// circleloop alternative

A simpler CircleLoop alternative

// the short answer

CircleLoop is an app-first business phone system priced per user (from £5/user/mo + VAT, as of July 2026). LineHQ is the better fit if you’d rather your business number simply rang the mobile you already carry: it’s priced per package (number + minutes) not per seat, needs no app, and has no contract — from £4.99/mo.

CircleLoop and LineHQ both give you UK virtual numbers with no long lock-in, but they’re built around different ideas. CircleLoop routes your calls through its desktop and mobile apps and charges per user. LineHQ forwards your number to the phone you already own and charges per package. Here’s the side-by-side.

Last reviewed July 2026

  LineHQ CircleLoop
How you take calls Forwards to your existing mobile/landline Through the CircleLoop app (desktop & mobile)
Pricing model Per package (number + included minutes) Per user / per seat
From £4.99/mo £5/user/mo + VAT
App required No — use your normal phone Yes — calls run in the app
Contract None — rolling monthly Rolling monthly
Recording & voicemail-to-email Included Available
AI call transcription & summaries Included (metered) on paid tiers Not a core feature
UK company & support Yes — Budd and Todd Ltd, Hull Yes — UK

Competitor details were researched from public sources in July 2026 and may have changed — check the provider’s own website for current pricing and terms. LineHQ details are ours.

Frequently asked questions

What’s the best CircleLoop alternative in the UK?

If you want a business number that rings your existing mobile rather than an app you dial from, LineHQ is a strong CircleLoop alternative. It’s priced per package rather than per user, includes recording and voicemail-to-email, and has no contract, from £4.99/mo.

How is LineHQ different from CircleLoop?

CircleLoop is app-first and priced per user — you make and receive calls through its app. LineHQ forwards your number to the phone you already own and is priced per package, so there’s no app to install and, for a sole trader or small team, often a lower total cost.

Is LineHQ cheaper than CircleLoop?

It depends on your setup. CircleLoop charges per user (from £5/user/mo + VAT as of July 2026), so costs rise with each seat. LineHQ charges per package from £4.99/mo with included forwarding minutes, which is usually cheaper for one person or a small team sharing a number.

Can I move my CircleLoop number to LineHQ?

In most cases yes — UK numbers can be ported between providers. Start a new LineHQ number today and port your existing one across when you’re ready; porting is free and usually completes within a couple of weeks.

Try LineHQ

A UK number that rings your existing mobile, with recording, voicemail-to-email and a receptionist. From £4.99/mo, no contract, cancel anytime.