Top 10 Best Cordless Phones in 2024 Reviews & Buying Guide

Cordless phone buying guide

Cordless Phone Types

There are two types of cordless phones, those with built-in answering machines and those without. All types use digital enhanced cordless telecommunication technology (DECT) and 1.9 GHz frequency that limits interference from other devices like microwave ovens. Those with answering machines are slightly larger and more expensive. They can record messages and let you listen to the caller before picking up. You can check for options like remote access, call screening, toll-saver, selectable number of rings, and speaker-volume control among other options.

Another difference is whether it has a corded base to get power from the AC or uses backup batteries. A model with a corded base is ideal for areas prone to power outages.

What to look for in cordless phones

• Number of Extensions: For smaller homes, a single-handset phone is adequate; however, if you have many rooms, you may need several handsets supported from the same base for easy reach. Since each handset sits in its charging cradle and does not need a phone jack. This allows you to station the phone wherever you want.
• Settle on the Features: Start by noting down the features you want before you go out to buy the cordless phone. Some come with caller ID, speakerphone, headset jack and ringer in base and handset. Keep in mind that the higher the number of features the more expensive it will be.
• Weigh Performance Factors: Cordless phones have very good voice quality almost rivaling the top-rated corded phones. When fully charged, most phones will give you up to 8 hours of talk time.
• Consider Usability Issues: Newer phones have improved usability designs. These include visual ringer, caller ID, talking caller ID, call waiting, easy to read buttons and volume booster, among other great features.
• Battery and Backup: A backup system is crucial for most cordless phones as they won’t work without electricity. They have different types of backup power to support operation when there is a power outage. Some models have battery holder; a compartment with the backup battery to come on when the main battery drains or when the power goes out. Cordless phones come with rechargeable batteries, but some use AAA NiMH rechargeable one that is less expensive and are readily available.
• Pager feature: When working with multiple handsets, it is easy to lose one, hence the need for this feature. By pressing a button on the base or charging dock, you can locate the handset from an alarm sound. Some models will warn you as you move out of range of the base station.
• LCD Screen: Many cordless phones and base have LCD screens. This makes working with the phone very easy. It can show your phone directory, caller ID, battery strength, and call time among other pieces of information. LCD screens are available in color and the basic black and white.
• Mailboxes: Most phones offer one mailbox for voicemails. However, you can get a phone with multiple mailboxes that allow you to designate where each message type goes. This feature is essential if there are multiple family members receiving messages on the same phone, or if you run a small business from home. This separates messages so users can listen only to those intended for them.
• Advanced Playback Controls: When the phone has advanced playback controls, you can easily navigate through the messages forward, backward, repeating or skipping messages. You can even have fast playback, slow playback or rewind a message. Some phones have audible message alert to let you know when messages are waiting for you even without looking at the LCD.
• Two-Line Support: Technology has allowed a single phone to have two-line support eliminating the need for two phones. This is beneficial for those running a small home business and wants to separate family and business phones. Some will offer distinctive ringers to help you identify which line is receiving the call at any given time. It also allows you to conference two callers in a three-way conversation.
• Headset Jack: Cordless phones can come with headset jack to facilitate hands-free conversation. You just need to clip the handset to yourself and use the headset to talk freely. Some models offer a headset jack at the base to prevent a drain of the handset battery.
• Auto-Talk: This feature engages when you lift the handset from the base. It automatically connects the call without the need to press any button. Some handsets may feature volume control for adjusting the volume during a call.
• Bluetooth compatibility: Many phone manufacturers are increasingly bringing the mobile phone into the home phone. This is indicated by inclusions of features like Bluetooth technology that allows mobile phone calls to be made from the cordless handset. It allows for connecting your smartphone or wireless headphones with the cordless phone. Some have features like pop up notifications when your smartphone has a text. There are plenty of possibilities with this compatibility.
• Call Clarity: Everyone wants better call quality whichever phone they use. Home phones usually have better call clarity than cell phones. However, not all cordless ones maintain this quality. Different models transmit to the handset in varying clarity levels.
• Range: The distance you need to move from the base station is crucial, especially if there are walls that could limit the distance. Most cordless phones have a range of 200 to 300 feet that is adequate.
• Charging Time: Consider cordless phones that take a shorter time to charge. This can minimize any inconvenience when you spend a lot of time on the phone. Every minute it stays charging is a minute you cannot use it. The fastest charger works at an average of seven hours to fully charge the handset while some take as long as twelve hours.
• Answering Machine Recording Time: Models vary in how much space they have for storing recorded messages. Some can hold 17 minutes while others have a longer recording time of up to 30 minutes.
• Warranty & Support: Consider things like the warranty length so you can have plenty of time to notice any factory defects. Check the available support avenues in case you have an issue. Is there an elaborate FAQ section on the product’s webpage? When there are many options to get customer support, you will be at peace.