How do I choose a VoIP phone?

The first choice is determining if you want a hardware VoIP phone or a software VoIP phone.

Hardware phones are generally easier to use and do not require a PC. Software phones are usually less expensive and may offer better options for CTI (Computer Telephony Integration).

Choosing a VoIP Phone

With either a hardware or software VoIP phones, the major considerations remain the same:

• What VoIP call control protocols does the phone support?
  • H.323
  • SIP
  • MGCP
  • IAX2
• What VoIP codecs does the phone support?
  • G.711
  • G.722
  • G.723
  • G.726
  • G.727
  • G.728
  • G.729
  • ILBC
  • Speex
  • GSM - Full Rate
  • GSM - Enhanced Full Rate
  • GSM - Half Rate
  • DoS FS-1015
• Does the phone support 3-way calling
• Does the phone support Do-Not-Disturb (DND)
• Does the phone support custom ringtones?
• Does the phone provide a method to work behind routers and NAT?
• Does the phone support STUN?
• Does the phone support Symmetric RTP?
• Does the phone support a SIP outbound proxy?
• Does the phone support QoS
• Does the phone support encryption?
  • Secure RTP
  • AES

Choosing a Hardware VoIP Phone

When selecting a hardware VoIP phone, you should consider these items:

• What connections does the VoIP phone support?
  • Ethernet
    • Does the phone support Power Over Ethernet?
  • Wi-Fi
  • Dialup
  • ISDN
• Does the phone support IPv6?
• Does the phone support videoconferencing?
• Is the phone handset corded or cordless?
• Does the phone have a handset or a headset?
• Does the phone have a speakerphone?
• Does the phone have an LCD display?
  • Is the LCD display backlit?
• Does the phone have good ergonomics?
• Do you like the style of the phones?

Choosing a Software VoIP Phone

If you choose a software VoIP phone, you should consider these items:

• Does the phone software support my Operating System?
• Is the phone software easy to use?
• Does the software support customizable skins?
• Does the software support videoconferencing?
• Does the software support shared whiteboarding?

And, of course, the final purchasing decision should always include price as a criteria.