Despite DSL, ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) is still quite popular among home phone users in Germany. It offers two lines, at least three phone numbers (Multiple Subscriber Numbers or MSN) and a better voice quality as well as more service attributes than analog lines. Thus, it is possible that two different users in one household make a phone call at the same time or that one users receives a phone call while being connected to the internet. It also helps internet users who cannot get a DSL or another broadband connection by doubling the data transmission rate of the narrow-band internet connection to up to 128 kbps in both upstream and downstream directions. However, ISDN subscribers pay higher monthly fees than users with an analog landline. In addition, ISDN telephones are more expensive to buy than telephones for analog lines. Here are three ISDN telephones that are available in German stores for less than EUR 100.00.

Gigaset CX475 isdn, T-Home Sinus 302i, Swissvoice Eurit 748, Picture: Manufacturers/GermanPhoneGuy

T-Home Sinus 302i

The German incumbent telco Deutsche Telekom sells two model lines of ISDN telephones: Some “Sinus” devices are cordless DECT phones for ISDN, “Concept” devices are wirebound ISDN desk phones. Currently, the ISDN phone Sinus 302i is available at T-Home stores for EUR 69.99 and offers hands-free speaking, SMS services, integrated voice mail with up to 20 minutes of recording time and SMS notification, baby monitor as well as typical ISDN service attributes such as calling number delivery, call waiting, automatic recall or conference calling.

The screen’s resolution 128 x160 pixels. Up to 250 people’s names with phone numbers can be saved in the phone book of the Sinus 302i. The battery allows for up to twelve hours of speaking time. Up to six mobile devices can be connected to the base station. Two alternative ISDN phones available at T-Home stores are Sinus A 502i for EUR 89.99 and Concept PA624i for EUR 79.99

Gigaset CX475 isdn

Maybe the most well-known manufacturer of cordless and wirebound phones in Germany is Gigaset. Most of the ISDN phones by Gigaset cost more than EUR 100.00, though. An exception is the DECT phone Gigaset CX475 isdn with purchase prices beginning at EUR 90.00 in German retail stores. The Gigaset CX475 isdn is energy-saving, reduces its electromagnetic radiation when not in use and supports up to ten MSN. Because of GAP also mobile units of other manufacturers can be connected to the base station. Other features of the Gigaset CX475 isdn are voice mail with a recording time of up to 30 minutes, SMS services, a phone book for up to 150 contacts and up to ten hours speaking time.

Swissvoice Eurit 748

Swissvoice is another manufacturer of energy-saving and low-radiation cordless phones. When not in use, the mobile units “fall into sleep” and the base station does not emit electromagnetic radiation at all. The Swissvoice Eurit 748 sports a six-line display with a resolution of 98 x 67 pixels, a phone book for up to 200 contacts, GAP-support and SMS services and offers up to twelve hours speaking time. This cordless ISDN phone is available for prices beginning at EUR 65.00 at German retails stores. With integrated voice mail this phone is available for EUR 70.00 as Swissvoice Eurit 758.