Mitel is a well-known provider of business communication solutions, offering a range of products that help companies manage their phone systems, customer interactions, and internal communications. For UK businesses looking to improve their communication capabilities, understanding Mitel’s offerings can help make an informed decision. In this review, we’ll explore the main products Mitel provides, list their pricing, and examine the pros and cons of each.
Mitel product range
Mitel offers various solutions designed to meet the communication needs of businesses of all sizes. Their products range from on-premises office phone systems to cloud-based communication platforms including VoIP. Below is a breakdown of some of their most popular offerings:
| Product | Type | Pricing | Key Features | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MiCloud Connect | Cloud-based communication | £20 – £40 per user, per month | Voice, video, messaging, collaboration tools | Easy scalability, integrated tools, high security, reliable call quality | Pricing increases with added features, internet-dependent |
| MiVoice Business | On-premises system | £300 – £600 per user (setup) | Customisable phone system, supports multiple devices | Customisable, reliable, supports existing infrastructure | High upfront costs, requires IT support, limited scalability |
| MiCollab | Collaboration platform | £15 – £30 per user, per month | Messaging, voice, video, content sharing | Seamless integration with Mitel products, centralised collaboration | Additional costs if used standalone, less intuitive interface |
| MiContact Center | Customer support solution | £50+ per user, per month | Call routing, real-time analytics, omnichannel interaction | Comprehensive management tools, real-time analytics | High cost, training required, limited non-Mitel integration |
| MiVoice Office 400 | Hybrid (VoIP/Telephony) | £250 – £500 per user (setup) | Telephony and VoIP services, scalable for SMBs | Easy setup, scalable, ideal for SMBs | Upfront costs, fewer features than cloud-based solutions |
1. MiCloud Connect
MiCloud Connect is Mitel’s cloud-based business phone system that provides a complete communication solution. It combines voice, video, messaging, and collaboration tools into one platform, allowing for easy integration and scalability.
- Pricing: MiCloud Connect has tiered pricing options, typically starting at around £20 per user, per month for the basic plan. More advanced plans can go up to £40 per user, per month, depending on the features required.
Pros:
- Easy to scale as your business grows
- Integrated tools for video conferencing and messaging
- High level of security and data protection
- Reliable call quality and uptime
Cons:
- Pricing can increase significantly with added features
- Requires a stable internet connection for optimal performance
- May have a learning curve for some users
2. MiVoice Business
MiVoice Business is a robust on-premises communication system designed for businesses that prefer traditional phone systems with advanced functionality. It supports a wide range of devices and can be customised to meet specific organisational needs.
- Pricing: MiVoice Business pricing can vary depending on the number of users and the complexity of the setup. Initial costs can range from £300 to £600 per user for the hardware and setup, with additional fees for maintenance and support.
Pros:
- Customisable and adaptable to specific business needs
- Reliable performance without dependency on internet connectivity
- Supports integration with existing infrastructure
Cons:
- Higher upfront costs compared to cloud-based solutions
- Requires in-house IT support for maintenance
- Limited flexibility in scaling compared to cloud options
3. MiCollab
MiCollab is Mitel’s unified communication and collaboration tool that integrates with other Mitel products. It offers messaging, voice, video, and content sharing capabilities, making it easier for teams to collaborate in real time.
- Pricing: MiCollab is often included with other Mitel products like MiCloud Connect or MiVoice Business but can also be purchased separately. Pricing generally starts at £15 to £30 per user, per month.
Pros:
- Seamless integration with Mitel’s other communication solutions
- Provides a centralised platform for collaboration
- Enhances productivity with real-time communication tools
Cons:
- Best suited for existing Mitel users
- Additional costs for standalone usage
- Some users may find the interface less intuitive compared to other collaboration tools
4. MiContact Center
MiContact Center is designed for businesses that require customer support and contact centre solutions. It offers features like call routing, real-time analytics, and customer interaction management to enhance the customer service experience.
- Pricing: MiContact Center pricing starts at around £50 per user, per month, with costs increasing for more advanced features and larger teams.
Pros:
- Comprehensive call routing and management features
- Real-time analytics to monitor performance
- Supports omnichannel customer interactions
Cons:
- Higher cost compared to basic contact centre solutions
- Requires proper training for staff to use effectively
- Integration with non-Mitel systems may be limited
5. MiVoice Office 400
MiVoice Office 400 is tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, offering a mix of traditional telephony and VoIP services. It provides essential communication tools that are easy to manage and can grow with your business.
- Pricing: Pricing typically starts at £250 to £500 per user for the setup, with ongoing maintenance fees.
Pros:
- Ideal for small to medium-sized businesses
- Easy to set up and manage
- Scalable with both VoIP and traditional phone options
Cons:
- Upfront costs may be a barrier for smaller businesses
- Less feature-rich compared to cloud-based solutions
- Limited flexibility if the business outgrows the system
Overall pros and cons of Mitel products
Overall pros:
- Scalability: Mitel’s range of products can grow with your business, from small startups to large enterprises.
- Reliability: Known for its robust systems, Mitel offers reliable communication solutions that minimise downtime.
- Integrated solutions: Most of Mitel’s products work seamlessly together, providing a unified approach to communication.
Overall cons:
- Cost: While Mitel offers high-quality solutions, the cost can be a limiting factor, especially for smaller businesses.
- Complexity: Some products may have a steep learning curve, requiring training for users to get the most out of them.
- Dependency on internet: Cloud-based solutions require a stable internet connection, which could be a drawback in areas with limited connectivity.
Getting the best price
When considering Mitel’s communication solutions, it’s essential to look beyond the initial pricing to understand the potential hidden fees, available discounts, and strategies for getting the best value. This section will cover these aspects to help you make a more cost-effective decision.
