Cell phones have become indispensable for many of us, but most consumers still prefer to have a land line at home and for the office. The decision to go cordless is an easy one: cordless phones offer the greatest convenience in mobility, and voice quality is equal to that of corded models in almost all cases. The low cost of cordless phones is an additional incentive.
The first choice you should consider is whether you want a cordless phone that uses digital or analog technology. Digital is the more common type: digital models are more secure and perform better in cluttered electronic environments, where interference is a concern. Analog phones offer clearer voice quality and are generally less expensive, but are less secure: they may broadcast over nearby RF devices (scanners, baby monitors, etc.), or interfere with other wireless devices.
For everyone, it is recommended that you keep one corded phone available in case of emergency or an extended power outage.
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There are a number of different considerations to take into account. Make sure you have a clear idea of what your needs are before making a decision.
Multiple Handsets – In recent years, many consumers have begun to opt for cordless systems that offer multiple extensions. Most of these systems use a single phone line and let you space handsets throughout your home or office for easier access. It is very convenient, particularly for large buildings. This type of setup can also do double duty as an intercom/paging system.
Multiple Lines – More advanced machines will support two or more different phone numbers. This is very convenient if you have a home office; most will allow you to program in a different ring tone based upon the number being called.
Answering Machine – Purchasing a cordless system with a built-in digital answering machine has a lot of advantages. Many models can record memos, others can store more than one custom greeting and maintain multiple mailboxes. The added price is generally negligible, so in many cases this is an easy decision.
Battery Life – As a cordless handset, power is always important. Li-ion batteries provide the best performance because they drain at a slow rate, and then power suddenly drops off near the end. This method ensures that you get full performance until you no longer have a charge. Most cordless phones can be operated for between 4 and 8 hours on a single battery charge, in standby mode, for anything up to 48, or 72, hours away from a base station. If you think you will require more than this, find a model that features extended battery life, or one that provides an additional battery pack.
Additional Features – There are a number of added features to consider. A built in speakerphone allows hands-free operation. A large LCD display, on the handset and/or the base, allows you to receive more information about each call. An additional keypad on the base is a necessary convenience for some.
AT&T/VTech has become a market leader by offering a very wide range of cordless phones: they have models at all performance levels and price points, for home or office, with and without answering machines, and many more options. Panasonic has established itself as the go-to brand for mid-market and high-end models, and most of its models have numerous extra features and add-ons. Uniden has focused its efforts on entry-level and mid-market phones that are affordable and offer solid performance. GE also has a wide number of workmanlike models, but has also created a number of cordless phones for users with special needs, including large keypads for the elderly and special models for the hearing impaired.
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