// bt business alternative
A simpler BT Business alternative for small teams
// the short answer
BT Business Digital Voice is a cloud phone system with per-user packages, optional desk phones and a Webex softphone. Choose it if your team needs a full communications setup. LineHQ is a lighter option for a small team that mainly needs a business number, straightforward inbound call handling and the phones it already uses.
BT Business Digital Voice and LineHQ solve different parts of the business-calling problem. BT Digital Voice is a cloud calling setup built around users, with phone and softphone options. LineHQ starts with the number your customers call, then routes it to the people and phones you already have. Here is the practical difference.
Last reviewed October 2026
| LineHQ | BT Business Digital Voice | |
|---|---|---|
| Main focus | UK business number and inbound call handling | Cloud phone system for business users |
| How calls reach your team | Forward to an existing mobile or landline; optional app and SIP devices | Use a Webex softphone or supported handset |
| Pricing approach | Per package, not per user | Per-user packages; check BT's current pricing and terms |
| Collaboration tools | Not a full collaboration suite | Webex collaboration options are available on higher packages |
| Advanced call features | Focus on straightforward routing and voicemail-to-email | Features such as hunt groups and an auto attendant are available on some packages |
| Desk phones | Not required for basic forwarding | Optional supported desk phones and headsets |
| Keeping an existing number | Eligible UK numbers can be brought over, subject to checks; keep the current service live until the port completes | Check BT's current transfer process and contract terms |
| Best fit | Sole traders and small teams focused on incoming customer calls | Teams that need a fuller cloud calling and collaboration setup |
Competitor details were researched from public sources in October 2026 and may have changed — check the provider’s own website for current pricing and terms. LineHQ details are ours.
Frequently asked questions
Is LineHQ a BT Business alternative?
Yes, for a sole trader or small team that wants a professional business number and clear inbound call handling without rolling out a full phone system to every user. BT Business may be the better fit when your team needs a broader cloud-calling and collaboration setup.
When is BT Business the better fit?
BT Business Digital Voice is worth considering when named users, a softphone or desk-phone setup, collaboration tools, hunt groups or a fuller communications system are part of your everyday work. LineHQ is for the lighter job of making one business number easy for customers to call and your team to answer.
Do I need a desk phone with LineHQ?
No. For basic forwarding, a LineHQ number can ring the mobile or landline you already use. The LineHQ app and compatible SIP devices are optional when you want them; a desk phone is not required to start.
Can I keep my BT business number?
Often, an eligible UK business number can move to another provider, subject to checks on the number and account details. Keep your existing service active until the transfer has completed; cancelling it early can put the number at risk.
How should I compare the cost of a BT Business alternative?
Compare the whole setup, not only the headline monthly figure: the number package, user licences, devices, call handling, forwarding or calling usage, optional features and any existing supplier commitments. That shows whether you need a full phone system or a simpler inbound setup.
Try LineHQ
A UK number with recording, voicemail-to-email and a receptionist, from £4.99/mo — Pay As You Go mobile forwarding at 7p/min. No contract, cancel anytime.