VoIP Phone Buying Guide

A VoIP phone service provides a versatile and cost-effective alternative to a conventional landline.

Here are some useful hints and tips about things to consider when choosing a VoIP phone.

How to Choose a VoIP Phone: Introduction

VoIP stands for Voice over Internet Protocol, which is a way of sending voice calls over the internet rather than by a conventional telephone line. You can already send and receive video, music and email over the internet - a VoIP phone is simply another tool to send and receive information, but in the form of a telephone call.

Using a VoIP phone to call another VoIP phone is almost the same as making a telephone call from a standard landline. You talk and listen via the VoIP telephone, as does the person you are calling; the only difference is what happens in between the two phones. Instead of being sent via a telephone wire and through telephone exchanges, your speech is converted to digital information and sent via the internet. Whether you connect to the internet via your broadband connection, or through a wireless network or satellite link, VoIP phones work in the same way.

Making a call from one VoIP phone to another is straightforward, and calls are free with many providers. Calls made to a conventional landline telephone from your VoIP phone usually incur a charge, either per call or through a subscription. Rates vary between providers, but they are usually cheaper than standard telephone call rates.

Another great advantage of VoIP phone is that you can make calls via your computer from anywhere in the world that has an internet connection.

Sound quality can vary but, as a rule, if you have at least a 1mb broadband connection the sound should be as good as, if not better than, a conventional landline telephone.

What Type of VoIP Phone is Best?

The main types of VoIP phone include:

VoIP Phone: A standalone VoIP phone connects to your computer by USB, and comes with a limited range of features for making VoIP calls. These phones are very affordable and easy to use, and usually come with everything you need to get started.
Combined DECT and VoIP phone: A DECT (digital cordless home telephone) and VoIP phone in one easy to use unit. These models are cordless, and usually feature a good range of functions. A combined DECT and VoIP phone can be used while your broadband connection is active to make and receive VoIP calls, and can be used for landline calls as well.
WiFi VoIP Phone: Portable and easy to use, a WiFi VoIP phone can be used anywhere in the world where there is a WiFi connection. Just like a mobile phone, you need to be in range of a suitable WiFi connection, but calls are much cheaper and you don't need your own computer to use it!

Features to Look for When Choosing a VoIP Phone

Most models of VoIP phone look and work just like ordinary telephones. However, depending on the type of VoIP phone you choose, there are some differences.

Here are some of the key features of VoIP phones:

Talk Time: For cordless VoIP phones, the total time the phone can be used for making calls before it needs to be recharged.
Standby Time: For cordless VoIP phones, the maximum time a VoIP phone can be on standby before recharging is needed.
Caller Memory: Enables the VoIP phone to store the names and numbers of callers.
Call Log: Stores the numbers of calls made to your VoIP phone.
Number Redial: For convenience, number redial allows you to dial previous numbers called at the touch of a button.
LCD Display: For improved access and functionality, an LCD screen shows images and displays menus and features in colour.
Ring Tones: These can be monophonic and/or polyphonic. A ring tone feature lets you choose the sounds your telephone makes and you can even customise your VoIP phone with your favourite tunes..
Answering System: This is either built into the telephone if it's a combined DECT phone, or is accessed via the VoIP provider - so even if your VoIP phone is not connected to the internet you can still leave and retrieve messages.
Hands Free: If you have a speakerphone, the hands free feature enables you to use your VoIP phone without holding the handset.

Do I Need to Buy an Extended VoIP Phone Warranty?

A warranty is usually included when you buy a VoIP phone. Warranties can vary between retailers and manufacturers, and for more expensive models of VoIP phone, an extended warranty will provide a longer period of cover.

It's a good idea to set a limit on the amount of money you are prepared to spend on a VoIP phone. Although a VoIP phone should save you money compared to a standard telephone, make sure you don't pay more for features or functions that you won't need. By comparing prices between different online retailers and taking advantage of special offers and discounts you could make a great saving, or get a better model of VoIP phone for your money.