They’re relatively straightforward gadgets, and for most people, we think the AT&T DL72210 will get the job done. Its sound quality is good and the system can be expanded with additional handsets if the two provided aren’t quite enough. You can even use the DL72210 to interact with your digital assistant. This is a modest system with slightly more than modest features, and is probably exactly what you’re looking for without even knowing it. Answering System: Yes | Speakerphone: Yes | Bluetooth: Yes | Call Waiting: Yes | Caller ID: Yes Both handsets have large, backlit screens which are easy to read. The phone system is expandable up to five total handsets. We like this as a budget option because it’s a multi-handset system with nice extras and a low price tag. Answering System: No | Speakerphone: Yes | Bluetooth: No | Call Waiting: Yes | Caller ID: Yes It also has an answering machine and Caller ID announce, so you know who’s calling before you even pick up the phone. Other features like automatic robocall blocking work well, and the high-contrast screen is easy to read, even from a distance. Answering System: Yes | Speakerphone: Yes | Bluetooth: Yes | Call Waiting: Yes | Caller ID: Yes The handsets encrypt the calls so you can feel pretty comfortable that folks won’t be listening on your calls, as the signal is sent back to the base unit. In summary: Two lines, two answering machines and one handset. Wait, it only comes with one handset?! Yes, but you can add 11 more if you want. Answering System: Yes | Speakerphone: Yes | Bluetooth: Yes | Call Waiting: Yes | Caller ID: Yes Answering System: Yes | Speakerphone: Yes | Bluetooth: No | Call Waiting: Yes | Caller ID: Yes It’s a five-handset system that can connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth and transmits phone calls from your smartphone. You can even use a handset to locate your smartphone if you need to. The key feature of this Panasonic model is that it includes a 12-hour battery backup. So if your power goes out and your landline is still working, so will your smartphone. Keep in mind, though, you are paying dearly for that battery backup. Answering System: Yes | Speakerphone: Yes | Bluetooth: Yes | Call Waiting: Yes | Caller ID: Yes
DECT 6.0
DECT stands for Digital Enhanced Cordless Technology. We touched on this a little earlier, but we have a full explainer of the technology as well. Essentially, it’s a standard in cordless phones that ensure that a phone has great range and call clarity. Plus, DECT phones can intercom with each other and use VOIP, or internet telephony, services like Vonage or Ooma that will send your calls over the internet rather than via the traditional phone network.
Battery backup
Cordless phones require a battery to function, which is why they require base stations to charge. It’s important to consider your phone habits when choosing a cordless phone system. It’s also important to consider the layout of your home and places where a charging cradle would be convenient.
About Our Trusted Experts
Patrick Hyde lives in Seattle where he works as a digital marketer and freelance copywriter in addition to writing about technology for Lifewire. His areas of expertise include Android devices and consumer technology, such as cordless phones for your home. Adam Doud has been writing in the technology space for almost a decade. When he’s not hosting the Benefit of the Doud podcast, he’s playing with the latest phones, tablets, and laptops. When not working, he’s a cyclist, geocacher, and spends as much time outside as he can.
