This shopping guide highlights the key features of landline phones available from RNIB. It gives an overview of the important features to consider when buying a telephone for someone who is blind or partially sighted.
RNIB has been working with leading companies including Doro and Geemarc to design and develop phones that are easier to see and operate. Prices range from £17 upwards, depending on the features you require. The full landline telephone range can be found on our online shop.
Big Buttons and Keypad Layout
The addition of large, contrasting buttons labelled with clear numbers can help to avoid misdialling. In addition to the number keys, it is important that the keypad is clearly laid out, the buttons are properly separated and that different shape and size buttons are used to identify different functions.
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Memory function buttons
Remembering everyone's number can sometimes be a real challenge. One-touch speed dialling for frequent numbers can be a very helpful feature. Using speed dial or memory buttons can really help.
Store important or frequently used numbers against a specific memory button, so that you just press one button to dial rather than using the keypad. Some of these buttons have the facility to insert a picture or large print label, helping with recognition and identification. Some assistance may initially be required to help set up the memory buttons.
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Talking telephones
Some mainstream phones have limited speech functions, for example just announcing the number dialled. For this reason, RNIB and Geemarc designed the only fully talking telephone on the market.
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The RNIB Big button talking telephone talks to you in a clear female voice when each main button is pressed. Reassuring you that the number you dialled is correct and the function you want is selected.
Speakerphone
A speakerphone function means that you can make and receive calls without picking up the handset which many people find useful.
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Telephones that have an inductive coupler in the handset means that amplified sound can be listened to using the 'T' setting on a hearing aid. Models with this feature are described in our catalogue and online shop as "Hearing Aid Compatible" and give an indication of the level of hearing loss for example suitable for mild, moderate or severe.
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The PhoneEasy 110W has a speakerphone with loud sound and boost mode for extra output. It also has a large talking number key pad that announces each number as it is pressed
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PhotoPhone 155 has adjustable volume settings which range from 1dB to 30dB. An extra loud handset which is hearing aid compatible with it's own built-in answerphone service.
Display screens
Our telephones are different from many available on the high street. They have LCD (liquid crystal display) displays that are typically used for caller ID (if you subscribe to this service) and have been selected as they have clearer, adjustable displays.
We are constantly working with mainstream companies to improve the size and contrast of LCD displays to make them easier to see.
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Cordless Telephones
The main benefit of a cordless telephone is the ability to move around while having a chat. These telephones use Digital Enhanced Cordless Telecommunications (DECT) technology which should provide a clearer sound than analogue units, over a wider distance. Handsets sit in a base unit for easy storage and recharge when not in use.
Large button models can be linked with other cordless handsets already in situ by using Generic Access Profile (GAP) compatibility. This allows differing brands to be paired and work together for basic functions. Typically, you would have your primary DECT telephone plugged into the mains power and telephone socket. Further DECT handsets can be located in different rooms only requiring mains power input.
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The Powertel 710 talking cordless telephone The simple touch of any button announces dialled numbers, phonebook entries and menu options in a clear synthetic female English voice.
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The Doro PhoneEasy 110W can have up to five handsets registered to it's base unit and the handset has a two-line, high contrast backlit screen that displays full names and numbers without scrolling
Buying from RNIB
We're experts in products for people with sight loss. That's why our landline phones address some of the challenges that mainstream telephones pose for someone with a sight problem.
Instructions
All RNIB products come with large print instructions that give clear guidance on features and operation. Products are fully explained including orientation, getting started, operating buttons, battery compartment, functions and menus, as appropriate. Braille and audio instructions are also available on request at time of order, or can be downloaded from the relevant product page on our online shop.
Try before you buy
If you want to view our clocks and watches before you buy, there are easy ways to try before you buy.
More information
If you want more information about our full range of landline phones with accessible features, visit our online shop, contact our Helpline on 0303 123 9999, or email helpline@rnib.org.uk.
Keep up-to-date
To stay up to date with our full range of products, grab a gree copy of our Everyday living catalogue. You can also subscribe, free of charge, to our e-newsletter and our New Product Guide.