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5 Best Answering Machines

Updated
Experienced product tester and reviewer with 5+ years, providing unbiased reviews and ensuring product quality.
Updated
#1 | Winner
AT&T CL4940

Main Features

  • Large display and buttons
  • 25 minutes of recording
  • Speakerphone functionality
  • Caller ID and call waiting
  • Adjustable volume control

Product Overview

The AT&T CL4940 Corded Standard Phone is a top-tier answering machine designed for those who prioritize crystal-clear sound and straightforward functionality. It features a large, easy-to-read display and big buttons, ensuring that even those with visual or dexterity impairments can use it comfortably.

The integrated answering system can record up to 25 minutes of messages, and the phone allows for simple playback, skip, and delete functions. Additionally, this model includes speakerphone capabilities, allowing for hands-free conversations.

With its reliable design and enhanced sound quality, the AT&T CL4940 is a dependable choice for any household or small office setting.

PROS
  • Excellent call clarity
  • User-friendly interface
  • Robust answering system
  • Hands-free speakerphone
CONS
  • Bulky design
  • Requires a corded connection

Product Specifications

  • Recording Time 25 minutes
  • Display Extra-large LCD
  • Connectivity Corded
  • Caller ID Yes
  • Dimensions 8 x 7 x 3 inches

Main Features

  • Noise reduction
  • Smart call blocker
  • Large backlit display
  • 18 minutes of recording
  • Remote message access

Product Overview

The Panasonic KX-TGE475S is a highly sophisticated cordless phone system that includes an answering machine with a host of advanced features designed to enhance usability and security. The noise reduction feature ensures clear conversations by minimizing background noise, while the smart call blocker prevents unwanted calls from reaching you.

It also comes with a large, easy-to-read backlit display and big buttons for effortless dialing. The answering system can record up to 18 minutes of messages and allows for remote access, so you can check your messages even when you're away from home.

The Panasonic KX-TGE475S offers a reliable and feature-rich communication solution for modern households.

PROS
  • Comprehensive feature set
  • Effective noise reduction
  • Smart call blocking
  • Remote access to messages
CONS
  • Shorter recording time
  • Higher price point

Product Specifications

  • Recording Time 18 minutes
  • Display Backlit LCD
  • Connectivity Cordless
  • Caller ID Yes
  • Dimensions 7.2 x 4.8 x 5.4 inches

Main Features

  • Expandable up to 5 handsets
  • DECT 6.0 technology
  • 14 minutes of recording
  • Backlit keypad and display
  • Caller ID and call waiting

Product Overview

The VTech CS6529-4 is a versatile cordless phone system that comes with an integrated answering machine and the ability to expand up to five handsets. This makes it perfect for larger households or small offices that require multiple phone units.

The phone features a digital answering system with up to 14 minutes of recording time, and DECT 6.0 digital technology ensures clear and secure communication. The backlit keypad and display make it easy to use in any lighting condition.

Additionally, the system includes caller ID, call waiting, and a full-duplex speakerphone for hands-free conversations. The VTech CS6529-4 combines convenience with flexibility, making it a great choice for dynamic environments.

PROS
  • Expandable system
  • Clear and secure communication
  • Easy to use
  • Hands-free speakerphone
CONS
  • Limited recording time
  • Basic features

Product Specifications

  • Recording Time 14 minutes
  • Display Backlit LCD
  • Connectivity Cordless
  • Caller ID Yes
  • Dimensions 7.4 x 6.3 x 5.4 inches

Main Features

  • 30 minutes of recording
  • Large backlit display
  • Caller ID and call waiting
  • Hands-free speakerphone
  • Sleek design

Product Overview

The Motorola CD5011 is a stylish and dependable cordless phone system that includes a digital answering machine. It features a sleek, modern design that fits well in any contemporary home or office setting.

The digital answering system offers up to 30 minutes of recording time, ensuring you never miss an important message. The large, backlit display and keypad make it easy to read and dial numbers, even in low light conditions.

The phone also includes useful features such as caller ID, call waiting, and a hands-free speakerphone. The Motorola CD5011 is an excellent choice for those seeking a blend of reliability and modern aesthetics in their communication devices.

PROS
  • Ample recording time
  • Modern and sleek design
  • Easy-to-read display
  • Hands-free functionality
CONS
  • Limited expandability
  • Basic feature set

Product Specifications

  • Recording Time 30 minutes
  • Display Backlit LCD
  • Connectivity Cordless
  • Caller ID Yes
  • Dimensions 6.1 x 3.5 x 7.2 inches

Main Features

  • 30 minutes of recording
  • Easy playback and delete
  • Call screening
  • Compact design
  • Affordable price

Product Overview

The GE Digital Answering System is an affordable and straightforward solution for those who need a reliable answering machine without breaking the bank. This compact device offers up to 30 minutes of digital recording time, ensuring you have plenty of space to store your messages.

The easy-to-use interface includes simple playback, skip, and delete functions, making message management a breeze. The device also features call screening, so you can listen to incoming messages as they are being recorded.

The GE Digital Answering System is a practical choice for users seeking essential answering machine functions at an economical price.

PROS
  • Affordable
  • Easy to use
  • Compact size
  • Ample recording time
CONS
  • No caller ID
  • Basic functionality

Product Specifications

  • Recording Time 30 minutes
  • Display LED indicator
  • Connectivity Standalone
  • Caller ID No
  • Dimensions 5 x 4 x 2 inches