The VTech VT1962 900 MHz digital cordless phone with call waiting/caller ID and digital answering machine has a wealth of features for your home or office. The phone is also compact and sturdy, with a base that can be wall mounted or placed on any flat surface. The VT1962 includes a digital answering machine that stores up to 15 minutes of messages in three separate mailboxes. You can designate a mailbox for each family member or use the function to separate your business and personal calls. The handy memo feature also lets you leave messages for family members in their digital mailbox. Once you set the security code for your answering machine, you can easily access messages from any touch-tone telephone.
The VT1962 displays caller-ID information on the handset LCD, so you'll always know who's calling before you answer. The caller-ID memory can store up to 50 names and phone numbers, along with the time and date of each call. The left and right arrows on the keypad let you browse through both the list of callers in the caller-ID log and the list of 20 speed-dial numbers in the phone's directory.
The VT1962 has a four volume levels that you set with the up and down arrows on the side of the handset. You can also plug in a compatible headset (not included) and use the included belt clip to make hands-free calls. The Page button on the base rings the handset, making it easy to find.
In our tests, the VT1962 sounded very good. However, the digital signal was clear only up to 60 feet from the base, beyond which signal breakup became a distraction. This is only adequate performance for a phone in this class. But overall, we were satisfied with the feature set and sound quality of the VT1962. --Megan Dugan
Pros:
- Clear signal with minimal interference
- Stores up to 20 frequently dialed numbers
- Digital answering machine
Cons:
- Sound quality diminishes beyond 60 feet from base
- No speed-dial option from caller-ID memory
