Basic cordless phone

Panasonic and AT&T score with simple, easy-to-use cordless phones

Many basic cordless phones offer exceptional sound quality and range, but fewer features than their more robust (and expensive) competitors. Basic models are an excellent choice for anyone looking for budget options without many bells and whistles like answering machines, talking caller ID or the ability to link to cell phones. DECT technology has vastly improved call quality and range for most new cordless phones, regardless of their price.

While they might not offer the same features as their more expensive competitors, basic cordless phones do have notable basic features like a 50-number phone book, speakerphone, intercom and AAA rechargeable batteries with 13 hours of talk time. Most cordless phones are lightweight, with no-slip designs and large keypads. (The only major complaint is that some are too small to cradle between your neck and ear.)

Our best-reviewed basic model, the Panasonic KX-TG6511B (*Est. $35 with one handset), also includes a headset jack -- an unusual feature for most cordless phone models that is essential for most businesses. The phone is awarded an average 4.2 out of 5 stars in over 950 reviews on Amazon.com. Basic phones don't score as highly as more expensive models on performance, however; even with the KX-TG6511B there are some complaints of a 2 to 3 second delay before hearing the voice of the caller. Most reviewers, however, have zero complaints.

Another contender in the basic phone category is the AT&T EL52100 (*Est. $30) which boasts a speakerphone, answering machine, intercom and even a wall mount. However, Amazon.com has scores of negative comments about the phone dying or not working properly. In addition, unlike many phones in this report, the AT&T EL52100 is not expandable for additional handsets. (You can buy similar models, the EL52200 or EL52300, which have two and three handsets, respectively.)

The inexpensive Uniden D1660 (*Est. $20, 1 handset) is the most favorably reviewed model that is compatible with the unique Uniden DWX337 DECT 6.0 Waterproof Accessory Handset (*Est. $40). They don't come packaged together, but they do work together. Unlike any other unit currently available that works with the handset, the D1660 receives better than average reviews from customers.