Amazon.com Product Description

A 2.4 GHz digital phone from Uniden, the DCT 646 is multi-user expandable and comes with a number of useful features, including a second handset and extra charging cradle. Sleek and stylish, it supports up to two optional handsets (total of four). The phone utilizes the 2.4 GHz frequency and digital technology for clearer, more intelligible reception than traditional 900 MHz phones. An autoscan features automatically detects the best channel available.

Caller ID/call waiting compatible, the DCT 646 has 100 programmable caller ID memory locations. A memory location transfer feature lets uses synchronize the memory locations of their handsets. An auto-talk function allows you to answer calls simply by removing the phone from its cradle, while the display-and-dial feature lets you easily scroll through the list of calls and dial with the touch of a button. A voicemail indicator lets you know when you have received messages.

Twenty different distinctive ring options are provided, while handset and ringer volume controls allow you to easily adjust the phone's settings to your liking. A page button on the base makes finding a lost handset quick and painless, and the menu-driven handset LCD makes operation easy. Three-way conferencing is available between two handsets and an outside call, while the call transfer feature lets you route incoming calls to a different handset. A redial button lets you easily dial one of the last three outgoing numbers.

Both tone and pulse dialing modes are provided in case you need to switch to one or the other. Wall-mountable, the DCT 646 is headset compatible and comes with a belt clip for hands-free operation. This factory-refurbished model comes backed with a 90-day warranty.

What's in the Box
Base, two handsets, remote charging cradle, phone cord, two AC adapters, two battery packs, two belt clips, telephone line cord, user's manual, warranty information

Note: This model is no longer in production, so you may have difficulty finding additional handsets that are compatible with the phone's expandability feature. ... Read more

Features

• Remanufactured to like-new condition; 90-day warranty
• Headset compatible, belt clip
• 2.4 GHz digital signal with autoscan
• Expandable to 4 handsets, 2 included, extra charging cradle
• Caller ID/call waiting, 100-call memory

Amazon.com Product Description

Panasonic's KX-TG5200M utilizes 5.8 GHz DSS signal operation for increased call security and range and less interference. Call waiting/caller ID-ready, the phone offers a 50-call memory and dialer, accessible through the handset's three-line backlit LCD. And, it's expandable, accommodating up to three additional handsets (for a total of four).

You can pre-program frequently called numbers, even chain dialing for automated systems that require a series of numeric inputs. The KX-TG5200M is Caller IQ compatible, a service that allows you to receive updates on weather, sports, horoscopes, and more, that are sent directly to your telephone and displayed on the handset screen (requires optional service).

What's in the Box
KX-TG5200M handset and base, battery cover, AC power adapter, phone line cord, belt clip, NiMH battery, user guide, warranty information ... Read more

Features

• 50-station caller ID memory and dialer
• Handset speakerphone, 3-way conferencing
• 5.8 GHz digital spread spectrum signal
• Expandable to up to 4 handsets, 1 included
• Call waiting, caller ID, and Caller IQ compatible

Reviews (5)

No problems at all!!!
This is the best phone I have ever owned.
The reception is is great. The speakerphone feature works great too, it is nice and clear from both sides when speaking, no breaking up. It has nice melodies to choose from. There is one I love and use that doesn't scare me from my sleep like the regular ringing from my old phone did. It was easy to register my other handset also.
I am very happy with this telephone.

Middle-aged Mom
THIS IS THE WORST PHONE I HAVE EVER OWNED! DO NOT BUY THIS PHONE.This is my first review of anything, but I felt this phone was so bad and expensive that you needed to be warned.

The display goes blank so you cannot read caller ID and it is impossible to hear anyone or be heard.

I bought this phone through Amazon in December 2004. Do not buy!

Perfect for use near my WiFi
I had been using an old 900mhz phone that was dying quickly, so I set out to buy a new 5.8ghz phone.I have an Apple Airport set up for my WiFi, and the phone needs to sit near the base station.I had a Panasonic Cordless phone once and it lasted FOREVER!.I had that phone for over 10 years, but then one day I started getting to much interference, so I switched to another brand, and then another.Finally I bought this model and am THRILLED with it.No defects, no problems, great quality.I especially appreciate the fact that you can actually set a pleasant ring tone on it that wont cause you to jump out of your skin.I LOVE that fact!

Faulty product, don't buy it!!
Check out the below (cut and past into your browser address) - all of these panasonic phones have problems.This is about a pending class action lawsuit against Panasonic.

http://www.sheller.com/Practice.asp?PracticeID=140

KX-TG5200M Doesn't Interfere with 802.11g Network
The main reason I purchased this phone was to replace my Panasonic 2.4 GHz phone which interfered with my 802.11g wireless network. When the 2.4 GHz phone would ring or when we would talk on it, it would disconnect my laptop's wireless Internet connection.

It seems there are very few phones that are "true" 5.8 GHz models. Most AT&T, GE, Uniden and VTECH 5.8 GHz cordless phones utilize 5.8 GHz transmission from the base station to the handset and then 2.4 GHz from the handset to the base station. Not sure why except that it must be cheaper. In any case, this means that most 5.8 GHz phones may still potentially interfere with an 802.11g network.

The Panasonic KX-TG5200M uses 5.8 GHz transmissions in both directions, is packed with features (caller ID on the handset, softkey for one-touch dialing to voicemail, speakerphone on handset) and is reasonably priced. It also allows for up to four expansion handsets. Make sure you buy the expandable base before you buy the expansion handsets as the latter won't work without the former.

Call clarity has been great and there are no longer interference issues with my 802.11g network.

I'll likely give my four-year old 2.4 GHz phone to a friend or relative as it still works fine. ... Read more

Product Description

2.4 GHz digital spread spectrum operation * multi-handset operation (add up to 7 optional cordless handsets for a total of 8) * corded handset, keypad, and LCD display on base unit * built-in digital answering system with up to 15 minutes total record time * 4-line backlit LCD display on handset * Caller ID and Call Waiting Caller ID (where available; subscription required) shown on cordless handset and base * individual 50-entry phone directories for base and handset * phone directory sharing * 50 Caller ID memories * speakerphones built into the handset and base * jack for optional headset (on cordless handset) * privacy mode (locks out any other handsets on a particular call) * 2-way paging and intercom * NiCad rechargeable battery (up to 4-1/2 hours of talk time per charge) * silver finish * warranty: 1 year ... Read more

Features

• 50 name and number speed dial
• 2.4 GHz digital operation
• Fully integrated digital answering system with 3 mailboxes
• Expandable to 8 handsets; digital duplex speakerphone
• 1 cordless and 1 corded handset included

Reviews (18)

Keep on Looking
We decided to spend a little more money and go with a cordless phone that we could expand with.Along with this phone we purchase two additional handsets.What a big mistake.In less than a year, the LCD screen on two of the handsets doesn't work(no caller ID, previous caller etc.).The battery on the other handset doesn't hold a charge or indicates that you're out of range, get closer to the base.. when you're standing right next to it.

Needless to say we were very disappointed and are once again phone shopping.

Works great & good price
I purchased this unit several months ago and found it to be as described. I guess I must have got a good one as I have to turn down the handset volume to mid-level even with the TV on and kids running around the room. Corded unit is clear and speakerphone is convenient. Both range and battery life have been more than satisfactory. One note is that the speakerphone is not as good as the several hundred dollar unit I use at work in the conference room - but I wouldn't expect that. Price it out on the web for around $100.00

Goodphone
I must have got a good one or something after reading some of the reviews.Mine works great, no problems.Of all the cordless phones I have had in the past, this one has more distance in between the base and extension than any of them, much farther than the 5.8 ghz phone I have in the shop.For the money, I don't think you can beat it.I've got much more expensive phones that don't work half as good as this one.

