Is an AI receptionist better than an answering service?

For most small businesses, yes on cost and speed: an AI receptionist answers every call instantly with no hold time and, with Shtello Connect, costs $199/mo plus $0.80 per minute (about $439/mo at 100 three-minute calls), versus roughly $3–$11 per call for human services. Human services still win for highly emotional or complex calls, which is why Shtello transfers those to your team.

Use a decision rule by call type: routine questions, bookings and after-hours calls go to the AI; emergencies, disputes and legal or medical judgment calls get routed to a person. Hybrid setups give you the coverage of a service at the price of software.

Want this handled for you?

Shtello Connect sets up your AI front desk — calls, texts and website chat, 24/7, with appointment booking — from $199/mo plus usage. Hear the live demo