Upon its initial release in 2014, the T48G became Yealink’s flagship device in their T-series portfolio of desk VoIP phones. In the years since the T48G and its successor, the T48S established a reputation of rock-solid executive-level devices.
The phone is praised by users and critics alike for its intuitive interface and near-flawless performance. However, despite its overall reliability, there are still some downfalls to be aware of – such as the non-adjustable back stand (this flaw was fixed with its successor, the T48S)
!! As of 2020, we recommend the Yealink T48S instead of the T48G.
Table of Contents
Appearance
Although we should classify it as a mid-range option in its category, the T48G has a respectful enough feeling. In Yealink’s words, the T48G is an “ultra-elegant Gigabit IP phone,” we must admit that it does live up to that claim.
The metallic buttons, the anti-scratch surface, the heavy headset, the non-slip feet, the 7-inch slick display. Nothing on it looks cheap, yet nothing is loud. It looks quite adequate on any desk. Additionally, the T48G can also be wall-mounted for extra convenience.
Use Experience
We were very pleased with Yealink SIP-T48G. Its interface components make for one intuitive and satisfying user experience when taken together.
The analog buttons include all the options of a standard desk phone. The 7-inch (800x480px) touchscreen display delivers a rich visual experience and allows easy switching between applications. The touchscreen is very sensitive, and the menu has a smartphone feel.
Beginner users won’t have to know the pain of jumping through ridiculous hoops to change the wallpaper (CISCO VoIP phone users can tell you plenty about that). On the other hand, advanced users will appreciate the 29 DDS keys for optimal workflow customization.
Performance
The audio system of T48G truly delivers. Yealink’s Optima HD technology produces such crisp sound quality. The overall feeling is as if the person is in the same room.
However, we found the volume quite LOUD, even when we set it at the minimum. It might not be the best for small office rooms, but it should fit in hectic environments like call centers.
The T48G comes with 802.3af-compliant PoE. Therefore it requires a 48-volt PoE adaptor to be plugged in.
T48G has a USB port at the back, supporting Yealink’s BT40 Bluetooth dongle or the WF40 WiFi dongle. If you wish to receive and make calls over a portable Bluetooth headset or use the local WiFi, the according dongle must be in place first. You guessed right – you can use only one at a time.
The T48G also has an EXT jack connecting to its EXP40 expansion module.
And finally, the phone has a power adapter port in case your office’s router does not support PoE. However, the power adapter itself has to be purchased separately.
Potential Dealbreakers
The non-adjustable back stand can be a real pain. It remains fixed at a 45-degree angle, and that’s how it is. It may not seem like a big deal, but paying $200 for a desk phone and being unable to tilt it as you wish is quite unacceptable. Go for the T48G if the adjustable stand is necessary.
The 7-inch display is quite reflective.
The power adapter is not included in the package.
Only 1 USB port
Legitimate PoS
One aspect that sets the T48G (and the T48S) from its category counterparts is its 16 VoIP accounts. That’s a lot, as most desk phones have 6 to 8 accounts. If you work with only 1 or 2 lines, 16 might seem over the top. But a high-level manager who has to straddle between the company’s international branches daily would surely think otherwise.
Keep in mind
If the T48G is the perfect fit for your office, it is strongly recommended to buy it by the end of 2020 or go for the Yealink T48S. Yealink discontinued manufacturing their T48G series in April 2020, which means they will be getting harder to find, and the support will be lacking after a year or two.
Bottom line
Overall, Yealink T48G and T48S are rock-solid desk phones with a premium feel. They are heavy-use phones tailored for individuals with busy schedules. They passed all the technical requirements with flying colors without compromising user experience or looks.
The price is reasonable at under $200, although the additional dongles and module extension can drive it up to $400. This may come a bit dear for some small businesses, but it is still a great value given the overall phone qualities.
My favorite things about it: are reliability, overall wonderful user experience, 16 VoIP accounts, and crisp and clear sound.
The least favorite things about it: the non-adjustable back stand and built-in Bluetooth would have been nice.
Great for: people who still wish to retain that premium feel and desk phone simplicity while benefiting from the touchscreen’s slick user experience; busy executives; call center managers; receptionists.