Checklist

Here's what to consider when you're buying a cordless phone. See also the list of features to consider.

Tip - power cuts: Cordless phones require mains power to work. Always keep an inexpensive corded phone for use if there's a power cut.

Which system?

There are different systems that cordless phones use for the wireless communication between handset and base. Probably the most common is DECT and its derivatives.

The DECT system was designed in Europe and is used by several manufacturers. The phones operate in a reserved 1.8GHz frequency band, so they don't suffer from interference from other wireless devices like WiFi networks. They are designed to have a range of around 50 metres.

We think the best system is DECT-GAP. This stands for – take a deep breath – Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications, Generic Access Profile-compliant. The beauty of these phones is you can mix and match handsets and base stations of different makes and models, You can also transfer calls between handsets, and handsets can be registered to more than one base station. Not all DECT phones are GAP-compliant, however.

DECT 6.0 is a US version of DECT that operates in a slightly different (but still reserved) 1.9GHz frequency band. It's otherwise similar to DECT, but that frequency difference means the two systems are not compatible..

XDECT is a proprietary (Uniden) version of DECT that claims greater range.

5.8GHz phones use proprietary frequency-hopping technology. These phones are not related to DECT and often have a shorter range – especially through building obstacles.

Other factors

Recharging
Phones use Nicad or nickel metal hydride (NiMH) batteries. Nicads are said to suffer from a "memory" effect – if you recharge them before they are fully run down, they may only use the new store of energy before needing to be recharged again.

NiMH batteries don't have this problem. They also contain less heavy metals and are a lower environmental risk when disposed of in landfills.

Type of batteries
We like standard-sized "AAA" (NiMH) rechargeable batteries. When the batteries finally fail, replacements are available in most supermarkets and other outlets. With a custom battery-pack, a replacement can be difficult to find – and possibly more expensive.

Range
If you have a big garden or a sprawling house, choose a phone with a good range score. Remember that trees, wire fences and solid walls all reduce range. (See Extra long range for more information.)

Talk time
Most handsets give between 10 and 20 hours of talk time. That's plenty, but make sure you replace the phone in the base station after a long chat. Standby time can be up to a fortnight or so.

Security
Digital phone conversations are encrypted and very secure. If you use telephone banking, make sure you delete the call memory after each banking session, so you do not leave behind sensitive numbers like your PIN.

Phone size
Small phones are easy to carry around, but larger models are more comfortable to use, especially for longer conversations.

Ease of use
Look for good-sized buttons, preferably backlit, with clear labels. Watch out for numbers made hard to read by a lack of contrast (for example, grey numbers on a grey background).

Try the handset to ensure it's not too heavy, is comfortable to hold, and fits well against your ear. Physical design is especially important for elderly or disabled users.

Telepermit
Look for a Telepermit sticker, which certifies compliance with local network connection requirements.

Electromagnetic radiation
Is radiation an issue for cordless phones? To date no clear evidence of a problem for mobiles or cordless phones has emerged. If you still want to limit your risk, use a wired phone for long conversations.

Interference
To avoid interference we recommend DECT 1.8GHz phones. This frequency isn’t used by other products and so it avoids interference from wireless networks, computers, home security systems and domestic appliances.

Analogue phones

Analogue models have been superseded by digital. They have fewer features than digital models, you won't get advanced options like multiple handsets, and privacy isn't guaranteed.