REVIEW: Lindy USB VoIP Phone
Lindy’s USB VoIP Phone is no different to any other USB handset on the market - it allows you to take advantage of free and inexpensive phones calls over the Internet, with all the ease that is associated with using a regular phone. However, Lindy’s USB VoIP Phone (£21.99) looks a whole lot better than most products, and its two-piece design gives the look of a more traditional telephone. Its build quality is great too, and technophobes will love the oversized keys.
Once the handset is connected to your Windows PC using the built-in (non-removable) USB cable, Skype users will be able to benefit from the phone’s auto launch functionality that launches the popular VoIP software as soon as the handset is picked up. Lindy doesn’t supply a copy of Skype in the box, which is a shame for inexperienced users, but at least you know that when you download the software (it’s free, by the way) you’ll be getting the most up-to-date version available.
The black-and-red handset isn’t designed exclusively for Skype, as it’s also compatible with other popular VoIP software such as Windows Live Messenger and Yahoo! Messenger. The handset comes with a handy 1.3m USB cable and can be desk or wall mounted (no screws or raw plugs provided). Furthermore, it requires no soundcard, eliminating the need to unplug your speakers. In addition to dialling numbers, the larger-than-normal keypad allows you to navigate through the Skype software on your computer and also has a quick dial function. Another neat feature is that you can rotate the handset and place it in the cradle for hands-free communications.
VoIP can sometimes be a barrier for technophobes, particularly if they are just presented with a headset and microphone. Lindy’s two-piece VoIP phone makes you feel like you’re using a normal telephone and the auto launch for Skype makes VoIP so easy that even your granny could use it. You can’t be too hard on a VoIP handset costing just of £20, but the lack of an LCD will turn off more experienced users because you can’t see the day, month and time, nor is there a counter displaying how long a call has lasted.
With the raft of VoIP phones on the market these days - including some rather smart wireless numbers - the USB VoIP phone from Lindy is basic but still one of the better models if you’re looking for the familiarity and comfort of a conventional telephone to help you experiment with VoIP. Needless to say, advanced users will be left wanting in terms of features, and those demanding the best audio quality will be better served elsewhere. [6.5]
