In the world of VoIP, choosing the right PBX platform is crucial for service providers aiming to deliver reliable, scalable, and feature-rich communication solutions. With a variety of PBX platforms available, each offering unique capabilities, VoIP providers can tailor their services to meet specific client needs. In this post, we explore the top PBX platforms, highlighting their strengths and features to help you make an informed choice for your VoIP business.
PBX Functions Addon in MOR
If you’re using (or planning to use) MOR—a Class 5 Softswitch with integrated billing, routing, rate management, and reporting—you can enhance its capabilities with the PBX Functions Addon. This add-on provides essential PBX features, including External DID, Ring Groups, Voicemail, PhoneBook, Music on Hold, Call Queues, IVR System, Call Flow, BLF, and PBX Pools. For those needing more advanced functionalities, MOR supports integration with third-party PBX systems. Any SIP-compatible PBX can work with MOR, but if you’re unsure which option is best, here are some of the most popular choices among our clients:
1. Asterisk
Asterisk is an open-source PBX platform that has been a backbone of VoIP for over two decades. Known for its flexibility and vast array of customizable features, Asterisk is highly favored among developers and businesses that require bespoke solutions. With its extensive APIs and integration capabilities, Asterisk serves as the foundation for several PBX systems, including FreePBX, VitalPBX and iVozProvider.
2. FreePBX
FreePBX builds upon Asterisk by providing a user-friendly, web-based interface that simplifies management and configuration. Ideal for businesses needing an open-source solution with reliable community support, FreePBX offers extensive call routing, voicemail, IVR, and conferencing features. It’s widely used by small to medium businesses due to its ease of use and scalability.
3. PBXact
PBXact is essentially FreePBX with commercial enhancements and premium support offered by Sangoma. With the option for perpetual licensing, PBXact provides added stability and features over FreePBX, making it suitable for enterprises and service providers looking for reliability and professional support. It’s an ideal solution for those who need commercial-grade capabilities without leaving the FreePBX ecosystem.
4. 3CX
3CX is a software-based PBX known for its user-friendly experience, unified communications capabilities, and support for both on-premises and cloud-based deployments. With its comprehensive feature set, 3CX caters to small, medium, and large enterprises, offering features such as video conferencing, web chat, and CRM integration. Its multi-platform support on Windows, Linux, and Android/iOS makes it a versatile choice.
You can find detailed guides on connecting 3CX to MOR and M4 in the Kolmisoft Wiki. Additionally, some Kolmisoft clients are listed on the 3CX Supported SIP Trunk Providers page. Being recognized as a 3CX-supported SIP Trunk Provider significantly enhances your market visibility, positioning you as a trusted choice for businesses seeking reliable VoIP solutions. However, there is also a risk of losing this status, which would impact an important marketing channel. For more details on such cases, refer to this blog post: 3CX removed us from the Supported SIP Trunk Providers page.
5. 2600hz Kazoo
Kazoo by 2600hz is a multi-tenant, carrier-grade PBX that is unique in its non-instance-based architecture. Kazoo is designed for large-scale VoIP deployments, providing robust APIs that allow service providers to build custom applications and automation workflows. Ideal for service providers seeking scalability and flexibility, Kazoo stands out with its focus on carrier-grade multi-tenancy.
We have previously implemented Kazoo for several Kolmisoft clients and have been generally satisfied with the platform’s performance. You can find the Online Demo of Kazoo Platform in the Kolmisoft Wiki.
6. FusionPBX
FusionPBX is a web interface for FreeSWITCH, offering a multi-tenant PBX solution with an extensive list of features, from call routing to IVR. FusionPBX is well-suited for service providers who prefer FreeSWITCH as their underlying technology and need a reliable, customizable multi-tenant environment.
7. VitalPBX
VitalPBX provides a modern and intuitive PBX experience built on Asterisk. Known for its extensive feature set and professional-grade interface, VitalPBX targets service providers and enterprise environments that need advanced functionalities, such as multi-tenancy, billing, and custom branding options. It offers a balanced combination of user-friendly design and robust features.
You can find detailed guides on connecting VitalPBX to MOR in the Kolmisoft Wiki.
