10 Best Answering Machines 2025 in the United States

The AT&T BL102-3 cordless phone with answering machine is a solid choice for home use, especially if you want reliable call blocking and clear caller ID features. It offers a good recording time of up to 22 minutes for incoming messages, outgoing announcements, and memos, which should be sufficient for most households but may be limited for heavy message users. It supports a single mailbox, making it suitable for a single user or family setting rather than multiple mailboxes.

The phone excels in call screening with a large call block directory that can hold up to 1,000 numbers, auto-blocking robocalls, and allowing easy blacklisting with just one button. Caller ID is clear and enhanced by an announcer that speaks the caller's name, making it easier to decide whether to answer. The handset design is user-friendly, featuring bigger, well-lit buttons and a large, easy-to-read 2-inch screen with high-contrast text, providing comfortable dialing and caller info viewing even in low light or for those with vision challenges.

Additional features like a speakerphone, audio assist, and intercom add convenience for daily use. The phone requires battery power, and while the answering system is digital and straightforward, it does not include advanced remote access or support for multiple mailboxes. For users prioritizing ease of use, strong call blocking, and clear caller ID announcements in a cordless phone with a straightforward answering machine, this model is a good fit.

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.

The VTech SN5147 is a solid choice for those wanting a phone with an answering machine geared towards seniors or anyone needing louder and clearer sound. It features a smart call blocker that automatically stops robocalls, plus you can manually block up to 1,000 unwanted numbers, which is great for reducing spam calls. The phone has an extra-loud ringer at 90dB and a 50dB audio assist that temporarily boosts volume and clarifies speech, making it easier to hear and understand conversations.

Big buttons, a large display, and photo dial speed up calling favorite contacts, enhancing ease of use. Weighing just over 3 pounds and powered by a corded connection, it’s reliable but less portable.

This phone suits seniors or anyone who values loud volume, clear audio, and call blocking but doesn’t necessarily require advanced answering machine features like multiple mailboxes or remote message retrieval.