Comparative Review of Top Live Phone Answering Services
By Amanda Reyes | Published: 2025-03-24 | Category: Live Phone Answering Service
About Live Phone Answering Service
Live phone answering services provide businesses with remote receptionists to handle incoming calls professionally, offering services like message taking, appointment scheduling, and call routing. These services help businesses maintain constant availability and improve customer experience without the overhead of in-house staff.
Scoring Criteria
- → Feature Set
- → Agent Professionalism & Training
- → Customization Options
- → Integration Capabilities
- → Reliability & Uptime
- → Customer Support
- → Pricing & Value
The Best Live Phone Answering Service
Ruby Receptionists
By Ruby
Premium live answering service focused on creating positive caller experiences with highly trained, US-based receptionists, mobile apps, and integrations.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Small Businesses, Legal Firms, Marketing Agencies, Financial Services
Key Features
- ✓Live Call Answering: Professionally answered calls during specified hours or 24/7. (US-Based)
- ✓Bilingual Receptionists: Offers receptionists fluent in both English and Spanish. (Available)
- ✓Appointment Scheduling: Receptionists can book appointments directly into your calendar. (Integrated)
- ✓Mobile App: Manage calls, messages, and settings via iOS and Android apps.
- ✓Call Forwarding & Transferring: Seamless transfer of calls to appropriate personnel.
- ✓Voicemail & Message Delivery: Custom voicemail greetings and instant message notifications.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.3 / 10.0)
Pricing
Call Handling Plans
$319.00 / Monthly
- Receptionist Minutes (e.g., 100)
- Mobile App Access
- Basic Integrations
- US-Based Receptionists
Limitations: Overage charges apply per extra minute
Higher Volume Plans
$599.00 / Monthly
- Increased Receptionist Minutes (e.g., 200)
- Advanced Features
- More Integrations
Limitations: Higher cost per base minute compared to some competitors
Pros
- + Exceptional receptionist quality and training
- + Focus on positive brand representation
- + User-friendly mobile app
- + Good range of integrations
Cons
- - Significantly more expensive than many competitors
- - Pricing based on minutes can be hard to predict
Verdict
"An excellent, premium choice for businesses prioritizing caller experience and brand image above all else, despite the higher cost."
MAP Communications
By MAP Communications
Cost-effective, employee-owned answering service offering 24/7 coverage, bilingual options, and customized scripting for various industries.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, Mobile App
Best For: Small Businesses, Contractors, Medical Offices, Property Management, Franchises
Key Features
- ✓24/7 Live Answering: Always-on call coverage by live agents. (Included)
- ✓Custom Scripting: Develop tailored scripts to match specific business needs and workflows.
- ✓Bilingual Services: Support for Spanish-speaking callers. (Available)
- ✓Secure Messaging: HIPAA-compliant messaging options for sensitive industries.
- ✓Order Processing: Receptionists can take orders over the phone.
- ✓IVR & Call Routing: Automated greetings and intelligent call routing options.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.3 / 10.0)
Pricing
Standard
$43.00 / Monthly
- 30 Day Free Trial
- Basic Call Answering
- Message Taking
- Custom Scripting
Limitations: Low minute allowance, Primarily per-minute billing
Business
$160.00 / Monthly
- Higher Minute Allowance (e.g., 125)
- Appointment Setting
- Web Portal Access
Limitations: Overage costs per minute
Executive
$270.00 / Monthly
- Increased Minutes (e.g., 225)
- Priority Support
- Advanced Reporting
Limitations: Overage costs per minute
Pros
- + Competitive pricing with low entry point
- + High level of script customization
- + Employee-owned structure may enhance service quality
- + Long-standing industry presence
Cons
- - Mobile app less polished than some competitors
- - Integrations may require higher tiers or custom setup
Verdict
"A strong contender offering excellent value and customization, particularly suitable for businesses needing reliable 24/7 coverage without a premium price tag."
AnswerConnect
By AnswerConnect
24/7 live answering service emphasizing business continuity, customer support, lead capture, and appointment setting with a focus on distributed workforce.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Customer Support Teams, Sales Teams, Service Businesses, Businesses requiring 24/7 availability
Key Features
- ✓24/7/365 Coverage: Continuous live answering. (Standard)
- ✓Lead Capture & Qualification: Agents trained to identify and qualify potential leads.
- ✓Appointment Scheduling: Booking into various calendar systems.
