Best Phones for the Hard of Hearing in 2025

hard of hearing man holding desk phone land line in an office setting

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The best phones for people who hard of hearing make speech clearer with hearing aid compatibility, wideband audio, effective noise reduction, adjustable amplification and tone control, plus visual alerts for incoming calls.

For everyday office calls via a VoIP provider, a handset like the Yealink T54W delivers clear speech in open-plan spaces, while if you need the highest receive gain, a corded amplified model like the Doro Magna 4000 provides up to +60dB.

Below, we explain how to choose the best phones for the hard of hearing and compare five UK-available options. We’ve also included a couple of mobile phone options for people who are hard of hearing. While less suitable for business and VoIP uses, these could be an option for on-the-go business communication needs.

Key Takeaways (2025): Best Phones For Hard of Hearing

  • Best picks at a glance: Yealink T54W for best-value VoIP; Poly Edge E320 for noisy open-plan offices; Yealink VP59 for lip-reading and visual cues; Doro Magna 4000 for up to +60dB amplification; Amplicomms BigTel 1500 for cordless use with mild to moderate hearing loss.
  • Match hearing profile to line type – mild to moderate loss usually benefits from a HAC SIP phone with wideband audio and noise reduction, while moderate to severe loss typically needs a corded amplified set and, on VoIP, an ATA or router phone port.
  • Prioritise clarity, not just volume. Look for wideband codecs and effective noise handling (e.g. Acoustic Shield or Acoustic Fence) and consider a USB/DECT headset to bring audio closer to the ear with simple, on-device volume control.
  • Use visual support where helpful, like enabling live captions/transcription in your UC app and, if lip-reading helps, consider a video desk phone. Add flashing indicators or external ringers for high-noise areas.
  • Be ready for the UK digital switchover. Most analogue amplified sets will plug into a router phone port on Digital Voice, but also plan PoE or PSU power and consider battery backup if you need resilience.
  • Check compatibility before buying. Confirm your provider’s supported device list and firmware, choose the correct edition for platforms like Teams or Google Voice, and trial the setup with the user’s hearing aids before rolling out.

Best Amplified Phones for the Hard of Hearing: Comparison

Communication is a fundamental part of human connection, but for those with hearing loss, it can be a challenge. That’s why we’ve identified the best phones designed specifically for the hard of hearing, with features like amplified sound, adjustable tone control and compatibility with hearing aids.

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Yealink T54W (HAC)

Poly Edge E320 (HAC)

Yealink VP59 (HAC)

Doro Magna 4000

Amplicomms BigTel 1500

Best For

Best value VoIP desk phone for mild hearing loss

Best For

Best for a strong speakerphone with noise blocking

Best For

Best premium video phone for lip-reading

Best For

Best corded amplified desk phone for moderate to severe hearing loss

Best For

Best cordless amplified option for mild to moderate hearing loss

Pricing

£110-£135

Pricing

Starts at £120 (refurbished models available from £30)

Pricing

£330-£540

Pricing

£60-£75

Pricing

£35-£65

Check out our selection of phones for the hard of hearing and choose the one that best fits your needs. Or start using our quote-finding tool to get more advice and find the best prices.

Quick Note: Go Analogue For The Loudest Amplification

Sheer volume from a phone model is something critical to the hard-of-hearing. Strong +60dB amplification is almost always on corded analogue sets rather than native SIP devices. If you need to use these via VoIP software, the clean path is an analogue phone with an analogue telephone adapter (ATA).

If you must stay cordless, the loudest mainstream DECT options tend to top out at around +50dB.

1. Yealink T54W (HAC): Best Value VoIP Desk Phone for Mild Hearing Loss

Yealink T54W (HAC)
Pricing £110-£135 ex.VAT
Strengths

HAC handset, clear HD voice with good noise reduction

Built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, simple to deploy

Up to 16 SIP accounts with 10 line or feature keys

Weaknesses

No camera, no lip-reading support on device

Standard enterprise loudness only, not ultra-amplified

PoE or separate PSU required for power

Key specifications of the Yealink T54W (HAC)

