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10 Best Answering Machines 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

AT&T BL102 DECT 6.0 Cordless Phone for Home with Answering Machine, Call Blocking, Caller ID Announcer, Audio Assist, Intercom, and Unsurpassed Range, Silver/Black

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,132
Caller ID
Ease of Use

Most important from
29407 reviews

Caller ID
Initial setup of the answering machine may require attention to specific settings, such as the Caller Block component.
Ease of Use
Setup is straightforward and uncomplicated, making it accessible for all users.

The AT&T BL102 DECT 6.0 Cordless Phone is designed with families and individuals who want a reliable home answering machine in mind. One of its standout features is the digital answering system, which allows for up to 22 minutes of recording time—plenty for most users. The smart call blocker is another highlight, automatically preventing robocalls and allowing you to blacklist numbers effortlessly, which can significantly reduce unwanted interruptions. The voice-guided setup is a user-friendly addition, making it easier for less tech-savvy folks to get started.

This phone also excels in ease of use with its large 2-inch screen that features high-contrast text, making it accessible for those with visual impairments. The lighted keypad is helpful for dialing in low-light settings. Plus, the built-in speakerphone and intercom add convenience for calls within the home.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. While the range is excellent, some users may find that the sound quality can vary based on the distance from the base unit. Additionally, the 22-minute recording time may not be sufficient for heavy users who anticipate longer messages. The reliance on batteries for the handset, while common, may be a slight inconvenience if they need frequent changing.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,132
Caller ID
Ease of Use

Most important from
29407 reviews

Caller ID
Initial setup of the answering machine may require attention to specific settings, such as the Caller Block component.
Ease of Use
Setup is straightforward and uncomplicated, making it accessible for all users.
#2

Panasonic Cordless Phone with Call Block and Answering Machine, Expandable System with 1 Handset - KX-TGD830M (Metallic Black)

Rating
9.8
Ease of Use

Most important from
5710 reviews

Ease of Use
The answering system is user-friendly and delivers clear messages.

The Panasonic Cordless Phone with Call Block and Answering Machine (KX-TGD830M) offers a comprehensive set of features to manage your calls efficiently. Its standout feature is the advanced call blocking system, which pre-blocks robocalls and allows you to block telemarketing calls with a single touch. This is particularly useful for avoiding unwanted interruptions. The one-ring scam alert adds an extra layer of protection by prompting you before returning one-ring calls.

Additionally, the phone offers 2-way recording, ensuring you can capture important call details for later reference. The illuminated keypad with large characters and speed dial function enhances ease of use, even in low light conditions. The bilingual talking caller ID is a thoughtful feature, allowing caller information to be announced in either English or Spanish, which can be convenient for multilingual households.

However, there are some limitations. The recording capacity is relatively modest at 17 minutes, which may not be sufficient for users with high call volume. The product supports only one mailbox, which could be a drawback for households needing multiple mailboxes. While the phone is cordless and lightweight, it does require 2 AAA batteries, which are included but will need periodic replacement. The phone's digital answering system is user-friendly, but it lacks some advanced remote access features that other answering machines might offer. This Panasonic model stands out for its call management features and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for those looking to block unwanted calls and record conversations, albeit with some trade-offs in recording capacity and mailbox options.

Rating
9.8
Ease of Use

Most important from
5710 reviews

Ease of Use
The answering system is user-friendly and delivers clear messages.
#3

Panasonic Cordless Phone with Advanced Call Block, One-Ring Scam Alert, and 2-Way Recording with Answering Machine, 4 Handsets - KX-TGF944B (Black)

Rating
9.7
Ease of Use

Most important from
2068 reviews

Ease of Use
Phone setup was simple, and pairing the cell phone with the system worked on the first try.

The Panasonic KX-TGF944B is a solid choice for those looking for an answering machine combined with advanced call-blocking features. One of its standout strengths is the impressive pre-installed call block feature, which can help protect you from nuisance calls, including robocalls. With 14,000 numbers already in the database, it eases the burden of unwanted interruptions. The inclusion of a One-Ring Scam Alert enhances your security by warning you about potentially fraudulent calls before you return them.

The machine also excels in ease of use, which is essential for all users, especially the elderly. The illuminated keypads and large display make it easy to navigate, even in low light. The 2-way recording feature allows you to capture important phone conversations, which can be very useful for recalling details later.

There are some drawbacks to consider. While the digital answering system is effective, it doesn't specify recording time limits, which may be a concern for those who receive many messages. Additionally, while the call blocking features are extensive, they might be overwhelming for users who are not tech-savvy; it requires some initial setup to customize the blocking options. The remote access feature isn't highlighted, which might be a downside for users who prefer to check messages from afar.

Rating
9.7
Ease of Use

Most important from
2068 reviews

Ease of Use
Phone setup was simple, and pairing the cell phone with the system worked on the first try.

Buying Guide for the Best Answering Machines

Choosing the right answering machine can be a bit overwhelming, but with the right knowledge, you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Answering machines are essential for ensuring you never miss an important message, whether for personal or business use. When selecting an answering machine, consider the following key specifications to make an informed decision.
Recording TimeRecording time refers to the total amount of time the answering machine can store messages. This is important because it determines how many messages you can receive before the machine is full. Shorter recording times (10-20 minutes) are suitable for personal use or low call volumes, while longer recording times (30 minutes or more) are better for businesses or households with higher call volumes. Consider your typical call volume and choose a machine with adequate recording time to ensure you don't miss any messages.
Number of MailboxesThe number of mailboxes indicates how many separate message storage areas the answering machine has. This feature is important for households or businesses where multiple people need to receive messages. Single mailbox systems are fine for individual use, while multiple mailboxes (2 or more) are ideal for families or offices where different people need to access their own messages. Think about how many people will be using the machine and choose accordingly.
Remote AccessRemote access allows you to listen to your messages from a different location using a phone. This is important for people who travel frequently or need to check messages while away from home or the office. Some machines offer basic remote access, while others provide more advanced features like message playback control. If you need to stay connected while on the go, look for an answering machine with reliable remote access capabilities.
Caller IDCaller ID displays the phone number of the person calling before you answer the call. This feature is important for screening calls and identifying important messages. Basic models may not include caller ID, while more advanced models will display the caller's number and sometimes even their name. If you want to know who is calling before you listen to the message, choose an answering machine with caller ID functionality.
Ease of UseEase of use refers to how simple and intuitive the answering machine is to operate. This is important because a complicated machine can be frustrating and time-consuming to use. Look for machines with clear instructions, easy-to-read displays, and straightforward controls. If you or someone in your household is not very tech-savvy, prioritize models that are known for their user-friendly design.
Message AlertsMessage alerts notify you when you have a new message, either through a visual indicator, an audible beep, or both. This feature is important for ensuring you don't miss any messages. Some machines offer customizable alert options, while others have a standard alert system. Consider how you prefer to be notified of new messages and choose a machine that offers the alert type that suits your needs.

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