolas P.IT managerInformation Technology and ServicesLess than 6 months Used in a small company for testing VoIP. Free for small company, integrates lots of stuff. February 9, 2025 Saqib A.Senior PHP DeveloperComputer Software6-12 months We like the 3CX affordability, flexibility, and ease of use. Especially its integration of voice, voice, and chat into one platform makes it more reliable and user-friendly. January 14, 2025 Justin H.CTOEducation Management1-2 years We can expand users and expand the number of simultaneous calls without paying per user. The apps on mobile were superior to competitors. January 14, 2025 Richa P.ManagerCivil Engineering2+ years Ease of use, good functionality, and reasonably priced. January 26, 2024 [Read more 3CX reviews here.](https://www.capterra.com/p/158704/3CX/reviews/) ### Included features 3CX is a communication system that provides businesses with a flexible alternative to traditional phone systems. Its VoIP and PBX capabilities let companies handle calls, video meetings, live chat, and messaging on a single platform.  Overall, businesses seem to enjoy the ability to easily integrate with CRM systems and productivity tools as an efficient solution for internal collaboration and customer-facing communication. 3CX users also highlight its cost-effective licensing model based on simultaneous calls rather than per-user pricing.  Remote and hybrid teams benefit from 3CX’s mobile apps and browser-based web clients, while IT administrators value their security features, including encryption and secure SIP trunking. With flexible hosting options—self-managed, cloud-hosted, or on-premises—3CX gives organizations the choice to customize their communication infrastructure while helping to reduce costs and improve reliability. ### Customer support options 3CX offers multiple levels of customer support, with options varying by plan. Support ranges from self-service resources to dedicated priority assistance for enterprise users. - **SMB Free Plan:** Provides access to the 3CX Community Forum, where users can troubleshoot issues, share solutions, and get advice from other 3CX users. Additional self-help resources include a comprehensive knowledge base, setup guides, FAQs, and video tutorials for step-by-step instructions. - **PRO Plan:** Offer business-hour ticket-based support, allowing users to submit technical issues for resolution. Paid users receive faster response times compared to the SMB Free plan and can access support through 3CX-certified partners if purchased via a reseller. - **ENT Plan:** Includes 24/7 priority ticket support, ensuring urgent issues are addressed at any time. Enterprise users also get a dedicated account manager for ongoing system optimization and personalized assistance. This plan features SLA-backed response times, reducing downtime for businesses with mission-critical operations. ## Is 3CX right for you? ### Assessing your requirements Determining whether 3CX is the right business phone system involves evaluating your company’s needs and comparing them to the features 3CX offers. Here are some key factors to consider: - **Business size and scalability:** 3CX supports businesses of all sizes, from small startups to large enterprises. The SMB Free plan works well for smaller teams, while the PRO and ENT plans provide scalability for growing businesses with increasing call volumes. - **Call volume and communication needs:** If your business has low call volume, the SMB Free plan may be sufficient. However, companies handling high call traffic—such as call centers and customer support teams—will benefit from the PRO and Enterprise plans, which support up to 1,024 simultaneous calls with advanced call management features. - **Budget and total cost of ownership:** 3CX’s pricing is structured around simultaneous calls instead of per-user fees, making it cost-effective for many businesses. However, additional costs, such as SIP trunk provider fees, optional hosting, CRM integrations, and storage, should be factored into the total cost of ownership. - **Integration and workflow compatibility:** Businesses using CRM systems, helpdesk solutions, or Microsoft Teams can benefit from 3CX’s built-in integrations. The PRO and Enterprise plans provide deeper CRM automation and call logging for teams that rely on tools like Salesforce, HubSpot, or Zoho CRM. - **Security and compliance requirements:** Industries with strict security and compliance needs, such as healthcare and finance, may require the Enterprise plan. It includes advanced security features like SAML authentication, encrypted call logging, and failover redundancy for business continuity. - **IT expertise and support needs:** Self-hosted deployments may require in-house IT support for setup and maintenance, while 3CX-hosted plans reduce technical overhead. The Enterprise plan includes priority customer support, which may be necessary for businesses that rely on 3CX for vital communication operations. ### Alternatives