// which uk number
Which UK number should you choose? (020 vs 0333 vs 0800)
// the short answer
Choose a local number (020, 0161, 01482…) to look established in a specific area; an 0333 national number to look national while callers pay a standard rate included in their mobile bundle; or an 0800 freephone number to reassure consumers that the call is free to them. Many businesses run more than one — and with LineHQ you can.
The number type you publish shapes how callers see you and what a call costs them. Here’s the practical comparison.
Last reviewed July 2026
| Local (020, 0161…) | 0333 national | 0800 freephone | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Caller cost | Standard rate; in mobile bundles | Standard rate; in mobile bundles | Free to the caller |
| Perception | Local, established | National, professional | Consumer-friendly, reassuring |
| Reveals your location | Yes — a specific area | No | No |
| Best for | Serving a local area | National businesses & support lines | Consumer sales & support |
| You pay for inbound minutes | From your package | From your package | Yes — freephone inbound is chargeable |
Frequently asked questions
Is an 0800, 0333 or local number best for a small business?
A local number (like 020 or 0161) suits a business serving a specific area and looks established. An 0333 national number looks national and is charged to callers at a standard rate included in their mobile bundle. An 0800 freephone number is free to the caller, which reassures consumers. Many businesses run more than one.
Do callers pay to ring an 0333 number?
Callers pay the same as a standard 01/02 landline call, and 0333 numbers are included in the inclusive minutes of most mobile and landline plans — so for most callers they’re effectively free.
Are 0800 numbers really free?
0800 numbers are free for the person calling you, including from mobiles. The business pays for the inbound minutes instead, so 0800 is popular for consumer sales and support lines where you want to remove any barrier to calling.
Can I have more than one number type?
Yes. With LineHQ you can run, for example, a local number for your area and an 0800 line for sales, and route them however you like. Your package includes one or more numbers depending on the tier.
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