Pros & Cons
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- No PC needed.
- Can make both VoIP and analog calls.
- Supports multiple Skype features.
- Color screen.
- Attractive design.
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- Expensive.
- Router required for sharing Internet connection between device and PCs.
Netgear Dual-Mode Cordless Phone with Skype (SPH200D) Specs
| Color Screen: | Yes |
| Mac Compatible: | N/A |
| Number of AC adapters for system: | 1 |
| Service Provider: | Skype |
| Type: | WiFi phone |
Netgear's first foray into dual-mode cordless phones has a lot in common with Linksys's recent offering, the
Setting up the SPH200D is extremely simple. The process requires no software installation or PC. All the necessary tools reside in the firmware, in the phone's built-in memory. The CD that ships with the device contains just the 86-page user manual and other reference documentation.
Physical installation is easy, too. The most time-consuming step is charging the batteries (two rechargeable NiMH size AAAs), which takes 14 hours. The remainder of the process is a simple matter of connecting Ethernet and analog phone-line cables and then powering the device up. Once the base station discovers your handset, you sign into Skype to complete the process. Although it's possible to register for a Skype account from the handset itself, I'd recommend doing so on a PC. It's much easier to input all the data via a computer keyboard than with a phone keypad.
Like the Linksys iPhone, the SPH200D is capable of simultaneously connecting to a user's home network router and phone line, letting users place and receive both traditional analog phone calls and Skype Internet calls from a single cordless handset, without being tethered to a computer. The SPH200D makes it easy to manage your options, too—you can set the phone to SkypeOut, Landline, or Always Ask.
The SPH200D's intuitive interface (also nearly identical to that of the Linksys iPhone) is a model of simplicity. It makes it easy for you to find your contacts and begin making calls through Skype. There's no setup necessary for the analog side of the equation (if you already have a live landline). The SPH200D is a lot like a traditional analog phone in that way; plug it in and it works. Its interface is Skype-like, with menu items listed for all the Skype features you'd typically see from your PC, with the exception of video. Those familiar with Skype and its premium services will find full support for them in the SPH200D. You can set up your voice mail, get additional ringtones, receive calls via SkypeIn, or make them via SkypeOut.
Both phones operate in the 1.9-GHz band, thereby avoiding interference with Wi-Fi networks (802.11b and 802.11g networks operate in the 2.4-GHz band). Both also share built-in Digital Enhanced Cordless Telephony (DECT) technology, meant to improve audio quality and range. In our testing, DECT seemed to live up to its promise. The SPH200D worked flawlessly and made clear calls both on an analog connection and via Skype. We also found that the speakerphone built into the handset delivers good sound quality—a nice extra that helps make the phone's high price a bit easier to swallow.
If you want an attractive cordless dual phone that doesn't require a PC, and you don't mind the $200 sticker, the Netgear Dual-Mode Cordless Phone with Skype (or the nearly identical Linksys iPhone) may well be the one for you. When choosing between the two, remember that, in this case, you can judge the book by its cover.
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Final Thoughts
Netgear Dual-Mode Cordless Phone with Skype (SPH200D)
The Linksys CIT400's more physically attractive sibling, this impressive dual-mode PC-free phone system lets you make both traditional analog calls and VoIP phone calls, via Skype.