Mediocre
I use this phone mainly for the speakerphone feature (for conference calls).My review is purely based on the base unit since I did not hook up the cordless handset.For this price, I expected a good speakerphone but it'll only pick up my voice when I'm talking within 2 feet.I've tried several speakerphones, and I thought I found what I need in this but was disappointed.Bought it at Staples for $150 and planning to return it, and get a cheaper phone (value for money).Features that I liked about this phone are the caller-id, and mute feature.Overall this phone is ok, but not for the price I paid for.

Display Problem Solved!!!
FIVE STARS if it weren't for one key problem ...the display goes blank and stays blank.

However the great news is ...there is a reliable fix for this problem.Unlike other comments in this feedback forum, the fix is not simply to replace the original Ni-Cd batteries with the new Ni-MH batteries.The second key finding of my problem solving was that the remote cordless phone's recharge-base electrical cord and power supply can come loose from the wall outlet and cause a weak and irregular trickle of power to the phone while it looks like it is charging.My advise to anyone that has or is interested in buying this phone system is to replace the Ni-Cd Panasonic batteries with a Ni-MH (ex. Energizer ER-P511) batteries as soon as possible, even if you have to discard like-new Ni-Cd batteries.Secondly and just as importantly ensure that your charging-base power cord is very securely plugged into the wall outlet.If your phones are not new, then make certain that the `metal-to-metal' components of the charging-base and the cordless phones are clean.Also make certain the springs that are located inside the cordless handset battery compartment, which contact the battery are clean.

The combination of the power-cord problem and the Ni-Cd (memory sensitive) batteries causes early failure of this type of battery.The low-power battery then causes problems with the phones.The worse problem is that you totally lose the display, but other problems such as short-talk time and call-disconnect can also occur.The Ni-MH batteries and the power cord wall connection-check will make this phone system GREAT!
... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Note: The Uniden DXAI5188-2 is no longer being manufactured. Check out the the newer Uniden DXAI5588-2 with similar features.

Uniden's DXAI5188-2 cordless phone system offers a wealth of benefits--5.8 GHz analog technology, an integrated digital answering machine, caller ID and call waiting capability, as well as an additional handset. Still, the DXAI5188-2 requires only one phone jack for operation. Simply plug the main base unit into a phone jack, and the extra handset will configure itself to "talk" wirelessly with the base unit. The base unit also houses the digital answering system.

All call features are accessed through the phone system's handsets, including last number redial, call transfer between handsets, and convenient volume control. Each handset has a three-line backlit LCD for displaying caller information and for access to saved numbers, both of which are available even while you're taking another call. Information and menus can be displayed in your choice of English, French, or Spanish. Handsets are also compatible with most hearing aids and headsets (sold separately). The base unit and charging cradle are desk or wall mountable.

What's in the Box
DXAI5188-2 base unit, main handset, additional handset, charging cradle, phone line cord, AC power adapter x2, rechargeable battery x2, battery cover x2, user guide, warranty information ... Read more

Features

• Caller ID/call waiting ready; 10 speed dial locations
• 5.8 GHz analog signal
• Integrated digital answering system
• 2 handsets and remote charging station, only 1 phone jack required
• Handset-to-handset call transfer

Reviews (16)

Better sound than digital phones
After returning two digital phone systems because of their lousy sound quality, I purchased this phone system because it was highly rated in Comsumer Reports.It's worked perfectly for us.The analog sound quality is great, much better than digital phones, and now we have a phone in the bedroom without having to install a phone jack.

Static, Static, Static
The title says it all.You want to hear static then this phone is for you.

No problemos!
We had a 2.4 GHz Olympia wireless phone system - horrible echo and static. Finally made the jump to 5.8 GHz because we went wireless with 4 computers and XBox Live. We only needed one extra handset, so notice that you cannot add extra handsets to this system. Reception and voice clarity are fantastic within our house and more than 1 block away at the community pool. Answering machine is easy to understand and the ringers are very loud on highest setting (I lost 50% of my hearing on one side). Only 10 numbers for memory storage, and you have to enter each handset memory separately (drag). Have tested use of this phone around all our computers, the microwave, and game adapter - no problemo. I highly recommend this phone if you don't need more than one extra handset.

Solid Choice
I purchased this phone based on Consumer's Reports "Best Buy" Rating. Static has not been much of a problem. It was easy to set up and program. Only disappointment-- it does not have a speaker phone function.

Consumer Reports thinks this phone is great...
The customer reviews really disappointed me, since the Oct 04 Consumer Reports has this phone as a Quick Pick for the multi-handset phones with answerer category.I'm so sad now to hear it's not as good as the article would suggest! ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

This 2.4 GHz cordless phone delivers clarity and convenience. It moves with you so you don't have to sacrifice sound quality for going the distance. Add in the phone's built-in headset compatibility, digital messaging, and caller ID from your local phone service, and you've got built-in freedom of speech. The 27935GE3 easily meets the needs of today's busy household with the convenience of two-line operation. The combination of 2.4 GHz transmission and 40-channel auto scan ensures a clearer reception and significantly less interference with better range than conventional cordless phones. To further eliminate static and interference, the phone employs compandor technology. Caller ID/call waiting (with paid service from your phone company), chain dialing capability, and a memory index are just a few of the convenient features you can enjoy with this multifunction telephone. ... Read more

Features

• 2.4 GHz transmission offers clear reception, less interference, and better range
• 10-number memory
• 40-channel auto scan
• Battery-low warning light and tone alert; replaceable rechargeable nickel metal hydride (NiMH) battery
• Chain-dialing capability

Reviews (12)

General Electric 27935GE3 2.4 GHz
The worst phone I have ever had in my life. [...]I live in Ecuador and it was very difficult for me to get [...] for something that worked about 3 months and no more.
Never more in my life GE, Phanasonic works great in phones.

Maria Clara Orska

Does not have the Range
I bought this phone and returned it within 14 days.The range of the handset is VERY limited.The handset started loosing its signal 20 feet from base!Made any type of mobility with the handset useless unless are in the same room as the base.

Don't buy this phone
We bought two of these phones for our home office. They are terrible! When both phones are being used at the same time, they interfere with each other. There is very poor outgoing sound quality- our customers were constantly asking us to repeat ourselves. Also, the range on these phones is very poor. Whenever I would step outside of the room with the base, a clicking noise would start. This phone may be ok if you only need one (although it doesn't sound like it based on other reviews), but I would not get this phone if you need two.

buying another
I've had great luck with this phone, good battery life and reception, small and light.

How did this get past quality control?
We have this phone in our small business office, and it is without question the worst phone I have had the displeasure of using.I recognize that there are a number of sources of interference on the fifth floor of our office building, but the static is aweful.Even sitting less than two feet from the receiver there is static.Outgoing sound, as mentioned by other reviewers, is also poor.We are going to switch back to our (very) old phone because this unit is truly unbearable.It is mind-boggling that the folks at GE have actually put this device in the hands of real customers. ... Read more

Product Description

Sony is a leading manufacturer of audio, video, game, communications and information technology products for the consumer and professional markets. Sony is devoted to the celebration of life. The company creates things for every kind of imagination, products that stimulate the senses and refresh the spirit, things that are not essential, but hard to live without.Sony A2780 2.4GHz cordless phone means great sound quality and clarity at an extended distance. Its extended range improves corded quality range by making clearer conversations possible farther from the base. It features dual caller ID with call waiting with 70-number memory, Walkie Talkie function, multi-language caller ID prompt and up to 20 minute digital recording capacity. ... Read more

Features

• High Power Digital 2.4GHz Spread Spectrum
• Multi-Handset Capability (Up To 4 Handsets)
• 2 Phones In 1 Corded And Cordless Phone Set
• Dual Caller Id With Call Waiting With 70-Number Memory Display
• Dual Center Jog Dial(R) Control With 100-Number Dialing Directory

Reviews (3)

Buttons Don't Work
I purchased this phone system in 2001.I really liked all the features and how nicely the whole package was put together.Sony really knows how to design consumer products.

