ZyXEL P2000W V2

A bit bigger and heavier than the UTStarcom F1000, the blue backlit ZyXEL P2000W V2 scores points for its normal-sounding ringtones. It's a bit thinner than the F1000, so it's a better fit for your pocket despite the added length. Unfortunately, that's pretty much it for the pluses.

 

The recessed keypad makes for a smooth profile, but the stiff keys and lack of key edges mean that you'll have to look at the P2000W V2 as you dial. There are some interface issues. Once you enter the menu system, you can't exit by pressing the hang-up button like you can on regular cell phones; you have to press the Back soft key.

 

We were shocked to find that the P2000W V2 couldn't connect to our usual, WPA-encrypted wireless network, which is a huge downer. This handset supports the outdated WEP standard, but that's not enough; the UTStarcom F1000 supports WPA encrypted networks without a problem. Call quality was decidedly muffled; worse than the F1000 (its direct competitor) and not as clear as the three Skype phones.

 

If you're looking for a good VoIP handset and don't want to use Skype, go with the UTStarcom F1000.