// 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 start with a business number that rings the mobile you already carry: it’s priced per package (number + minutes) not per seat, the app is optional, and there is no contract — a UK number from £4.99/mo, with Pay As You Go mobile forwarding at 7p/min.
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 phone (mobile from 7p/min on PAYG) | Through the CircleLoop app (desktop & mobile) |
| Pricing model | Per package (number + included minutes) | Per user / per seat |
| From | £4.99/mo + PAYG forwarding | £5/user/mo + VAT |
| App required | Not for basic forwarding; optional app/SIP devices available | 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 — a UK number from £4.99/mo, with standard UK mobile forwarding at 7p/min on Pay As You Go.
How is LineHQ different from CircleLoop?
CircleLoop is app-first and priced per user — you make and receive calls through its app. LineHQ starts with forwarding to the phone you already own and is priced per package; the app and SIP devices are optional when you want app ringing or outbound calling. For a sole trader or small team, that is 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.
Sources
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.