Updated September 2025

You’d be forgiven for thinking that mobile phones, and particularly smartphones, had rendered traditional home phones obsolete but in actual fact cordless phones are still frequently used in British households.
The landline phone has been around for decades now and while many have done away with the traditional corded or cordless phones, others can’t be without them.
The ability to stay connected to the outside world even when you don’t have a mobile signal is a blessing for many – especially those with elderly relatives who need to remain in regular contact.
So what makes home phones, and particularly the cordless variety, so popular? Let’s take a look:
How do cordless home phones work?
In simple terms, a cordless phone connects to its base unit via radio frequency. The base unit plugs into the mains and your landline, doubling as a charger when the handset’s not in use. The beauty? You can wander around the house, or even into the garden if the signal’s strong, without being tethered to the wall. No more stretching the curly cord across the kitchen.
How long do cordless phone batteries last?
Battery life depends on the model, but all cordless phones come with rechargeable batteries powered by the base unit. Over time, they’ll naturally wear down, but replacing them is quick, easy, and far cheaper than buying a new phone.
What else can I do with a cordless phone?

Aside from the freedom to move while chatting, many cordless phones double as your personal call manager.
• Missed a call? The built-in answerphone’s got you covered.
• Sick of nuisance calls? Advanced call-blocking lets you silence persistent numbers or block them altogether.
• Need more handsets? Multi-packs like this trio set keep you connected across the whole house.
• So, you can enjoy peace of mind (and peace and quiet).
The takeaway
Cordless phones may not have the glamour of the latest smartphone, but they’re reliable, practical and still incredibly useful, especially if you want back-up when your mobile signal drops. From nuisance-call blocking to multi-handset convenience, there’s more to them than meets the eye.
Explore our full range of cordless phones, including big-button and corded options if you're after something simple and straightforward.