IP phones are made for calling over a local network or the internet in offices, call centres and home working. Our range includes over 300 models: wired desk phones, models with a cordless handset and phones with a 7-inch display. Most models come from Fanvil, Yealink, Grandstream and Mitel.
How to choose an IP phone
Display and keys. Someone who only answers calls will manage with a small screen. If you need to see a contact list, colleague availability or call history, choose a larger display. Our range includes screens from 2.3 to 7 inches, with resolutions from 132 x 64 up to 1024 x 600 pixels.
Network ports. If a computer is connected through the phone, choose a model with Gigabit Ethernet (10/100/1000 Mbit/s), which many of our phones have. For voice calls alone, 10/100 Mbit/s is enough. Also check whether the phone can be powered over PoE if your network switches support it.
Handset type. A wired handset is simpler and never needs charging, and these make up most of our range. A cordless handset lets you move around while talking, for example through a warehouse or several rooms. Some phones come with both a wired and a cordless handset.
System compatibility. The phone must work with your IP telephony system or service provider. Most models support the SIP standard, but some features and platforms, such as Microsoft Teams, work only with approved models. Check the system vendor's list of compatible devices before buying.
Sound and headsets. If you spend a lot of time on calls, look for wideband audio (HD Voice), a decent speakerphone and a headset connection. For call centre staff, a headset is usually part of the daily kit.
Brands we carry
- Fanvil: makes SIP phones from simple office models to phones with a large display.
- Yealink: known for its T-series desk phones and for models certified for Microsoft Teams.
- Grandstream: also makes its own IP telephony systems (the UCM series), so its devices work well together.
- Mitel: a business communications maker that took over the Aastra phone line.
- Snom: a German manufacturer from Berlin and one of the early developers of SIP phones.
- Gigaset: a German DECT phone maker whose business line offers cordless IP solutions.
- Unify: carries on the business telephony tradition of the former Siemens telephony division.
- HP Poly: formed by the merger of Plantronics and Polycom, known for headsets and conferencing equipment.
- AudioCodes: an Israeli company known for Microsoft Teams phones and voice network equipment.
Also in our range: Avaya, Alcatel and innovaphone.
IP phone FAQ
How does an IP phone differ from an analogue phone?
An IP phone sends voice as data packets over a network, while an analogue phone connects to a telephone line. You plug an IP phone in with a network cable. It also supports extra features such as multiple lines, a contact list and call forwarding.
Does an IP phone need a phone system?
Yes, it needs a SIP account from a company IP telephony system or an internet telephony provider. The phone cannot place calls without one. You normally enter the login details in the phone's menu or its web settings page.
What is PoE and is it necessary?
PoE powers the phone through the same network cable, so no separate power adapter is needed. It is not essential: phones without PoE can run from a power supply. Whether a model supports PoE is stated in its specification.
Are there cordless IP phones?
Yes, our range includes models with a cordless handset and phones that have both a wired and a cordless handset. A cordless handset usually connects to a base station over DECT, so you can move around only within its coverage area.