- ✓Order Taking: Basic e-commerce order processing capabilities.
- ✓CRM Integration: Connects with popular CRM platforms like Salesforce. (Available)
- ✓Team Hub App: Mobile and desktop app for team collaboration and call management.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.1 / 10.0)
Pricing
Plans based on Minutes
$249.00 / Monthly
- Pooled Minutes (e.g., 200)
- 24/7 Answering
- Basic Reporting
- Mobile App
Limitations: Overage fees per minute
Higher Tier Plans
$549.00 / Monthly
- More Minutes (e.g., 500)
- Advanced Integrations
- Dedicated Account Manager
Limitations: Can become costly at high volumes
Pros
- + Strong focus on lead capture and sales support
- + Robust feature set including order taking
- + Good integration options
- + Well-regarded mobile/desktop app
Cons
- - Pricing can be higher than some alternatives
- - Pooled minutes might be complex for some users to track
Verdict
"A feature-rich service ideal for businesses focused on sales, lead generation, and providing comprehensive customer support around the clock."
PATLive
By PATLive
US-based live answering service providing 24/7 support, appointment scheduling, lead collection, and event registration with flexible plans.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Small to Medium Businesses, Real Estate, Event Management, Service Industries
Key Features
- ✓24/7 Live Answering: Call coverage at all times. (Included)
- ✓Appointment Scheduling: Integrates with calendars for booking.
- ✓Lead Collection: Captures vital information from potential customers.
- ✓Event Registration: Agents can handle registrations for webinars or events.
- ✓Custom Call Scripting: Tailored call handling instructions.
- ✓Mobile App: Manage service and view messages on the go.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Basic
$59.00 / Monthly
- Starter Minutes (e.g., 50)
- Basic Answering
- Message Taking
- Web Portal
Limitations: Limited minutes, Overage fees
Standard
$199.00 / Monthly
- Increased Minutes (e.g., 200)
- Appointment Scheduling
- Lead Capture
Limitations: Overage fees apply
Premium
$399.00 / Monthly
- More Minutes (e.g., 500)
- Advanced Features
- Priority Support
Limitations: Overage fees apply
Pros
- + Flexible pricing plans with low starting point
- + Offers unique features like event registration
- + US-based agents
- + Generally positive reviews on service quality
Cons
- - Integrations might be less extensive than some competitors
- - Overage costs can add up quickly on lower tiers
Verdict
"A solid, flexible option with competitive pricing, particularly good for businesses needing event registration support or a reliable US-based service."
VoiceNation
By VoiceNation
Provides 24/7 live answering and messaging services with a focus on affordability, simple setup, and instant activation.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, Mobile App
Best For: Startups, Small Businesses, Budget-Conscious Companies, After-Hours Coverage
Key Features
- ✓24/7 Call Answering: Continuous phone support. (Standard)
- ✓Instant Activation: Claims rapid setup and service start.
- ✓Online Dashboard: Web portal for account management and message review.
- ✓Order Processing: Capability to take customer orders via phone.
- ✓Custom Scripting: Ability to customize agent responses.
- ✓Call Patching/Forwarding: Connecting callers to the right person or department.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.1 / 10.0)
Pricing
Basic
$65.00 / Monthly
- Included Minutes (e.g., 50)
- Basic Message Taking
- Online Dashboard
Limitations: Per-minute billing, Overage fees
Business
$249.00 / Monthly
- More Minutes (e.g., 250)
- Appointment Scheduling Capability
- Order Processing Capability
Limitations: Overage fees
Pro
$599.00 / Monthly
- Higher Minute Allowance (e.g., 650)
- Advanced Features
Limitations: Overage fees
Pros
- + Affordable entry-level plans
- + Simple setup process
- + Offers order processing capabilities
- + 24/7 availability standard
Cons
- - Fewer advanced features and integrations compared to premium services
- - Agent quality consistency can be a concern based on some reviews
Verdict
"A budget-friendly option for businesses needing basic 24/7 answering services quickly, but may lack the polish and advanced features of higher-priced competitors."
Nexa
By Nexa
Combines live answering with lead qualification, intake services, and outbound calling, catering often to home services, legal, and medical industries.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, Mobile App
Best For: Home Services (HVAC, Plumbing), Legal Firms, Medical Practices, Franchises, Sales Teams
Key Features
- ✓24/7 Bilingual Answering: Round-the-clock support in English and Spanish. (Available)
- ✓Lead Qualification & Intake: Specialized processes for capturing and qualifying leads.
