Quick Answer
ReceptionHQ is a human answering service: its MessageExpress plan starts at $25 a month plus $1.99 per call answered, and its transfer and scheduling plans start at $40 to $50. It takes messages well. If you want calls booked, not just messages taken, compare an AI front office like Sockly at $997 for up to 500 calls.
ReceptionHQ's pricing page lists four human plans (MessageExpress, ReceptionistPlus, MyAssistant, MyDiary) priced 'from' a monthly base, plus sales tax.
Where ReceptionHQ wins
Low volume. If you get a few calls a week and only need a message taken by a person, $25 plus $1.99 a call is hard to beat. At 500 calls a month, the per-call fee alone would be about $995.
What changes with an AI front office
A message is a callback you still have to make, often hours later. Sockly asks your intake questions, books the job on your calendar while the caller is still on the line, and texts you the summary.
ReceptionHQ vs. alternatives
| Service | Type | Published price |
|---|---|---|
| ReceptionHQ MessageExpress | Human, message-taking | From $25/mo + $1.99 per call |
| ReceptionHQ ReceptionistPlus | Human, messages + transfers | From $40/mo |
| Ruby | Human receptionists | $250/mo for 50 min |
| Sockly | AI front office, set up for you | $997/mo for up to 500 calls, $0 setup, billed per call |
Prices and plan details from each company's own pricing page, checked November 5, 2026. "Not published" means the vendor quotes on a sales call. Confirm on their site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a human answering service better than AI?
For a handful of calls, a human message service is cheap and fine. For volume, nights and booking on the call, AI answers instantly and costs the same per call however long it runs.
Can I hear Sockly first?
Yes. Call 470-280-8910 and say your business name.
Call 470-280-8910 and say your business name to hear the difference between a message and a booked job.
Ready to Never Miss Another Call?
Live on your number this week. $997/month for up to 500 calls, $0 setup, 30-day money-back guarantee.
Get it on your numberOr hear it first: call 470-280-8910 and say your business name.
Related Resources
Published: November 5, 2026
Last Updated: November 5, 2026