VTech 9111 900MHz Analog Phone (Blue)

Blue, 10 number speed dial, volume control, page

Add a burst of color to your desk with this translucent blue cordless phone from VTech. You can see the electronic components through the plastic case, and bright red LEDs flash when the phone rings and when you return the handset to the base. In addition to its fun exterior, this phone has some serious features--its 900 MHz frequency offers improved range and clarity over older phones operating on lower frequency bands.

To set up the phone, we inserted the battery pack, plugged in the AC power, and connected the RJ-11 telephone line cord. We recommend that you charge the battery overnight before using the phone for the first time.

In our tests of the VT02-9111, we placed the base unit in a typical area, where walls, floors, and obstructions might interfere with signal quality. We made a variety of local and long-distance calls; its connection sounded almost as good as a corded phone's, with only occasional, minor static. We could hear the onset of fuzzy reception when we held the handset about 50 feet from the base. Interference became intrusive at about 100 feet, but the handset continued to function until about 530 feet, where it lost contact with the base. The battery is rated to last for seven hours of talk time, but in our test, the phone started beeping (indicating a low battery) after only one hour.

Within a reasonable proximity to the base, the VTech sounds clear, but the real draw of this phone is its bold fashion statement.

Pros:

• Attractive, fun style
• 900 MHz operation for better sound and range

Cons:

• Short battery life