If you’ve ever found yourself wondering what the difference between VoIP phones and analogue phones is, then you are not alone. Today we live in a world of advancing technology, where older technology is often outpaced by emerging ones. For this reason many might ask themselves the question of VoIP vs Analogue phones; what’s the difference?
In fact, although technology may allow us to feel more at ease when it comes to choosing which products are best, a lack of concise knowledge means we often fall short when it comes to making the final choice. In this article, we’ll seek to better understand what separates each better.
VoIP vs Analogue phones explained
Analogue phones (Plain old telephone service)
To start with, analogue phones constitute the traditional telephone that most people are familiar with. For example, principally they allow for the conversion of voice signals into electronic waves which can vary in frequency and magnitude. For this particular phone system the CSN or ‘circuit switching network’, involves analogue signals travelling through cables and initiating point-to-point connections allowing for communication to be established. These phones are equipped with a switch hook together with a ‘ringer’ which stays connected to the telephone line whilst on the hook. In addition, the transmitter device will then send an electronic signal and a telephone exchange will then act as a device that ‘switches’ the signal to ensure that it reaches the correct receiver. Finally, to avoid interference, a complex coil is adjoined.
VoIP phones – (Voice over IP)
On the other hand, the VoIP phone is ultimately an updated version of a traditional headset, followed by expected features for example the call hold button, mute feature display screen and caller ID. Furthermore, a key feature of the VoIP phone is its ability to access the internet. Throughout use, it is necessary to have a switching and connecting system.
Some key factors of differentiation
Price
When noting the differences between both analogue and VoIP the cost of each must always be an important factor to consider. Analogue phones, though the most traditional, can only allow for connection in areas where there is wiring in place physically. Coupled with this high call rates can make long-distance calls particularly costly. On the other hand, VoIP phones are operable wherever an internet connection is available. In effect, this allows them to be cheaper for long-distance contact. A VoIP phone also comes with advantages such as call forwarding, holding, diverting and so on.
Mobility
As with its other features, an analogue phone is a traditional device and as such its range is limited. As these phones are wired they also cannot be made into a portable devices. VoIP phones however remain a portable technology with the support of VoIP-compatible technology applications such as Skype.
Scope of business
For businesses operating on a small scale, the best choice would be an analogue phone, as it would be more likely that you would have fewer long-distance calls. Whereas a VoIP phone system is practically essential in a multi-national scenario.
We’ve selected a great choice of both VoIP and analogue phones for you to choose from. Take a look! :
VoIP phones recommendations:
1. Polycom VVX 450 VoIP Phone
Firstly we have the expandable VoIP phone which comes with extraordinary capabilities and is easy to be accessed. Designed for those wanting a high degree of accessibility users will be able to access a wide range of features including Microsoft Exchange, be able to update their calendars, find and receive notifications and retrieve products in the corporate directory. These advantageous points are followed by the ability to obtain full interaction and navigation options. For those who are looking for straightforward and concise features the Polycom VVX 450 VoIP offers power over ethernet as well as the advanced Polycom HD sound and full duplex speakerphone for the most up-to-date sound quality. What’s more, this phone comes in multiple languages, meaning that it is perfect for international environments.
Why you’ll love it:
- 2 Gigabit Ethernet ports
- Polycom HD voice
- Microsoft Exchangeability
- Colour LCD screen
2. Snom D785 Desktop VoIP Phone
The Snom D785 belongs to the latest generation of advanced Snom IP phones. It is elegantly designed to offer ease of use. The programmable function keys offer a variety of shortcuts such as speed dial, busy user or presence indication. It features a convenient second screen for dynamic contact management that allows you to manage applications quickly and easily. For users looking for increased usage, this phone comes with up to 12 SIP identities which means that the phone can be used by multiple users. Furthermore, this telephone comes with VPN and VLAN capabilities providing VLAN giving your services that extra boost they need!
Why you’ll love it:
- 12 SIP accounts
- 3-way conferencing
- LCD high-resolution colour screen
- VLAN and VPN supported
3. Yealink T48U VoIP Phone
The Yealink T48U is a dynamic solution for businesses and professionals. The SIP phone has Optima HD technology that combines high-definition voice with sophisticated design. With its 7” backlit colour touch screen, it allows visual presentation and easy navigation. It has two USB ports, Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, headphones and USB recording, also you can use two of them freely according to your needs to enrich the phone’s functions. This device is your right hand in the office.
Why you’ll love it:
- HD voice sound
- 3-way conference
- Wall mountable
- OPUS codec and Power over Ethernet support
4. Polycom CCX400 MS Teams VoIP Phone
The Polycom CCX400 MS Teams is an extremely accessible entry-level business media phone. Featuring an intuitive 5″ colour LCD screen, this desk phone is extremely easy to use and deploy. It is designed to bring your native Microsoft Teams experiences to life. What´s more, the CCX400 MS Teams offers outstanding audio quality and for greater accessibility, it can even be wall-mounted. For a powerful Microsoft Teams experience every time, this desktop has everything you need and more.
