What is VoIP & how does it work?
VoIP is a communication technology that transforms how we make and receive calls. Unlike traditional landline systems, which rely on copper wires, VoIP uses the internet to transmit voice data.
When you speak, the VoIP system breaks your voice into small data packets, encrypts them for security and sends them via a stable Wi-Fi or broadband connection. The result? Crystal-clear VoIP calls that can be made anywhere with internet access.
Useful fact: You can also have different international VoIP numbers, sitting in one place.
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What is cellular & how does it work?
Cellular technology is the backbone of communication, using a network of interconnected towers (cells) to transmit signals to and from a mobile device. Each cell covers a specific geographic area. This ensures continuous connectivity as you move.
When you place a call, your phone communicates with the nearest cell tower, which routes the call through a complex network of towers and services to its destination.
Unlike older landline systems, cellular networks offer unparalleled mobility, allowing you to stay connected whether you’re at home, in a business meeting or on a trip.
VoIP vs Cellular: Cost analysis
In terms of the cost comparison between VoIP and cellular, VoIP services come at a lower cost.
VoIP:
VoIP calls offer a balance of features and affordability. Subscription fees typically range from £7 – £50 per user.
The basic package, which comes with VoIP calls and basic features, comes at the lower end of the range, while advanced packages with virtual phone numbers, ring groups and video conferencing, etc. come at the higher end.
Initial VoIP phone system costs may also include IP phones, VoIP adapters, ethernet cables and headsets. But this one-time expense quickly pays off. And international calling? A game-changer. While most of the international calls are free, the ones that get charged are at a far lower price than cellular calls of this nature.
Cellular:
Cellular plans come with a higher monthly cost and often pack hidden charges. While you get free unlimited calls on that package, the real dent in your wallet is the international calls. They can quickly inflate the bill. Imagine a travelling sales executive racking up hours of international conversations – these costs will reflect heavily in your month-end account sheets.
VoIP vs Cellular: Call quality
When it comes to VoIP vs cellphone call quality, both have their strengths and limitations.
VoIP:
- Dependence on interent connection: VoIP technology thrives on a stable internet connection. A fast and reliable connection gives you clear and high-definition VoIP calls while one with a limited bandwidth results in low-quality and interrupted calls.
- Advanced compression technology: VoIP systems use codecs to compress and decompress audio. This provides efficient data transmission, thus businesses with a good internet infrastructure often enjoy better clarity than cellular.
- Scalability: VoIP performs well in handling multiple calls simultaneously within a business environment. Also, it can integrate backup connections so when option A is down, option B can quickly take over. Cellular lacks this flexibility.
Cellular:
- Dependence on signal strength: Cellular networks rely on tower proximity. In urban areas, coverage is generally excellent. However, step into rural areas and you might experience dropped calls or poor audio.
- Infrastructure advantage: Unlike VoIP, cellular isn’t tied to internet speed, which makes it reliable in areas with weak or no internet connectivity.
VoIP vs Cellular: Mobility & accessibility
Let’s discuss the mobility and accessibility comparison between the two technologies.
VoIP:
- Use of softphones and mobile apps: With VoIP, your device becomes a portable phone line through softphones and mobile apps. All you need is a VoIP package and an internet device.
- Dependence on internet connectivity: The catch? A stable internet connection is a must. Without it, VoIP will not function, which may disrupt your vital communications.
Cellular:
- Wide-area coverage: Cellular technology excels in mobility because it leverages extensive cellular networks present in the UK to provide coverage across cities and rural areas.
- Suitability for on-the-go communication: Cellular’s independence from internet connectivity is a reliable choice for field teams, sales professionals and employees handling global operations.
VoIP vs Cellular: Features & functionality
Now let’s touch a bit on the features of both competitors.
VoIP:
One of the biggest advantages of VoIP is its helpful features. From call forwarding that ensures no missed connections to voicemail-to-email functionalities that let you check messages on the go, VoIP is built for versatility.