What it isWhy it helpsDetails
Hearing-aid-compatible handsetReduces interference for users with hearing aids, improves intelligibility on callsHAC handset, HD handset and speaker, full-duplex speakerphone with echo cancellation
Noise reduction on callsMasks office background noise so speech is clearer for mild to moderate hearing lossYealink Acoustic Shield and Smart Noise Filtering on handset and speakerphone
Wideband audio codecsCarries more of the speech spectrum which helps with consonant clarityOpus and G.722 supported, plus G.711 and other standard codecs
SIP accounts and line keysHandles multi-line workflows without confusionUp to 16 SIP accounts, 10 programmable line or feature keys, supports up to three EXP50 modules
ConnectivityFlexible install that fits different desks and hearing setupsDual-band Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, 2 × GB Ethernet, USB for headsets or call recording
Optional DECT modeLets you add cordless handsets for mobility without changing platformWorks with Yealink DD10K USB DECT dongle, registers up to 4 Yealink DECT handsets
Screen and ergonomicsClear visual cues reduce listening effort during calls4.3 inch colour LCD, adjustable tilt display, large on-screen labels

Note: Users with severe or profound hearing loss may still prefer a dedicated amplified desk phone with higher receive gain and louder ringer or a headset that delivers audio closer to the ear

How do the T54W’s features compare with other phones for the hard of hearing?

  • Clear voice with HAC, HD voice and Acoustic Shield: Speech is crisp for mild to moderate hearing loss, background chatter is reduced without making voices sound thin.
    • Versus Poly Edge E220 or E320: Poly can cut more open-plan noise on speakerphone. T54W is excellent on the handset and similar in price.
    • Versus Yealink VP59: call clarity is comparable, but the VP59 adds a large screen and camera that help with lip-reading in meetings.
  • Wireless built in: Dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth keep installs tidy. Pairing headsets is simple and this is competitive at this tier rather than unique.
    • Versus Poly Edge E320: Similar wireless convenience. Choose on ecosystem preference or price.
    • Versus Yealink VP59: VP59 also has wireless but the T54W remains the value choice if you do not need video.
  • Amplification limits: Volume is standard enterprise HD voice. Users who need very high receive gain or very loud ringer may find it insufficient.
    • Versus Doro Magna 4000 or Geemarc Amplipower 50: Those corded amplified sets deliver up to about +60dB and very loud ringers. They are not SIP VoIP phones and trade cloud PBX features for volume.
  • Multi-line capacity: Up to 16 SIP accounts and 10 line or feature keys handle shared lines and reception use without clutter.
    • Versus Poly Edge E220: T54W offers more flexible multi-line handling out of the box.
    • Versus Yealink VP59: VP59 focuses on video meetings and a touch UI. T54W gives denser key layouts in the same desk footprint.
  • No camera: Fewer visual cues for users who benefit from lip-reading on video. The upside is lower cost and simpler deployment.
    • Versus Yealink VP59: VP59 is better for visual accessibility in meetings. T54W keeps costs down for voice-first setups.
    • Versus Panasonic KX-TGE823 or Amplicomms BigTel 1500: Those cordless kits win on roaming and loud ringers. T54W wins on VoIP features, headset options and admin control.

What VoIP phone systems does the T54W work with?

  • RingCentral: Supports Yealink desk phones
  • 8×8 Work: Sold and supported by 8×8
  • GoTo Connect: Listed as a compatible device
  • Vonage: Yealink models are supported
  • Dialpad: Yealink T-series supported on Dialpad
  • bOnline: T54W is compatible with bOnline’s UK VoIP service
  • NBC Cloud Voice: National Business Communications supplies and supports the T54W specifically

2. Poly Edge E320 (HAC): Best for Noisy Open-Plan Offices Requiring Strong Speakerphone Noise Blocking

Poly Edge E320 (HAC)
Poly Edge E320 (HAC)
Pricing £90-£110 ex.VAT
Strengths

Strong speakerphone noise blocking with Poly NoiseBlockAI and Acoustic Fence

HAC handset, Bluetooth 5 and USB-C headset options

Eight line keys with pagination for larger setups

Weaknesses

No built-in Wi-Fi; Ethernet needed at the desk

Smaller 3.5 inch screen than many T5-series sets

Some advanced features depend on provider firmware

Key specifications of the Poly Edge E320 (HAC)

