Wednesday 7 June 2017

Why Buy Cordless Phones Over The Corded Type

Cordless Vs Corded Phones

Corded and cordless phones are land line phones, i.e. they require a physical connection via wire or cable in order to connect with other phones. Cordless phones are mobile phones in the sense that they are mobile and they are phones, but they are not used for texts, social media or internet browsing.

Even though these types of phones may seem a little dated and a lot of people use their mobile phones pretty much exclusively, many homes still come with a phone line which you may as well make the most of. Land lines can be a lot cheaper to make calls on and if you’re trying to save money or go back to basics then a landline is a viable option which you may choose to use alongside your mobile or perhaps even instead of your mobile.

Land line phones come in both corded and cordless varieties. Cordless phones were all the rage before mobile phones really took off as they give you the same freedom to move around when you’re on the phone without being restrained by wires or cables. Read on to find out more about why you should buy a cordless phone over a corded phone.

Freedom

The most obvious advantage for cordless phones is that they are not tied to one location. Corded phones have been popular for years and they can be placed in many areas of the house including the bedroom, kitchen, desk, office etc., but once they are in a specific location they can’t really be moved unless you plug the phones extension socket into another area of your house. You can use an extension lead, but these still don’t solve the underlying problem that you can’t walk around with the phone or go into a different room without unplugging the phone.

Battery Powered

BT 1700 ReviewCorded phones are not all bad. You will, for example, always know where it is and it won’t end up lost underneath a pile of clothes. Corded phones also do not rely on battery power and they will not run out of charge and power down.

Cordless phones are powered by batteries and will need to be recharged in order to work. A cordless phone can last on a single charge from around four to eight hours which is probably way more time than you’ll need for a single phone call, but it can be a bit annoying if you forget to charge your phone and then it dies in the middle of a conversation.

It really depends if you want to be able to move the phone around and not be tied to one location when you use the phone, or if you want to make phone calls that last for longer than 4-8 hours each time.

Multiple Phones

One of the perks of cordless phones is that you can often buy more than one handset (you can often buy up to six handsets in total) which will only require one phone socket. This is a good choice if you have children because it allows them to have their own phones without the need to buy them mobile phones.

These days you see four-year old’s who can use an Ipad before they can write, but that may not be the way you want to do things. Child safety is important and there are a lot of things on the internet which may not be suitable for young kids. Having their own handset gives them the freedom to call their friends from the privacy of their own rooms without the extra worry of what else they are doing, plus it is a cheaper option if you are on a budget.

Having more than one handset also allows you to transfer calls from one handset to the other which can make things more convenient. Many of these handsets will also offer additional features such as phonebook sharing, intercom (i.e. internal calls within the phone), and they may even have other features like a baby monitor option.

Sound

Both corded and cordless phones can give you better quality sound then mobile phones because mobile phones have to rely on signal strength whilst landlines do not. If your home has notoriously bad signal but you want the freedom of moving around whilst on the phone then a cordless phone may be the perfect choice for you.Gigaset C430A Cordless Phone

Features

Cordless phones may not be mobile phones, but they may still offer handy features like speaker phone options which will allow you to use your phone hands-free, you may be able to block nuisance calls, you may want an answering machine, and you should have a caller ID option. Corded and cordless phones tend to offer many of the same features. Cordless Phones will often come with integrated answer phones.

Conclusion

Cordless phone offer most of the same features as a corded phone, but they have the extra advantage of allowing you to move around freely when you are on the phone and they are not tied to one location. You can also get multiple head sets if you buy a cordless phone which will allow everyone in your household to have their own phone to use in the privacy of their own room.

The one advantage that corded phones have over cordless phones is that they don’t rely on battery power so they will never run out of charge, but unless you are planning on using the phone for up to 4-8 hours in one sitting this is unlikely to be that big a problem.

 

Read more about Why Buy Cordless Phones Over The Corded Type on Reviewing The Best Cordless Phones.

