Cordless Phone Buying Guide

Introduction


If you are in the market for a cordless phone, you need to read our guide before you make any decisions. From making sure you understand frequencies and get a cordless phone that doesn't interfere with any other wireless networking in your home or office to just knowing how to spend your money wisely by knowing the features available, we can help. We have put together this cordless phone guide to help you get the most value for your money.

 

 

Cordless Phone Frequencies

 

When it comes to cordless phones, the most important thing you are going to want to consider is the frequency range of the phone. This will determine everything from cost to quality of your calls. Here is a look at some of the most common frequencies for cordless phones.

 

  • 900 MHz - One of the earliest frequencies for cordless phones, you can still find a few lower priced phones using this frequency. That said, the security and clarity is not going to be as good as some of the newer phones.
  • 2.4 GHz - This older technology replaced 900 MHz, but it can get interference from microwave ovens and wireless networks. Most cheap phones cordless use 2.4Ghz.
  • 5.8 GHz - Approved by the FCC, it enables better security, range, and clarity of sound when compared to the 2.4 GHz frequency. It was also opened up because of 'crowding' issues with the 2.4 GHz frequency, however it can still get interference from the wireless network transmissions as it uses both 2.4 and 5.8 GHz frequencies. 5.8 GHz has a more difficult time going through obstacles compared to the lower frequencies.
  • DECT (1.9 GHz) - This is the new standard as it does not have the issues with wireless networks and microwave ovens. We highly recommend DECT unless you are on a tight budget or live in an area without wireless signals.

 

Important Features

 

Here are some other important areas you are going to want to think about before you choose a cordless phone.

 

  • Frequencies - While we talked a little bit about the frequencies commonly used by cordless phones, you are going to want to take care that you don't choose a frequency that will interfere with any other wireless equipment you may be using.
  • Answering Machine - This may not be necessary for all people, but it is a feature to think about. Not including it could save you some money, especially if you're paying for voicemail with the phone company.
  • Hearing / Sight Impaired - This is not going to be a feature that everyone needs, but many phones are available these days that have special features built in for the hearing and sight impaired.
  • Speakerphone - If you enjoy hands-free talking, you want to make sure you get a cordless phone that offers a speakerphone functionality. While many do these days, this is not a certainty by any means.
  • Headphone Jack - This is not standard on all cordless phones, so if it is an important feature, you want to make sure you look for it on any brand or model that you decide to go with.
  • Contacts List - This is a common feature for many cordless phones, but you will want to check that it is powerful enough to handle all of your needs.
  • Caller ID - If you subscribe to caller ID from the phone company, you are going to want to make sure you get a cordless phone that is able to display incoming numbers.

 

Of course, cordless phone technology is still changing. You can expect more features, smaller phones, and better quality in the years ahead. Be sure to bookmark IntelliReview so you can stay up to date on cordless phones and other items

 

See our list of top cordless phones for specific recommendations.