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Selkowitz Technology | Seattle’s small business network and telecom consultant

(1 votes, average: 4 out of 5)

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Talkswitch just today announced the new 350i and 550i phones - and I’m happy to say we’re first on the block with a review since we’ve had them for a few days now!

These phones are Talkswitch’s second generation IP phones and definitely improved from the quite good first generation. Both phones are a step up in ergonomics, audio quality, and value.

350i
The 350i is the new standard desk phone featuring six programmable multicolored buttons, speakerphone, headset jack, a nicely sized LCD. The phone is PoE powered for $149 or with AC adapter for $174.

The 350i is a great successor to the 9133i - it actually has more functional buttons, a larger screen, better sound and feel, and a lower price point especially when PoE powered.

550i
The 550i is a great phone for receptionists and those accustomed to key system unit style phones (older generation systems like the Merlin, Partner, Comdials, etc). The 550i features 22 programmable multicolored buttons built-in and can add 2 12 button sidecars for up to 46 buttons. Like the 350i it has speakerphone, headset jack, and a larger LCD. The phone is PoE powered for $249 or with AC adapter for $264.

The 550i in many ways in a new class of phone for Talkswitch and is fairly unique in the IP telephony world as few IP phones include 22 programmable buttons without a sidecar. Businesses with a receptionist or accustomed to older KSU systems will truly appreciate this phone and its incredible value.

Talkswitch 6.12
With new phones comes new Talkswitch software - as always a free upgrade. Labeling phones is now a snap as the new Talkswitch Configuration 6.12 software can print custom labels for both phones. Its a nice change from either being stuck with the default printed template, writing them in, or ordering DESI sheets.

Bottom Line
After spending some time with both phones I must say I really like them. The phones have a good solid feel, a nice handset shape, good button layout, and excellent acoustics. Both phones are a great value and really nicely fit the needs of the small business market.

Picking a great handset is a big part of picking a phone system - its the part of the system you’ll be seeing and using for years to come. So far I’m very pleased - these new phones definitely raise the appeal of the Talkswitch system.

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