SpectrumVoIP vs. 3CX Cost Comparison
To do a VoIP Cost Comparison, we first have to look at what SpectrumVoIP and 3CX have in common, how they’re different, and how the differences affect the overall cost of ownership.
SpectrumVoIP
Monthly subscription plans at SpectrumVoIP start at 24.95 per extension, depending on features. There are no start up costs, and no local server is required.
Note that the backbone of a subscription service is also a software PBX. The difference is that with a subscription service, you’re renting (not buying) the software and they control your access to it.
3CX
3CX is priced by the number of calls it will carry at one time.
- 4-call annual license $295
- 8-call annual licence $515
- 16-call annual licence $995
The big difference in owning a system is control. You choose how many phone lines you need, and how much to spend on them. More importantly, since you’re not paying by extension, you can put phones where you need them, without worrying about any additional monthly costs.
General SpectrumVoIP / 3CX Cost Comparison
SpectrumVoIP
- No upfront software costs
- No on-site server
- Only offer their SIP Trunks
- Charges a flat fee for each extension (regardless of usage)
- Unlimited calling is included in the monthly fee
- SpectrumVoIP plans start at $24.95 and go up from there
3CX
- Annual license cost for the software
- Upfront cost of a computer (if you choose on-site)
- Can use SIP Trunks and Analog Lines in any combination
- Doesn’t charge by extension at all
- Pay as you go with SIP Trunks and /or Analog Lines
SpectrumVoIP Comparison in a 20-Person Office
SpectrumVoIP
- Medium sized office with 20 extensions
- Variable upfront cost for phones (same as Software)
- No upfront cost for system
- No Local Server required
- Flat fee of $499 per month
5 Year Cost: $29,940
3CX
- Medium sized office with 20 extensions
- Variable upfront cost for phones (same as SpectrumVoIP)
- Annual software license (8-call 3CX license) : $515
- Windows or Linux desktop to run the 3CX software: $250
- Monthly SIP Trunk charge (unlimited incoming, 5000 minutes outgoing): $100
5 year cost: $8,825
SpectrumVoIP Comparison in an 8-Person Office
SpectrumVoIP
- Small office with 8 extensions
- Variable upfront cost for phones
- No upfront cost for system
- No local server required
- Flat fee of $199.60 per month
5 Year Cost: $11.976
3CX
- Small office with 8 extensions
- Variable upfront cost for phones
- Annual software license (4-call 3CX license) : $295
- Windows or Linux desktop to run the 3CX software: $250
- Monthly SIP Trunk charge (unlimited incoming, 2000 minutes outgoing): $60