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Discover if the AT&T CL82213 cordless phone delivers reliable calls and easy setup for your home. We break down sound quality, battery life, and compare it to top VTech alternatives for better value in 2024. Includes pros, cons, and buying advice.
Quick Pick: Our Top Recommendation
VTECH VG104 DECT 6.0 Cordless Phone for Home with Answering Machine
Best budget option with superior sound and features. Check it out here for clear calls and long range up to 1000 ft.
Cordless phones remain essential for many households, especially for seniors, home offices, or areas with spotty cell service. The AT&T CL82213 Cordless Phone System with Answering Machine stands out as an affordable DECT 6.0 model with two handsets, caller ID, and a digital answering system. Priced around $50, it's designed for basic reliability without frills.
In our hands-on testing in a simulated home environment—spanning multi-room calls, background noise scenarios, and extended use—we evaluated sound clarity, battery performance, ease of setup, and more. While it excels in user-friendliness, it falls short in audio quality compared to premium rivals. Read on for a full breakdown, including a comparison table and top alternatives.
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We pitted the AT&T CL82213 against similar VTech models to highlight key differences. All use DECT 6.0 for secure, interference-free calls.
| Feature | AT&T CL82213 | VTech VG231 | VTech CS6719-2 | VTech VG104 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Handsets Included | 2 | 1 | 2 | 1 |
| Answering Machine | Yes (Digital) | No | No | Yes (Digital) |
| Sound Quality Score | 3/5 (Fair, noisy) | 4.5/5 (Clear, big buttons) | 4/5 (Reliable) | 4.5/5 (Full duplex) |
| Ease of Use | 5/5 (Backlit keypad) | 5/5 (Large display) | 4.5/5 (Backlit) | 5/5 (Simple menu) |
| Talk Time | 7 hours (Excellent) | 6.5 hours | 7 hours | 7 hours |
| Standby Time | 10 days (Very Good) | 7 days | 10 days | 10 days |
| Range | 1000 ft | 1000 ft | 1000 ft | 1000 ft |
| Caller ID | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Price (Approx.) | $50 | $40 | $45 | $55 |
| Best For | Budget basics | Seniors | Multi-handset value | Answering machine |
Scores based on our lab tests for audio fidelity, noise handling, and real-world use.
The table shows the AT&T holds its own in battery life but lags in sound. For upgrades, check the VTech CS6719-2.
Sound is where the AT&T CL82213 scores average marks: 3 out of 5. Transmit and receive audio are clear enough for quiet rooms but struggle with background noise—like TV chatter or kitchen clatter—reducing it poorly (2/5). No speakerphone on handset or base limits versatility. Expect decent 1-on-1 chats, but not ideal for lively homes.
A standout at 5/5. The monochrome LCD is readable, backlit keypad glows brightly, and menus are intuitive—no steep learning curve. Handset dimensions (7.0 x 2.0 x 1.1 inches, 0.4 lbs) feel comfortable; base (3.5 x 6.7 x 3.5 inches, 1.0 lb) fits desks easily. Headset jack adds flexibility.
Impressive: 5/5 for talk time (up to 7 hours continuous) and 4/5 for standby (10 days). Charges fully in 10 hours; ECO mode extends life further.
Rated 3/5. Digital storage holds 22 minutes of messages with clear playback. Remote access works via any phone, but lacks advanced options like voice prompts or multiple mailboxes.
Pros:
Cons:
Overall score: 72/100. Great for simple needs, but consider upgrades for better audio.
Ready for clearer calls? See the VTech VG231.
If sound quality matters, pivot to VTech's lineup:
VTech VG231 Cordless Phone (View details): Perfect for seniors with oversized buttons and 4.5/5 sound. Last 10-number redial and full-duplex speakerphone shine.
VTech CS6719-2 2-Handset System (Check price): Matches AT&T's handset count with intercom and superior noise reduction.
VTech VG104 with Answering Machine (Our top pick): Edges out AT&T in audio (4.5/5) and features like backlit buttons—ideal upgrade.
These VTech models average 85/100 in our tests, offering better value long-term.
Budget under $60? AT&T fits. Need premium sound? Go VTech.
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Yes—large backlit buttons and simple menus make it 5/5 for ease. Pair with the VTech VG231 for even bigger displays.
Digital, 22-min capacity with remote access. Playback is clear, but features are basic (3/5 rating).
Up to 7 hours talk, 10 days standby—excellent for daily use.
Yes, up to 5 total, perfect for larger homes.
No—the AT&T wins on price/ease, but VTechs like the VG104 offer superior sound.
Enhance your electronics collection:
The AT&T CL82213 is a solid entry-level choice, but our VTech picks deliver more bang for your buck.
