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 AT&T DLP73590 cordless phone system comes with a built-in digital answering machine that offers up to 40 minutes of recording time, which should be sufficient for most home or small office users. It has a single mailbox for messages, making it simple but less flexible if you want separate mailboxes for different users or departments. Caller ID is clearly shown on a large, easy-to-read 5-inch color display, which also includes one-touch shortcuts for quick access to common functions like contacts and call history. You can easily block unwanted calls with the smart call blocker that can store up to 1000 blocked numbers, which helps reduce robocalls. Remote access to listen to messages is possible, giving some flexibility when you are away from the phone. The handset speakerphone supports simulated full-duplex, allowing both sides to speak and hear simultaneously, making conversations feel more natural. The system also supports conference calls through up to four handsets and intercom between handsets, which is useful for small businesses or busy households. Pairing with cell phones and Bluetooth devices expands its versatility beyond a typical landline.

On the downside, the phone requires five AAA batteries for the handsets, which may need replacement over time. The answering system is digital but basic, lacking multiple user mailboxes or advanced message management found in some higher-end models. Also, the phone system is relatively large and might take up more space.

This AT&T phone is a user-friendly choice for those who want a cordless system with strong call blocking, easy message management, and decent recording time, although it may not be ideal for users needing advanced mailbox features or a more compact design.