We review three of Grandstream’s most popular VoIP phones, including GRP, GXP and GXV IP phones
Grandstream Networks has been supplying businesses worldwide with its award-winning communication solutions since 2002. The company offers a wide variety of VoIP phones, so there’s likely to be one at a price range to suit your budget. Grandstream’s solutions are used by organizations in more than 150 countries and include headsets, Wi-Fi management solutions, and scalable unified communications offerings, in addition to its IP phones. This review will focus on three specific ranges of IP phones offered by Grandstream: the GRP, GXP, and GXV ranges. All the devices offered within these ranges deliver the quality and reliability that Grandstream has become known for over the last two decades, but the different features offered by each will be more suited to some organizations than others. However, businesses that opt for any of the Grandstream handsets mentioned below are sure to encounter handsets that boast excellent call quality and are particularly well-suited to group conference calls. Whether your organization requires video calling functionality, Bluetooth connectivity, or any number of other VoIP features, Grandstream is bound to have a device that’s right for you. Within Grandstream’s GRP range, there are two distinct sets of devices. First, the Essential IP Phone line is designed for mass deployment and easy management. There are four devices in this range, which aim to deliver next-generation features at an affordable price. The standout phone here is the GRP2604 — a three-line model that boasts a sleek design and several of the important features that modern businesses expect from their IP phone. This includes five-way voice conferencing, integrated power over Ethernet, full HD audio on both the speaker and handset, as well as multi-language support. Businesses will also be pleased to know that the GRP series comes with carrier-grade security features, including secure boot, dual firmware images, and encrypted data storage. The GRP2604 is also supported by Grandsteam’s cloud-based Device Management System, which provides users with a centralized platform to configure and manage their Grandstream endpoints. Also sitting within the GRP series are five mid-range carrier-grade IP phones, equipped with a more extensive range of features. These handsets are built for enterprise customers and other high-volume businesses. Starting at the lower end, the GRP2612 comes with 16 virtual multi-purpose keys, a full-color LCD screen, and a host of other features. The inclusion of a swappable faceplate is also a nice touch, providing businesses with an additional branding opportunity in the workplace. The GRP2613, meanwhile, champions efficiency above all else. The handset includes three SIP accounts, six multipurpose keys, HD audio with support for all major codecs, and a color LCD display. The GRP2613 is designed for smaller firms that can’t afford to waste time using inefficient equipment. Setup is also straightforward. Users simply need to unpackage and assemble the phone, which includes the handset, an Ethernet cable, and a power adapter. Easy-to-follow instructions even make configuring your Grandstream GRP2613 device on your network as simple as could be. Those looking for a more premium experience may want to try the GRP2614. This model outperforms some of the other GRP devices in terms of call-quality — particularly when using the speakerphone. The inclusion of 40 virtual multi-purpose keys, as well as dual-LED screens, will also surely be welcomed by high-volume users, particularly as the lower LED is customizable so users can configure it for fast access to frequently dialed numbers, for example. Rounding out the GRP series are the GRP2615 and GRP2616 models. These high-end devices boast the same sleek design found in Grandstream’s other models but also include color LCD screens and the option of adding a larger number of SIP accounts. For businesses that need their VoIP handsets to look the part, these are probably the GRP models that will appeal the most. Grandstream’s GXP series of phones are designed for users who are frequently on the phone and may need access to more advanced features.