Why you’ll love it:
- Polycom Voice and acoustic clarity
- Power over Ethernet
- Full duplex speakerphone with echo cancellation
- Optimised for Microsoft Teams
5. Yealink MP56 Microsoft Teams VoIP Phone
The Yealink MP56 is a desktop PC phone with a sleek, modern design that will fit perfectly into your workspace. Yealink offers, through its MP56, a product as powerful as it is intuitive, which will allow you to improve your communications and thus increase your productivity. Your mobile phone-like 4″ touchscreen will be your simplified call management interface. With 5 shortcut buttons below the numeric keypad, all marked with symbols, you can easily switch between headset modes, speaker and headset, and you can also adjust the volume and join with a single click a team meeting. Finally, the light on the top of the base will alert you when there is a voicemail or a double incoming call.
Why you’ll love it:
- HD sound quality with speaker mode
- Quick and easy installation: Plug Play
- Built-in Android 9 system
- Optimised for Teams
Analogue phones recommendations:
6. Alcatel Temporis 880 Analogue Desktop Phone
The Alcatel Temporis 880 is a professional analogue corded desk phone with handsfree capabilities, 10 memory keys and a 170-entry phonebook. By using the speakerphone function you can have hands-free communication in group environments, like in a meeting. This way you can share your communication with several individuals for group-collaboration projects. With these programmable keys, you can save your top numbers or PBX codes so that you can have quick and direct access to your top functions. This saves time and increases efficiency in your work environment.
Why you’ll love it:
- 10 direct memory keys
- Handsfree feature
- 170-entry phonebook
- Wall mountable
7. Aastra 612 DECT Wireless Phone
In association with DECT-over solutions -SIP from Aastra, you can benefit from the advantages of VoIP technology. The terminal Dect Aastra 612 integrates an ambient noise filter and volume adjustment audio and melodies. Its sound quality is excellent, even in noisy environments. Also, its large screen makes the Aastra 612 a very functional phone. It contains an integrated directory with a capacity of up to 200 contacts with 5 entries each (work, home, mobile phone number, email address and personalized melodies .) The Aastra 612 phone is resistant to impact on concrete at an altitude of up to 1.5 m.
Why you’ll love it:
- IP50 standard
- 200 contacts
- HD sound
- PIN code surveillance
8. Gigaset E630A Cordless Analogue Phone
The Gigaset E630A is a robust DECT cordless telephone with a built-in answering machine, complete with an Eco mode for energy-saving, GAP compatibility and dust and splash resistance. This phone is designed for use in all environments and allows you to switch between indoor and outdoor profiles, which adjusts the volume of the ringer, and also features a sliding side, a vibrating call alert and light, hands-free and even a torch. With a 50m indoor range and 300m outdoor range, this amazing device provides you with complete freedom for your calls. You can extend the range of reception by adding up to 5 additional handsets, ensuring that you are never out of reach.
Why you’ll love it:
- GAP compatible
- Dust and splash resistant
- Standby time of up to 300 hours
- Eco DECT
9. Gigaset SL800H Pro Cordless Analogue Phone
The new Gigaset SL800H PRO is the smallest and lightest DECT handset in Gigaset´s professional portfolio. Despite its compact dimensions, it has a large 2.4″ colour display and state-of-the-art technology. Important innovations compared to the predecessor model are Bluetooth® 4.2 and an integrated 3.5 mm jack connection, which allows cordless and corded headsets to be operated. The SL800H PRO meets the highest user demands and offers a battery life of up to 12 hours talk time in the HDSP-TM audio system, Micro-USB integrated vibration alarm, SUOTA and a likewise particularly high-quality scratch and disinfectant-resistant surface.
Why you’ll love it:
- Large illuminated colour display
- Standby time of up to 300 hours
- Key lock with PIN protection
- Vibrating alarm
10. Snom M65 Cordless DECT Additional Handset
Finally, we have the Snom M65 a cordless DECT handset for use with professional Snom IP DECT bases, with HD audio and wide coverage. The Snom M65 features a large 2″ backlit colour display, as well as a backlit keypad, to ensure ease of use even in poor light conditions. In addition, a tri-colour LED indicator system keeps you informed of low battery status or of any missed calls or voicemails. To benefit from crystal-clear conversation, the Snom M65 boasts wideband HD audio quality.
Why you’ll love it:
- Standby time of up to 25o hours
- Backlit colour display
- Wideband HD audio
- Automatic call forwarding, caller lists, ID, and voicemail
