By Sage McHugh on November 21, 2009 in
Best Buy is offering two cordless phone systems with significant price reductions:
- The Panasonic KX TG6413T, normally $85, will be marked down to $60.
- The VTech LS6215-2 Expandable Cordless Phone System, originally $60, will be on sale for $45.
So which phone is the better option? It's more expensive, but we think the Panasonic phone is the better deal.
In general, Panasonic phones tend to be well-liked by users, as evident in our report on cordless phones. Although we don't review this model, a similar phone - the Panasonic KX-TG1032S - is one of our Best Reviewed picks. The Panasonic KX TG6413T, which is the phone offered at Best Buy, receives excellent reviews and earns four (out of five) stars at CNET. Editors like the user-friendly interface, feature set, speakerphone on handset, and the fact that it's expandable up to six handsets (two are included). The Panasonic is also praised on Amazon.com, where it earns a high 4.5-star average rating after 30 customer reviews. Users especially like the clear reception, nifty features like an intercom and phonebook, as well as the LCD on the handsets.
The VTech LS6215-2 gets mixed feedback on Amazon.com, generating 3.5 stars after just seven reviews. Some users say it has clear reception and works well, while others complain that the battery dies altogether in less than a year. It earns the same rating (3.5 stars) on CNET, where editors praise its value and sleek design. The lack of a headset jack for hands-free operation is a major drawback. They also find that the shiny black finish attracts fingerprints.
In our research, we have found that most cordless phones get mediocre reviews, with a lot of complaints for reception and call quality. Since the Panasonic phone gets better reviews and reaps praise from professionals and users alike, it's clearly the better choice.
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