Why You Can Trust CNET Doro 225IPC review: Doro 255IPC
Excellent sound quality, a competitive price and user friendly setup make the Doro 225IPC a worthy choice for a voice over IP handset.
The 225IPC is a USB based VoIP telephone released by Swedish communications manufacturer Doro. Relatively unknown in Australia, Doro has released a range of products suitable for both business and home users. The Doro 225IPC is aimed at budget users who want a quick and simple way of jumping into the world of VoIP communications. When connected with VoIP software the 225IPC makes it possible to telephone comfortably through the Internet.
Doro 225IPC
The Good
The Bad
The Bottom Line
The 225IPC is a slim-line phone with a contoured surface available in several bright colours as well as standard black. The attached USB cable is long and has a standard curled wire. Buttons are well placed but had to be pressed quite firmly for a response. This can become rather tedious especially when dialing quickly -- incorrect dialing can become problematic.
Installation is relatively easy and works well with both Windows XP/2000 and Mac OS9/X. Other manufacturers have had compatibility issues with other platforms even if the VoIP software is working. This is especially true for Mac users. With the Doro we had no issues with either Windows or Mac OS.
At only AU$69.95 we were not expecting much from the 225IPC so it was no surprise that the phone's features are quite limited. At 140g the phone is relatively heavy given its lack of features. The small LCD with blue backlight is comparable with other phones on the market but in general is very poor. The phone's unattractive design is not helped by the cheap buttons which feel like they will wear out in less than a month's use. The phone sits well in the hand but the cable's length could be longer.
The 225IPC stands out amongst its competitors like TRENDnet's ClearSky because of its support for multiple VoIP software systems like Skype and Myvox. Making calls is as simple as plugging in the attached USB cable and installing some free propriety software from companies like Skype that allow you to make free calls to other users and even communicate to conventional landlines at minimal cost. Skype's international calls rates are also very reasonable.
The 225IPC's compact size makes it a worthy travel companion. For business users that use their phone a lot there is an option to plug in a headset.
The phone allows you to browse through your contacts list and features Caller ID as well. One feature that did impress was a system that suppresses echoes and reduces ambient noises to improve sound quality. The Doro's noise cancellation is quite effective. Sound is crisp and clear. Overall quality was comparable with top of the line VoIP phones.
Unlike its wireless counterparts, the fixed line Doro does not suffer from any interference from moving about or weakness in signal but then again you can't really move that far. Call volume is fully adjustable and the phone comes with 10 different ringtones.
To work, the 225IPC requires the computer to be turned on and connected to the Internet at all times. The preferred connection is broadband. Our tests on dial up found conversations would be interrupted constantly. Also, a spare USB port is required. The 225IPC offers enthusiasts a simple and cost effective way to enter the world of VoIP.