The main difference in cordless phones is the way in which they transmit their signals.

Analog phones are the least expensive telephones, and analog transmissions typically have good voice quality and few interference problems.

The problems with analog are that the range is shorter and the transmissions are not very secure. Analog multiple-handset-capable phones also cannot conference handsets with an outside party. Additionally, the number of handsets that can be supported by the base unit is usually only two.

Digital phones sound clearer, are noted for better security and slightly longer range, and provide more immunity to RF interference. Be aware, however, that phones that come with verbiage such as “phone with all-digital answerer” or “spread spectrum technology” are less secure devices.

There are two types of digital technology:

DECT (Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications) is the new technology utilizing the 1.9-gigahertz frequency. DECT allows for less interference and almost 16 hours of talk time before the handset needs recharging.

Why we like it: Two handsets Good answering machine Over 15 hours of talk time on a charge

DSS (or Digital Spread Spectrum) enables the digital information to “frequency hop” between the receiver and the base, thereby making it almost impossible to eavesdrop on a cordless conversation. Some DSS phones are billed as “802.11 friendly” or “wireless network friendly,” which means they are unlikely to interfere with wireless computer networks, but that does not mean they won’t interfere with other wireless products.

Dual-band phones are those that transmit between base and handset in one frequency and receive in another. You cannot switch one band for another.

Some phones that advertise dual-band models list the higher frequency in larger print on the packaging. So, if you want a true 5.8-gigahertaz phone, check the fine print, because if only the higher frequency is shown on the package, it’s probably an analog phone.