What it isWhy it helpsDetails
Hearing-aid-compatible handsetImproves intelligibility with compatible hearing aids, reduces interferenceHAC handset with hearing aid compatibility per ITU and TIA standards, compatible with TTY adapters
Noise reduction on callsCuts office background noise so speech stays clearPoly Acoustic Fence on handset and wired headset, Poly NoiseBlockAI on speakerphone, acoustic echo cancellation
Wideband audio codecsCarries more of the speech spectrum for crisper consonantsOpus and G.722 supported, plus G.711, G.729AB, iLBC and G.722.1
SIP accounts and line keysHandles multi-line workflows without confusionEight line keys supporting up to 32 SIP lines with pagination
ConnectivityFlexible listening setups with headsets and mobile pairingBluetooth 5.0 and NFC, 2 × GB Ethernet, USB-C for headsets and storage, RJ-9 and EHS port for wired headsets
Screen and accessibilityClear on-screen cues reduce listening effort3.5 inch colour IPS LCD with larger font and colour-adjust options, text-to-speech, status light bar, antimicrobial surfaces
Network notesMatters for placement and installNo built-in Wi-Fi. Use Ethernet for network connectivity

Note: Users with severe or profound hearing loss may still prefer a dedicated amplified desk phone with higher receive gain and loud ringers or a noise-isolating headset that places audio closer to the ear

How do the E320’s features compare with other phones for the hard of hearing?

  • Strong noise blocking on speakerphone: Acoustic Fence and NoiseBlockAI keep voices intelligible in open-plan areas.
    • Versus Yealink T54W: T54W’s Acoustic Shield reduces background chatter. E320 is often stronger on the speakerphone side in very noisy spaces.
    • Versus Yealink VP59: Audio clarity is competitive. VP59 adds video for lip-reading in meetings, which some users find helpful.
  • HAC handset and accessibility options: Magnetic coupling support and on-screen adjustments aid users with hearing aids and visual needs.
    • Versus Yealink T54W: Both are HAC. E320 adds text-to-speech and colour adjustments. T54W has the larger 4.3-inch display, which some users may prefer.
    • Versus Doro Magna 4000 or Geemarc Amplipower 50: Amplified sets offer much higher receive gain and louder ringers. They are not SIP VoIP desk phones and trade cloud PBX features for raw volume.
  • Line handling and keys: Eight-line keys with pagination support up to 32 lines, which scales well for reception and shared lines.
    • Versus Yealink T54W: T54W supports up to 16 SIP accounts with 10 line or feature keys. E320 matches larger deployments via pagination rather than extra physical keys.
  • Connectivity trade-off: Bluetooth 5.0 and USB-C are convenient for headsets and mobile pairing. Lack of built-in Wi-Fi can limit placement if Ethernet is not nearby.
    • Versus Yealink T54W: T54W includes dual-band Wi-Fi, which suits desks without Ethernet. E320 requires a wired LAN connection.
    • Versus Yealink VP59: VP59 also supports wireless and adds a large touchscreen. E320 remains the simpler and more affordable choice for voice-first desks.
  • Amplification limits: Volume is standard enterprise HD voice. Users needing very high receive gain or very loud ringers should consider amplified sets or a dedicated headset.
    • Versus Doro Magna 4000 or Geemarc Amplipower 50: Doro and Geemarc corded amplified phones can reach around +60dB receive boost and very loud ringer. They suit severe hearing loss but are not SIP VoIP phones.

What VoIP phone systems does the E320 work with?

  • RingCentral: Poly Edge E320 is listed as supported
  • 8×8 Work: Poly Edge E320 appears on 8×8’s compatible device list and is available via 8×8 sales
  • GoTo Connect: Poly Edge E series is supported. E320 has a dedicated product page on GoTo
  • Vonage: Poly SIP phones are supported on Vonage
  • Dialpad: Dialpad supports the Poly Edge E family with setup guides for E320