8. Thirdlane
Thirdlane is an emerging PBX platform that is making waves by targeting many features traditionally found in 3CX. With a focus on multitenancy, Thirdlane offers a suite of solutions, including a multi-tenant PBX, unified communications, and contact center functionalities. It’s ideal for service providers looking for a modern alternative to 3CX with a range of enterprise-ready features.
9. Vodia PBX
Vodia PBX provides a multi-tenant platform similar to 3CX, but with a more complex licensing structure. Known for its cloud compatibility, Vodia offers extensive unified communications features that are suitable for service providers managing multiple clients. Its complex licensing can be a hurdle, but its robust capabilities make it worthwhile for larger providers.
10. PBXware
PBXware by Bicom Systems is an enterprise-grade PBX solution that supports multi-tenancy and is designed for service providers and large businesses. With versions for call centers, businesses, and multi-tenant environments, PBXware is a versatile platform offering the stability and scalability needed for professional deployments.
11. Wildix
Wildix is a web-based PBX that focuses on unified communications and offers strong collaboration tools, including video conferencing, chat, and integration with third-party software. It’s designed to work seamlessly with various devices and offers an intuitive user experience, making it popular among businesses with strong remote work requirements.
12. Wazo
Wazo is an open-source PBX platform built on Asterisk, offering an API-first approach to building unified communications systems. Wazo’s modular architecture and robust API support make it an excellent choice for developers and service providers who want to build tailored communication solutions.
13. Yeastar
Yeastar offers a range of hardware and software-based PBX solutions, providing flexibility in deployment. Known for their user-friendly interfaces and straightforward setup, Yeastar PBXs are suitable for small to medium businesses, offering unified communications, call center features, and CRM integrations.
14. PortSIP
PortSIP is a software PBX platform that emphasizes mobile and WebRTC support, catering to modern VoIP environments where mobility and video communication are essential. PortSIP’s focus on video, voice, and chat integration makes it ideal for service providers looking to offer a complete UC experience.
15. Grandstream UCM
Grandstream UCM is a hardware-only PBX that provides a robust, enterprise-grade communication solution. With its straightforward deployment and user-friendly management interface, Grandstream UCM is ideal for businesses seeking reliable, appliance-based PBX solutions.
16. Issabel
Issabel is a continuation of the Elastix PBX project, providing a feature-rich, open-source PBX platform built on Asterisk. It includes contact center features, CRM integration, and reporting tools, making it ideal for small to medium businesses that need an all-in-one communication solution.
17. Netsapiens (Crexendo)
Netsapiens is a carrier-grade, multi-tenant PBX solution designed for service providers requiring a scalable, high-availability platform. With its robust multi-tenancy and customizability, Netsapiens caters to large VoIP deployments, making it a top choice for providers handling multiple clients across geographies.
18. iVozProvider
iVozProvider is a multi-tenant PBX platform built with Kamailio and Asterisk, combining several open-source tools for a flexible, scalable VoIP solution. Its multi-tenancy features make it an good choice for service providers, particularly those familiar with Kamailio’s advanced routing capabilities.
Choosing the Right PBX Platform
Each of these PBX platforms offers unique advantages, and the right choice depends on your business’s needs, such as scalability, multi-tenancy, support requirements, and budget constraints. For instance:
- Small to Medium Businesses may prefer platforms like FreePBX, VitalPBX, or Issabel for their simplicity and community support.
- Large Enterprises and Service Providers might opt for multi-tenant solutions such as 2600hz Kazoo, or Netsapiens to manage multiple clients effectively.
- Unified Communications Focused Providers can consider 3CX, Wildix, or PortSIP for comprehensive UC solutions, including video, chat, and mobile support.
Whether you need open-source flexibility, commercial-grade support, or advanced multi-tenancy, this list offers a robust starting point to find a PBX platform that meets your VoIP service goals.
Explore these platforms, consider their unique features, and leverage the right tools to provide an outstanding VoIP experience for your customers.
If you need a class 4/5 softswitch, SBC or a billing platform for any of these PBXes, you can check out MOR and M4 softswitches: