8 Best Low Radiation Cordless Phones

The benefits of a cordless phone are obvious. They’re both portable and functional and last for hours, but they do give off lots of EMF radiation.

If you’re conscious of your EMF exposure levels, you might have thought your only option is to go back to a wired phone. However, that’s not the case, as low radiation cordless phones exist. My 8 best choices are: 

1. VTech CS6719-2 Low Radiation Cordless Phone
2. Panasonic KX-TGD532W Cordless Phone
3. AT&T Expandable Low EMF Cordless Phone
4. Panasonic KX-TGD564M Cordless Phone
5. VTech IS8151-5 Super Long Range Cordless Phone
6. AT&T CRL82312 Expandable Cordless Phone
7. Panasonic EX-TGD530M Cordless Phone
8. VTech CD6529-4B Low Radiation Cordless Phone

My top pick amongst the best low radiation cordless phones in the list is definitely Panasonic KX-TGD564M Cordless Phone (check it out on Amazon). Not only does it have all the excellent functionality you’d expect from a modern cordless phone, but it’s also fairly low EMF. In my opinion, it’s definitely the best low radiation cordless phone you’ll currently find on the market.

I’ll go through these choices in more detail below, but it’s first worth looking at some important questions about low EMF cordless phones, along with the buying factors you must consider.

Do cordless phones have radiation?

Cordless phones do in fact give off EMF radiation. They effectively work on the same technology as cellphones, in that they transmit radio signals to their base, which is basically a cellphone tower. The major difference is that cordless phones work over a shorter distance.

In short, cordless phones communicate with their base using RF signals in much the same way other electronic devices do. Like Wi-Fi routers and smart meters, cordless phones work on their own radio frequencies.

The frequency used will depend on several factors, including the brand and design. Newer models operate anywhere between 900MHz and 5.8GHz depending on distance, while older ones will be around 90MHz.

One of the biggest issues with cordless phones, however, is that they constantly emit these radio signals. These signals can come from both the base station and the handset, although some models will only emit radiation from the handset during a call.

Of course, the biggest issue here is constant exposure. Also, many people store their cordless phone base stations in what they consider to be convenient locations, such as next to their bed or sofa.

However, doing this is like having a high-powered cellphone next to you at all times, which isn’t very healthy. We’re aware of the dangers of EMF exposure, otherwise, you wouldn’t be reading this article.

Are cordless phones dangerous?

Cordless phones emit more EMF radiation than cellphones. Also, holding the headset to your ear brings it close to the blood-brain barrier, which is a permeable and highly sensitive membrane. This means it’s more susceptible to problems.

EMF exposure has been linked to a number of health complications, including:

• Eating problems (nausea and loss of appetite)
• Sleep problems (insomnia, irregular sleeping patterns)
• Dizziness
• Itchy/prickly skin
• Depression and anxiety
• Fertility problems
• Cancer

EMFs are believed to disrupt processes in the body such as DNA replication and hormone release, which is why it’s linked to cancer and mental health issues. This is particularly true in people with electromagnetic hypersensitivity (EHS).

However, we’re all arguably at the same risk of conditions related to EMF exposure because we all have devices around us constantly. Cordless phones are no exception to this rule as they’ve become the new norm for household phones.

Unlike devices such as cellphones and computers, which most of us will likely turn off when not in use; this isn’t the case for cordless phones. They stay turned on all the time and almost all models will emit some constant form of EMF radiation.

Considering the amount of time many of us will spend around these devices, this is quite a worrying thought. However, as more and more people wake up to the health risks associated with EMF radiation, there’s a developing market for products with low radiation.

What are low radiation cordless phones?

Generally speaking, low radiation cordless phones aren’t advertised as such. Unlike devices like Wi-Fi routers and smart meters, cordless phones aren’t given much attention in the EMF world.

Another reason for this fact is that low radiation cordless phones do still give off EMF radiation, just less of it. This is how the devices work, so it’s impossible to think you can completely remove all EMF radiation from them.

The difference is that the cordless phones we consider to be low radiation have something known as ECO mode. Technically it’s an energy-saving mode, but it means the phone only communicates with its base station when in use.

While it might not seem like the biggest step in the right direction, it does make a difference. For example, if you spend 30 minutes talking to someone on the phone you’ll only be exposed to 30 minutes of radiation, rather than several hours’ worth.

You can expect to reduce your EMF exposure by around 80% just by making the switch to a cordless phone with ECO setting. However, if you’re really careful then you could probably increase this to as much as 90%.

Consider the following points to reduce your EMF exposure from cordless phones:

• Keep the base station well away from living areas. Ideally, it should be kept in the farthest corner of the house.
• Don’t talk for long. Try to not have the phone next to your head for more than 20 minutes a day in total.
• Use loudspeaker whenever possible. This keeps the EMF radiation away from your blood/brain barrier.

The bottom line is that even with a low radiation cordless phone, you’ll still be exposed to some level of EMF radiation. There’s basically no avoiding it if you’re using a wireless electronic device of any kind.

If this is really going to be an issue for you, then consider switching back to a corded phone. Doing so is the only way to still be able to make phone calls while reducing your EMF radiation exposure to almost nothing.

Buying criteria for cordless phones

Choosing the right low radiation cordless phone will obviously depend on your needs. If you’re tight on budget, you can find a fairly effective cordless phone for a low enough price.

However, it’s worth paying a bit more for some extra functions. These are the main criteria I’d suggest the following when making your choice.

Range

Range is obviously an important one, as if you live in a big house you’ll need a cordless phone with a greater range. By this, I mean the distance you can take the handset from the base station before you lose signal.

If you live in a smaller property, such as a small house or apartment, you won’t really need to think about this. Pretty much every model will have a range greater than 150ft, which will be fine for smaller properties.

Loudspeaker

If you have concerns about EMF radiation exposure, this’ll be a pretty important function to consider. Using the handset on loudspeaker means you don’t have to hold it to your head, which reduces your exposure.

In short, this means you can spend longer talking on the phone. However, look for a model with better battery life because loudspeaker functions can be a pretty big drain.

Call functions

Depending on what you’re using the phone for, you might want to look for call functions. These can include:

• Caller ID
• Phonebook
• Call waiting
• Base station/handset intercom
• Conference call
• Speed dial
• Last number redial

For some, these functions won’t be necessary. However, as you’ll have to pay a bit more for an ECO cordless phone you might as well lookout for some extra features.

The 8 best low radiation cordless phones

Now that we’ve got a better idea of what to look out for, it’s time to look at some of the best models currently on the market. There are phones hear for every price bracket, so you should be sure to find a suitable one.

1. VTech CS6719-2 Low Radiation Cordless Phone

This set of cordless phones comes with 2 handsets and 2 base stations. The main base station has more functions, but both handsets have the same features. Importantly, both have ECO mode.

The handsets are really easy to use and have a bright LCD screen that’s just under half the size of the front face. The buttons are fairly large and light up, meaning it’s usable in low light conditions.

Along with ECO mode, these handsets have a speakerphone, 50 number phonebook, caller ID, conference call and more. Importantly, they’re not too expensive either.

The only real downside is that these handsets lag a bit when using speed dial and last number redial. However, this is a minor problem because the functions still work fine.

2. Panasonic KX-TGD532W Cordless Phone

One of the best features of this handset is that it can be used in an expandable network. This means you can buy more handsets of the same type and have a bigger phone system. The pack comes with 2 so you’re already off to a good start.

It has the all-important ECO mode, which reduces RF emissions and improves battery life. This function exists on both handsets, which is useful.

Among its other features are a 1.6 backlit LCD screen, which is big enough to see clearly, and a bilingual caller ID. The base station has a voice function, and can read out caller names in both English and Spanish.

My only negative is that the menus can be a bit difficult to navigate because there’s no quick search option. However, this is only a problem if you have lots of numbers stored in the phonebook.

Also, you have to manually set up ECO mode, but it explains how to do this in the manual and you only have to do it once.

3. AT&T Expandable Low EMF Cordless Phone

This set of cordless phones have extra-large buttons, which is useful for those with sight impairment issues. What’s more, they also have high-contrast, backlit LCD screens for the same reason.

In this set, you get the main base station and 3 extra handsets/base stations, so this is a good choice for small businesses or large homes. The main base serves as the answering machine, but calls can be taken on any handset.

They have all the functions you’d expect, including a 50 name phonebook, loudspeaker, audio equalizing settings and smart call block. This last feature allows you to save up to 1000 numbers on your block list.

I initially thought that the handsets being battery powered (rather than rechargeable) would be an issue, but I actually found that it helped to cut down on EMF emissions. Importantly the handsets still have good battery life.

4. Panasonic KX-TGD564M Cordless Phone

Panasonic is probably going to be a regular name on this list because they make some of the best cordless phones. This set is no exception, as it comes with 4 handsets and a number of really useful features.

The main base station serves as the answering machine, but you can retrieve messages using any handset. You can also link the phones to your cellphone, which allows you to receive calls on that instead.

There are also other Bluetooth functions, but these can be turned off if you want to reduce your EMF levels. Among the other features you’ll find:

• Bilingual caller ID
• Loudspeaker
• Programmable ring IDs for different numbers
• Call block
• Phonebook

While this set might be on the higher end of the price spectrum, I think it’s worth it for the range of features you get. Just because you want a low radiation cordless phone doesn’t mean you should have to sacrifice functionality.

5. VTech IS8151-5 Super Long Range Cordless Phone

If you need a cordless phone with an amazing range, this is the choice for you. These handsets can boast a whopping 2300ft range from the base station before they lose signal. Having this kind of flexibility can be really useful.

While this set comes with the base station and 4 additional handsets, you can buy sets with fewer. The network is expandable anyway, meaning you can start with 2 and always add more. This makes them a great choice for both home and business.

Each handset has a 2-inch backlit LCD screen and large buttons, making them ideal for those with sight impairments. The main base station also has a 3.5-inch screen, which you can use to check messages and your phonebook.

My only negative is that their extra functions mean they emit more EMF radiation than normal cordless phones, but this is irrelevant once you turn ECO mode on anyway.

6. AT&T CRL82312 Expandable Cordless Phone

Probably my favorite thing about these cordless phones, other than being low radiation, is the price. They’re in a mid-range price bracket, but you get amazing call clarity and functionality as standard.

The handsets feature signal boosting technology and the ability to filter out background noise, which results in really clear audio, even at long range. The Audio Assist button increases the call volume and clarity with a single button press.

The screen is nice and large, as are the buttons, and it’s all backlit too. This makes the handsets really easy to use in almost any environment. The base station also provides caller announce, which can be really useful.

I think the only issue I could find with these phones is that the loudspeaker volume wasn’t very high. However, considering this is only so you can keep it away from your head, it’s not that big a deal.

7. Panasonic EX-TGD530M Cordless Phone

For many, a single cordless handset will be more than enough to use at home. If that’s the case, this’ll be an ideal choice. The handset is simple and easy to use and provides all the necessary functions without breaking the bank.

The 1.6-inch LCD screen is high-contrast and backlit, so it’s really easy to see who’s calling. It also has an excellent range and so will be suitable for small to medium households.

You can also expect features like caller ID announce, customizable ringer IDs, message counter, and much more. As I mentioned, this phone has all the functions you think you might need.

However, I did find the handset being battery powered did shorten its lifespan. The handset goes through batteries fairly quickly, so a rechargeable option might be better if you’ll be making a lot of calls.

8. VTech CD6529-4B Low Radiation Cordless Phone

Granted, style isn’t what many people look for in their cordless phones, but if you do then this’ll be the choice for you. The handsets come in 4 different colors, which adds a touch of style to an otherwise functional object.

The handsets are clear and easy to use, and the call clarity is fairly good. They all have loudspeaker functions and impressive range from their base stations.

Unlike other handsets, this one has trilingual caller functions, which might come in handy. Also, you can add more handsets to the network, making them suitable for both home and business.

Some final thoughts

Buying a low radiation cordless phone doesn’t need to be a difficult task. Providing you know your budget and needs, it really won’t take very long. Hopefully, this list has shown you some of the best options currently available, and at least one should meet your needs.

Also read:

• 9 Best Low Radiation Air Purifiers
• The 8 Best Low EMF Electric Stoves
• 5 Best Anti EMF Radiation Cell Phone Cases