Looking for the best home landline deals can feel overwhelming, especially with the upcoming switch to digital voice services. Whether you’re exploring options for yourself or helping a loved one, this comprehensive guide will help you understand what’s available and make an informed choice that fits your needs and budget.
Why landlines still matter in 2024
Despite the rise of mobile phones, landlines remain essential for many over-60s. They provide clear call quality, work during power outages (with proper backup), and offer a reliable way to stay connected with family, friends, and essential services. With the digital voice switch approaching, modern home VoIP landlines now include features that help protect against scams and fraud—something that’s particularly important for seniors.
Understanding your options
Before diving into specific providers and their home landline deals, let’s break down what you should consider when choosing a home landline:
Types of services available
- Traditional landline (being phased out by January 2027)
- Digital voice/VoIP (Voice over Internet Protocol)
- Bundled packages (phone + broadband)
- Landline-only services with broadband separate
Key features to consider
- Call packages (pay-as-you-go vs unlimited calls)
- Scam protection capabilities
- Emergency backup options
- Additional features (voicemail, caller ID, etc.)
- Contract length & flexibility
- Customer support quality
Best home landline deals compared
Let’s look at what the main UK providers offer in 2024:
BT
Pros:
- Established brand with nationwide coverage
- Basic nuisance call blocking included
- Emergency backup options are available
Cons:
- Higher monthly costs (from £21.99)
- Long contract periods required
- Poor customer service reviews
TalkTalk
Pros:
- Competitive pricing for bundles
- No long-term contracts required
- Basic call screening included
Cons:
- Must take broadband service
- Limited landline-only options
- Variable customer service ratings
Virgin Media
Pros:
- Fast setup times
- Good bundle deals are available
- Modern equipment provided
Cons:
- Limited availability in some areas
- Prices increase significantly after the initial contract
- Must take broadband service
Sky
Pros:
- Reliable service
- Good bundle options
- Basic call screening included
Cons:
- Higher monthly costs
- Long contract periods
- Limited landline-only options
Phonely
Pros:
- Affordable landline-only options (from £9.97)
- Advanced scam protection from CallGuard included
- No long-term contracts required
- UK-based customer support, 4.7 stars on Trustpilot
- Keep your existing number
“Excellent VoIP landline service, customer service is top notch and the Phonely app also works amazing. Highly recommend.” Luis Costa
Cons:
- Requires reliable internet connection
- Newer brand in the market
Highlighting scam protection features
As scams increasingly target older adults, having effective scam protection features is critical with the move to a digital landline. Both BT and The VoIP Shop highlight tools like BT Call Protect and caller ID features to block nuisance calls. Phonely takes this a step further with its CallGuard system, which (amongst other things) automatically blocks newly reported scam numbers within the hour using who called me. This is the only real-time call blocker available right now, with other providers using monthly updates from third-party lists. With VoIP allowing scammers to change their numbers frequently and quickly, monthly updates will only protect you from numbers that are no longer in use.
With CallGuard, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to phone scams, particularly those targeting seniors. This feature makes Phonely one of the safest choices for a home landline provider, especially if you want peace of mind for yourself or an older family member.
Cost comparison for typical usage
Let’s break down costs for a typical monthly usage pattern:
- 1 hour-long call to friends (weekday)
- 4 calls to local numbers (doctors, council, etc.)
- 2 thirty-minute calls to family mobiles
- Several shorter calls to various services
| Provider | Monthly Base Cost | Typical Additional Call Charges | Total Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| BT | £21.99 | £7-£12 | £28.99-£33.99 |
| TalkTalk | £18.95 | £5-£10 | £23.95-£28.95 |
| Virgin Media | £19.99 | £6-£11 | £25.99-£30.99 |
| Sky | £22.99 | £7-£12 | £29.99-£34.99 |
| Phonely | £9.97 | Included | £9.97 |
Stronger emphasis on the digital voice switchover
By January 2027, all UK landline services will switch to digital voice. This means traditional phone lines will be replaced with VoIP services, which transmit calls over the Internet. Providers like BT are already preparing customers for this change, offering advice on adapting to digital voice services.
Phonely is ahead of the curve in this regard, offering residential VoIP services that are simple to set up and provide clear call quality with additional benefits like scam protection and number portability. For older adults, the transition to digital voice is particularly important, as it ensures reliable communication, even in emergencies with a battery backup. Phonely’s digital voice provision is designed to keep you connected without the technical headaches, making it a smart choice for anyone needing a future-proof solution.
“Top service. So nice to deal with people at Phonely like Katie who are helpful and patient. Especially appreciated by older people who are not always savvy with the latest technology. Well done.” Michael Coutts
Making the switch: What you need to know
Keeping your number
All providers allow you to keep your existing phone number. The process, called ‘porting,’ usually takes 1-2 weeks and is handled by your new provider.
Equipment needs
- Digital voice requires an internet connection
- Most providers offer compatible VoIP handsets
- Existing phones may work with a VoIP adapter
- Consider backup power solutions for power outages
Installation process
- Choose your provider and package
- Keep existing service until the new one is working
- Plug in your new phone or adapter
- Test emergency calls and features
- Cancel old service
FAQ section
What is the digital voice switchover?
The UK is phasing out traditional copper-based landlines by January 2027. All services will move to digital voice, which operates over the internet.
Will I need new equipment for digital voice?
Probably. Some providers will offer free adapters to ensure your current landline phone will work with digital voice services. At Phonely, you can have a free VoIP adapter if you pay for your first year in advance.
Can I keep my phone number?
Yes, most providers, including Phonely, allow you to keep your existing number when switching to digital voice.
How does Phonely protect me from scam calls?
Phonely’s CallGuard feature blocks scam calls from every direction, helping you to remain confident when answering your phone. This is particularly important for older users who are often targeted by fraudsters.
Do I need broadband to use Phonely’s services?
Yes, Phonely provides a digital landline, which requires an internet connection to function.
Conclusion
After comparing the major providers, it’s clear that standalone home landline services often provide better value than bundles for those primarily needing reliable phone service. While all providers have their strengths, newer companies like Phonely, which use VoIP technology, often offer more modern features at lower prices.
When looking at the best home landline deals, consider these key factors:
- Monthly cost and call charges
- Contract flexibility
- Scam protection features
- Customer support quality
- Emergency backup options
Phonely offers the best balance of affordability, flexibility, and scam protection. If you’re ready to switch to a safer and more cost-effective service, explore Phonely’s home landline plans today.
Useful contacts:
- Age UK: 0800 169 6565 (for advice on services for older adults)
- Ofcom: 0300 123 3333 (for telecoms regulation queries)
- Citizens Advice: 0800 144 8848 (for consumer rights advice)
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