3CX
3CX is an open-standard communications system that provides your business with a complete solution for calls, video conferencing, live chat, and messaging across multiple devices and platforms.
8x8
8x8 provides a unified contact center and communications platform that integrates voice, video, chat, and contact center solutions into a single cloud-based interface to streamline your business interactions.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | 3CX | 8x8 |
|---|---|---|
| Website | 3cx.com | 8x8.com |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Subscription |
| Starting Price | Free | $24/month |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 60 days free trial | ✓ 30 days free trial |
| Free Plan | ✓ Has free plan | ✘ No free plan |
| Product Demo | ✓ Request demo here | ✓ Request demo here |
| Deployment | ||
| Integrations | ||
| Target Users | ||
| Target Industries | ||
| Customer Count | 0 | 0 |
| Founded Year | 2005 | 1987 |
| Headquarters | Nicosia, Cyprus | Campbell, USA |
Overview
3CX
3CX is a robust communications platform that replaces traditional hardware PBX systems with a flexible, software-based solution. You can manage your business calls, host high-quality video conferences, and respond to customer messages from a single interface. It integrates directly with your website's live chat and social media channels like WhatsApp and Facebook, ensuring you never miss a lead.
You have total control over your deployment, whether you want to host it in your own private cloud, on-premise on Windows or Linux, or let 3CX host it for you. It scales effortlessly from small offices to large global enterprises by offering different editions based on your concurrent call needs rather than charging per user. This unique approach helps you slash telecommunication costs while maintaining professional communication standards.
8x8
8x8 offers a unified platform that brings your phone system, video meetings, and team messaging together in one place. You can manage all your internal and external communications through a single interface, eliminating the need to toggle between different apps. It is designed to help your team stay connected whether they are in the office or working remotely, providing high-quality voice and video services globally.
The platform specifically solves the problem of fragmented communication by offering integrated contact center capabilities alongside standard business phone features. You can easily scale your operations from a few users to thousands, benefiting from built-in analytics that show you how your team is performing. It is ideal for mid-market and enterprise companies that need reliable, secure, and compliant communication tools across multiple international locations.
Overview
3CX Features
- Multi-Channel Messaging Answer your business WhatsApp, Facebook, and SMS messages directly from the 3CX interface to keep all conversations centralized.
- Integrated Video Conferencing Host professional virtual meetings with screen sharing and whiteboards for up to 250 participants without installing extra software.
- Mobile Apps Take your office extension anywhere with native iOS and Android apps that save battery life using push notifications.
- Website Live Chat Convert website visitors into customers by chatting in real-time and elevating chats to voice calls with one click.
- Visual Call Management Monitor agent status and manage incoming calls effectively using the web-based switchboard and drag-and-drop call transfers.
- CRM Integration Connect your CRM to see caller details instantly and automate call logging to keep your customer records accurate.
8x8 Features
- Unified Communications. Access your business phone, team chat, and video meetings from a single app on your desktop or mobile device.
- Omnichannel Contact Center. Interact with your customers across voice, email, chat, and social media channels to provide a consistent support experience.
- Global Presence. Get local phone numbers in over 50 countries so you can establish a professional presence wherever your customers are.
- HD Video Conferencing. Host secure video meetings with up to 500 participants and use screen sharing to collaborate on projects in real-time.
- Advanced Analytics. Track call quality and team performance with real-time dashboards that help you make data-driven decisions for your business.
- Smart Presence. See the availability of your colleagues across all devices so you know the best time to reach out or transfer calls.
Pricing Comparison
3CX Pricing
- Up to 10 users
- 3CX hosting included
- WhatsApp and SMS integration
- Live Chat and Team Messaging
- Video conferencing for 25 users
- Everything in FREE, plus:
- Up to 20 users
- Multi-level Auto Attendant
- Call groups and queues
- Desk phone support
- Reporting and call logs
8x8 Pricing
- Unlimited calling to 14 countries
- HD video conferencing
- Team messaging and business SMS
- Mobile and desktop apps
- Integrations with CRM and productivity tools
- Multi-level auto attendant
- Everything in X2, plus:
- Unlimited calling to 48 countries
- Supervisor analytics and dashboards
- Call monitoring and whisper modes
- Quality management tools
- Advanced 8x8 Frontdesk features
Pros & Cons
3CX
Pros
- Significant cost savings compared to per-user pricing
- Flexible deployment options for cloud or on-premise
- Excellent mobile app performance for remote work
- Easy to set up and manage via web-portal
Cons
- Technical setup may require some networking knowledge
- Customer support is primarily handled through partners
- Interface can feel slightly dated to some users
8x8
Pros
- Excellent call quality and reliability across global locations
- Consolidates multiple communication tools into one easy interface
- Strong security features and compliance for regulated industries
- Seamless mobile app experience for remote work flexibility
Cons
- Initial setup and configuration can be complex
- Customer support response times can be inconsistent
- Interface may feel cluttered for very basic users