01.Introduction
We review 11 landline phones with answering machine phones priced from $60 to $230.
We've rated each model for:
- Ease of use
- Sound quality
- Range
- Battery life
On this page:
For more information about Home phones, see Phones and mobile devices.
Trying to find the best cordless phone can be daunting, particularly if you want to buy one with features such as extra loud ring volume or the ability to use it hands free. This test looks at models that work with an extra handset, providing extra versatility. All models were tested with an extra handset.
All models tested have base phone unit with digital answering machine, as well as an additional cordless handset and charger. The base unit connects to a phone line jack and power point to operate, while the additional charger and extra handset can be used wherever there is a spare power point.
CHOICE's experts independently test a wide range of products and services to bring you unbiased reviews, product comparison tools and buying advice that is trusted by 140,000+ members.
Get access to all
CHOICE benefits.
$1.91
/week
*Billed quarterly
Purchase this
single report.
$10
New technologies
Landline phones have improved markedly over the years, with a combination of corded and cordless as well as Bluetooth support options now readily available. This test includes three models that allow you to use your phone handset as an extra mobile phone, as well as three models with a combination corded and cordless set. We also test the first cordless phone on the market that can make calls in the event of a power blackout. We also carry out testing on the repeating feature on offer with some cordless phones to help extend their range past the limits of the base station.
We also tested the answering machine on models of they have one but did not include this score in the overall performance score, so you can easily compare the performance on land-line phones with and without answering machines.
Models tested
- Panasonic KX-TG6461ALT (1 Corded & 1 Cordless Handset)
- Panasonic KX-TG6561ALT (Single handset)
- Panasonic KX-TG6622ALB
- Siemens Gigaset A400 A Duo
- Siemens Gigaset E500A (single handset)
- Telstra 9150 TWIN DECT Cordless Phone
- Telstra 9450 Twin DECT 6.0 Cordless Phone
- Uniden DECT 3035+1
- Uniden ELITE 9135 + 1 White
- Uniden ELITE 9145 + 1 (1 Corded & 1 Cordless Handset)
- Uniden XDECT R055 + 1
Can't find the model you are looking for? Take a look at our results from our test in 2011.
However the results are not directly comparable to our most recent tests, but it'll give you a good idea of their performance.
How we test
Ease of use Our testers consider factors such as quality of the instruction manual, feel and comfort of the handset, whether the screen is easy to read and any other special features.
Sound quality A panel of users makes calls in a moderately noisy environment and assesses speech clarity, speech loudness, line noise and background noise reduction on each model.
Battery life After fully charging each phone’s battery, our testers set the phones to talk and standby, and time how long each setting takes to be discharged. They also time how long the phones take to recharge.
Range The base station for each model on test is placed within a single story building with solid concrete foundation and walls while the phone under test was located outside on the opposite side of one wall obstructing the line of sight. The tester continues to make phone calls with the maximum range determined by either the radio link being cut or a subjective assessment made that voice quality made conversation unacceptable.
Maximum ringer volume Ringer volume measurements were conducted using a decibel meter placed 1m horizontally away from the base or handset under test.
Answering machine Our testers look at the ease of use when creating a message and managing calls, as well as sound clarity and quality for both the message recording and the message left by the caller.
What else you'll get in this report
As well as the test results for 11 models you'll also get:
- Our interactive database with test results, prices, specs and features for all models
- Invaluable buying information: Plus practical tips on how to choose the right plan for your needs. Read this before you buy!
- CHOICE Shopper: Buy a membership and get this exclusive members' service that can save you time and money on your purchase.
Want more?
Get access to our independent testing reports and save yourself time and money.
