Even though there are very few answering machines still being produced, there are still some factors to consider. Here's what experts say to shoot for when purchasing a telephone answering machine.

  • Power outage backup: The machine should have a battery backup or a message protection system in case of a power outage of a few hours or more. Otherwise, you may lose messages.
  • Total recording time: Most digital units hold 30 to 40 minutes of messages. If you receive many messages or travel for long periods without checking messages and deleting them, look for a machine that allows you to limit the time for each incoming message.
  • Remote message retrieval: Look for a machine that lets you change your greeting and turn the unit on and off from a remote location. Most have this feature.
  • Toll saver: When you're checking your messages from a remote location, this sets the machine to answer on the fourth ring if there are no messages (as opposed to answering on the first or second ring if there are messages), which allows you to hang up before you're charged for the call.
  • Auto disconnect: This feature stops the answering machine when you pick up the receiver; it's useful for people who screen their calls or sometimes don't get to the phone fast enough. Be aware that some machines only stop while the outgoing message is playing but not once the machine starts recording. Other models disconnect only when the directly attached phone is picked up (meaning this feature won't work with an extension).
  • Variable speed playback: This function speeds up or slows down playback to electronically enhance messages; it's useful if you miss a number and don't want to skip ahead.

Other features to look for include an option that allows you to hear only new messages, message preview (which plays the first five seconds of each new message), a stamp that tells you what day and time the message was received, short burst/cellular compatibility (which ensures that the message will keep recording even when calls have fragmented transmission), room monitor (which lets you listen to the sounds in a room while you're away), priority calling (which alerts you when an important caller is trying to reach you) and message transfer (which forwards messages to a telephone number you program into the machine).


Alternatives to an answering machine

For those who still have a home phone, the best alternative to standalone answering machines is a corded/cordless phone and answering machine combo. These devices offer many of the features included with answering machines, but they also involve the additional phone purchase. Alternately, telephone service providers offer voice messaging services, though these involve a monthly fee and don't include the most enjoyable aspect of having a standalone unit -- call screening.

Another option is to replace your landline with VoIP service, most of which offer free voicemail. Alternatively, you can sign up for Google Voice, which offers a number of features including free voicemail and transcription. Neither of these options requires you to change your home phone number. For more information see our report on VoIP.

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