3. Yealink VP59 (HAC): Best Premium Video and Lip-Reading Choice

yealink-59
Yealink VP59
Pricing £330-£540 ex.VAT
Strengths

8 inch touchscreen with HD camera, helpful for lip-reading and visual cues

HAC handset, wideband audio with noise reduction

Up to 16 SIP accounts; Wi-Fi and Bluetooth on board

Weaknesses

Significantly higher price than audio-only models

Larger footprint and more complex to manage

4. Doro Magna 4000: Best Corded Amplified Desk Phone for Moderate to Severe Hearing Loss

doro magna 4000
Doro Magna 4000
Pricing £60-£75 inc.VAT
Strengths

Up to +60 dB receive gain with one-touch boost

Very loud ringer with visual flash, tone control for clarity

HAC handset, large buttons and simple UI

Weaknesses

Analogue only. Needs router phone port or an ATA for VoIP

Requires mains power for amplifier and ringer

Limited PBX features compared with SIP desk phones

Key specifications of the Doro Magna 4000

What it isWhy it helpsDetails
Extra-loud receive amplificationMakes voices much easier to hear for moderate to severe hearing lossUp to +60dB handset volume with a one-touch boost button, a wide manual volume range
Loud ringer and visual alertImproves awareness of incoming calls in busy or noisy roomsRinger up to 90dB. Flashing ring indicator available
Tone controlLet users emphasise treble or bass to match their hearing profileAdjustable tone control on the handset
Hearing-aid compatibilityReduces interference for users with hearing aidsHAC handset, use the hearing aid T or loop setting
Big-button, high-contrast designEasier dialling and call handling with reduced visual strainLarge keys, clear backlit display, simple on-phone navigation
Memory and caller featuresSaves time reaching frequent contacts and screening callsTwo one-touch memory keys, caller ID, phonebook for up to 50 entries
Line typeWorks wherever there is an analogue phone portAnalogue corded phone for PSTN or a router or ATA phone port. Not a SIP desk phone

Note: The amplifier and ringer require mains power. On digital landlines and VoIP services, plug the phone into the router phone port or use an analogue telephone adapter

How do the Doro Magna 4000’s features compare with other phones for the hard of hearing?

  • Very high receive gain up to +60dB: Delivers far louder audio than standard enterprise desk phones, which is ideal if users struggle even with HD voice.
    • Versus Yealink T54W or Poly Edge E320: Those SIP phones offer clear wideband audio but much lower maximum loudness. Magna 4000 is the better choice for moderate to severe loss.
  • Very loud ringer plus visual flash: Helps users notice calls in open offices or workshops.
    • Versus T54W or Edge E320: Enterprise SIP sets have configurable ringers but are not as loud. Many offices add external bells or strobe lights to match the Doro’s alerting.
  • Tone control and HAC: Tailoring treble or bass and using hearing aid T mode can reduce listening effort.
    • Versus SIP desk phones: Some SIP models are HAC and have good noise reduction, but the Doro still wins where individual frequency shaping and louder output are the priority.
  • Analogue only: It does not register to a cloud PBX as a SIP endpoint, so features like BLF keys or app integrations are not available.
    • Versus T54W or Edge E320: Those register directly to providers and support multi-line keys and headsets. Doro requires a router phone port or an ATA to work on VoIP.
  • Ease of use: Big keys, two one-touch memories and a clear display keep operation simple.
    • Versus SIP sets: SIP phones can be customised with more programmable keys, but may feel busier for users who want a straightforward amplified handset.

What VoIP phone systems does the Dora Magna 4000 work with?

  • RingCentral: Not a native SIP device, works when connected through a supported ATA such as Cisco ATA 191 or Poly OBi302. Basic calling and caller ID are typical, check feature support with RingCentral
  • 8×8 Work: Works via supported ATA devices such as Grandstream HT801 or HT813. Add the ATA as an analogue voice device in 8×8 Admin Console
  • GoTo Connect: Works via a provisioned ATA. GoTo provides admin steps for adding analogue adapters
  • Vonage: Works via a Grandstream or Cisco ATA supplied or approved by Vonage Business. Configure per Vonage guide
  • Dialpad: Works via supported ATAs such as Poly ATA 402 or Grandstream models. Provision through Dialpad admin
  • bOnline: Not a SIP device. Connect via your router’s phone port on digital voice or use an ATA if your plan allows bring your own device (BYOD) hardware. Confirm with bOnline
  • NBC Cloud Voice: Not a SIP device. Use your router’s phone port or a compatible ATA. Confirm support and configuration with NBC
  • Google Voice: For Google Workspace accounts the Doro can work via a supported Poly ATA 400/402
Did You Know?

More than 40% of UK adults over 50 years old have hearing loss.

5. Amplicomms BigTel 1500: Best Cordless Amplified Option for Mild to Moderate Hearing Loss

amplicomms-big-tel-1500
Amplicomms BigTel 1500
Pricing £35-£65 inc.VAT
Strengths

Up to +35dB receive boost and up to 90dB ringer

Cordless DECT mobility, easy to carry to the best listening spot

Simple controls with call blocker and three direct memories

Weaknesses

Analogue only. Needs router phone port or an ATA for VoIP

Loud but less maximum amplification than corded +60dB sets

Fewer enterprise features than SIP desk phones

Key specifications of the Amplicomms BigTel 1500

What it isWhy it helpsDetails
Extra-loud receive amplificationMakes voices easier to hear for mild to moderate hearing lossUp to +35dB handset boost with a one-touch audio-boost button
Loud ringer with visual alertImproves awareness of incoming calls in busy roomsRinger up to 90dB with a flashing LED ring indicator
Hearing-aid compatibilityReduces interference for users with hearing aidsHAC handset suitable for use with hearing aid T mode
Big-button, high-contrast designSimplifies dialling and reduces visual strainLarge keys, backlit display, clear on-screen menus
Call handling and phonebookSaves time reaching frequent contacts and screening callsThree direct memory keys, caller ID, phonebook for up to 100 entries, nuisance call blocker
Hands-free speakerphoneLets users position the handset where it sounds bestFull-duplex hands-free mode with volume control
Expandable cordless systemCovers larger spaces without trailing cablesDECT cordless base with support for up to four handsets in total
Line typeWorks wherever there is an analogue phone portAnalogue DECT phone for PSTN or a router or ATA phone port. Not a SIP desk phone

Note: On digital voice and hosted VoIP, plug the base into your router’s phone port or an analogue telephone adapter. The ringer and amplifier require mains power

How do the BigTel 1500’s features compare with other phones for the hard of hearing?

  • Loudness with +35dB receive boost: Significantly louder than standard enterprise desk phones and suitable for many users with mild to moderate loss.
    • Versus Doro Magna 4000: Those corded amplified sets reach about +60dB and much louder ringer, so they are better for moderate to severe loss but lack cordless roaming.
    • Versus Yealink T54W or Poly Edge E320: Those SIP phones have clear HD voice but much lower maximum loudness. BigTel 1500 is better if raw volume is the priority.
  • Nuisance call blocker and large keys: Simple controls reduce errors and make everyday use less tiring.
    • Versus SIP desk phones: Enterprise models offer more programmable keys and features. BigTel 1500 focuses on ease of use with three direct memories and a straightforward UI.
  • Cordless DECT convenience: Handset can be carried to where hearing is best, which helps intelligibility.
    • Versus Doro Magna 4000: Doro Magna 4000 is corded and fixed in place. BigTel 1500 trades maximum amplification for mobility around the office or home office.
    • Versus Yealink T54W: T54W can add limited cordless capability with a DECT dongle and compatible handsets. BigTel 1500 is a native cordless system with a simpler setup for analogue lines.
  • Analogue only: Does not register to a cloud PBX as a SIP endpoint, so features like BLF keys or integrations are not available.
    • Versus Yealink T54W or Poly Edge E320: Those connect directly to hosted VoIP and support multi-line keys and headsets. BigTel 1500 needs a router phone port or an ATA to work with VoIP.

What VoIP phone systems does the BigTel 1500 work with?

  • RingCentral: Not a native SIP device. Works via a supported ATA such as Cisco ATA 191 or Poly OBi302. Basic calling and caller ID are typical
  • 8×8 Work: Works via a provisioned Grandstream or Cisco ATA. Add as an analogue voice device in the 8×8 Admin Console
  • GoTo Connect: Works via a configured ATA, so follow GoTo admin steps for adding analogue adapters
  • Vonage: Works via a Grandstream or Cisco ATA supplied or approved by Vonage Business. Confirm feature support with Vonage
  • Dialpad: Works via supported ATAs such as Poly ATA 402 or Grandstream models. Provision through the Dialpad admin portal
  • bOnline: Connect the base to your router’s phone port on Digital Voice or use an ATA if your plan allows BYOD hardware. Confirm with bOnline
  • NBC Cloud Voice: Use the router’s phone port or a compatible ATA. Confirm configuration with NBC
  • Google Voice: For Google Workspace accounts the BigTel can work via a supported Poly ATA 400 or 402. Consumer Google Voice does not support ATAs
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Best Mobile Phones for the Hard of Hearing

While desk phones are likely to be your primary communication tool in the workplace, mobile phones are another option for people who are hard of hearing.

