Rachel, we have found that the best value phones are either the Aastra 5xi series phones or SNOM 360. They have great community support, are reasonably priced and are feature rich. If you are connecting to a public-domain software platform such as Asterisk or a high-end carrier-grade switch such as a Metaswitch, they are the right platforms for the right price.

SIP phones are a good alternative to IP phones. IP Phones are usually tied to the system being used but SIP phones are more versatile and can work with many different systems. They are also a good choice for price because most of them are made in China. I don’t know which brands are best but if you end up shopping for SIP phones, let us know what you think.

For business use take a look at the Mitel line of IP phones. Their top of the line color screen phone lists for around $600.00 US with their mid-range units going for less than $300.00 or so.

The PBX comes standard with over 500 features, included ACD functionality, and an embedded voice mail system. Teleworking features, mobile device twinning, and audio/web conferencing are also all fully supported.

The price point is about 60% or so of Cisco so they're definetely worth a look.

Consider the flexibility of KONNECT at www.konnectoffice.com

KONNECT is a true business quality desk set, and comes with an optional landline (FXO) port. In a home environment, one can make both landline and VoIP calls from the same device. For your home landline, KONNECT will act as a full answering machine, and auto-attendant, separate from your VoIP PBX/Hosted service.

It depends on the functionality you want and who is providing the IP service. Standard IP phones do not deliver key system functions such as separate line keys for access. If this or other integrated features are required you will pay more but may will gain efficiencies in phone operation. I guess the first question is "Who will provide the IP service?"