VoIP Phone Handset

The Internet has made global voice communication cheap and easy. Computers with VoIP software, broadband connection, and USB phone or handset have generally revolutionized business communications.

It is not acceptable anymore to settle for a standard, feature-lacking desktop phone handset when USB handsets have become

- inexpensive to purchase, operate, and use,

- easy to use, promoting (business) efficiency, and

- easily connected.

Effectively chosen handsets have been proven to increase business productivity.

In addition to the broadband Internet connection and router, your service provider supplies you with VoIP handset and adapter packages that offer call functionality and services features such as call forwarding, voicemail, caller ID, time screening etc.

Recommended VoIP Handsets

IP telephony has a packet-based design, which allows it to transmit hi-fidelity audio.

Wide-band audio has an increased range on the low end (50-300 Hz), making conversations clearer, thus reducing error in translation.

Better sound contributes to shorter calls with fewer errors, and conversation clarity, which results in increased productivity and customer satisfaction. Your handset solution should therefore support Wide-band audio.

Ergonomics is also important when promoting and selecting a handset.

Ergonomics considers psychology, physical measurement, and environment. Ergonomics therefore helps ensure selected VoIP products adapt to, and suit, individuals and their particular needs.

An ergonomically well-designed VoIP phone handset should provide the user with excellent sound quality and numerous features at the “touch of a button.”

Organizational needs will ultimately determine what you require from a handset. But, in general, the handset should not be too light or too heavy.

Ideally your phone should have an optimal balanced weight of approximately 170-190 grams and the handset should have a smooth, rubber-covered grip, rather than soft plastic.

In addition, ensure the handset you choose meets U.S. Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulations for the hearing impaired, regardless if you have an immediate need for that or not.

The ADA specifies that the cord from the telephone to the handset be at least 29 inches (735 mm) long.

Best Solution and Cheapest VoIP Handsets

Hand sets available are provided by leading, branded mobile companies such as:

- Nokia,
- Motorola,
- LG,
- Blackberry, and
- Samsung.

Due to increased competition handsets have added deals and incentives. However, these have not impacted overall cost and reliability.

Each company’s handsets offer different features, functionality, innovative design, and high-end performance.

Expensive models have become very affordable, and nearly all the well-known brands offer cash back deals, free gifts, free minutes, and free texts to attract customers.

Many new VoIP business customers buy cheap USB handsets and download compatible software such as, Skype, MSN, yahoo Messenger, etc.

However, most VoIP handset dealers advise it is better to purchase VoIP equipment that will last and provide dependable business results.

Business members are investing more in complete multitasking solutions, such as USB phones combined with cordless and VoIP phones:

- Logitech Cordless Internet handset – cordless phone, can be used 50 meters away from your PC.

- Phillips VoIP 4332B - make and take calls on your landline, make cheap calls through Windows Live Messenger.

- Nortel WLAN Handset – simple and durable.

- Uniden UIP1868P – separates voice (to phone) and data (to your computer).