Here’s a quick run-down of the two top options you can select, should you prefer a fully mobile solution – but be warned, you’ll need a VoIP mobile application or to manually set up your VoIP with the mobile hardware to use your cloud phone, which can be more troublesome depending on your provider.

1. Doro 8200: Best Mobile Smartphone for the Hard of Hearing

Doro 8200 smartphone on white background
The Doro 8200 is a smarter choice for the hard of hearing. Source: Doro

Swedish-based manufacturer Doro has become a leading provider of specialist telecommunication solutions for hard of hearing people across the world.

Its Doro 8200 smartphone is an excellent choice for a more modern solution than a desk phone and retails for around £210 to £250 (including VAT).

What does it offer?

Should you have a VoIP software package that allows the use of its accompanying smartphone application, then the Doro 8200 is all set to provide ease of use for the hard of hearing.

It has huge icons and alerts, which should make it easy to spot an incoming call should you not be able to hear them. When on calls, ClearSound amplifies voices in noisy environments to provide as much clarity to your conversations as possible.

Like all phones on this page, it is compatible with hearing aids to a rating of M4/T3 (FCC rating), plus it offers a loud ringer of more than 83dB and up to around 35dB receive amplification.

And you’ll have all the smart tools you may desire, including Google Assistant, to help with your workflow. You can also enable Live Caption to caption media and many phone calls, which helps if you miss words.

2. Doro 6880: Best Mobile Flip Phone for the Hard of Hearing

Doro 6880 flip phone on white background
The Doro 6880 might be a better option for those who prefer physical keys and an old-school phone design. Source: Doro

Another Doro mobile phone, the 6880 is a solid choice for people who are hard of hearing if you want a less ‘smart’ solution. Typically, we have seen it selling for £90 to £105 (including VAT) in 2025.

What does it offer?

On the phone’s external display, since it’s a flip phone, you’ll see a caller’s name and number and be able to answer the call by flipping it open. Meanwhile, widely separated, high-contrast keys should enable you to input numbers and text customers easily when typing.

As above, it is compatible with hearing aids, but to a rating of M4/T4 with HD voice for clearer conversation between you and whoever you are calling.

And handily for VoIP users, it works on digital voice by plugging the base into your router’s phone port. For cloud PBX services, you may need an ATA, as it isn’t smart enough to use a VoIP softphone app, but after that you’ll be all set.

How To Choose Phones for the Hard of Hearing

When choosing a phone for someone who is hard of hearing, the main goal will always be to improve the individual’s ability to communicate. This will generally need to be assessed on a case-by-case basis since different people will have different severities of hearing loss or other impairments.

Quick picks by use case

  • Mild to moderate hearing loss in open-plan offices: SIP desk phone with HAC, wideband audio and strong noise reduction. Add a wired or DECT headset if needed.
  • Moderate to severe hearing loss where loudness is the priority: Corded amplified analogue phone with higher receive gain and loud ringer. Connect via router phone port or ATA for VoIP.
  • Users who benefit from visual cues: Video-enabled desk phone or a Unified Communications VoIP platform with live captions and transcription.
  • Roaming in small offices or home offices: Corded amplified if maximum volume is critical, cordless DECT amplified if mobility matters more.

But even so, there are several factors you should consider to ensure the device meets their specific needs.