BUT DON'T BUY THIS PHONE!6 months after I purchased it the cordless handsets starting having problems with the keypads.I purchased the system and 2 additional phones.That's a total of 4 cordless phones.Every single phone, without exception developed problems with the keypad.At first the numbers are hard to press, then over time certain numbers on the keypad stop working all together.If this only happened to one of the cordless phones I would have written it off to a bad one in the bunch.But EVERY cordless phone developed the problem.

Don't even get me started on the Sony's support crappy support.I gave up and purchased aonther phone system.

Up until I purchased this phone system I had been extremely happy with my Sony purchases.This has definately soured me.I'll think twice about buying any Sony product.Last thing I want is to have to deal with some guy in India who doesn't understand me next time I have a problem.

Long-time owner
I have owned this phone since August 2001 and it has worked on both standard (Verizon) and VoIP (Vonage) networks without any problems at all. In general I like Sony equipment and this phone has not disappointed. Talk-time is, with a fresh battery, around 2 hours and stand-by time around 24 hours, give or take.

I particularly like the speakerphone (base unit only) and the answering machine (base unit only but accessible via handsets), both are easy to use. The 2.4 GHz handset has never let me down, quality always good. To be fair, we live in a 1 br. apartment so dropout has never been an issue. Even so, neither 802.11 nor microwave ovens have posed a hassle to the quality of calls made via the handset.

All in all, I think this is a great phone, it's lasted me three years now and it's still going strong. It gets a LOT of use, I can't think of too many electronics products nowadays that last more than 12 months, in this regard the Sony phone is a standout.

Also, to the other reviewer who was looking for a replacement battery (my original battery died after about 18 months) for the handset, I got one from Radio Shack for about $12.95 in about a week, not a problem. Even better, it is a 1000 mAh battery as opposed to the feeble 700 mAh one that came with the phone, so talk-time is longer.

Sony Cordless Telephone
I have this Sony telephone and two expandable handsets.We live in an old house with limited phone jacks, so we have the expandable handsets in places where we could not otherwise have a telephone.We also can take the handset with us when we go to another phoneless room and save running up and down steps to answer a phone.The only problem we have is occasionally forgetting to put one of the cordless handsets in a charger at night and then running down the batteries.My biggest worry is where to buy new batteries as this phone seems to be discontinued. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Step up the pace with a two-line Uniden EXI2926 cordless telephone-speakerphone with call waiting and caller ID. You decide whether to interrupt your work to answer an incoming call. Special features include intercom and page, a 50-number caller ID memory, and a large, clear backlit LCD. The 900 MHz analog operation offers clearer sound and longer range than older models operating on a lower frequency band provide.

The EXI2926 provides dual dialing and displays on both handset and base. The unit's memory is programmable to 40 speed-dial numbers with one-touch connections. Caller ID remembers the last 50 incoming calls, displaying the caller's name, number, date, and time of each call. Incoming calls are stored in memory with a three-line display for information that is clear and easily readable.

You'll appreciate the independence of a speakerphone to allow unrestricted and hands-free movement when placing and answering calls, especially since this model is headset compatible. With adjustable volume control, intercom, and paging to recover the misplaced handset, the phone is designed for your desk or for convenient wall mounting. ... Read more

Features

• 900 MHz extended-range cordless phone
• 2-line capability
• Caller ID/call waiting
• Backlit caller ID display
• 80-number caller ID memory

Reviews (6)

Great phone except for one problem
This is a great phone.It had all the features I was looking for -- 2 lines, conf, call waiting, call id, transfer, mute, headset jacks, volume, ringer on/off.The only problem is that you cannot turn off the ringer on the handset.If your talking on one line and another call comes through on the other, it rings loudly in your ear.I called Tech Support and you cannot turn this off -- only to hi or low volume (and 'low' isn't that low).If it weren't for this, I'd recommend it highly.

Cannot recommend it
After less than one year, I am shopping for a new phone.The handset does not work anymore.I replaced the battery thinking that was the problem but it wasn't.When I click on one of the lines, there is either no sound at all, no dial-tone or anything OR it is just static and fuzz.

I hope my next phone lasts longer than this one did!

Not a good desk phone!
I bought this phone with the intention of using it in my home office.The caller-id function is very important to me.Unfortunately, the phone lays to flat for you to see the caller-id display or read the keypad.Also, speakerphone volume is really loud, even when turned all the way down.I am taking this phone back.

A terrible phone
I bought this phone lastChristmas and within two months the handset quit working unless you bang it on something. It also will not hold a charge.What a waste of money!

clear phone
You might not like the price on this, no matter how low the sale is, but you will see it all worth it when it arrives.If you find it hard to hear the other line walking around your house, then I suggest you move.This phone is so clear, when your in the same room with it's charger, it will seem as if you are actully in the same room with your chatter. ... Read more

Product Description

2.4 GHz operation *built-in digital answering machine with up to 15 minutes total record time * Chain Dial * 3-line backlit LCD display on handset * Caller ID and Call Waiting Caller ID (where available) shown on handset * voice mail message waiting indicator (requires voice mail subscription from phone service provider) * Voice Enhancer Technology (adds lost frequencies back to voices) ... Read more

Features

• Light-up antenna indicator for calls and new messages
• Handset speakerphone, shoulder rest attachment, belt clip
• 2.4 GHz frequency-hopping digital spread spectrum signal
• Integrated digital answering system with 15 minutes recording time
• Caller ID/call waiting, Caller IQ compatible; 30-station memory and directory

Reviews (3)

pleasantly surprised
I haven't been in the market for a new cordless phone in awhile, and this is a great one with an answering machine. It was easy to set up. I love the internal phone book and light-up antenna. I have had no problem with static. And the speakerphone on the handset comes in handy. Another great phone/answering machine from Panasonic.

phine phone
Reception on phone is clear and clean. Settup was a breeze. Long battery life. Voice enhancer works well. Well designed and stylish base.

Good phone - slight hum
I liked the phone.Great features although you can do better than the 30 name limit on the number memory.My only complaint about this phone is that on every call there is a static when using the phone.When no one is talking it is deathly quiet, but a little voice over the line and back comes the static.Really annoying.No I do not have a wireless network. ... Read more

Product Description

Special Package include: * Cordless Phone; * 3 Cordless Handsets and Chargers; * 4 Belt Clips; * 4 Rechargeable NiMH Batteries; * 4 AC Adapters; * Telephone cord and Printed Materials ... Read more

Features

• 2.4GHz Digital Expandable System, 4 Caller ID Handsets Included with Charging Cradles
• Caller ID/Call Waiting, Digital Answering System
• Intercom/Call Transfer Between Handsets
• Directlink Mode (2-way Radio Conversation)
• Baby/Room Monitoring

Reviews (1)

Fantastic Phone for the home
Just purchased this phone from Costco for 99.99, less than anywhere else available.The features of this phone are great.Being able to retrieve messages from any of the 4 handsets is a major plus.The intercom feature from handset to handset also ranks high on the feature list.I have not had the opportunity to try the enhanced Caller ID feature yet where you can send people to voice mail, dump the call, or have it announce that you will not take this call... but it does sound cool.

Ergonomically the phone is easy to hold against the ear with your shoulder due to the size.It's not thin where it will make you crank your head way over, and it's not too thick either.

I was worried about using it so close to my wireless network setup in the office.But have not had a single problem even though they reside in the same 2.4 GHZ band.

Everything about this phone screams comfort to use.But there are some drawbacks that I have found.

First, the buttons need to be pressed down fully to be used.While this is not like my last phone, you may find it not so easy for the elderly.

The End button is placed in a weird place, that takes some time to get used to.They have such a large Talk button, that I feel it should also have been used to end a call, but then again, where would you put the flash button?(The talk button does both features).

It will take some time to get used to all the features that are available... since they are all accessed through the menu/clear and select buttons even while on a call... which is how you dump calls that are coming through to voice mail.. a cool feature.

Overall I would rate it a high 4, not a 5 since nothing is perfect.But for the price of getting all these phones in the house with only having to plug in one for the jack, this is a great buy.The feature list is bigger than what they advertise, so be prepaired, but whats great is that you won't get lost in setting this up... or using them, Menu items are done very well.

Worth the money... in my opinion YES ... Read more

Product Description

Includes Uniden TRU8885-2 cordless digital answering machine system base 2 handsets remote charging cradle 2 battery packs 2 AC adapters telephone line cord 2 belt clips user manual warranty. ... Read more

Features

• Caller ID with call waiting, tri-lingual display options
• Extra handset included; handset-to-handset call transfer
• 5.8 GHz digital spread spectrum technology with dual handset system
• Base and handset dialing and speakerphone
• Integrated digital answering system

Reviews (71)

Had it one year and audio cuts out -- no help from Uniden!
I've had this expensive system for one year and it is currently not functional.The audio cuts out randomly -- you can sometimes hear very faintly, but usually, not at all.I changed batteries, but the problem is now worse.The "help" offered by Uniden was to use only THEIR batteries.SO now I can spend another $30 on more batteries and that doesn't guaruntee that the problem will be solved.Not bloody likely!Crap product, crap service!

Rock solid, crystal clear, great features (READ MANUAL!)
This is a really good phone that's taken a lot of drops and keeps on ticking. It's solidly constructed, well-engineered, and built much better than the GE/Motorola disposable phones. Plus, it looks a heck of a lot better than the other phones. I've had this since it first came out, and there's been no problems despite the accidental drops or what have you of daily heavy usage. The built-in speakerphone on each handset continues to be a stunning feature. Also, the battery life is ridiculously long, and this makes up for the lack of a battery meter. Think of this phone as a Toyota and the others as GM. Which would you trust if they made your life support systems? Enough said. The only thing that could have been improved upon: -Expandability of handsets limited (not really a problem for most). -There is no instant synchronization of stored numbers from one phone to the other (something I miss about my old Sony phone). -As mentioned before, the only warning of a low battery is an audible alert/led msg (while you are using it) that the battery is low. From that point on, you only have about a minute or so of talk time left. Like anything in life, you get what you put into it. Read the manual. Learn what this phone allows you to do. Despite a previous poster's comments, this phone easily allows you to toggle on/off the 1- (by pressing *) and the area code (by pressing #) of your caller ID listings. It's in the manual, if the previous poster had actually bothered to read it before posting his mental spasms (a priceless moment). There is a newer model out (TRU8885-2) that addresses the few shortcomings of this phone and adds some cool new ones like a smaller and better base station, albeit imo it does not look as nice. -a NYer who can actually read

disappointed
my fiance and I have both had uniden 900 megahertz for almost a decade. When we met, we both had the same phone and continued to use them for five more years! I loved uniden, so I was really excited when this new cool looking phone came out. we waited for the price to drop somewhat and finally bought it. Well, I'm not so impressed. the main thing is that it cuts out or breaks up when i'm in my office. Every phone conversation I have to walk into the living room b/c it gets somewhat better reception out there. it's worse than my cell phone by far. i don't really use the fancy features. answering machine works well, it's very modern looking, but i'm upset every time I have to move around the house to get good reception. I think there have to be better phones out there, esp for the $$$$.

Good sound. Not so good features.
Pros - The sound is great. I like the speakerphone in the handset. i like setting ring tones for diff. numbers.

Cons - The ph# memory is only 10 digits or so. If you have a longer number (i.e. using a 10-10 xxx access code) you are stuck. You have to dial a 10+ digit number manually each time.

The caller ID has an error. Lets say someone phones you from 555-xxx. You can see the number but if you try to press talk to call back, the phone does not and cannot put a 1 in front. i.e. 1-555-xx. So you have to remember the number and then phone back manually.

The perfect phone!!
This phone has all the right features. It is very sharp looking and is just perfect. The sound and clarity is excellent. It has so many different ring tones which are fun! I was looking for a 5.8 GHZ (since that is the best out there right now) multi handsets, speaker phone and a digital answering system and I found it all in this Uniden!! I highly recommend it! ... Read more

Product Description

Panasonic KX-TC1743B digital cordless telephone operates on the 900MHz frequency for extended range and clarity and more secure conversations. The fact that this model is digital, helps to secure phone calls from potential eavesdropping. This phone is also Caller ID compatible. When used in conjunction with Call Waiting Caller ID, the Call Waiting Caller ID feature will display the caller's information on the multifunction, backlit, three-line LCD display located on the handset - even if the user is currently on another call when the second call comes in. A Caller ID memory with dialer for later review and instant callback capability of received calls is also viewable via the handset display. A Direct Dialer button provides "one-touch" access to an emergency or often-used phone number.A Digital Duplex Speakerphone - the tool for multiple party conversations - is included in KX-TC1743B. Digital circuitry helps reduce the echo and dropout commonly found in speakerphones and allows more natural sounding conversations. Built-in all-digital telephone answering systems record up to 15 minutes without the mechanical woes associated with cassettes, and let users instantly hear, save or delete individual messages. These models also allow users to administer outgoing and incoming messages remotely from any telephone with voice prompts to aid the process. Each message is affixed with a time/day stamp, so you'll always know when the call was received. The phone has New Message Playback for listening to newly received calls and a two-digit LCD call counter for viewing the number of calls received. Other features include a lighted handset keypad, dual keypads, and two-way paging/auto intercom for communication between the base and the handset. Additionally KX-TC1743B has hold/flash/redial; call screening and toll saver are included too. ... Read more

Features

• 900 MHz digital operation
• Call waiting/caller ID with 50-station memory
• All-digital answering system with 15-minute recording
• 50-station phone directory and dialer
• Digital duplex speakerphone, lighted handset keypad, and base-unit keypad

Reviews (60)

Not reliabile
Features wise this phone is OK, but it broke within one year after purchase day.

The sound in the headset became so quite, that you can only hear it in the very quite room, even on the loudest mode.

The phone shut itself down every one or two week and you have to unplug it from the power outlet for about 10 min and then plug it back, so it's start working again.

The speakerphone microphone is not sensitive enough, you can only use it within 2 feet from the base, otherwise other party will not hear you.

The buttons on the headset very hard and sometime is impossibleto press.

My friend also bought Panasonic phone (different model), guess what, it broke within one year too.

I have Panasonic TV, DVD player and microwave oven and they work just fine for a few years now.Based on my own experience and also reading other people reviews, I think Panasonic has a very big reliability problem with their phones and they should address this issue ASAP.

Great Phone!!!!
In reading the reviews I thought I'd add my 2 cents since I've owned this phone for *at least* 5 years now with no problems. I got online to try and help a friend find a new 900 mhz phone so it won't interfere with her wi-fi. I looked up my phone to check the reviews and it sounds like if you get a good one you love it, a bad one it's not so good. My battery so far has been great though I'll probably need a new one pretty soon as the 4+ hr cont. talk time is now down to about 2ish and I can't leave it off the cradle overnight anymore and hold a charge.

However, I wonder if the problems aren't with the battery itself more than the phone. I say this because I also own another Panasonic cordless phone/answering machine and it has many of the same battery issues mentioned here. Overall though I'd say I'd buy this phone again in a heartbeat -- it's easy to use, the speaker on the handset is wonderful, especially when you get stuck on hold, and the range/features make for a very nice package. I've recommended this phone to others who love it as well.

An average model
You get what you pay for. I wanted an inexpensive model with Caller ID and voicemail.
Most of the features are just fine. However, the handset is way too quiet and the battery life is just horrible. It would not let you talk for more than 40 minutes - needs recharging.
(I owe that model for over a year.)

Visit the Opinion Corner
Phone is so good lookin' as well as functionable you might mistake it for 5.8Gig.Go to the site below read reviews Amazon ranked sale item is in the 700 mark!!!!

[...]

I Will Not Buy Panasonic Again
I bought Panasonic, because I thought that it was a reliable company that made good products.I chose a phone which I thought would last for at least a year, but I ended up having trouble with this one from the beginning.I contacted the company immediately to let them know that there were problems, but they refused the resolve the matter.I was so disappointed by their lack of response that I boxed up the phone up and ended up with a vtech instead.

I had a lot of problems shortly after purchase with static, with the phone cutting out, and with the range from the base that I was able to walk.It got worse, and pretty soon I had to stand next to the base to talk.Of course, that defeats the purpose of a cordless phone!

After many calls to the company, which only resulted in a run around, they told me to send the phone in at my expense and they would send me a refurbished phone for an additional $50.I told them at this point I was so disappointed in customer service that I just wanted a refund.The refused to give me a refund, and they refused to send me a label to return the product at their expense.I had paid almost $100 for the phone, and they wanted me to pay MORE money for a USED phone!

Having to pay $150 total plus double the shipping cost just to get a used phone that was "refurbished" was out of the question.I boxed the phone up and left it in my closet.It is still there, and I have avoided Panasonic products ever since.(I have, by the way, decided to purchase a vtech, which has never once given me problems.)I am very disappointed in the lack of customer service, the poor quality of the product, and the unwillingness of Panasonic to resolve this issue.It was a complete waste of my money, and I would not reccomend anyone buy Panasonic. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Some of us demand much more from a phone than just a flash or redial button. For users who want extensive features, Uniden's TRU3465 delivers. Operating on the 2.4 GHz band, the phone uses digital transmission for exceptional range and minimal static. The three-line LCD in the handset works in conjunction with caller ID services, storing 50 names and numbers for easy viewing and quick callback, in addition to the 20 speed-dial presets.

The speakerphone lets you talk hands-free, or let the whole family in on the conversation. Of course, the phone also features the basics, like flash, redial with memory storing the last three numbers dialed, pause, and hold. In addition, you can dial either from the handset or from the base. The phone is not wall mountable, but does feature a belt clip and can be used in conjunction with an optional headset. Uniden provides a 90-day warranty on this factory-refurbished model.

What's in the Box
Base unit, handset, battery pack and cover, AC adapter/charger, telephone line cord, belt clip, instructions, warranty/service information ... Read more

Features

• 20-number memory dialing; dual keypads
• Remanufactured to like-new condition; 90-day warranty
• Headset compatible, belt clip; speakerphone
• 2.4 GHz digital spread spectrum transmission
• Caller ID/call waiting, 50-station name/number memory and dialer

Product Description

AT&T 2325 is a state-of-the-art 2.4 GHz cordless answering system. This phone boasts a Caller ID with Call Waiting feature that works with service from your local phone service provider. Caller ID with Call Waiting lets you see who's calling before you answer the phone, even when you're on another call. AT&T 2325 assigns each incoming call a number from 1 to 50. The most recent call will have the lowest number. When the memory is full, the oldest call information is deleted to make room for new incoming call information. The phone also features 2-way page and intercom and a speakerphone in handset. ... Read more

Features

• Speakerphone in handset
• 2.4 GHz digital spread spectrum technology
• Built-in 3-mailbox digital answering machine
• Caller ID/call waiting capability with 50-call memory
• Expandable to 4 handsets; 2-way page and intercom

Reviews (12)

Phone is no good.
This phone is horrible, it does not provide all the services that is described.Buying it was a complete waste of my money.I do not recommend it. If there were zero stars, it would have gotton a (-10).

AT&T:a name in history (nothing more)
Whatever happened to the AT&T I remember -- the engineering paragon that helped make the US the world's envy? It's apparently long gone, hopelessly withered to merely a marketing agency for horribly mismanufactured Chinese rubbish. This phone is an example. The most glaring flaw, obvious to anyone: the keypad is printed in light brown ("champagne" in BS ad-speak) on dark gray rubber. It's almost illegible when new, and the brown paint or ink is guaranteed to wear off in short order. How much more idiotic can it get? The LCD is also very low contrast with heavy shadowing -- it's virtually unusable, even with the pitiful backlight. Shame on the greedy fools and government lawyers who ran old AT&T into such a low ditch.

Defective LED, Great Phone Book
I got this phone along with three additional handsets for Christmas and was very pleased with the simplicity of set-up and programming.In March one of the handset began losing some of its LED display on the screen.It is now April and the entire LED is completely blank.We have not done anything outside of its normal use to cause such a malfunction.I will try to contact the Manufacturer and see if they will replace this defective handset under Warranty or not.

Other than this flaw, the rest of the phone(s) work great.The speakerphone feature is excellent, and so is the clarity in the calls.My favorite part about these phones is that you only need to program a Phone Book entry into one handset and it automatically populates into any additional handsets you have.

Great phone for the price
I upgraded my old 900Mhz phone to this 2.4Ghz phone which has a bunch of features. The call quality isn't perfect, because there is a slight hiss constantly, but overall with the featuers I thought this was a great buy for the money (I got it very cheap after rebate).

The handset speakerphone is a must-have feature, and the way the other features work are more like a cell phone which has a good menu.

Overall, please with the phone. I wouldn't pay a lot of money for it, but if you pick it up cheap it's a great deal.

Biggest piece of junk ever
I've never come across such a shoddy piece of consumer electronics.This sad excuse for a phone has convinced me to NEVER buy ANY AT&T product again.How bad is it?Where to start!Horrible sound quality for starters.Standby time is pitiful.After less than eight months, one handset doesn't even work--it just makes a sizzling sound when it is taken off the hook.I'm going back to Panasonic--never had a problem with those! ... Read more

Product Description

Throw out those old answering machine tapes and store your messages on a computer chip with this Motorola 2.4GHz cordless phone. All-digital answering system lets you skip, save, replay or delete messages without rewinding a tape. Retrieve messages from the handset or via remote dial in. Digital LCD Caller ID* also displays calls waiting. Durable gray plastic phone features easy-grip rubber sides. Other features include 10 speed-dial resets, backlit display and keypad, handset locator, low battery alert, last number redial, messages-waiting indicator and hearing-aid compatibility. Includes belt clip and rechargeable battery. Wall mountable. *Requires phone company service. No. #53675. Imported. ... Read more

Features

• 1-year limited warranty
• 2.4 GHz analog operation
• Tapeless digital answering system
• Caller ID with call waiting
• 6-hour talk time, 6-day standby battery life

Reviews (62)

I wish there was a "0 Star" option
This is the worst phone ever!I have *never* had a call with clear reception, and the answering machine only picks up when it feels like it. I wish I had kept my reciept, but instead of going back to Motorola, this phone is going in the garbage.

This is the worst phone out there!
This phone does not even deserve one star. The answering machine will sometimes play one of my messages that a friend or family member left as my "hello I am not here" message!Sometimes I don't get any messages at all...it will skip them all together and play them later.Also, the battery died after one year.It is just bad. Don't buy it.

It only lasts about a year
Please, save yourself a lot of trouble and ignore the 4- and 5-star reviews this phone has gotten. When I first bought it, I would have given it four stars, but now, I wish I could give it zero. There have been some things that have annoyed me about this phone since the beginning, so I'll start with that:

* There's no ringer on the base. This may not seem like a big deal, but since it takes time for the base to locate the handset and then send the ring signal, sometimes you completely miss the first ring.

* When the power goes out, you lose the time on the answering machine, and resetting it takes forever because you have to listen to the voice say, "12 AM, 1 AM, 2 AM, ..." The unnecessary AM just bothers me.

* IT KEEPS THE CALLER ID LOG IN RANDOM ORDER. If someone just called, and you missed the call, you'd expect to be able to pick up the phone, hit down, and see who it was, right? Nope. I called them about this problem when I first got the phone, and they said that it doesn't re-order duplicate calls, so if the same person calls, their spot in the caller ID menu stays where it was before. In my experience, however, it honestly just seems to be random.

Okay, now the things that are disfunctional after 18 months:

* The rubber on the sides of the phone is stretched and about to fall off.

* It skips numbers a lot, so you have to listen very carefully to what it's actually dialing. The worst part is that it still shows that it dialed the number, e.g. if you're dialing 867-5306, the phone might show 866-753-3009 since you have to hit some numbers twice.

* I get a lot of static and have to skip channels very often. I have a Wi-Fi router, but I've had it for a while, and it just started being staticky lately, so I'm not sure if that's the problem or not.

* Sometimes, instead of a dial tone, you get solid static. Sometimes, when you hit talk, it beeps and does nothing. If you try again, it may work, it may not.

* I had to change the battery a few months ago, which I'm not upset about, but even after changing it, it doesn't seem to always charge. Sometimes, it can be off the charger for a few days and be fine, but others, it's on all night, then dies after two or three phone calls.

* Sometimes, it just doesn't ring. We hear the machine pick up and scramble to the phone to call the person back. When coupled with the random caller ID listings, this is a major problem.

I bought a 2-handset Uniden as a replacement.

Poor sound on the answering machine
We bought this phone less than a year ago. The phone itself is ok, it picks up some interference from our wireless network but it's ok for a 2.4 GHz. The answering machine didn't have the clearest sound quality when we bought it but the messages left were understandable so we kept the system. Now, less than a year later the sound quality when playing back messages has degraded to the point that you can not understand the messages at all. I thought it might be the speaker phone but ruled that out since the sound quality is perfect when checking the date and time. It's a digital recorder so I'm not sure what would be causing the poor quality on playback but guess that it must have something to do with the recording device. Final analysis, you can get better quality for your money. ... Read more

Product Description

2.4 GHz operation * 3-line backlit LCD display on handset * Caller ID and Call Waiting Caller ID (where available) shown on handset * voice mail message waiting indicator (requires voice mail subscription from phone service provider) * Voice Enhancer Technology (adds lost frequencies back to voices) ... Read more

Features

• Illuminated keypad, LCD screen, and antenna
• 2.4 GHz digital frequency-hopping spread spectrum signal
• Caller ID, 30-call memory
• 30-station phone book
• Speakerphone integrated into handset

Product Description

2 great products in one! The mini InfoGlobe displays Caller ID, Date, Time, Holiday Greetings and Personal Messages, in a Times Square style floating display. The 5.8GHz cordless Handset is packed with features, including Call Waiting ID, Message Waiting Indication, Interchangeable color faceplates and a long life NiMH battery pack! ... Read more

Features

• 5.8 GHz analog signal, 40-channel autoscanning
• Call waiting/caller ID, 54-name-and-number memory
• 10-number memory dialing, voicemail message-waiting indicator
• InfoGlobe for caller ID, holiday greetings, personal messages, and calendar
• Trilingual handset; 3 interchangeable color faceplates

Reviews (1)

Purchase at own risk
This phone is a piece of junk.I bought this phone six months
ago and now the info globe no longer works.The buttons on
the phone are small and the volume level is practically
non-existent.It was really difficult to hear callers.
The one feature that I liked was the info globe (when it worked)
as I could see the caller id from across the room without
having to view the screen on the phone. ... Read more

Amazon.com Product Description

Note: The VTech 5831 is no longer being manufactured. You may want to consider purchasing the newer VTech i5853 or i5857 instead.

The VT 5831 is the world's first 5.8 GHz cordless system, offering superior sound quality, security, and clarity. The fully functional handset and base unit gives you two phones in one. Features include Sound Select, an innovative technology that provides personalized audio performance; a vibrating handset ringer alerting you to incoming calls with or without an audible ring; and an analog and digital clock display on the handset.

Expand your VT 5831 system by adding up to five accessory handsets (model VT 5820, for a total of six) without the need for additional phone jacks. Bring telephone service to rooms where it's been unavailable.

What's in the Box
Main base unit with built-in keypad and speakerphone, remote charger base, AC power supply, one handset, one rechargeable battery pack, telephone line cord, belt clip, instructions, warranty information ... Read more

Features

• 50 name-and-number caller ID memory and phonebook directory
• 5.8 GHz digital spread spectrum technology
• Expandable to 6 handsets, 1 included; dual keypads
• Speakerphone in handset and base; remote charger stand
• Supports caller ID with call waiting

Reviews (73)

Do Not Purchase
I purchased the VTech i5820 phone system along with 4 additional handsets (i5801)..They worked fine in the beginning..Then one of the batteries failed.A quick call to VTech customer service for a new one.Not the case.I was informed by VTech customer service that these models are no longer made..and they DO NOT have any batteries or accessories available for them.Trying to find OEM replacement batteries is almost impossible. The usual stores.. Best Buy, Staples, Office Max, Circuit City, Target no longer stock these modes.VTech's solution was for me to "upgrade" to another one of their phone systems...Of course.."At a BIG discount because I am an existing customer"!I loved the phones in the beginning.... and still do..Put purchasing replacement parts will be impossible.

Don't buy this phone if you have a wireless network
As some have mentioned in this review section., this is not a true 5.8 phone.I have a G-wireless network set up and use vonage as phone service.The calls I make from this always break up and I thought it was Vonage.I used a corded phone and the sound quality of my call was impeccable.I bought this phone because I thought it was true 5.8 and wouldn't interfere with wireless, boy was I wrong.

DON'T BUY THIS PHONE IF YOU HAVE A WIRELESS NETWORK.

however, the speakerphone on the handset and the console are superb, extremely loud.I think this could be a great phone if you don't have a wireless network.

Worked great when it would charge
This phone system worked great for our house -- in conjunction with our wireless network as well -- for a little while. After about 4 months of use, whenever the phones were put onto the charging cradles, they would charge for a few seconds, but then the charging light would go out and the phones stopped charging. When this first started happening, I only had to adjust the position of the phone or clean the connections -- annoying but it worked for a little while. Now, nothing works and we can't get the phones to charge consistently. We're trashing these phones and now looking for new ones.

Good Phone, but NOT 5.8 GHz
This is a very good phone. In nearly a year I have not experienced one thing negative. Sure, you pratically have to have a PHd in EE if you want to delve into anything but the basic usage of this phone, but that is another story for another time. What needs to be said about this phone is this :IT IS NOT A 5.8 GHz PHONE!

RTFM, People! It is a 2.4/5.8 GHz phone. The base transmits 5.8 GHz, but the handset transmits at 2.4 GHz. So, people looking for a phone that won't screw up their 802.11x wireless home networks better look elsewhere.

What goes unsung about this phone is the speakerphone built into the handset and the base station. For the money, it is doubtful you are going to find better. Yes, people can still tell you are on a speakerphone, but I have yet to have someone complain about the sound quality.A go-nearly-anywhere speakerphone with an almost-never-say die battery? Fuhgedaboudit!

Oh, one other unsung feature of the this phone. The charger for a spare battery (and if you have teen girls you know of whence I speak!) is built into the base station. Now that is a cool touch. Push the button, out pops the tray, slap in the battery, slide it closed, and you are chargin', man!

Bottom line : Great value, unsung features, and solid performance. It is NOT a true 5.8 GHz phone, however.

Can't communicate with Talk America Caller ID
We bought this phone to replace an old Pansonic cordless.It would not show who was calling on caller ID.Tried talking to VTech customer support but they are located somewhere outside the country and really couldn't help beyond reading from various manuals they must keep on line.Thought maybe it was just this model so ventured off to Best Buy to try a new VTech model.It wouldn't communicate either.Returned both and have settled for a Uniden with base speaker phone.First try it recognized and displayed caller ID info.Be careful if you use Talk America as your provider! ... Read more

Product Description

Uniden is creating a World Without Wires. Which means the company is building products that give its customers more freedom to enjoy life, solve problems and always stay connected with others. From cordless phones to two-way radios to radar detectors, Uniden makes electronic wonders an everyday occurrence. As one of the world's largest manufacturers of cordless phones and consumer communications devices, chances are there's a Uniden product that's already making things more convenient in and around your home.Uniden TXC580 phone features 5.8 GHz Digital Spread Spectrum technology for extra-long range, supports Caller ID/Call Waiting and handset-to-handset call transfer. ... Read more

Features

• Speakerphone
• Convenient charger included
• Compatible with Uniden TRU5865 and TRU5885 series cordless phone systems
• Caller ID with call waiting, tri-lingual display options
• Backlit LCD and illuminated keypad

Reviews (3)

Look, Ma - no wires!
Well, not exactly - the base does need to plug into the wall, but what a handy extra phone. I have the base phone and I love it, and this makes a nice addition to the home network. I have this extra one plugged into the wall of a room that does not have a phone jack, but it doesn't need one, since it communicates w/ the base on the other side of the house.

I bought my base phone about a year ago, but just got the additional handset 2 weeks ago. All I had to do was to put it in the base cradle for 3 seconds and it automatically was programmed for use.

The built-in speaker phone is not the best in the world, but still pretty awesome, all things considered. The jack for the hands-free mike is awesome, and in my opinion, absolutely necessary. I won't buy a handset that doens't have a hands-free option anymore... and it's a normal jack, not some funky jack that needs an expensive adapter.

The caller ID holds 99 numbers and you can easily begin and end calls and use all the features without a manual or a degree in rocketry science.

Finally..........a better cordless system
I am very impressed with this system. I never liked cordless phones but needed one. The range is amazing and I've bought two extensions. Thank you Uniden!

Slick looking but lacking in performance
I purchased this phone but returned it.My initial reaction was to the sound quality.When comparing this item to my Panasonic 2 line 900 mhz spread spectrum phone, I noticed that the sound quality was noticeably worse.

My second reaction was to the inability to use both handsets simultaneously.I feel that if a cordless system has two handsets, they should both be able to talk on one line at the same time.Plus, there is no feature to transfer the address book from one phone to another.

Overall, this phone is very slick looking, and might work for someone who is satisfied with only 10 minutes of answering machine recording time and doesn't mind mediocre sound quality.I find that the older 900 mhz DSS panasonic phones offer much higher sound quality and extended range in comparison to this phone. ... Read more

Product Description

Panasonic's vision of the digital future is driven by the needs and aspirations of its business customers and millions of consumers around the world who use Panasonic products every day. Panasonic shares their dream to live a fuller life by providing ways of working smarter and enjoying the rewards of technological advances. ... Read more

Features

• Caller ID/call waiting, 50-call history
• Handset speakerphone, 3-way conferencing
• 5.8 GHz digital spread spectrum signal
• Expandable to 4 handsets, 1 included
• Integrated digital answering system

Reviews (2)

Good phone, but not a great one
Last year, I bout Panasonic TX-TG2224 which is a great phone.And I just bout this one cuz I wanted to have even greater one.Well, I didn't find anything better about this phone over TX-TG2224.This phone is about $40 more than the 2224 phone and this one is 5.8GHz instead of 2.4GHz.When I switched the phone from 2224 to this new one during the conversation, the other party complained about weaker volume.The ringer tone and melody is not that great, either.My old 2224 has better ringer options.This phone shoul've been priced just about $10 more than the KX-TG2224.If you are looking for a good phone w/ decent price, I definitely recommed KX-TG2224 over this one.

Good function, ugly appearance
First, the good news. Panasonic has fixed all of the problems the 2.4GHz phones experienced. They have finally seen the light and are using NiMH batteries. These are a huge improvement over the previous NiCad batteries. Sound quality is good, as is range. Setup is easy, and the features all work as they should. This phone functions so much better than the Siemens phone it replaces that there is simply no basis for comparison. Function early a solid five stars.

The bad news for many will be the appearance. What are the product stylists at Panasonic thinking and who do they imagine the buyer is? One wonders what sort of décor they imagine will be enhanced by bright silver phones with orange LCD screens and antennas sticking up everywhere? Before you buy one, make sure that any other decision makers in the household are consulted on the appearance. The icing on the cake is the rather large baby blue and black logo announcing to the world that this is the "5.8GHz Gigarange Supreme" which completes the overall cheesy appearance nicely. Our Siemens phone may have been had functional issues, but it was well styled and disappeared into virtually any background. On the other hand, the Uniden phones make the Panasonic styling look positively restrained. Appearance earns a dismal two stars.

Keypad layout is pretty typical of what one expects these days from Asian mass-market electronics companies, busy and cluttered. Why use a single button for talk/hang up when you can use a separate one for each? If there was space to add more buttons, rest assured Panasonic would have. Since the buttons actually feel good in use, are not overly sensitive and don't stick when pushed, the layout earns three stars.

In the end I weighted my rating more toward function, as that's really the only area one can be objective about, and the function is strong. If you can stand to look at it, and you're not married to someone that will hold a grudge because you brought something hideous looking into the house, you probably won't be disappointed. ... Read more

Product Description

Advanced American Telephones designs and produces the AT&T telephone products - the products that millions of people enjoy every day. The voice quality, product selection, and reliability make AT&T telephone products your best choice. AT&T telephone products reflect a long and distinguished history of product excellence dating back over 100 years. Today, this product line is one of the most extensive in the industry, including corded and cordless phones, answering systems, and phone-related accessories.PRODUCT FEATURES: 15min. Digital Record Time; 3 Voice Mailboxes; Call Screening/Intercept; Remote Access; Talking Caller ID; 5.8 GHz; 10 Number Memory; 50 Name / Number Directory; English/Spanish/French Setup Menu; Headset Compatible; Hold; Intercom/Conferencing/Call Transfer; Line In Use Indicator; Mute; Sound Select; Spare Battery Charger; Speakerphone with Hold/Mute; Handset Vibrating Ringer; Intercom between handsets; Expandable up to 5 handsets; Speakerphone; 5.8 GHz Frequency Hopping Digital Spread Spectrum; Caller ID / call waiting capability; 50 name / number Caller ID log; Lighted CID Display. ... Read more

Features

• Vibrating ringer, programmable ring tones
• 5.8 GHz DSS signal; expandable to 5 handsets
• Integrated digital answering system with 3 mailboxes
• Dual speakerphones, conferencing capability
• Talking caller ID with call waiting; memory dialing directory

Reviews (7)

Lousy Range
Other reviews fairly reflected my feelings about the system. My complaint is the range from the base set to the handset. I live in a fairly large townhome. My baseset is at the front of the first floor and one of the handsets is at the rear of the second floor. The distance is only 80' plus 12' up. The handset can not communicate at that range. This is a normal house with regard to heating ducts, electrical wiring, etc.

AT&T cusomter service was great when I first brought this to their attention and even sent me a new base unit. I also tried different handsets, all to no avail.

Great phone!
My husband bought me this phone for Christmas to replace a V-tech model that had just wasn't working quite right for us.

I love this phone - the only reason that I'm not giving it 5 stars is because there is one feature that I'd really like that seems to be missing, which is that the memory and caller-ID still don't communicate quite as much as I'd like.

The talking caller-ID function is great - no running around the house trying to find the phone just to figure out if I even want to answer. You can program in the names for your most frequent callers (which are recognized via caller-ID, even if they're not programmed the exact same way as your memory), and it can also be set up to announce full numbers of those who aren't in your memory, so you might still recognize the number without having to get to the actual phone.

The 5.8 GHz works great in our house. The 2.4 that we replaced had major interference with the microwave, but this one is terrific - no static at all, ever.

The piece that's still missing is the actual caller ID/memory interface. Even though you can program the talking bit, the caller ID always comes up as the official listing and not "mom", for example. This isn't bad, except that so many of my calls come in from "wireless caller", so I have to actually recognize the number. Again, the voice announce caller ID works, but if you happen to miss that (you're not close enough to the base when the phone rings, for example) then you're stuck with going, "Hmmm, I think that's my mother-in-law's cell number..." Back a few years and two phones ago, we had an AT&T model that DID include this feature, as do most cell phones. Also, that old phone had a feature that would allow you to customize outgoing messages to 10 numbers in caller ID, so that you could tell your buddy "Hey, meet me at 4:00 at the bar," but not let the whole world know where you were. That was cool, and I wish it was still a feature.

The speaker phone options work well, both from the base and from the handset. The base speaker could use a few more ticks on the volume - or maybe my house is just loud - but it does work great if you stay close. It's also nice because you can answer the phone from the base if you can't immediately find a handset - a typical problem in my house!

The digital answering machine function is also typically fine. There are 3 mailboxes, though we only use one. There are several ring tone options, and you can even have the handset vibrate.

All in all, this is a great phone. If you've had some issues with interference on a 2.4, this is a great upgrade.

Good, but not quite perfect
After a friend of mine purchased the 5830 several months ago, I've been debating between the 5830 and 5840.After finding that the 5870 was released, I thought I had found my perfect phone.

Positives are pretty much what everyone as said:
- Solid feel
- Nifty blue lighting
- The clock in the display
- Sound quality is excellent while listening to the other end
- Speakerphone on the handset works very well.Used it on a few calls so far without any complaints.Makes those long conference calls less painful.
- Even though the 5870 is 5.8GHz / 2.4GHz, it doesn't appear to be interfering with the wireless network (802.11b).My old Panasonic Gigarange Extreme is 2.4GHz/900MHz, and it will occasionally knock me offline.
- Registering a second handset was very easy; just punch in the code from the bottom of the base unit on the new handset.
- Battery life appears good.Was on a 3.5-4 hour conference call and the handset still showed at least a half charge.

Negatives:
- while the handsets will set their clock from caller id, the base unit / answering machine requires manual setting
- there is no time display on the base unit, so setting the time must be done audibly.Not a bad process, but tedious.You must hit the "Change" button to iterate through the options instead of just punching in the numbers.For example, to set the time as 7:25 pm, you have to press the set time button, then press it again to go into set mode.First up is the day; hit Change and it will announce Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, etc. for every press.Get to the correct day, then hit the set time button to go into hours.Change button again, starting from 12 am.Every press of Change will increment one hour.Get the proper hour (make sure AM/PM is right), then set time again to get to minutes.The Change button is then used to increment minute by minute.On the plus side, you can hit the button rapidly instead of listening to the voice announce every minute.
- Handsets will display the time in the idle screen, but not the date.The caller ID log does display the date.
- While on a call, you have no access to the clock on that handset.You just get options of Hold, Xfer, and Mute.If you place the call on hold and wait a few seconds, you'll get the time display though.
- There seems to be a very faint echo when I speak.Not obnoxious, but it's on both handsets and noticeable when compared to my other phones (Panasonic Gigarange Extreme and an old Nortel Meridian) which don't echo.
- No button available to change the channel.My Panasonic has it, and it's how I get the network functional again when the phone collides with the network.
-There is no call timer.
- Remote access code is only 2 digits.Yes, 2 digits.Seems rather poor security in my opinion.

Mixed feelings:
- A saved name / number in the phone's memory doesn't override the incoming caller id info.In other words, if you save a name, when the call comes in, only the caller id name shows, not the saved name.I think this has been touched on before.
- Each handset's memory (caller id log and stored phone book) is fully independent.That means no sharing of phone books between handsets, and clearing the log on one handset does nothing to the others.
- As said by others, caller id announce is only from base.
- If you screen calls, you have to be near the base to hear the caller leaving the message.There is no way to screen calls using only the handset.
- Caller id display seems somewhat slow to appear on the handset when a call comes in.It shows up line by line (name, number, time), unlike my other phones where all the information appears immediately.
- For some reason, if you have a headset plugged in, the handset will not allow you to switch to speaker phone.You have to unplug the headset, then hit the speaker phone button.
- You can only pickup messages on the answering machine from the base unit.

Overall, a good, solid phone, butit isn't quite perfect.I'm not sure yet if I'm going to keep it or return it and continue waiting for the perfect phone.

5870 phone system
Pro's Many features easy to program nice style and comfortable to use. Better than average reception almost no hiss and I have lots of electrical equipment set up in the house.

Con's Call waiting ID feature did not work (might be isolated case I don't know)
Conversation volume fades in and out during use. went to support web site says this is normal for this type of phone (5.8 GHz).

Sorry I had to return it.

Aural Caller ID Only On Base Unit
Was going to purchase the ATT 5840 but elected to purchase the 5870 due to the aural caller ID feature. I thought the caller ID would be announced from handsets but that is not the case.You have to be within earshot of the base to hear the talking caller ID. Frequency band 5.8 only used between handset to base - 2.4 used between base to handset. Range has not been a problem for me but then I don't wander too far from home.Phone book entries must be entered into each handset manually.Look, feel, sound quality and other features of the phone are top notch.You can use more than one handset to get in on phone calls which was not the case with the Sony 2.4 phone system I replaced.Best price I could find on the net for base unit and two 5800 handsets came from sellcom.com ($290). ... Read more