Need a video meeting with a global client? With Wi-Fi and VoIP’s video conferencing capabilities, you’re just a click away from face-to-face interactions. You can, of course, do the basic VoIP texting as well.
Moreover, it integrates seamlessly with CRM tools, project management software and analytics platforms. This allows businesses to track communication metrics, enhance workflows and achieve greater cost savings.
Cellular:
Cellular networks shine in simplicity and reliability. Standard calling and texting are staples, and many carriers now offer business-specific plans that help you call international numbers without excessive charges.
It can help your employees handle calls without worrying about the internet. However, the lack of integration capabilities with business applications may limit your team’s functionality.
VoIP vs Cellular: Safety considerations
Cellular networks are more secure than VoIP systems generally, but let’s discuss this debate in detail below.
VoIP:
When using VoIP instead of cell phone technology, it’s helpful to know that it relies on advanced encryption protocols to safeguard your data. However, its dependency on the internet introduces vulnerabilities, which makes it a target for cyber threats like phishing and DDoS attacks.
To counter this, businesses must invest in secure networks, firewalls and regular software updates.
Cellular:
Cellular communications provide built-in protection against threats like eavesdropping and unauthorised access. While they’re not invincible, they benefit from decades of development and thus offer reliable protections. Also, they’re not exposed to cyber threats as they’re not reliant on an internet connection.
Being that said, issues like SIM swapping and signal interception remain potential threats.
A comparison table is given below for your convenience.
VoIP vs Cellular: Comparison table
| Aspect | VoIP | Cellular |
|---|---|---|
|
Cost |
Lower costs; subscription fees range from £7–£50 per user. Low-cost or free international calls; requires one-time hardware investment. |
Higher costs with hidden charges for roaming and international calls; simpler pricing for domestic plans. |
|
Call Quality |
Depends on internet stability; excellent with high bandwidth. Noise-cancelling features and advanced codecs improve clarity. |
Depends on tower proximity; excellent in urban areas but poor in rural locations. Not tied to internet connectivity. |
|
Mobility & Accesibility |
Portable with softphones and mobile apps; requires stable internet connectivity. |
Wide-area coverage; independent of internet, making it reliable for on-the-go teams. |
|
Features |
Advanced features like call forwarding, voicemail-to-email, video conferencing; integrates with CRMs and analytics tools. |
Standard calling and texting; lacks integration with business tools but offers reliable communication. |
|
Safety considerations |
Uses encryption for security; vulnerable to cyber threats like DDoS attacks. Requires secure networks and updates. |
Built-in carrier security; less exposed to cyber threats but susceptible to SIM swapping and signal interception. |
VoIP vs Cellular: Which one is better for your business?
When VoIP is better for your business:
- If your business prioritises cost savings.
- If your business needs advanced features like voicemail-to-email and video conferencing.
- If you have remote or hybrid teams that can benefit from the flexible solution offered by VoIP like softphones and mobile apps (WhatsApp, for example).
- If your business requires frequency adjustments in communication lines, as VoIP packages can be scaled.
When cellular is better for your business:
- For field professionals, sales teams or employees who are constantly on the move, as cellular communication offers unmatched mobility.
- In locations with poor internet connectivity, as it’s not reliant on an internet connection.
- For businesses handling sensitive data, as it has in-built protections.
- If your business mainly needs standard calling and texting.
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FAQs
VoIP is better for businesses needing cost-effective communication, advanced features and integration with tools like CRMs. However, cellular networks excel in mobility, wide-area coverage and reliable connectivity in areas with weak or no internet. The choice depends on whether you prioritise flexibility and features (VoIP) or on-the-go accessibility (cellular).
A key disadvantage of VoIP is its reliance on a stable internet connection. Poor or inconsistent Wi-Fi/broadband can lead to dropped calls or reduced quality. That being said, it has numerous benefits – you have to weigh both based on your business needs.
VoIP can replace a cellphone for businesses prioritising cost savings and features like voicemail-to-email or video conferencing. However, it needs internet connectivity, which limits mobility when compared with cellular technology. For highly mobile users or areas with weak internet, cellular networks remain essential.