- ✓Appointment Scheduling: Integrated booking services.
- ✓Outbound Calling: Agents can make outbound calls for follow-ups or surveys. (Available)
- ✓CRM & Software Integration: Connects with industry-specific software (e.g., ServiceTitan).
- ✓HIPAA Compliance: Secure handling of patient information for medical clients.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.3 / 10.0)
Pricing
Minute-Based Plans
$235.00 / Monthly
- Base Receptionist Minutes (e.g., 100)
- Standard Answering
- Basic Integrations
- Mobile App
Limitations: Overage charges per minute
Growth Plans
$600.00 / Monthly
- Increased Minutes (e.g., 300)
- Advanced Features
- Lead Qualification Options
Limitations: Pricing increases significantly with volume and features
Custom Enterprise Plans
Contact Vendor
- Tailored Minute Allowances
- Dedicated Teams
- Complex Integrations
- Outbound Calling Campaigns
Limitations: Requires custom quote
Pros
- + Strong focus on lead intake and qualification
- + Excellent integration capabilities, especially for service industries
- + Offers outbound calling services
- + Bilingual support readily available
Cons
- - Can be more expensive than basic answering services
- - Complexity might be overkill for very small businesses
Verdict
"A powerful solution for businesses, particularly in home services, legal, and medical fields, that need more than just call answering, including robust lead management and specific integrations."
Abby Connect
By Abby Connect
US-based receptionists focused on providing a dedicated small team approach, aiming for relationship building and personalized call handling.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Small Businesses, Law Firms, Consultants, Businesses wanting personalized service
Key Features
- ✓Dedicated Receptionist Team: Small team assigned to your account for consistency. (Core Feature)
- ✓US-Based Receptionists: All agents located within the United States.
- ✓Custom Call Handling: Detailed customization of scripts and procedures.
- ✓Appointment Scheduling: Booking into calendars.
- ✓Mobile App: Manage service and view calls/messages.
- ✓Bilingual Option: Spanish-speaking receptionists available.
Scorecard (Overall: 8.1 / 10.0)
Pricing
Abby Go
$349.00 / Monthly
- Receptionist Minutes (e.g., 100)
- Dedicated Team
- Mobile App
- Basic Integrations
Limitations: Overage charges per minute
Abby Pro
$629.00 / Monthly
- More Minutes (e.g., 200)
- Advanced Features
- CRM Integration Options
Limitations: Higher price point for dedicated team model
Pros
- + Dedicated small team approach fosters familiarity
- + High level of personalization and customization
- + Strong focus on professional, friendly service
- + US-based agents
Cons
- - More expensive than many competitors
- - Fewer native integrations compared to some larger providers
Verdict
"A great choice for businesses seeking a highly personalized answering service with a consistent team, willing to pay a premium for that relationship-focused approach."
Smith.ai
By Smith.ai
AI-powered virtual receptionist service combining live agents with technology for call screening, lead qualification, appointment booking, and payment collection.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Solo Practitioners, Small Law Firms, Financial Advisors, IT & Marketing Agencies, Technology Focused Businesses
Key Features
- ✓Per-Call Pricing Model: Option to pay per relevant call instead of per minute. (Unique Pricing Option)
- ✓AI & Human Hybrid: Uses technology for efficiency combined with human agents.
- ✓Advanced Call Screening: Filters out spam and sales calls effectively.
- ✓Lead Intake & Qualification: Detailed lead gathering based on custom criteria.
- ✓Appointment Scheduling: Syncs with calendars and booking software.
- ✓Payment Collection: Can securely take payments over the phone.
- ✓Website Chat & SMS Answering: Offers text and web chat answering services. (Add-on Service)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.6 / 10.0)
Pricing
Starter (Per Call)
$285.00 / Monthly
- 30 Relevant Calls
- Call Screening
- Basic Integrations
- US-Based Agents
Limitations: Overage charges per call
Pro (Per Call)
$765.00 / Monthly
- 90 Relevant Calls
- Appointment Booking
- CRM Integration
- Payment Collection
Limitations: Can be expensive if call volume is high but calls are short
Minute Plans
$255.00 / Monthly
- Pooled Minutes (e.g., 100)
- Similar features to per-call plans
Limitations: Overage charges per minute
Pros
- + Innovative use of AI for efficiency
- + Excellent spam filtering
- + Per-call pricing option can be cost-effective
- + Wide range of integrations
- + Offers web chat and SMS services
Cons
- - Per-call pricing may not suit all call patterns
- - Can be more expensive than traditional minute-based services for certain usage
Verdict
"A technologically advanced service ideal for businesses, especially professional services, that value efficiency, robust integrations, lead quality, and want effective spam blocking. The per-call pricing is a key differentiator."
