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Top 5 Cordless Phones for Everyday Use

January 27, 2013 by Charlie

AT&T BL102-3 DECT 6.0 Cordless Phone for Home

This model excels in clarity and range, making it a fantastic choice for those who want reliable communication throughout their home.

  • Excellent sound quality with minimal interference.
  • Long battery life for extended use.
  • We found the design a bit bulky for smaller hands.

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VTech CS6529-26 DECT 6.0 Phone Answering System

This system is perfect for families needing multiple handsets, offering great features that enhance usability.

  • Multiple handsets allow for easy communication across the house.
  • Integrated answering machine saves messages efficiently.
  • While it has great features, it can be a touch complicated for tech novices.

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VTech VS112-27 DECT 6.0 Bluetooth 2 Handset Cordless Phone

Ideal for those who want to sync calls from their mobile, this phone blends convenience with advanced technology.

  • Bluetooth connectivity allows for seamless integration with smartphones.
  • Clear sound quality and reliable range.
  • We felt the setup process might be daunting for some users.

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Panasonic Corded/Cordless Phone System

This versatile phone system is well-suited for those who still appreciate the reliability of a corded option alongside cordless flexibility.

  • Reliable corded option available for power outages.
  • Multiple handsets for easy communication throughout larger spaces.
  • It may take up more space than typical cordless models.

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Panasonic Amplified Cordless Phone

Designed for those who require louder volumes, this phone is an excellent choice for the hearing impaired.

  • Amplified sound ensures clarity for users with hearing difficulties.
  • User-friendly design with large buttons for easy dialing.
  • It might feel a bit bulky for everyday handling.

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Buying Guide for Best Cordless Phones

For those who aren’t ready to abandon their landline, cordless phones provide a practical solution. They free you from the constraints of tangled wires, allowing you to move around your home while chatting. Modern cordless phones boast clearer signals and better features than ever before.

When searching for cordless phone sets, consider your living space’s size. You might need several units to ensure coverage throughout your home, especially in larger households. Features like phone directories, call blocking, range, and battery life are worth considering. Many models now come equipped with answering machines as standard.

We’re excited to present a selection of high-quality models for your consideration. Our reviews address the key points mentioned, along with pricing information, to help you make a well-informed decision.

Some cordless phones are capable of handling two separate phone lines, with distinctive rings to indicate which line is receiving a call.

A Note on DECT 6.0 Technology

Many users experienced interference with older cordless models due to signals from various devices, including radios, baby monitors, and WiFi networks. This interference could lead to poor sound quality or even miscommunication.

Fortunately, the latest cordless phones utilise Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications Technology (DECT) 6.0, which significantly reduces these issues.

DECT 6.0 provides enhanced security, excellent sound clarity, and an impressive range.

We look for useful features like phone directories, caller ID, and call blocking when evaluating cordless phones.
For larger homes, we recommend models that include multiple handsets for added convenience.
The size and readability of buttons are crucial for user-friendliness, and we pay attention to these details.
Understanding battery life and recharging needs is important; we prefer models that use standard rechargeable batteries for ease of replacement.
Signal range is vital for larger households; we assess how each model performs in this regard.
Comfort is a key factor, particularly for those who make long calls; we consider the weight and grip of each phone.
Cordless phones vary widely in price; we evaluate options for all budgets, from basic to advanced models.
Some models allow Bluetooth integration with mobile phones, which we investigate for ease of use.
Finally, we explore different sizes and shapes to ensure a variety of options for all consumers.
For businesses or large families, we consider phones that support multiple call lines.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cordless Phone

Here are some essential factors to keep in mind while selecting the ideal cordless phone for your needs.

Number of Handsets

Consider how many handsets will best suit your living situation. A single handset may suffice for a small flat, but if you have a multi-storey home, having at least two handsets can be very convenient. Some systems come with five or more handsets, ideal for larger homes or families.

 

Did You Know?
Some cordless phones feature call waiting alongside caller ID, allowing you to see who is calling while you’re on another line.
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Number Directory

In today’s world, who remembers phone numbers? Most cordless phones come with a directory feature, enabling you to store important contacts for quick access. Many models can hold between 30 to 50 numbers, with some accommodating even more.

We recommend avoiding models that do not feature DECT 6.0 technology, as older options may not offer the best performance.
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Caller ID

If you want to screen your calls effectively, look for models equipped with caller ID. This feature allows you to see the name of the caller if they are in your contacts, making it easier to avoid unwanted calls.

 

Testing Cordless Phones
We evaluated 53 different cordless phone models to select our top picks. After narrowing it down, we tested each model in terms of connectivity and audio quality.
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Call Blocking

Unwanted calls can be a nuisance, but with a cordless phone offering call blocking, you can easily add nuisance numbers to an internal list, preventing them from coming through.

Signal Range

The signal range of a cordless phone determines how far you can move from the base before losing connection. A longer range is beneficial for larger homes or outdoor use. While specific range measurements can vary, we found some models effective at distances of up to 300 feet.

Signal performance tends to be better outdoors due to fewer obstructions.

Did You Know?
Some cordless phones can work with a range extender, which boosts the distance you can use your handset.
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Batteries

Cordless phones rely on rechargeable batteries that charge while in their base. Most models provide between 5 to 15 hours of talk time before needing a recharge, which is generally sufficient for everyday use.

We prefer models that use standard rechargeable batteries, as they are more cost-effective and easier to replace than proprietary packs.

Answering Machine

Most cordless phones now include a built-in answering machine, typically storing about 10 to 15 minutes of messages. While not everyone may require this feature, it can be incredibly convenient for those who often miss calls.

Cell Phone Integration

Some advanced models allow you to link your mobile phone to the cordless phone via Bluetooth, enabling you to receive calls on your cordless handsets without needing to carry your mobile around.

Did You Know?
Certain cordless phones can sync with your mobile device, allowing you to answer mobile calls from any handset in your home.
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Cordless Phone Pricing

Let’s take a look at the average pricing for cordless phones and what you can expect for your investment.

  • A basic model with a single handset and minimal features typically ranges from £15 to £30.

  • Mid-range models, offering two to three handsets and additional features like caller ID, usually cost between £30 and £70.

  • High-end cordless phones, featuring advanced functionalities such as cell phone integration and multiple handsets, can range from £70 to £200, depending on the specific features included.

While prices can vary significantly among cordless phones, the investment is often justified by the additional features they provide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What features can I expect from cordless phones?

A. High-end models may surprise you with features like built-in baby monitors or key finders. Some also offer voice paging to reach other handsets without shouting.

Q. Are large-button cordless phones available?

A. Yes, if you struggle with small buttons or have visual impairments, large-button cordless phones make dialing much easier.

Q. Can cordless phones support multiple lines?

A. Some cordless phones do support multiple lines, which can be advantageous for small businesses or busy households.

Q. Are there cordless phones compatible with hearing aids?

A. Yes, many modern cordless phones are designed to work well with hearing aids, using inductive couplers for clearer sound. Ensure your hearing aid is set to the “telecoil” mode for optimal performance.