Finding the correct calling solution for Microsoft Teams requires careful evaluation. Both Teams Calling Plans and Direct Routing enable external calls from Teams. Their operational approaches differ significantly.
This guide compares Teams Calling Plans and Direct Routing directly. It examines their functionality, cost differences, and suitability for various business requirements. Businesses identify the optimal solution for their operational needs and budget constraints.
Understanding Microsoft Teams Calling Options
Microsoft Teams makes calls to and from regular phone networks straightforward with two main routes: Calling Plans and Direct Routing. Both integrate directly with the Teams app itself. That means staff can dial out or answer incoming calls without any extra desk phone gear.
What sets them apart boils down to who’s running the phone service, the way calls get routed, and the level of control businesses have over costs, setup, and scaling up. Firms need to get these points clear before settling on one option.
What Are Microsoft Teams Calling Plans?
Microsoft Teams Calling Plans offer Microsoft’s own built-in phone service for Teams users. Here, Microsoft steps in as your telecom provider. They supply the phone numbers, call minutes, and links to the everyday phone network.
It’s all about keeping things simple. Companies just buy the right licences, hand out phone numbers to staff, and start dialling in or out straight from Teams. No big setup or tech headaches involved.
Simple calling setup
How Microsoft Teams Calling Plans Work
For a Teams Calling Plan, each person usually needs two things:
- A Microsoft Teams Phone licence
- A Calling Plan licence (either Domestic or Domestic + International)
Once set up, staff use Microsoft-run phone numbers for calls. Microsoft takes care of routing, the kit behind it all, and upkeep. That cuts out third-party phone firms or extra gear.
When a Teams Calling Plan Is the Right Choice
A Teams Calling Plan often fits well when:
- The business has a small to medium-sized workforce
- Call volumes stay predictable and fairly low
- In-house IT or telecom know-how is limited
- Getting up and running quickly matters more than squeezing every penny long-term
For companies after a no-fuss, all-Microsoft calling setup, these plans make a solid starting point.
What Is Microsoft Teams Direct Routing?
Microsoft Teams Direct Routing lets companies hook up Teams to their chosen external phone provider, skipping Microsoft as the carrier. They do this via a certified Session Border Controller (SBC) that safely channels calls between Teams and the standard phone network.
It gives far more flexibility and oversight. That’s why firms with tricky, busy, or budget-tight calling needs often go this route.
Direct Routing setup
How Direct Routing Works with Microsoft Teams
With Direct Routing, a business:
- Picks an approved third-party telecom provider
- Links that provider to Teams through a certified SBC
- Keeps hold of phone numbers, call paths, and telephony options
This lets firms reuse current SIP trunks, shift over existing numbers, and tailor call rules. It works too with older phone setups or contact centres if needed.
When Direct Routing Is the Better Option
Direct Routing usually suits best for:
- Medium to large organisations
- Businesses spread over several sites or countries
- Companies making lots of outbound calls
- Firms needing detailed call controls, reports, or add-ons
Here, the extra setup effort pays off through lower costs over time, more options, and room to grow.
Microsoft Teams Calling Plans vs Direct Routing – Key Differences
The table below highlights the practical differences between the two Microsoft Teams calling options.
| Comparison Area | Microsoft Teams Calling Plans | Microsoft Teams Direct Routing |
|---|---|---|
| Carrier | Microsoft acts as the phone carrier | Third-party telecom provider |
| Setup Complexity | Very simple, minimal configuration | More complex, requires SBC and provider setup |
| Flexibility | Standardised with limited customisation | Highly configurable and adaptable |
| Scalability | Costs increase as user numbers grow | Scales efficiently for larger teams |
| Cost Control | Fixed per-user pricing model | Greater control over call rates and spend |
| Number Management | Limited control over number ranges | Full control with easy number porting |
| International Calling | Limited country availability | Broad global coverage via providers |
| Advanced Call Features | Basic calling functionality | Advanced routing, reporting, and integrations |
| Best Suited For | Small businesses with simple needs | Medium to large organisations |
Microsoft Teams Calling Plans vs Direct Routing Pricing Structure Comparison
Pricing often plays a key role when firms weigh up Calling Plans against Direct Routing.
