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Comparison • Canada5 min read · March 2, 2026

AI Receptionist vs Traditional Answering Service

AI receptionists and live answering services both handle calls. Here's how they differ.

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Sowa Answers

London, ON

AI Receptionist vs Traditional Answering Service

Cost

Live services charge $1–$2 per minute. AI is flat-rate, often under $100/month for unlimited minutes.

Availability

Live services have hours. AI is true 24/7.

Consistency

Human reps vary. AI is always on-script.

When live might make sense

Complex queries needing empathy. But AI handles 80% of calls well.

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