Speakerphone

From LoveToKnow Buy

Speakerphones add a great deal of convenience to your busy home and working life. By dealing with calls on a speakerphone, you’re free to access files, take notes and multi-task while you talk. Most have conference call capability allowing you to connect two or three of your associate’s phone lines for impromptu meetings.

Ease of use

The most important aspect is ease of use. The best phones require just a push of a one button and replacement of the receiver back onto its cradle to connect the conversation and engage the speaker.

Speakerphone features

Do you want your speakerphone to able handle several calls? These days, a good model can connect to at least three phone lines. Power meetings require a tabletop conference phone that can simultaneously patch in several phone lines and transmit the linked lines to a central speaker providing staff members sitting at the table to hear and participate. Sound quality is an important factor to consider when you buy.

Features to look for include:

2-Line Operation
Multiple Name/Number Directory
3-Party Conferencing multi-line systems
Automatic Line Selection
Distinctive Ringing Tones
English/Spanish/French Setup Menu
Flash
Handset Volume Control
Headset Compatible
Wireless headset compatibility, allows continuing a conversation as you to move away from the phone base
Easy-to-read display
Base mount keypad
Hold
Last Number Redial
Line Status Indication
Mute switch
Rapid Scroll
99 Name/Number Caller ID History
Display Dial
Visual Message-Waiting Indicator
Optional desk or wall mount bracket

Test drive your speakerphone before you buy

If possible, read the instructions before you buy. Do you understand the operating mechanism? Run a test. Call any number, even your own cell phone, and put your call on the speaker. Be sure the retailer has a return policy in case you decide the phone isn’t for you once you have tested it out in your workplace.