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.
Aircall
Aircall is a cloud-based call center software that integrates with your CRM and helpdesk tools to streamline phone support and sales operations for modern business teams.
Quick Comparison
| Feature | 3CX | Aircall |
|---|---|---|
| Website | 3cx.com | aircall.io |
| Pricing Model | Freemium | Subscription |
| Starting Price | Free | $30/month |
| FREE Trial | ✓ 60 days free trial | ✓ 7 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 | 2014 |
| Headquarters | Nicosia, Cyprus | Paris, France |
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.
Aircall
Aircall is a cloud-based phone system designed to help your sales and support teams have more meaningful conversations. Instead of dealing with clunky hardware or disconnected phone lines, you get a digital workspace that lives right inside your computer or mobile device. You can set up local or international numbers in seconds and start taking calls immediately.
The platform shines by connecting your phone activity directly to the tools you already use, like Salesforce, HubSpot, or Zendesk. This means you can see exactly who is calling and access their entire history before you even pick up. It scales easily from small teams to large global operations, helping you maintain a professional presence regardless of where your team is physically located.
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.
Aircall Features
- CRM Integrations. Connect your phone system to tools like HubSpot and Salesforce to automatically log calls and sync contact data.
- Power Dialer. Automate your outbound dialing sequences to reach more prospects in less time without manual entry errors.
- Live Call Monitoring. Listen in on live calls or whisper advice to your teammates to improve training and quality control.
- IVR Directories. Set up smart voice menus that route your callers to the right department or agent every time.
- Call Tagging. Apply custom tags to your calls so you can categorize conversations and pull detailed reports later.
- Shared Inbox. Collaborate with your team on follow-ups by sharing access to call recordings and voicemail assignments.
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
Aircall Pricing
- Minimum 3 users
- Unlimited inbound calls
- 50+ integrations
- Call recording
- IVR and basic routing
- SMS (pay-per-use)
- Everything in Essentials, plus:
- Salesforce integration
- Power Dialer
- Live call monitoring
- Advanced analytics
- Dedicated account manager
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
Aircall
Pros
- Seamless integration with popular CRM platforms
- Extremely fast setup for international numbers
- User-friendly interface requires almost no training
- Reliable mobile app for remote teams
- Excellent call quality on stable connections
Cons
- Minimum requirement of three users
- Higher price point than basic VoIP
- Occasional lag during high-volume periods
- SMS features limited in certain regions