Wednesday 27 July 2016

Best Cordless Phones With Caller ID – Reviews 2016

Top 3 Cordless Phones With A Display For The Caller ID

It is always nice knowing who is calling you before you answer. Back in the day before caller ID, it was always a mystery as to the identity of the caller.

Then as time went on, we had cordless phones but many of these didn’t have caller ID.

Thankfully now we have the technology to have cordless phones with caller ID functionality. Many phones now come with this as standard.

In this article we will have a look at the top 3 best cordless phones on the market with a digital display.

 

BT 8600 Review – Our Number 1

As reviewed here, The BT8600 cordless phones is definitely number 1 of the 3 reviewed here, and for good reason too. It is slick, attractive and has some amazing features unique to this model.

Below we have listed some of its best features;

  • 1.8″ full colour screen to clearly display all types of notifications
  • Premium call blocking feature with the dedicated “hot key” which enables one-touch call blocking
  • trueCall blocking technology which is multi-award winning!
  • Block up to 1000 numbers or you have the option to block calls by the type of number
  • Up to 60 minutes worth of recording using the digital answer machine voicemail feature
  • BT’s Premium call blocking includes the below features
    • For added conveniency, it screens incoming calls from numbers it does not recognise
    • When connecting the call, you will hear a whisper with the caller announcing themselves before you greet them
    • The ability to decide whether to answer an incoming call, block the number permanently or send the caller to voicemail
    • All blocked calls will be put through to the answer phone, just in case it was an important call
  • Modern and stylish design, with a slick finish
  • Backlit keypad making for easy and accurate dialling
  • Save up to 200 contacts in the phone memory
  • Visual notifications for voicemail ensuring you are alerted when someone leaves a message
  • Parental control – ideal for those with inquisitive children who like to call weird and wonder full numbers. Create a PIN which will stop certain numbers from being dialled
  • Call waiting – notifies you when you have a call waiting via an audio and a visual notification
  • Access your voice messages remotely – ideal for when you are on holiday and need to check in
  • Decent range, get up to 50 meters indoors and a very strong 300 meters outdoors – this means you are truly mobile with your phone
  • Up to a massive 21 hours of talk time and 310 hours of standby time

As you can see this is a very good cordless-phone set. Besides having some very good features, The BT 8600 also boasts a very stylish look with a full colour screen, nice feeling touch-buttons.

 

Panasonic KX-TGH222 Review – Number 2

A known electronics manufacturer, Panasonic bring us The KX-TGH222. Straight away the phone looks very modern and classy. There is more to this product than looks alone, here, we will delve into the features;

  • A beautiful large 1.8″ full colour LCD screen to display all of your notifications, calls and more!
  • A memory bank of 200 contacts
  • Digital voicemail / answering machine which saves up to 30 minutes worth of recording
  • Nuisance call block – enabling you to block specified numbers or prefix’s. For example, you can block all international calls, or 0800 numbers or even unknown calls
  • Handsfree function so you can multi-task!
  • Sleek piano black finish with an ergonomic design and an illuminated keypad
  • DECT security mode
  • 50 number caller ID memory
  • Baby monitor function – a very useful addition for new parents!
  • Advanced alarm clock
  • ECO mode
  • Noise reduction
  • A fully customisable sound system
  • SMS compatible

With a very nice list of features, some actually quite advanced, and finished off with a very sexy black finish boasting its ergonomic build, it’s no surprise as to why The KX-TGH222 from Panasonic is our number 2.

 

BT 2100 Review – Number 3

Another very user friendly phone from British Telecom, The BT2100 is our number 3 and below you will see exactly why it made the cut.

