All three place calls automatically instead of a rep dialing by hand — the difference is how many numbers they dial at once, and whether that costs you dropped calls.
Auto dialer is the umbrella term for any software that dials phone numbers automatically instead of a rep dialing by hand. Power dialer and predictive dialer are the two most common types underneath it, and they make opposite tradeoffs between speed and dropped calls.
Dials one number at a time, and only starts the next call once the current rep is free. Slower dial rate, zero dropped calls — every connection reaches a live rep.
Dials several numbers ahead of an available rep, using an algorithm to predict when one will free up. Higher dial volume, but answered calls can outnumber free reps — the excess gets dropped or hits dead air.
The umbrella term covering both — and everything else that dials without a human pressing each digit, including simpler "click to call" tools.
If a live person answering to dead air is an acceptable cost for higher dial volume — common in large outbound call centers running thin scripts — a predictive dialer's extra speed can be worth it. If every connection needs to reach a prepared rep who can actually run the conversation — the norm for B2B outbound where one good call matters more than ten rushed ones — a power dialer is the better trade. Sales Montana runs a power dial queue for exactly that reason: it reorders on intent, timezone and pickup history so the next call is always the most winnable one, without ever leaving a prospect on a silent line.
What is the difference between a power dialer and a predictive dialer?
A power dialer calls one number at a time, only starting the next call once a rep is free — no dropped calls. A predictive dialer calls several numbers ahead of an available rep, using an algorithm to predict when one will free up, which can leave an answered call with no rep on the line.
Is auto dialer the same as power dialer?
No. Auto dialer is the umbrella term for any software that dials automatically. Power dialer and predictive dialer are both types of auto dialer, distinguished by how many numbers they dial at once and whether a rep is guaranteed to be free when someone answers.
Why do predictive dialers drop calls?
A predictive dialer places calls before a rep is confirmed available, betting on the algorithm's prediction. When more calls connect than reps are free to take them, the extra connected calls get dropped or sent to voicemail with dead air — the tradeoff for higher dial volume.
Related: Connect rate · Call disposition · Power dialer software
We'll dial a slice of your list live on the call, so you can watch it reorder itself.