10 Best Answering Machines 2025 in the United States

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.

The VTech CS6529-2 DECT 6.0 Phone Answering System is a versatile answering machine designed to cater to home and small office users. One of its main strengths is the Caller ID/Call Waiting feature, which allows you to see the name, number, time, and date of incoming calls directly on the handset’s display. This can be very handy for identifying important calls at a glance. Additionally, the handset offers a speakerphone function, enabling hands-free conversations, which is a useful convenience for multitasking.

The illuminated keypad and LCD screen are beneficial for low-light conditions, making the phone easy to use even in the dark. This system is equipped with power-conserving technology to optimize battery performance, an essential feature for ensuring longer use between charges. The ability to silence the ringer on both the handset and the base unit is another practical feature for times when you need minimal interruptions.

The phone's material is plastic, which might not appeal to users looking for a more premium feel. Weighing 1.65 pounds and including two cordless handsets, the system is relatively lightweight and compact, making it easy to move around. The VTech CS6529-2 appears to be a reliable and user-friendly choice for those in need of a basic yet functional answering machine.

The Panasonic KX-TGD833M cordless phone with answering machine is a solid choice for anyone looking to manage calls and messages efficiently at home. Its advanced call blocking features help reduce unwanted robocalls and telemarketing calls, which is a big plus if you often get spam calls. The system includes a helpful one-ring scam alert to protect against misleading calls, giving you peace of mind. The answering machine is digital and supports 2-way recording, allowing you to record conversations directly, which is a useful feature not common in all answering machines.

Panasonic's digital system generally offers decent capacity for storing messages. The product supports caller ID with bilingual (English and Spanish) voice announcements, which makes it easier to identify callers without needing to look at the phone. This feature, combined with voice commands and a high-contrast display with an illuminated keypad, makes the phone user-friendly — especially for those who prefer hands-free operation or have vision difficulties.

The phone system comes with three handsets, allowing users to place phones in different rooms, which adds convenience. The phone provides visual and audible message alerts, helping ensure you don’t miss important calls or messages. The compact and wall-mountable design saves space and adds flexibility. If you want a cordless phone system with strong call-blocking features, easy caller ID, and basic answering machine functions for home use, this Panasonic model fits well. However, if you need advanced mailbox management or remote message retrieval, you might want to check those features more closely before buying.