  • One touch do not disturb mode – means only the contacts/numbers in your VIP list will be able to reach you. Anyone else will be sent to voicemail
  • 50 contact phone book consisting of names and numbers
  • Extremely user friendly with a convenient access to call divert
  • 3 Way calling feature – otherwise known as a conference call
  • Call waiting – so you don’t miss a call while you are on the phone
  • Clear blue backlit display for your notifications and caller ID
  • Hands-free feature
  • 20 number memory for the redial list
  • Conference calling
  • Music on hold
  • Call timer
  • Clock & alarm

With some very cool features and a nice look to it, The BT2100 is a very good buy. The infamous call blocking feature and reliability is why it is our number 3.

 

Verdict

All of these are very good phones which are reliable, stylish and have a good amount of features.

The 8600 by BT, however, is definitely our winner. Besides the full colour screen, sexy look and some amazing features, it also has the premium award-winning BT truCall for true-nuisance call blocking.

Read more about Best Cordless Phones With Caller ID – Reviews 2016 on Reviewing The Best Cordless Phones.

Best Cordless Phones For Seniors Hard Of Hearing 2016

Cordless Phones For The Elderly – Top 3 In 2015 – 2016

It is not only the youth that modern technology benefits but also the elderly and seniors too. When at that age, you want the best possible device for your money. You really don’t need any of the fancy features, just the essential features that are enhanced.

The top 3 phones we review today are build with pensioners in mind. Keeping in mind all of the essentials and no frills.

 

BT 4500 Review – Our Number 1

With large buttons and an incredibly user-friendly interface, The BT 4500 is one of the best wireless phones for a senior. Here are some of its best features;

  • Large LCD screen which clearly displays all numbers, contact names calling as well as the other notifications such as answer phone message, text message, missed calls etc.
  • Large clear buttons to make dialling easy. They are back-lit so dialling in the dark is equally as accurate as during the day
  • A sleek and attractive design to look trendy
  • Block nuisance calls with the Call Control feature. When most of us retire, we are targeted by sales and marketing agencies who are a nightmare to deal with. With this great feature, it automatically blocks their calls and only lets in the numbers that you have approved
  • Choose which type of numbers you would like to block. They will automatically be put through to the answer machine, so even if it was an important call, you will get notified.
  • Block up to 10 numbers
  • Save up to 100 contact names and numbers in the telephone directory
  • Hands free speaker to talk on the phone while doing other things
  • Answer machine functionality. This allows you to record up to 60 minutes of voicemail messages
  • See how many voice messages you have directly on the dock or on the handset
  • Access answer phone message while away so to make sure you don’t miss anything urgent
  • Call whisper so you can hear who is calling you before you answer
  • Improved audio performance on the newly designed “ear-bowl”
  • 30 number redial list and a 50 number call list
  • Great mobility with a 50m indoor range and a 300 meter outdoor range, so you can be relaxing in your garden while chatting away on the phone
  • Conference calling
  • Call transfer
  • Internal calling (if you have multiple handsets)

Overall The BT 4500 is a very good choice for the retired persons as it is extremely easy to use. With large buttons and a large clear readable screen as well as the Call Control feature to block nuisance unwanted calls makes this model the easy choice.

 

Geemarc Photodect Review – Number 2

Another very good phone and specifically aimed at the seniors who do not have very good vision. It has some great features and another one which is user friendly. Lets take a look at The Photodect;

  • 10 Preset memory function on the dock with the ability to insert pictures directly on the buttons. This eliminates the room for error and miss-dialling. A very clever feature!
  • Loud ringer volume – which is adjustable. (Up to 22dB)
  • A 5 level ringer function, giving you a choice of up to 10 different ringtones
  • Phone book capability of up to 50 numbers.
  • Speaker phone capability so you can speak on your phone completely hands-free

No frills, an extremely simple device to use. With the picture buttons, you simply lift up the receiver and press a button. This product is ideal for those with a mild hearing loss as the volume goes up to 22dB, large back-lit buttons and it consists of large buttons on the handset itself as well as the picture buttons on the dock.

