How to Buy an Answering Machine

Life is busy, and you can't stay parked by your telephone. You need a way to keep track of your phone messages. Voice mail is one option. Another option is an answering machine.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Decide if you want a separate answering machine or a combination phone and answering machine. The combination machine takes up less space, but when one component breaks down, you may lose the use of both.
2. Compare the different features such as storage space, routing options and message retrieval. Multiple mailboxes work well for busy households. Figure out what features fit best for your lifestyle. Buy only as many extra features as you need. If you buy a complex answering machine, you could feel overwhelmed by the many buttons and options.
3. Look at how much memory you need. Digital answering machines may be more reliable, but some hold only 10 minutes' worth of messages. The old-fashioned tape answering machine can often hold up to an hour's worth of message.
4. Enjoy better sound quality with a digital answering machine. Digital machines tend to be more reliable, lasting longer than their tape counterparts. Tape does wear down and that can effect sound quality.
5. Buy an answering machine from a manufacturer whose name you recognize. Check the consumer reviews and compare warranty plans. Look for an answering machine with power outage backup. Nothing is more frustrating than losing messages.
6. Visit electronics or discount stores to try out the different answering machines. Find the ones you like best and make note of the prices. Then check online to see if you can get a better price. Amazon is a good place to start.

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