AT&T CRL82212 Review

Performance Comparison

Sound Quality

Sound quality was our highest weighted ranking metric, comprising 30% of the total score, and this model scored very well in this category, earning an 8 out of 10. Our listening panel had very similar comments about this model and the CL84202, stating that both were very clear and easy to understand, and a distinct lack of background static when compared to other models that we reviewed. Below you can hear an audio sample of this model, compared with one of the other, lower scoring models that we tested.

Range

This model kept up with the top scorer in our open range test, topping out at 840' away from the base station in a direct line of sight, but we found that this model floundered when it came to our obstructed range test.

It dropped back to the middle of the pack, topping out at 220' of transmission distance when blocked by several walls. This performance averaged out to a 6 out of 10 overall score in this metric. Based on the results of our testing, it appears that this model is not quite as adept as some of the others at handling obstacles blocking a direct line of sight between the handset and the base.

Ease of Use

This phone was one of the easiest to use out of all the models that we tested, with three models tied for the top score of 7 out of 10. One of the things that really stood out for us when assessing the ease of use of this model was how easily it was to read the screen, remaining clear over 6' away.

This model also hyphenates the number when placing a call, as well as has any key answer. This phone was not one of our strongest contenders when it came to operation in a dark environment, with only the screen and keypad featuring a back light. However, this phone would definitely be usable in a dark environment for simpler tasks, but attempting to change some of the settings could be difficult.

This phone does have a silent mode that is easy to use by simply holding down the "#", then entering the desired number of hours from 1-12 with the keypad. This model had a similar menu layout to our other Editor's Choice award winner, the CL84202, and the menu buttons had the same, great tactile feel to them. It was on the more complicated side to block calls, with all the AT&T models requiring you to dial *60 and work through a decently lengthy and complicated series of prompts.

Features

This model of phone is a little on the lighter side when it came to features, scoring slightly below average with a 4 out of 10. This phone can host 12 handsets, but doesn't have a corded handset on the base, eliminating the possibility of a line power mode. The phone book has storage for up to 50 numbers, as well as having specific marketing to highlight that it has large buttons. This model of cordless phone does not have the ability to link to cell or mobile devices, and it does not have a keypad or speaker on the main base. This phone does have an integrated answering machine.

The handsets on this model of phone do not have a belt clip or an auxiliary input for a headset, making this model a poor choice if you are interested in hands free operation. This phone features the ability to act as a home intercom system.

Battery Life

This phone had a good performance in our battery life test, earning an above average score of 6 out of 10 when it came to this metric. This phone lasted for 12 hours and 10 minutes in our talk time test, over 5 hours longer than the manufacturer's claimed time. This indicated that it had a low battery level 11 hours and 45 minutes into our test, producing an audible beep from the handset, as well as flashing a low indicator light. The manufacturer states that this model of phone has a standby time of up to 7 days. This model also takes about 10 hours to fully charge the battery after it has been completely depleted.

Value

This phone is a great value, earning second place when it came to overall scores and a MSRP of $60. This is still on the pricey side for cordless phones, as spending over $50 for a cordless phone will be unfathomable for some people. This is the phone to purchase if you are willing to spend a bit more to have one of the best phones, but still are concerned about your budget.

Conclusion