 

MaxCom MM461 Number 3

The MM461 from MaxCom is another very well designed phone and one aimed at the seniors hard of hearing (and sight). It has some very useful features as well as some advanced complimentary features. Lets take a more detailed look at The MaxCom MM461;

  • Big and clear buttons on the handset making for easier dialling with accuracy
  • SMS feature – so you can receive and read your text messages
  • Loud customisable volume
  • Torch feature, very handy when walking around in the dark or even ambient light
  • Bluetooth feature
  • Desktop stand for easy storage
  • Vibration feature – in case you need to turn your ringer down but would still want to be notified of calls / messages
  • Voice command of the outgoing call number – so to confirm who you are calling is who you are intending to call
  • Calculator – it’s always nice to have one handy!
  • FM Radio
  • SD Card slot to store further numbers etc.

As you can see, this model is a little different to its peers in the list but does have some useful features. It is still aimed at the elderly with features like the large buttons, loud volume and voice command but lacks some of the other features such as call blocker. All in all, it is definitely one to consider, if nothing else, then for its unique features like the torch, FM radio calculator.

 

Verdict

The clear winner in the review is The BT 4500. BT know exactly what their customer wants through decades of research. They also have a good control of the telephone lines, so in essence, they provide a start to finish solution.

It is the smart call blocker features from BT that enables it to stand out from the crowd.  The 4500 has some other great features too such as the call whisper and enhanced audio. It is features like this, along with the build quality that makes it our number 1 cordless phone for seniors hard of hearing.

Read more about Best Cordless Phones For Seniors Hard Of Hearing 2016 on Reviewing The Best Cordless Phones.

Tuesday 26 July 2016

Best Cordless Phone With Answering Machine – Reviews 2016

Top 3 Cordless Phones With A Caller ID & An Answering Machine

In today’s home, I cannot imagine seeing a landline telephone with a cord (cable). I am (only just!) old enough to remember when telephones in the home were with a cable, you could only walk so far whilst you were on the phone to the other side of the room, or peak your head in the next room (if the cable was long enough!).

Next to the telephone sat an answering machine, this was a nifty little device that either connected directly to your telephone or hooked in to another telephone line socket. It usually consisted of a mini cassette which then recorded any messages left by callers in case you weren’t home or were busy on another call.

Today, you can pick up a very high quality cordless telephone with some cool features, for your home which comes with an answering machine. You can also use these same phones without an answering machine if you so desired.

Here we have compiled the top 3 cordless telephones with an answering machine;

BT 8600 Review – Our Number 1

A very sexy looking telephone set with a good amount of usable features. Behind the slick handset shape and feel, as well as the colour screen, The BT8600 has a good amount of clever features needed in todays modern home.

Below are some of the reasons you should consider The 8600 as your next cordless phone;

  • Dedicated BT Premium call blocking service – this enables you to block certain callers from getting through – Ideal for pensioners and those who are retired
  • Screens unknown numbers by asking the caller to identify themselves, once they have given their name (and reason for calling) the call will then be put through to you where you can hear the callers name announced before you answer
  • The contacts in your contact list come straight through
  • While someone is calling you, you can choose whether to take the call, send them to voicemail or block them
  • Block numbers by type – you can actually choose to block certain types of numbers, for example mobile, international or unknown numbers – or even a certain selected suffix
  • Do not disturb mode – Choose to block all calls when you desire, the only numbers that will get through are the friends & family you save on your VIP list
  • Large full colour bright & stylish display so you can see all the notifications like missed calls, voice messages, text messages etc.
  • User friendly – Save up to 200 contacts in your phone’s memory. These will then be automatically copied through all of your handsets.
  • Visual voicemail – you can actually see the numbers (or contact names) next to the list of voicemails. You can then choose which one to listen to first and which to delete
  • Parental control – you can prevent mobile, international or premium rate numbers being dialled without a PIN
  • Backlit keypad allows you to use your phone in the dark or ambient light
  • Up to 60 minutes worth of voicemail recording on the phone’s memory bank
  • Use the main speaker phone on the dock to listen to your messages or use the handset
  • Access your voicemail messages remotely – great for checking in while on holiday
  • Call waiting feature – so you don’t miss any important phone calls
  • A very long range receiver – up to 300 meters outdoors, 50m indoors. So you can relax out in the garden whilst talking on your phone with clear reception
  • Up to a huge 21 hour talk time, with a 310 hour standby time

With great features as listed above, it really is clear to see exactly why The BT 8600 is our number one cordless phone. It has some amazing features. With the BT Premium call blocking feature, nuisance calls are a thing of the past.

