If you're shopping for a new business phone system, you've probably come across two big names: RingCentral and 8x8. Both are leaders in the cloud phone space, offering unified communications solutions designed for businesses of all sizes.
But here's what most comparison charts won't tell you: your phone system is only as good as the team that supports it.
That’s where AIS comes in. As a local provider and certified RingCentral partner, we help businesses maximize the benefits of their cloud phone systems, not just by selling the software but by implementing, configuring, and supporting it long after the contract is signed.
In this article, we break down the differences between RingCentral, 8x8, and the AIS experience so you can determine which one delivers the most value for your business.
Cloud Phone Systems Review: Why This Comparison Matters
Phone systems used to be simple. You bought some desk phones, hooked them up to phone lines, and called it a day. But today’s cloud-based platforms come with a dizzying array of features, pricing tiers, and technical jargon.
Most businesses aren’t just asking, “Which is cheaper?”
Instead, they’re asking:
- Who’s going to help me set this up?
- Will it integrate with the tools my team already uses?
- What happens if we run into problems?
- Can we get support from a human, rather than an automated robot?
That’s why comparing these three options is more than just checking boxes and reviewing pricing pages. It’s about total value.
Understanding the Options: Which Phone System To Choose
Let’s take a closer look at what each provider brings to the table.
RingCentral: The Established Industry Leader
RingCentral is one of the most trusted names in cloud communications. The platform offers voice, video, team messaging, mobile apps, and integrations with tools like Microsoft Teams, Salesforce, and Google Workspace.
It’s scalable, reliable, and loaded with features, especially for remote or hybrid teams who need to stay connected across multiple devices and locations.
AIS is a certified RingCentral partner, which means we sell, install, and support RingCentral systems with a local, hands-on approach.
8x8: A Longtime Competitor with a Global Reach
8x8 offers many of the same features as RingCentral: VoIP calls, team chat, video meetings, and analytics. They also provide contact center solutions, making them a popular choice for larger enterprises.
While 8x8 has a strong presence in global markets, we’ve heard from clients that their user interface can be less intuitive, and support isn’t always as responsive, especially for small to mid-sized businesses without dedicated IT teams.
Related Article: Office Phone Systems: Should I Change My Phone Company?
AIS Business Phone Systems: Local Expertise + Real Support
AIS provides business phone systems powered by RingCentral and other trusted platforms, but what sets us apart is the experience we deliver.
We help local businesses in Las Vegas and Southern California select the right features, install the system, onboard staff, and provide prompt support whenever issues arise.
So, in this comparison, AIS isn’t a separate platform. We’re your local technology partner — helping you get more from whichever platform you choose.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Features, Support, and Cost
Let’s break down some of the most critical decision points for buyers.
Features
Both RingCentral and 8x8 offer a range of robust features. You’ll get:
- Auto attendants and call routing
- Voicemail-to-email transcription
- Mobile and desktop apps
- Call analytics and reporting
- Video meetings
- Integrations with CRMs and productivity tools
RingCentral tends to edge out 8x8 in overall polish and ease of use. Their mobile app is clean and intuitive. The platform’s analytics and reporting dashboards are strong, even at lower-tier plans.
8x8 offers slightly more aggressive pricing at times, especially for international calling. However, some users report a steeper learning curve with their interface.
At AIS, we help you match these features to your business needs. Some companies need every bell and whistle. Others want simplicity and reliability. We tailor the solution accordingly.
Support and Responsiveness
Here’s where things get interesting:
- RingCentral offers 24/7 support through live chat and phone, with a decent reputation overall. But since it's a large provider, the experience can vary depending on your plan and ticket priority.
- 8x8 also provides around-the-clock support; however, clients sometimes struggle to receive quick assistance, especially during complex implementations.
- AIS, on the other hand, delivers local, hands-on support. When something goes wrong, we don’t just open a ticket. We pick up the phone, visit your office if needed, and resolve the issue with real urgency.
This level of service can make or break your experience, especially if you’re a growing business without an internal IT department.
Business Phone System Pricing Transparency
Both RingCentral and 8x8 offer per-user, per-month pricing. The cost usually depends on the tier you choose and the number of users.
RingCentral pricing typically ranges from $20 to $35 per user per month, for small to mid-sized businesses. 8x8 is in the same ballpark, although it may be slightly lower for higher user counts or international plans.
Here’s where AIS adds value: we help clients navigate pricing in plain language. We explain:
- What’s included at each tier
- Which features are worth paying for
- When it makes sense to buy vs lease hardware
- How to avoid surprise charges during setup
You’ll never get a vague quote or find hidden fees in your bill.
Who Each Option Is Best For
To help you decide, let’s look at who each provider serves best.
RingCentral: Ideal for Growing, Distributed Teams
If your team is remote or hybrid, RingCentral offers unmatched flexibility. It integrates easily with business tools, scales well, and delivers a polished user experience.
RingCentral also works well for companies that want a reliable platform without needing to manage every detail internally. When paired with AIS, it becomes a complete solution — software + support.
8x8: A Fit for Global Enterprises and Contact Centers
8x8 makes sense for larger businesses with international calling needs or companies that run complex contact centers and want advanced routing tools.
That said, if you’re a smaller business or local operation, the level of complexity might be more than you need, and support may feel impersonal.
AIS: Best for SMBs Who Value Personalized Support
AIS is a wise choice for small to mid-sized businesses that want a modern cloud phone system but don’t want to be left on their own after the sale.
We help you:
- Choose the right plan
- Set up your phones, port your numbers, and configure call flows
- Train your team on how to use the system
- Get quick help when things go wrong
In short, AIS bridges the gap between national software platforms and local support expectations.
Why AIS Partners with RingCentral (and Not 8x8)
This question comes up a lot, so let’s answer it clearly: we chose RingCentral as a partner because it delivers the best combination of reliability, features, and user experience for our clients.
We’ve tested and reviewed multiple platforms. And while 8x8 has some strengths, RingCentral consistently gives our clients fewer headaches, smoother rollouts, and better long-term satisfaction.
The best part? When you work with AIS, you don’t lose the benefits of RingCentral. You gain better implementation, faster support, and a local team that has your back.
What to Ask Before Choosing a Provider
As you evaluate your options, ask these questions:
- Who will handle setup, number porting, and onboarding?
- What happens if I need help during business hours?
- Can I scale my plan easily as my business grows?
- Will I be paying for features I won’t use?
- Is support handled by a real person — or a chatbot?
These aren’t just technical questions. They’re about the experience you’ll have over the life of the system.
Final Thoughts: Which Phone System Delivers the Most Value?
The truth is both RingCentral and 8x8 offer powerful tools. If you’re tech-savvy and happy to handle support remotely, either one can do the job.
But if you want more than just software and you want a partner who knows your team, your building, and your goals, then RingCentral with AIS often delivers the most value.
You get industry-leading technology and real-world support. You get a system that’s designed around how your business actually works. And when things go wrong (because they always do), you get fast, local help.
Want help figuring out the best phone system for your business?
Contact AIS today for a pressure-free consultation and personalized recommendation.
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