Buying Guide for the Best Corded Landline Phones
When looking for a corded landline phone, it's important to assess how and where you plan to use it. Corded phones are valued for reliability, clarity, and not needing to be recharged. Consider factors like where you'll place the phone, who will use it, and any special features that might make everyday calls easier or safer. Taking the time to understand each feature will help you choose a phone that’s comfortable and convenient for your household or office.Handset ComfortHandset comfort refers to how the phone feels when you hold it. This is especially important if you'll be spending long periods on calls or if multiple people with different hand sizes will use the phone. Some handsets have slimmer designs, while others are chunkier for a firm grip. If you or anyone in your household has mobility or grip issues, a larger ergonomic handset might be best. Try to imagine if you want a lightweight or a heftier feel, as this can affect ease of use.
Sound Quality and Volume ControlSound quality is about how clear voices sound during a call. Volume controls let you increase or decrease how loud you hear the caller or how loud your own voice is sent. Many phones also have an adjustable ringer volume. If you have any hearing challenges, choose a phone with a wide range of volume controls and perhaps built-in amplification. If hearing isn't a big concern, a standard volume range will work fine.
Display and Caller IDThe display shows details like numbers dialed, incoming call information, and missed calls. Caller ID lets you see who’s calling before you answer. Small, basic screens offer just numbers, while larger, backlit displays can show names and even more information. If you want to easily see who’s calling or need easier-to-read screens, go for a phone with a bigger, illuminated display. If caller ID doesn’t matter to you, a basic screen will suffice.
Keypad Size and LayoutKeypad size determines how easy it is to dial numbers. Large, well-spaced buttons are useful for those with vision issues or dexterity problems and help reduce dialing mistakes. Some phones have illuminated keypads for dialing in the dark. If ease of dialing is important, look for large or high-contrast buttons. If you’re comfortable with smaller keys and don’t dial often, a standard keypad will do.
Speakerphone FunctionSpeakerphone lets you talk hands-free, which is useful for conference calls, multitasking, or if you have trouble holding the handset. Speakerphones can range from basic, where only you can listen, to more advanced, allowing both parties to clearly communicate. If you want to walk around or have group conversations, pick a phone with a good-quality speakerphone feature. If you primarily make private, short calls, this feature may not be as important.
Voicemail and Answering SystemSome corded phones have a built-in answering machine so callers can leave messages if you miss a call. The storage capacity indicates how many minutes of messages the phone can hold. If you're away from your phone often or want to screen calls, choose a phone with an easy-to-use answering system. If you already use a separate voicemail service or rarely miss calls, you may not need this built-in feature.
Wall-Mountable DesignA wall-mountable design lets you install the phone on the wall, which can save desk or counter space and make the phone more accessible. Some phones allow both wall and desk placement. Consider where you want the phone to go; if space is tight or you prefer the phone off the table, a wall-mountable model is best, otherwise, a desk-only design will work.
Emergency and Accessibility FeaturesSome landline phones have emergency buttons or features designed for people with disabilities, such as hearing aid compatibility, visual indicators, or large emergency call buttons. If someone in your home needs special assistance, look for a phone with these extra features. If not, these may not be necessary for you.