 

BT 1700 Review – Number 2

The second place goes to The BT1700. A very strong cordless phone with a good set of features which we will take a look at below;

  • Block up to 20 numbers – for your privacy
  • Do Not Disturb Mode – Block all callers using this feature, however it will let the contacts in your VIP list through
  • Visual as well as audio notification for call waiting – to ensure you don’t miss a call
  • Large bright screen to display your notifications
  • Redial up to the previous 20 numbers
  • Store up to 50 contacts to your phone
  • Built in digital answering machine which you can turn on and off

All in all a very decent phone set with all the features you would expect from a cordless phone and some features which you may not expect.

With features like the Do Not Disturb mode and visual (as well as audio) notifications, The BT 1700 stands its ground as number 2.

 

Panasonic KX-TGC222EB Review – Number 3

From Panasonic comes a nice cordless phone set with some good features presented with a slick black finish.

Panasonic are no strangers when it comes to home electronics, and with the cordless phone, they make no exception in standing out. Here are some of its best features;

  • Up to 18 minutes of the digital answer machine facility
  • Large easy-to-read display to alert you of any notifications
  • Nuisance call blocker – block certain number prefix’s, complete numbers, international or just all unknown numbers
  • Hands free ability – speaker mode
  • Noise reduction technology to enhance the sound quality reducing the background noise
  • 16 hours of talk time
  • Caller ID function
  • Store up to 50 contacts

The Panasonic phone is a very decent phone. For someone looking for a good entry level phone, this is the one for you. Compared to The BT 8600, the features are quite limited.

 

Verdict

The winner of this comparison is The BT 8600. The do not disturb feature, visual voicemail, long range receiver, along with the slick finish makes The 8600 the best of our comparison.

While it is a little more expensive than its peers, there is definitely good reason why.

Read more about Best Cordless Phone With Answering Machine – Reviews 2016 on Reviewing The Best Cordless Phones.

Tuesday 12 July 2016

Best Digital Cordless Phones – Reviews 2015 – 2016

The Top 3 Cordless Phones On The Market 2016

Product Name Features Price Point Rating Visit


BT 8600 Easy call blocking – screens out cold calls – hands free – answerphone High End Learn More


Panasonic KX- TGC213EB Illuminated screen – call blocking technology – night mode – eco power saving mode Mid range Learn More


Gigaset C430A Large colour screen – fully customisable – eco mode – day & night settings Mid range Learn More

Only a decade ago, talking on the phone was a much more static activity than it is today, with the only types of telephone to exist being those with a cord attaching the base to the handset. These were often a hassle to use and are no longer sufficient in most people’s fast paced lifestyles. Today, there are countless new, technologically enhanced, variations of the telephone available on the market. This list features the top three cordless phones available to buy today.

 

BT 8600 Home Phone Review – Our Number 1

BT 8600This product offers individuals complete control over their calls, allowing users to decide who they want to speak to and which calls they wish to block. This is the perfect device for avoiding cold calls and unknown numbers from contacting and bothering you. This phone allows you to choose exactly who you wish to call you and when, based completely on your own preferences.

  • This product allows users to block up to 1000 numbers, ensuring that you will never receive another unwanted disturbance again.
  • It also screens incoming calls, ensuring that cold callers are unable to get through.
  • Its features makes blacklisting numbers incredibly easy, boasting a ‘one touch’ blocking system.
  • The device has a 1.8 inch colour screen, allowing users to easily check their missed calls, messages and answerphone.
  • The answering machine has the storage space for up to 60 minutes of messages, meaning users never have to worry about missing an important call.
  • Choose from one to four handsets depending on your own personal needs.

