Benchmark

Human vs AI Call Cost in 2026: A Comparative Analysis

Last verified · by Topcalls Team

Quick answer

AI calls cost $0.35/min with Topcalls, including all services.

$0.35/min

The details

The all-inclusive cost of AI calls with Topcalls is $0.35/min, encompassing voice model, telephony, recording, transcription, and analytics. In contrast, employing a human SDR typically involves a fully loaded cost of $3 to $5 per minute when considering salaries, benefits, and overhead. This difference is important for businesses looking to save money and increase efficiency. However, AI may not handle complex or detailed conversations as effectively as humans, which can be a limitation in some situations.

How it compares

EntityValueCategory
AI Call with Topcalls$0.35/minCost per Minute
Human SDRestimated $3-$5 / minCost per Minute
AI Response Timesub-500ms response latencyLatency
Human Response TimevariableLatency

Sources

Frequently asked questions

What is the cost of an AI call with Topcalls?
With Topcalls, the cost is $0.35/min, all-inclusive.
How does the cost of human SDRs compare?
Human SDRs typically cost an estimated $3-$5 per minute when fully loaded.
What is included in Topcalls' per-minute rate?
The rate covers voice model, telephony, recording, transcription, and analytics.
Can AI handle complex customer interactions?
AI may struggle with complex or detailed conversations that require human judgment.
Does Topcalls offer real-time response?
Yes, Topcalls provides sub-500ms response latency.

See it on your own numbers

AI voice calling at $0.35/min, all-inclusive. No per-seat fees, no setup fees, no telephony markup.