Hidden fees and additional costs
While Mitel provides transparent pricing for their products, there are some additional costs that businesses should be aware of:
- Setup and installation fees: For on-premises solutions like MiVoice Business and MiVoice Office 400, there can be significant setup and installation charges. These costs can vary depending on the complexity of the system and the size of the business.
- Hardware costs: Some Mitel products require specific hardware, such as IP phones, routers, and servers. These devices are often not included in the base price, so it’s important to factor in the cost of purchasing or leasing this equipment.
- Maintenance and support fees: Many Mitel solutions come with optional support packages that can add to the overall cost. These packages may include technical assistance, software updates, and maintenance, which can be crucial for keeping the system running smoothly.
- Upgrade costs: As your business grows or your needs change, you may need to upgrade your Mitel system to access additional features or increased capacity. These upgrades often come with extra charges, which can add up over time.
- Training expenses: Depending on the complexity of the system, your team might require training to use the full range of features effectively. Training costs can vary, but they should be considered in your budget planning.
Discounts and promotional offers
Mitel occasionally offers discounts and promotional pricing, which can help reduce overall costs. Here are some ways to take advantage of these opportunities:
- Volume discounts: If you’re purchasing Mitel products for a large team, you might be eligible for volume discounts. Businesses with a higher number of users often receive reduced rates, so it’s worth inquiring about any bulk pricing options.
- Bundled solutions: Mitel often provides bundled packages that combine different services, such as MiCollab with MiCloud Connect or MiVoice Business. These bundles can be more cost-effective than purchasing each product separately, offering savings on both subscription fees and hardware costs.
- Seasonal promotions: Keep an eye out for seasonal sales or special promotions. Mitel and its authorised resellers sometimes offer discounts during specific times of the year, such as the end of a financial quarter or during major business trade shows.
- Contract negotiations: Businesses that commit to longer-term contracts with Mitel may have the opportunity to negotiate better rates. Signing up for multi-year agreements can sometimes lead to lower monthly fees or discounts on setup costs.
Getting the best prices
To ensure you’re getting the best deal on Mitel’s products, consider the following tips:
- Request a tailored quote: Mitel’s pricing can be flexible depending on your business’s specific needs. Contacting Mitel directly or working with an authorised reseller to get a customised quote can help you access the most competitive rates.
- Compare multiple resellers: Mitel products are available through various authorised partners and resellers, who may offer different pricing structures or additional discounts. Comparing quotes from multiple sources can help you find the best deal.
- Consider future needs: When negotiating prices, think about your business’s future requirements. Ensuring your system is scalable and adaptable can prevent the need for costly upgrades or system overhauls down the line.
- Leverage free trials and demos: Many of Mitel’s products come with the option of a free trial or demo. Testing out the system before committing can help you make an informed decision and avoid spending on features you may not need.
- Evaluate the total cost of ownership: Beyond the initial costs, consider the long-term expenses associated with maintenance, support, and upgrades. Calculating the total cost of ownership over a few years can provide a clearer picture of the investment’s true value.
Is Mitel the right choice for your business?
Mitel is a solid choice for businesses looking for a comprehensive communication solution, whether you’re interested in a traditional on-premises setup or a flexible cloud-based platform. Its products are well-regarded for their reliability, scalability, and integration capabilities, making them suitable for various industries.
However, the costs and complexity of some systems might be prohibitive for smaller businesses or those just starting out. It’s essential to weigh the benefits against your company’s specific needs and budget to determine if Mitel is the right fit for you.
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Mitel pricing FAQ
Mitel pricing is primarily influenced by the number of users, the chosen product, and additional features or services required. Larger businesses or those needing advanced capabilities will generally pay more. Upfront setup costs, hardware, and ongoing support fees can also significantly impact the total price.
Yes, Mitel often provides volume discounts to businesses with many users. The more licenses or seats you purchase, the lower the per-user cost can be. It’s advisable to contact Mitel directly to negotiate a customised package if you have a large team.
No, setup fees are typically not included in Mitel’s standard pricing. These fees vary depending on the system’s complexity and the size of the installation. Businesses should budget for these one-time charges in addition to their ongoing subscription or service costs.
Mitel pricing usually does not cover the cost of hardware. Devices like IP phones, routers, and servers may need to be purchased separately. Some resellers may offer hardware leasing options, but it’s essential to confirm this when discussing your Mitel package.
There can be hidden fees in Mitel pricing, such as charges for upgrades, advanced features, training, and ongoing maintenance. To avoid surprises, businesses should clarify all potential costs with Mitel or their reseller before finalising their agreement.
Yes, Mitel frequently offers discounts on bundled solutions combining multiple products. These bundles are designed to provide a more cost-effective option by integrating communication tools like MiCollab, MiCloud Connect, and MiVoice. Bundling can often save money compared to purchasing each service separately.
Mitel pricing can sometimes be negotiated, especially for larger contracts. Businesses that commit to long-term agreements or higher user counts may have more flexibility in pricing. It’s always worth asking Mitel or your authorised reseller for any potential discounts or special rates.
To get the best Mitel pricing, request quotes from multiple resellers, compare bundled offers, and consider long-term contracts. Evaluating your exact needs and leveraging free trials or demos can also help you avoid paying for unnecessary features.
Mitel occasionally offers seasonal discounts or promotions, often around financial year-end or during industry events. Keeping an eye out for these limited-time deals or working with a Mitel partner can help you secure a better price on their communication solutions.
Basic customer support is typically included in Mitel’s pricing, but advanced support packages may come at an extra cost. Premium support options might include priority assistance, dedicated account managers, or faster response times, so it’s wise to review your needs before choosing a plan.