to 3CX 3CX holds a 4.4-star rating on Capterra, making it a strong option for businesses seeking a flexible VoIP and PBX solution. However, depending on your communication needs, several alternatives offer different pricing structures, integrations, or specialized features. For example, LiveAgent has a 4.7 rating and is well-rated for its multi-channel help desk capabilities, while Ringover, with a 4.5 rating, is noted for its advanced call analytics. Other alternatives like JustCall, Bitrix24, and Aircall provide VoIP and contact center solutions tailored for different business types. Here are five alternatives to consider: **LiveAgent** has received an average rating of 4.7 from verified reviewers on Capterra. As a solution for businesses looking for multi-channel customer communication, many users have highlighted LiveAgent’s ability to bring VoIP, email, live chat, and social media into a single interface. **Ringover** has received an average rating of 4.5 from reviewers. Users of Ringover have said the system provides deep insights into call performance, including live call monitoring and detailed call stats, which can help optimize customer interactions. **JustCall** has earned an average rating of 4.2. Reviewers of JustCall seem to appreciate its integration with platforms like HubSpot and Salesforce, which lets sales and support teams manage calls, track interactions, and automate workflows on one platform. **Bitrix24** has received an average rating of 4.2 with its ability to combine business communication, task management, and CRM tools into a single platform. Many reviewers have said Bitrix24 is useful for teams that need an all-in-one business management solution. **Aircall** has earned an average rating of 4.2, with many reviewers touting its ease of use and strong integrations with the help desk and CRM platforms. Many verified users of Aircall have also mentioned that they found it valuable for improving call center efficiency and customer service. Check out the top [3CX alternatives,](https://www.capterra.com/p/158704/3CX/alternatives/) comparable in terms of core features, pricing, and usability. ### Cost comparison: 3CX vs. popular alternatives [4.4 (465)](https://www.capterra.com/p/158704/3CX/#reviews) * * * Starting Price $350.00 Flat Rate , Per Year * * * [4.7 (1753)](https://www.capterra.com/p/102188/LiveAgent/#reviews) * * * Starting Price $15.00 Per User , Per Month * * * [4.7 (855)](https://www.capterra.com/p/169627/RingOver/#reviews) * * * Starting Price $29.00 Per User , Per Month * * * [4.1 (223)](https://www.capterra.com/p/157853/JustCall/#reviews) * * * Starting Price $29.00 Per User , Per Month * * * [4.2 (983)](https://www.capterra.com/p/113540/Bitrix24/#reviews) * * * Starting Price $61.00 Flat Rate , Per Month * * * [4.2 (458)](https://www.capterra.com/p/184709/Aircall/#reviews) * * * Starting Price $40.00 Flat Rate , Per Month * * * ### Making the final decision 3CX provides scalable VoIP and PBX solutions across its pricing tiers, offering plans suited for businesses of all sizes with varying communication needs. With a 4.4-star rating on Capterra, 3CX could provide an alternative to traditional phone systems, helping to streamline operations with unified communications, call routing, and CRM integrations. The SMB Free plan is an option for small businesses or startups exploring a basic PBX solution without financial commitment, while the PRO and ENT plans are built for businesses that need call management, reporting, and more integration options. For large enterprises that require strengthened security, failover support, and advanced call center features, the ENT plan offers the most complete solution. Ultimately, picking the right 3CX plan depends on your business size, communication requirements, and budget. Consider starting with the Free plan to explore the platform, consulting verified user reviews, and taking a look at whether 3CX’s features are in line with your business's needs. By carefully comparing all of 3CX's plans, you can help make sure that you’re investing in a Telephony solution that improves communication, supports scalability, and delivers long-term value. To get more insight into 3CX’s capabilities and user experiences, [read our verified reviews](https://www.capterra.com/p/158704/3CX/reviews/) from businesses that have implemented and use 3CX. ## FAQs Is 3CX free or paid? 3CX offers both free and paid options that are made for businesses of all different sizes and communication needs. The SMB Free plan includes the basic VoIP and PBX features for up to 10 users, while businesses that require call routing, CRM integrations, and advanced reporting can upgrade to a higher tier such as the PRO, or ENT plan. How does 3CX licensing work? Unlike traditional VoIP providers that charge per user, 3CX uses a combination of extensions and a simultaneous call-based licensing model. What this means is that businesses will purchase a license that is based on the maximum number of simultaneous calls they expect to handle rather than strictly the total number of users. Can 3CX be self-hosted or does it require cloud hosting? 