The BT 8600 is a great phone with many user benefits. It is a versatile product which offers customers complete control over who they want to be able to contact them and when. This phone offers flexibility and piece of mind to its users.

Summary:

Features: easy call blocking / screens out cold calls / hands free / answerphone

Pricing: high end

BT 8600 Advanced Call Blocker Cordless Home Phone with Answer Machine (Trio Handset Pack)

Price: £72.46

4.2 out of 5 stars (91 customer reviews)

13 used & new available from £70.98

 

Panasonic KX-TGC213EB Review – Number 2

Panasonic KX-TGC213EB Digital Cordless PhoneThis Panasonic phone looks simple and elegant. When the device is in its power saving eco mode, it offers ten hours of talk time, so there are no worries of your calls getting cut off while you’re speaking to family and friends. This device is perfect for the home or office space.

  • Uses new technology to block out nuisance calls so that you don’t have to worry about answering to cold callers.
  • Features a ‘night mode’ which stops the device from ringing after a time of your preference. Users no longer have to worry about calls interrupting their evenings.
  • This phone offers caller idea, with a memory of up to 50 numbers, further aiding individuals in screening their calls and choosing who they do and do not want to speak to.
  • The Panasonic KX-TGC213EB boasts a 1.6 inch illuminated screen, making it easy to use at any time of the day and in any environment.

This phone would be perfect for those who make a lot of long phone calls and are looking for a simple and easy to use device. Its straight forward features mean it is a great product for even the least tech-savvy of users.

Summary:

Features: illuminated screen / call blocking technology / night mode / eco power saving mode

Pricing: mid-range

Panasonic KX-TGC213EB Digital Cordless Phone with LCD Display (Three Handset Pack) – Black

Price: £39.70

4.4 out of 5 stars (640 customer reviews)

21 used & new available from £35.00

 

Gigaset C430A Review – Number 3

Gigaset C430A Cordless PhoneThe Gigaset C4308 stands out amongst other cordless phones due to its large 1.8 inch colour display screen, offering a link between smart phones and home phones for users. For this reason, this phone is extremely customisable, allowing users to add more fun and individuality to their handset.

  • This device features a large screen which is customisable to users. Individuals have the ability to choose their colour scheme and screen saver, as well as change ringtones and sounds on the phone.
  • It offers space for up to 200 different names in its phonebook, allowing for 3 different numbers to be saved under each name – perfect for the family home or a busy office.
  • Users can set the device to either day or night, allowing you to stop the phone from ringing in the evenings.
  • The Gigaset C420A allows you to switch on eco mode, meaning its more cost effective whilst also better for the environment.

This is the perfect device for modern individuals who are interested in a device which offers a little more personalisation. The Gigaset C420A is slick and stylish whilst also easy to use.

Summary:

Features: large colour screen / fully customisable / eco mode / day and night settings

Pricing: Mid-range

Gigaset C430A Cordless Phone with Answering Machine and Anonymous Call Silencing (Pack of 3)

Price: £59.90

4.4 out of 5 stars (354 customer reviews)

12 used & new available from £51.41

 

Verdict

Whilst each of these products would be beneficial to different types of people, the top spot on the list goes to the BT 8600. With its slick and simple design, easy to use interface and call blocking features, this device would be perfect for any individual. It requires very little effort to use, but offers optimum service to users.

BT 8600 Advanced Call Blocker Cordless Home Phone with Answer Machine (Trio Handset Pack)

Price: £72.46

4.2 out of 5 stars (91 customer reviews)

13 used & new available from £70.98

 

 

Read more about Best Digital Cordless Phones – Reviews 2015 – 2016 on Reviewing The Best Cordless Phones.