Microsoft Teams Calling Plans use a per-user, per-month fee that bundles in call minutes. This setup seems straightforward and predictable on paper. Costs can soon add up, though, if your team grows or you need calls abroad.
Direct Routing splits expenses in a different way. They generally break down into:
- Microsoft Teams Phone licences
- Charges from your telecom provider for calls and SIP trunks
Direct Routing can carry higher costs to get started. Over time, it usually proves cheaper. This holds especially true for businesses with lots of calls, offices in various spots, or operations spanning countries.
Understand true costs
Pros and Cons of Teams Calling Plans and Direct Routing
Pros and Cons of Teams Calling Plans
Pros
Microsoft Teams Calling Plans suit firms keen on a straightforward, all-Microsoft calling setup. You get things running fast with little technical know-how needed. That’s perfect for teams short on IT or telecom staff. Microsoft handles phone numbers and call paths from one place. This cuts day-to-day work. The steady per-user fees also help smaller groups plan budgets when calls stay regular.
Cons
The big downside with Calling Plans is their lack of bend. Companies get scant say over call routes, numbers, or costs. This can pinch as needs change. Bills climb sharp for bigger teams or lots of overseas calls. If you want fancy phone tools or cheaper running long-term, these plans start to feel stiff and pricey.
Pros and Cons of Teams Direct Routing
Pros
Microsoft Teams Direct Routing hands over much more say, room to adapt, and space to grow. Link Teams to your picked phone firm, and you shape call flows, handle number blocks, and snag better rates. It shines for outfits with sites everywhere or stacks of outgoing calls. Plus, it backs clever phone extras and slots into current systems smoothly. Great for expanding or tangled setups.
Cons
Direct Routing’s main hitch is the extra work. You need planning, partner chats, and SBC tweaks to start. Small teams might baulk at that. Keeping it going means juggling vendors, not just Microsoft. If plug-and-play with low watch is your goal, the fuss can tip past the gains.
Which Microsoft Teams Calling Option Is Right for Your Business?
If simplicity, quick setup, and hands-off management matter most to you, Microsoft Teams Calling Plans often work just fine. They suit smaller teams with basic calling needs and little in-house tech support.
Cost savings, room to expand, and full control mean Direct Routing is the smarter pick. It fits growing firms, larger companies, and those with existing phone contracts or complex call demands.
The best choice comes down to your business today and your plans for tomorrow.
FAQ's
1. What is the main difference between Microsoft Teams Calling Plans and Direct Routing?
The key difference is who manages your phone service. Calling Plans use Microsoft as the carrier. Direct Routing connects Teams to a third-party telecom provider. This gives businesses greater control over call routing, features, and costs.
2. Which option is better for small businesses?
Microsoft Teams Calling Plans work best for small businesses. They are easy to set up and need little technical knowledge. Microsoft manages everything. Direct Routing becomes suitable as calling needs increase.
3. Is Direct Routing more cost-effective than Calling Plans?
Direct Routing often saves money for businesses with high call volumes, multiple sites, or international needs. Calling Plans have simple pricing at first. Costs rise quickly with greater usage.
4. Can businesses keep their existing phone numbers with Direct Routing?
Yes. Direct Routing lets businesses port and keep their current phone numbers. This includes large ranges. Calling Plans offer less flexibility here.
5. Can a business switch from Calling Plans to Direct Routing later?
Yes. Many businesses begin with Calling Plans. They switch to Direct Routing as needs change. Switching requires planning and setup to avoid disruptions.
Final Thoughts
Microsoft Teams Calling Plans and Direct Routing both enable PSTN calling right inside Teams. They meet different business needs though. Calling Plans fit organisations that put simplicity and quick rollout first. Direct Routing brings more flexibility, room to grow, and tighter cost control. That’s ideal for firms with advanced or expanding call demands. Your choice should line up with current usage, tech resources, and future goals.
Plan Your Teams Setup
