Per-call pricing
Can be attractive when calls run long because usage is based on completed calls rather than minutes. Upfirst and Smith.ai use call-based allowances on the plans compared above.
Independent comparison · Updated August 2026
Compare AI receptionist services for small business.
Start with the differences that change your real monthly cost: whether a provider bills by calls or minutes, what each plan includes, and which automation features are available.
Editorial policy: Affiliate compensation does not determine placement. Pricing and features below were checked against provider-published information on August 23, 2026.
Quick comparison
Four AI receptionist options to start your shortlist
There is no universal “best” service. Call volume, call length, scheduling needs and human escalation can change the best value.
| Provider | Best starting point | Published starting price | Included usage | 24/7 | Scheduling | Transfers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Upfirst | Low-cost entry point | $24.95/mo | 30 calls | 24/7 | Yes | Yes |
| Rosie | Minute-based small-business plans | $49/mo | 250 minutes | 24/7 | Link on entry plan; direct booking on Scale | Scale+ |
| My AI Front Desk | Front-office automation bundle | $99/mo | 200 voice minutes | 24/7 | Yes | Available |
| Smith.ai AI Receptionist | AI with live-agent backup option | $0 starter; Pro $150/mo | 25 calls free; Pro starts at 75 calls | 24/7 | Yes | Yes |
Prices and plan features can change. Verify current terms with the provider before purchasing. Affiliate links will be identified when added.
Detailed reviews
Research the finalists before choosing.
Upfirst Review
See plan pricing, per-call economics, scheduling, transfers and who should shortlist Upfirst.
Read review →Rosie Review
See minute-based plans, feature tiers and where Rosie can offer stronger value.
Read review →Smith.ai Review
Explore AI pricing, live-agent backup and when the hybrid model is worth considering.
Read review →Upfirst vs. Rosie
See how per-call and per-minute pricing behave under the same call-volume example.
Compare them →How to choose
Compare the billing model before the headline price.
Per-minute pricing
Can be easier to understand when you know your typical monthly talk time. Rosie and My AI Front Desk publish voice-minute allowances.
Appointment handling
Look beyond a scheduling checkbox. Some plans send booking links, while others can place appointments directly onto supported calendars.
Human escalation
If a complex or high-value caller may need a person, examine transfer rules and human backup separately. Smith.ai offers an AI-first model with optional live-agent involvement.
Our methodology
How Hire A Receptionist evaluates providers
Our editorial framework assigns weight to core call handling (25%), automation and integrations (20%), price and value (20%), ease of use (15%), business flexibility (10%), and transparency and support (10%). Affiliate commission receives 0% weighting.
We do not publish a numerical provider score until there is enough evidence to support it. A missing fact stays missing rather than being estimated by AI.
Compare receptionist costs