OpenPhone vs 8x8: Which is Better in 2026?
Choosing between OpenPhone and 8x8 comes down to understanding what each tool does best. This comparison breaks down the key differences so you can make an informed decision based on your specific needs, not marketing claims.
Short on time? Here's the quick answer
We've tested both tools. Here's who should pick what:
OpenPhone
Business phone for startups and small teams
Best for you if:
- • AI-powered business phone with shared numbers, call routing, and unified inbox
- • Sona AI agent handles calls 24/7 with lead qualification and routing
8x8
Cloud contact center and communications platform
Best for you if:
- • You need cloud contact center and communications platform
- • You need professional-grade features
| At a Glance | ||
|---|---|---|
Starts at | Custom | $24/user/monthX2 |
Best For | Communication | Communication |
Rating | 4.5/5 | - |
Choose OpenPhone or 8x8?
Choose OpenPhone if
Business phone for startups and small teams
- Affordable starting price at $15/user/mo billed annually
- AI agent handles after-hours calls without extra staffing
- Shared numbers let teams collaborate on customer conversations
Choose 8x8 if
Cloud contact center and communications platform
- All-in-one platform
- Global reach
- Good uptime
| Feature | OpenPhone | 8x8 |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing Model | Paid | Paid |
| User Rating | ★4.5/5 3,352 reviews | No ratings yet |
| Categories | CommunicationAI Agents | CommunicationCustomer Support |
In-Depth Analysis
OpenPhone
Business phone for startups and small teams
Strengths
- +Affordable starting price at $15/user/mo billed annually
- +AI agent handles after-hours calls without extra staffing
- +Shared numbers let teams collaborate on customer conversations
- +7-day free trial with no credit card required
- +Clean modern interface with fast onboarding
Weaknesses
- -Rebranded from OpenPhone to Quo which may cause confusion
- -HubSpot and Salesforce integrations require Business plan at $23/user/mo
- -International calling billed separately per minute
- -No free plan available beyond the 7-day trial
Key features
8x8
Cloud contact center and communications platform
Strengths
- +All-in-one platform
- +Global reach
- +Good uptime
Weaknesses
- -Complex pricing
- -Learning curve
Key features
Pricing: OpenPhone vs 8x8
| Plan | OpenPhone | 8x8 |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | N/A | $24 user/month X2 |
| Tier 2 | N/A | $44 user/month X4 |
| Tier 3 | N/A | $85 user/month X6 |
| Tier 4 | N/A | Custom contact sales X8 |
Pricing verified from each vendor's public pricing page. Compare in detail on OpenPhone pricing and 8x8 pricing.
Who Should Use What?
On a budget?
Both are paid. Compare plans on their websites.
Go with: OpenPhone
Want the highest-rated option?
OpenPhone is rated 4.5/5. 8x8 has no ratings yet.
Go with: OpenPhone
Value user reviews?
OpenPhone: 3,352 reviews (4.5/5). 8x8: no ratings yet.
Go with: OpenPhone
3 Questions to Help You Decide
What's your budget?
Both are paid. Pricing won't help you decide here.
What's your use case?
Both are communication tools. Compare their specific features to decide.
How important are ratings?
OpenPhone is rated 4.5/5; 8x8 has no ratings yet.
Key Takeaways
OpenPhone
- Our pick for this comparison
8x8
- Choose if you want cloud contact center and communications platform
The Bottom Line
OpenPhone is our pick.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is OpenPhone or 8x8 better?
OpenPhone is rated in our evaluation. Both are paid.
What are OpenPhone and 8x8 used for?
OpenPhone: Business phone for startups and small teams. 8x8: Cloud contact center and communications platform.
What does OpenPhone cost vs 8x8?
OpenPhone is a paid tool. 8x8 is a paid tool. Visit their websites for detailed pricing.
