Here is the Difference Between 0330 Numbers and 0333 Numbers

If you’ve read our updated blog What are 03 Numbers and How to Get One you may now wonder what the difference between 0330 numbers and 0333 numbers is. If so, you’re not alone. Many UK residents and business owners struggle to understand the difference between these two non-geographic numbers. In this guide, we’ll clear up the confusion and help you choose the right option for you and your business.

What are 0330 numbers?

0330 numbers are part of the UK’s non-geographic number system. Because of this, they offer a national presence without being tied to a specific location. You could work from your shed at the bottom of your garden in the Outer Hebrides and no one would know!

Key features of 0330 numbers:

• Costs the same as calling standard local landline numbers such as those beginning 01 or 02
• Often included in mobile and landline phone contract minutes – so essentially free to call
• Commonly used by businesses & organisations

What are 0333 numbers?

0333 numbers are also non-geographic. They share many similarities with 0330 numbers but have some subtle differences.

Key features of 0333 numbers:

• Costs the same as calling standard landlines local landline numbers such as those beginning 01 or 02
• Included in most mobile & landline phone contract minutes – so essentially free
• Often used by larger corporations, specific services & sometimes government bodies

The difference between 0330 Numbers & 0333 Numbers

While the 0330 and 0333 numbers are very similar, you’ll see below that there are some distinctions:

1. Common perception: 0330 numbers seem more official or feel associated with non-profit organisations such as charities
2. Availability: introduced in 2007, 0330 numbers seem more commonplace
3. Usage: 0333 numbers appear to be preferred by larger businesses or for specific services

Costs & charges for 0330 & 0333 numbers

One of the main concerns for users (and potentially your customers) is understanding the costs associated with calling these numbers. Mostly both 0330 & 0333, these are generally the same.

• For callers: Same as standard local landline rates, or free if these rates are included in call bundles
• For businesses: Often cheaper to rent than traditional geographic numbers. At switchboardFREE, you can have a 0330 number or 0333 number as your inclusive free virtual number. Any additional ones are from £1.99 per month

Common Misconceptions

There are some myths about the 03 numbers that are currently floating around the internet. We’ve busted the popular ones for you below.

1. They’re premium rate: False. Both 0330 & 0333 numbers cost the same as standard local landlines
2. They’re always free to call: Not true. While they’re often included in contract minutes, pay-as-you-go users may incur charges
3. Only big businesses can use them: Anyone can buy these numbers for personal or business use

Other 03 numbers

You may or may not know that there are also 0300 numbers in addition to 0333 and 0330. And if you have ever considered one of these for you or your business, then you might want to read the answers to these common FAQs:

Are 0300 Numbers Free?

Because the 0300 number has the same format as the commonly free 0800 number, people often ask this. However, the 0300 numbers carry the same local charge as the 0333 and 0330 numbers.

Who can have a 0300 number?

These numbers are difficult to get hold of as they are usually reserved for government departments and charity organisations. Even here at SwitchboardFREE, we don’t supply 0300 numbers.

What’s the difference between the 0330, 0333 & 0300 numbers?

The only difference between these 3 numbers is their intended use. 0300 for government and charities, 0330 for the perception of being long established and 0333 for the illusion of big business.

How to choose between 0330 & 0333 Numbers

When deciding which number to use, you should consider:

1. Your target audience
2. The image you want to project
3. Availability of memorable number combinations

Remember, the key difference between 0330 numbers and 0333 numbers is minimal for most users. However, brand perception is important in business. We suggest that if you want your business to appear credible due to its potential age, then use the 0330 number as it’s been around a long time. If you want your customers to get the sense that you are a large operation and achieve trust via size, then using the 0333 number will help you do that.

Conclusion

Understanding the difference between 0330 numbers & 0333 numbers can help you make an informed choice for your business or personal use. Both offer national presence and standard calling rates. And as we’ve discovered, the main distinctions lie in perception and typical usage.

At SwitchboardFREE, we offer both 0330 and 0333 digits to suit your needs. Our team can help you choose the best option and set up your new number quickly and easily.