Consumer Electronics

Consumer electronics buying guide

Corded, cordless and specialty phones

Corded phones from Cortelco and Cetis keep working when the power is out, as long as the phone line does. Cordless sets from Vtech, ATT and Panasonic Consumer add mobility and often include an answering system. Pick the type that fits the room and the person using it.

Accessory handsets and batteries

Many cordless systems let you add handsets, but only handsets made for your base and series. Look for the series in the product name, such as the Vtech DS6151 or ATT CL84215. Batteries are listed by the phone they fit, with a voltage shown, so compare it with your old one.

Amplified and special needs phones

The Special Needs subcategory holds amplified phones, loud ringers and visual flashers from Clarity, Forester Solutions and others. Amplification is rated in decibels, and a higher number means a louder handset. Consider hearing level, ringer volume and button size together.

Clocks and other extras

Digital and analog clocks from VALCOM and Viking Electronics are here too, including a PoE model for networked offices. Check the power type before you order, since some clocks run on 24V or 110 VAC and one uses Power over Ethernet.

Common questions