Core features to prioritise

  • Amplification and tone control: Look for higher receive volume with a clear scale, plus bass and treble adjustment so users can emphasise the frequencies they struggle with. As a rule of thumb, mild to moderate loss often benefits from wideband HD voice and moderate gain. Moderate to severe loss often needs amplified sets that reach higher dB levels.
  • Hearing aid compatibility: For desk phones, look for a HAC handset and test with the hearing aid’s T or loop setting. For mobiles, you may see FCC M and T ratings, where M is microphone and T is telecoil, and where higher numbers are better quality.
  • Noise handling: Features like Acoustic Shield or Acoustic Fence can reduce background chatter and HVAC noise. A good full-duplex speakerphone with echo cancellation also helps when hands-free.
  • Visual and tactile alerts: Large on-screen caller ID, flashing ring indicators, bright status lights, and high-contrast keys reduce missed calls and misdials. For very noisy spaces, consider external bells or strobes.
  • Video and captions: Larger screens and cameras can aid lip-reading. If you use video calling software, check for live captions and transcription to support comprehension.
  • Headset strategy: Many users hear more clearly with a headset that delivers audio closer to the ear. Consider USB, DECT wireless or Bluetooth headsets. Look for sidetone and simple volume controls.

VoIP and setup considerations

As you will have seen in our guide above, many of the loudest models are analogue and will require adapting to your VoIP system, should you have one.

Since UK landlines are moving to digital voice in 2027, when the landline network is switched off, check that any analogue amplified phone will plug into your router’s phone port.

  • SIP desk phone versus analogue: SIP phones register directly to your hosted PBX and support features like multi-line keys and BLF. Analogue amplified phones connect to the router’s phone port or an ATA if you need VoIP.

If you choose a SIP phone, confirm your provider’s supported device list and required firmware. For Teams or Google Voice, check whether you need a native edition or whether SIP Gateway support is sufficient.

You’ll also need to plan for PoE or a power supply, and place phones where Wi-Fi or Ethernet is stable. For analogue amplified sets, remember the amplifier and ringer usually need mains power.

Ease of use and accessibility

When it comes to features related to ease of use and accessibility, there are three that we think are important, whether you are hard of hearing or not.

  • Interface clarity: Large adjustable displays, big buttons with clear labels, and simple menus reduce cognitive load.
  • Speed dial and memories: One-touch keys for frequent contacts minimise misdials and speed up calls.
  • Physical ergonomics: Adjustable display angles, stable cradles and textured keys help with daily use.
Verdict

The best phones for the hard of hearing combine a HAC handset, wideband audio and effective noise reduction, with amplification and visual alerts where needed.

For cloud PBX users, the Yealink T54W is the best value all-rounder for clear everyday calls, while the Poly Edge E320 suits noisy open-plan offices, and the Yealink VP59 adds a large screen and camera, if lip-reading helps in meetings.

Should maximum loudness be the priority, the corded Doro Magna 4000 provides up to +60dB receive gain, and the Amplicomms BigTel 1500 offers a simpler cordless option for mild to moderate loss.

For mobile, the Doro 8200 is a strong pick with hearing aid compatibility and accessibility tools.

And do make sure to check your VoIP provider’s supported devices, and remember that analogue amplified sets work on digital voice via your router’s phone port or an ATA.

If you have one or several employees who are hard of hearing, let us help you find the solution that’s right for all of you. Fill in our quick and free comparison tool with your requirements and we’ll put you in touch with the best suppliers to meet your needs.

FAQs

How else can employers support employees who are hard of hearing?
The NHS recommends several ways employers can help those with hearing difficulties be happy and productive in the workplace.

These include:

  1. Ensuring there is good lighting in the building, particularly around the employees and in any meeting rooms, to aid lip-reading
  2. Moving the person with hearing loss to an office with good acoustics
  3. In cases of severe hearing loss, providing a speech-to-text reporter or interpreter
  4. Providing employees with portable hearing loops for off-site training and away days
Written by:
Matt Reed is a Senior Communications and Logistics Expert at Expert Market. Adept at evaluating products, he focuses mainly on assessing fleet management and business communication software. Matt began his career in technology publishing with Expert Reviews, where he spent several years putting the latest audio-related products and releases through their paces, revealing his findings in transparent, in-depth articles and guides. Holding a Master’s degree in Journalism from City, University of London, Matt is no stranger to diving into challenging topics and summarising them into practical, helpful information.
Reviewed by:
Oliver Simpson - senior researcher - headshot
After three years in operational B2B data analysis, Oliver became a business insight specialist in 2022 and now focuses full-time on understanding small business preferences and needs. He blends his quantitative skills, forged by his experience working as a law enforcement researcher, with qualitative exploration, to ensure robust and nuanced results.