Choosing A Cordless Phone Frequency-Which Ghz is Right for You?

As you shop for a new cordless phone, you may get confused by the constant listing of different frequencies, most of them labeled something-or-other Ghz. Just exactly what do these numbers mean, and more importantly, what do they mean for the performance of your cordless phone. Let’s see if we can sort the numbers out.

Today’s cordless phones usually operate on one of three different frequencies: 2.4 gigahertz (Ghz), 5.8 Ghz or 1.9 Ghz. These frequencies have different ranges, different levels of interference and different levels of voice quality. However, the “best” frequency may not be the same for everyone.

Many cordless phones in the 1990s used the 900 megahertz (mhz) frequency band. However, usage of this frequency was fairly heavy and the 2.4 Ghz band was opened for use in 1998. For a long time, 2.4 Ghz was the dominant frequency for cordless phones in the United States. However, this band became increasingly crowded as it was also used by baby monitors and microwave ovens. The virtual explosion of wireless internet usage in homes also had a huge impact as it also used the 2.4 Ghz band. Cordless phones and wireless networks do not play well together, with one or the other frequently losing connection.

This overcrowding led to the opening of the 5.8 Ghz frequency in 2003. Phones are sold in both frequency ranges, but those with known conflict at home now had a choice. If you depend on your wireless LAN at home, then it’s imperative to consider getting a 5.8 Ghz phone rather than a 2.4 Ghz system.

Yet another Ghz frequency was authorized for use in the United States in 2005. The 1.9 Ghz band is used by the increasingly popular DECT phones. These phones with digitally enhanced voice signals offer higher range than either 2.4 or 5.8 Ghz phones and do not interfere with 2.4 Ghz devices. Considering the range, sound quality and lack of interference, the best overall choice for cordless phones may be a DECT system operating on 1.9 Ghz.