If you’re replacing an old phone system, two names come up again and again: 3CX and FreePBX. Both are proven platforms that can run a whole office’s calls over the internet, and both can be hosted for you so there’s no server sitting in a cupboard. So when it comes to 3CX vs FreePBX, which is the better fit for a small business with 10 to 50 staff? This guide compares them in plain English.
We set up and support both, so we have no reason to push you one way. The honest answer is that the “best” choice depends on how your team works.
The quick answer
- Choose 3CX if you want polished apps for mobile, desktop and web out of the box, built-in video meetings and website live chat, and a system your staff can pick up quickly.
- Choose FreePBX if you want maximum flexibility, open-source software with no vendor lock-in, and you have unusual call routing or need to connect specialist hardware.
For most small offices, either will do the everyday job well: ringing the right people, sending calls to voicemail, queues and out-of-hours messages.
What is 3CX?
3CX is a commercial software phone system. It’s licensed by the number of simultaneous calls rather than by the number of users, and an annual subscription includes its iOS and Android apps, updates, and free video conferencing and live chat for all users. There’s also a free edition for very small teams (up to 10 users), though 3CX says it can change what that edition includes at any time, so it isn’t something to rely on for a growing business.
Its main strength is the user experience. Staff get one app for calls, chat and meetings, whether they’re at a desk, at home or on the road. You can read more on our hosted 3CX page.
What is FreePBX?
FreePBX is an open-source, web-based control panel for Asterisk, one of the most widely used phone system engines in the world. It’s released under the GPL licence and maintained by Sangoma. The current major version, FreePBX 17, runs on Debian Linux.
Because it’s open source, there’s no licence fee for the core software, and you’re not tied to one vendor. Extra features are available as commercial add-on modules if you need them. Its strength is flexibility: almost any call flow you can imagine can be built. See our hosted FreePBX page for how we run it.
3CX vs FreePBX: side-by-side
Ease of use
3CX is designed so that staff and office managers can make everyday changes themselves, like adding a user or changing opening hours. FreePBX is powerful but more technical behind the scenes. If you’re on a hosted plan where your provider makes the changes for you, this matters less.
Apps and remote working
3CX includes its own mobile and desktop apps as standard, so hybrid and remote working is simple. FreePBX works with a wide range of third-party softphone apps and desk phones, which gives choice but means a bit more setting up. Either way, you can use your office number on your mobile.
Flexibility and integrations
FreePBX wins on raw flexibility. It handles complex routing, unusual hardware and custom integrations well. 3CX covers the common needs neatly, such as CRM integration and call centre features, but within the way 3CX is designed to work.
Call centres and queues
Both support call queues, ring groups and IVR menus (“press 1 for sales”). If you run a busy sales or support team, 3CX’s queue reporting and agent tools are easy to use. See our 3CX call centre page for what’s possible.
Cost
Licensing works differently. 3CX charges by simultaneous calls; FreePBX’s core is free, with optional paid modules. In practice, when you take a hosted plan the platform cost is usually wrapped into a simple price per user, so you don’t need to work out licences yourself.
Which is better for a small business?
A few questions usually settle it:
- How many of your team work away from a desk? If lots, 3CX’s built-in apps are a big plus.
- Do you have specialist kit or complex routing? Door entry, paging, or call flows that vary by site or time of day often suit FreePBX.
- Who will manage it? If you want to make simple changes yourself, 3CX is friendlier. If your provider will handle changes, either works.
- Do you use Microsoft Teams? 3CX offers a Teams integration. Tell your provider how your team works so they can recommend the cleanest setup.
If you’re not sure, that’s normal. It’s worth a short chat with someone who has set up both before you commit.
Moving from your current system
Whichever you choose, you can keep your existing phone numbers. We transfer them for free. If you’re still on a traditional landline or ISDN, it’s worth planning now: Openreach is due to finish switching off the old copper network by 31 January 2027. Our guide to ISDN replacement options explains the choices, and our phone system migration service covers moving from an old on-site system.
How Simplify Networks can help
We host and support both 3CX and FreePBX for UK businesses, with engineers across England, Scotland and Wales. Plans start from £14.99 per user per month, with desk phone, softphone and call centre options. There is a one-off setup fee, which we’ll quote upfront. New customers who sign up by 31 October 2026 also get 50% off their first month.
Not sure whether 3CX or FreePBX is right for you?
Tell us how your team works and we’ll recommend the best fit, with clear pricing from £14.99 per user per month. Sign up by 31 October 2026 for 50% off your first month.