Specialty Answering Service (SAS)
By Specialty Answering Service
Offers customizable 24/7 live answering solutions for various industries, including HIPAA compliance for healthcare and robust scripting capabilities.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Medical Practices, Legal Firms, E-commerce, Contractors, Small Businesses
Key Features
- ✓24/7 Live Operators: Always available call answering. (Included)
- ✓HIPAA Compliant Messaging: Secure service suitable for healthcare providers.
- ✓Complex Scripting: Build intricate call flows and agent responses.
- ✓Appointment Management: Scheduling and calendar integration.
- ✓Bilingual Support: Spanish and English operators available.
- ✓Order Taking & E-commerce Support: Handles phone orders and customer service for online stores.
Scorecard (Overall: 7.9 / 10.0)
Pricing
Economy
$39.00 / Monthly
- Low Starter Minutes (e.g., 30)
- Basic Answering
- Web Portal
Limitations: Strictly per-minute billing, High overage potential
Standard
$149.00 / Monthly
- More Minutes (e.g., 150)
- Appointment Scheduling
- Custom Scripting
Limitations: Overage charges per minute
Premium
$379.00 / Monthly
- Higher Minute Allowance (e.g., 400)
- Advanced Features
- HIPAA Compliance Options
Limitations: Overage charges per minute
Pros
- + Very affordable starting plans
- + Strong customization and scripting capabilities
- + HIPAA compliance options
- + Good for e-commerce order taking
Cons
- - Customer support reviews are mixed
- - Per-minute pricing model across all tiers can lead to unpredictable costs
Verdict
"A highly customizable and budget-friendly option, especially strong for businesses needing complex scripts or HIPAA compliance, though be mindful of the per-minute billing structure."
MoneyPenny
By MoneyPenny
UK-founded service with a strong US presence, offering dedicated receptionists, call handling, and additional services like live chat and business address.
Platforms & Use Cases
Platforms: Web, iOS, Android
Best For: Small to Medium Businesses, Professional Services, Companies needing a UK/US presence
Key Features
- ✓Dedicated Receptionist Option: Assigns a specific receptionist to handle your calls primarily. (Available)
- ✓24/7 Call Answering: Global operations provide continuous coverage.
- ✓Mobile App & Portal: Manage calls, availability, and messages.
- ✓Live Chat Services: Offers managed live chat for websites. (Add-on Service)
- ✓Business Address & Mail Handling: Provides virtual office services in some locations. (Add-on Service)
Scorecard (Overall: 8.0 / 10.0)
Pricing
Call Answering Plans
$199.00 / Monthly
- Call Allowance (e.g., 50 calls)
- Message Taking
- App Access
- US/UK Based Receptionists
Limitations: Pricing often based on number of calls, not minutes; Overage fees apply
Higher Volume Plans
$399.00 / Monthly
- Increased Call Allowance (e.g., 110 calls)
- More Features
- Dedicated Receptionist Option
Limitations: Can be costly compared to minute-based plans if calls are short
Pros
- + Option for a dedicated receptionist
- + High level of professionalism reported
- + Offers complementary services like live chat and business address
- + Strong mobile app
Cons
- - Pricing based on calls can be less predictable than minutes
- - Integration options might be less extensive than some competitors
Verdict
"A professional service with a strong reputation, particularly appealing for businesses wanting a dedicated receptionist or needing additional services like live chat. Well-suited for both US and UK markets."
Final Thoughts
The Live Phone Answering Service market offers diverse solutions catering to various business needs and budgets. Premium services like Ruby and Abby Connect focus on exceptional agent quality and personalized experiences at a higher cost. Smith.ai stands out with its tech-forward approach and unique per-call pricing. MAP Communications and SAS offer strong value and customization, particularly for budget-conscious businesses or those with specific compliance needs like HIPAA. Nexa excels in lead qualification and industry-specific integrations, while AnswerConnect provides a robust feature set for sales and support.