5 Best AI Phone Screening Tools for Small Businesses in 2026

As of February 2026, small businesses are increasingly turning to AI-driven solutions to streamline their hiring processes. Research shows that 72% of small business owners cite time constraints as a significant barrier to effective recruitment. AI phone screening tools are not just a convenience; they are a necessity for organizations looking to enhance candidate engagement while reducing administrative overhead. This article ranks the five best AI phone screening tools specifically tailored for small businesses, providing insights into their unique features, pricing, and suitability.

Key Criteria for Selection

To curate this list, we evaluated tools based on the following criteria:

• Functionality: The range of features offered, including candidate engagement and screening capabilities.
• Pricing: Affordability for small businesses, with clear tiered pricing.
• Integrations: Compatibility with popular Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
• Languages: Multilingual support to cater to diverse candidate pools.
• Compliance: Adherence to relevant hiring regulations.
• Best For: Specific use cases and business sizes.

The Best AI Phone Screening Tools

| Tool Name | Type | Pricing | Integrations | Languages | Compliance | Best For | |-------------------|---------------------|-------------------|-----------------------------|--------------|---------------------|---------------------------| | NTRVSTA | AI Phone Screening | $500/month (basic) | 50+ ATS (e.g., Lever, Greenhouse) | 9+ Languages | SOC 2 Type II, GDPR | High-volume hiring | | HireVue | Video & Phone Screening | $1,000/month (basic) | 30+ ATS | 5 Languages | GDPR, EEOC | Tech and healthcare sectors| | X0PA AI | AI Screening | $750/month (basic) | 20+ ATS | 3 Languages | GDPR | Diverse industries | | Phonexa | Call Management | $600/month (basic) | 15+ ATS | 2 Languages | EEOC | Sales and marketing roles | | Interviewer.AI | AI Interviewing | $800/month (basic) | 25+ ATS | 4 Languages | GDPR | Remote teams |

1. NTRVSTA: Leading the Pack

NTRVSTA stands out for its real-time AI phone screening capabilities, allowing candidates to engage 24/7. With over 50 ATS integrations, including popular platforms like Lever and Greenhouse, it is particularly beneficial for small businesses experiencing high-volume hiring. Pricing starts at $500/month, making it accessible for companies with tight budgets. Its multilingual support and compliance with SOC 2 Type II and GDPR regulations make it a robust choice.

Limitations: While NTRVSTA offers extensive features, its advanced functionalities may be overwhelming for very small teams with limited hiring needs.

2. HireVue: Comprehensive Solutions

HireVue combines video and phone screening, providing a versatile platform for small businesses, especially in tech and healthcare. Starting at $1,000/month, it offers a wide array of features, including candidate scoring and interview analytics. Its compliance with GDPR and EEOC ensures that businesses meet legal requirements.

Limitations: The dual focus on video and phone may lead to higher costs, which might not be justified for businesses solely seeking phone screening.

3. X0PA AI: Industry Versatility

X0PA AI offers tailored solutions for diverse industries, with a pricing model starting at $750/month. Its AI-driven analytics help small businesses make data-informed hiring decisions. The platform supports multiple ATS integrations, enhancing its usability.

Limitations: Limited language support may hinder its effectiveness in multilingual environments.

4. Phonexa: Focused on Sales

Phonexa excels in call management and is priced at $600/month. It integrates well with various ATS and is designed for sales and marketing roles, making it suitable for businesses in those sectors. Its compliance with EEOC regulations further supports its value.

Limitations: Its narrow focus may not be ideal for companies looking to hire across multiple departments.

5. Interviewer.AI: Remote-Friendly

Interviewer.AI is tailored for remote teams, offering AI-driven interviews starting at $800/month. Its integration with popular ATS platforms streamlines the hiring process for remote positions.

Limitations: The specific focus on remote hiring may not cater to businesses with on-site roles.

Our Recommendation

• For High-Volume Hiring: Choose NTRVSTA. Its real-time phone screening and extensive integrations make it the best choice for businesses needing quick and efficient hiring solutions.
• For Tech or Healthcare: Opt for HireVue. Its comprehensive features and compliance make it valuable for sectors with specific regulatory needs.
• For Remote Teams: Select Interviewer.AI. Its focus on remote hiring ensures that you can efficiently onboard talent from anywhere.

Conclusion

As small businesses continue to navigate the complexities of recruitment in 2026, adopting the right AI phone screening tool can significantly enhance the hiring process. Here are three actionable takeaways:

1. Evaluate Your Needs: Understand your hiring volume and industry requirements to select the most suitable tool.
2. Integrate Wisely: Choose a solution that seamlessly integrates with your existing ATS to avoid disruption.
3. Monitor Compliance: Ensure that your chosen tool adheres to all relevant regulations to mitigate legal risks.

Investing in an AI phone screening tool today can save your business valuable time and resources in the long run, setting the stage for successful talent acquisition.