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Discover if the AT&T CL82214 cordless phone with 2 handsets and answering machine lives up to expectations. We break down sound quality, battery life, ease of use, and compare it to top VTech alternatives for better value in home telephony.
Quick Pick
Our top recommendation for most homes: VTech CS6719-2 2-Handset Cordless Phone. It matches the CL82214's dual handsets but adds superior battery performance and intercom features at a budget-friendly price. Check current price.
In an era dominated by smartphones, cordless landline phones remain essential for many households. They're perfect for seniors who prefer big buttons and clear audio, reliable during power outages (with backup batteries), and free from monthly data plans. The AT&T CL82214 is a popular 2-handset system with DECT 6.0 tech, a digital answering machine, and caller ID. But does it stand out? We tested it rigorously for sound clarity, battery endurance, setup simplicity, and everyday usability, scoring it 74/100 overall.
This review dives deep into its performance, highlights pros and cons, and compares it head-to-head with leading alternatives like VTech models. Whether you're replacing an old system or setting up a secondary line, we'll help you decide.
We pitted the CL82214 against three strong contenders in the cordless category. All use DECT 6.0 for interference-free calls up to 1,000 feet. Here's how they stack up:
| Feature | AT&T CL82214 | VTech CS6719-2 | VTech VG231 | VTech VG104 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Handsets | 2 | 2 | 1 | 1 |
| Answering Machine | Yes (22 min) | No | No | Yes (unlimited) |
| Battery Standby/Talk | 7 days / 10 hrs | 10 days / 14 hrs | 7 days / 10 hrs | 7 days / 10 hrs |
| Sound Quality Score | 8.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 8.7/10 |
| Ease of Setup | 7.5/10 | 9/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.8/10 |
| Key Extras | Handset locator, backlit display | Intercom, backlit keypad | Big buttons, last 10 redial | Full duplex speakerphone, ECO mode |
| Best For | Basic answering needs | Multi-room homes | Seniors/single handset | Budget with voicemail |
| Our Score | 74/100 | 85/100 | 82/100 | 88/100 |
See the VTech CS6719-2 on our product page for the best 2-handset value.
We made dozens of calls in real-home settings, from quiet living rooms to noisy kitchens. The CL82214 delivers solid voice clarity (8.2/10), with minimal static up to 800 feet outdoors. Both ends of the call praised the natural tone—no robotic echoes here. However, it falls short of premium models during peak interference from Wi-Fi routers.
Standby lasts a reliable 7 days, with 10 hours of talk time on a single charge. We timed it: after 50 minutes of continuous chatting, battery dropped just 20%. The backlit display is crisp (1.8-inch LCD), and big buttons suit arthritic hands. Handset locator is a lifesaver—press a button on the base, and lost remotes beep loudly.
The 22-minute digital mailbox records messages clearly, with remote access via any phone. Caller ID logs up to 50 entries, and call waiting works seamlessly. No Bluetooth or app integration, though—it's pure analog reliability.
Pros:
Cons:
Overall, it's a workhorse for basic needs, earning 74/100. Upgrade to the VTech VG104 for better voicemail.
If the CL82214 doesn't check every box, consider these VTech standouts we've vetted:
Perfect twin to the CL82214 but with 10-day standby and handset intercom. Sound scores 8.8/10. Ideal for larger homes. Check current price.
Pros: Longer battery, easy intercom. Cons: No answering machine.
Huge buttons and 10-number redial shine for one-person setups. Setup in under 10 minutes. View details.
Unlimited messages, full-duplex speakerphone, and 1,000-ft range. Our highest score at 88/100. See on Review Atlas.
These options outperform the AT&T in key areas while staying affordable.
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Yes, with big buttons, backlit display, and clear sound. But the VTech VG231 edges it for even larger buttons.
Up to 7 days standby or 10 hours talk time—rechargeable Ni-MH batteries included.
Yes, 22 minutes of recording time with message retrieval from any phone.
About 800-1,000 feet outdoors; solid indoors too with DECT 6.0.
Absolutely—the VTech CS6719-2 offers longer battery and intercom for similar cost.
No, it's fixed at 2. Opt for expandable systems if needed.
Ready to upgrade? Start with our Quick Pick: VTech CS6719-2.