3CX gives you the flexibility to choose between self-hosting and cloud hosting. The system can be deployed on-premises (Windows, Linux, or a private cloud) or hosted on 3CX’s cloud platform. Businesses that choose to use the self-hosting option will avoid recurring hosting fees, but it's important to note that the 3CX-hosted option includes automatic updates, backups, as well as managed security. What are the hardware requirements for 3CX? Since 3CX is a software-based PBX, it doesn't require specialized hardware. However, some things may need are: - A SIP-compatible VoIP phone (or softphone app) - A SIP trunking provider to enable external calls - A reliable internet connection for call quality - A server or cloud hosting environment if you decide to go self-managed For larger enterprises, additional firewall and security configurations may be needed to guarantee secure VoIP communication. Does 3CX work with Microsoft Teams? Yes, 3CX integrates with Microsoft Teams, letting businesses use Teams as a softphone while taking advantage of 3CX’s call routing, SIP trunking, and reporting tools. This integration helps companies maintain a unified communication system while keeping operating costs lower. Is 3CX secure? 3CX includes multiple security features to protect business communications, including: - TLS and SRTP encryption for secure voice and video calls - Automatic updates and patches for cloud-hosted deployments - IP-based access control to restrict unauthorized logins - Intrusion detection and fraud prevention tools For ENT plan users, advanced security features such as SAML authentication, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and data retention controls are also available. Does 3CX support remote work? Yes, 3CX is designed for hybrid and remote work environments. Employees can make and receive calls using: - The 3CX web client - The 3CX mobile app (iOS and Android) - A softphone on a desktop or laptop - A VoIP desk phone connected to 3CX’s PBX What are the ongoing costs of using 3CX? Aside from the annual licensing fee, there are some ongoing costs that businesses should consider: - SIP trunking costs (this will vary by provider and call volume) - Optional hosting fees (if choosing 3CX’s hosted solution) - Hardware expenses (VoIP phones, headsets, firewalls, etc.) #### Methodology 1. Review excerpts are passages extracted from longer reviews written by verified reviewers. We obtain these excerpts by applying an algorithm that considers factors including, but not limited to, length, topic coverage, and thematic relevance. Excerpts are evaluated for positive or negative sentiment and receive a sentiment score. Excerpts represent user opinion and do not represent the views of, nor constitute, an endorsement by Capterra or its affiliates. Excerpts are not edited for clarity or grammar. 2. Our research team identified these features from vendor websites (as of Feb. 13, 2025) based on their analysis of what users find valuable or expect from call center software. This list is not exhaustive. For additional features, refer to the vendor’s website. [Shephalii Kapoor](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/skapoor/) Shephalii Kapoor is a writer at Capterra. She helps small businesses identify the right software for their needs by analyzing user reviews for top-rated software products. Prior to Capterra, she worked as an assistant content manager at InfoEdge India Ltd. She has also worked in company law, aviation, and real estate. She is a published author and has contributed to various magazines and websites. During her free time, she enjoys reading. [Mehar Luthra](https://www.capterra.com/resources/author/mehar-luthra/) Mehar Luthra is a team lead at Capterra and specializes in editing reports that cover the latest trends affecting small businesses. With nearly a decade of experience, she has edited a multitude of research articles, top-rated software reports, and thought leadership articles for diverse markets such as Brazil, Japan, Canada, France, Australia, and India. She finds it particularly rewarding to produce content that provides small-business owners with practical tips and helpful advice on topics... Related reading Table of Contents - [Overview of 3CX pricing](#overview-of-3cx-pricing) - [Cost breakdown](#cost-breakdown) - [What users say about 3CX pricing](#what-users-say-about-3cx-pricing) - [Detailed breakdown of 3CX pricing plans](#detailed-breakdown-of-3cx-pricing-plans) - [Total cost of ownership for 3CX](#total-cost-of-ownership-for-3cx) - [How to choose the right 3CX pricing plan](#how-to-choose-the-right-3cx-pricing-plan) - [How to maximize the value of your 3CX subscription](#how-to-maximize-the-value-of-your-3cx-subscription) - [Is 3CX worth it?](#is-3cx-worth-it) - [Is 3CX right for you?](#is-3cx-right-for-you) - [FAQs](#faqs)