In this edition of Head to Head, we compare two IP phones: The Cisco SPA 525G2 and the Polycom VVX 500. Polycom and Cisco are two of the biggest names in Information Technology, and VoIP in particular. We compared two color display phones in the $300 price range.
| Options/Features Compared | Cisco SPA525G2 | Polycom VVX 500 |
| A/C Adapter | Included | Not Included |
| Available Lines | 5 | 12 |
| Bluetooth | Built-in | Electronic hook switch capable |
| Camera | Available as Add-on | Available as Add-on |
| Color Screen Display | Yes | Yes |
| Comfort Noise Generator | No | Yes |
| Connects to PC | Yes | Yes |
| Digital Photo Frame | Yes | Yes |
| Ethernet Cable Included | Yes | Yes |
| Expansion Capability | Up to Two SPA500s | Expansion modules planned |
| Hard Keys | Voice Mail, Menu, Hold, Volume, Headset, Mute, Speakerphone | Home, Headset, Speakerphone, Mute, Volume |
| HD Voice | Yes | Yes |
| Headset included | No | No |
| Hearing Aid Compatible | Yes | Yes |
| Manufacturer Included Warranty | 1 yr | 1 yr |
| Keyboard | None | Touch Screen |
| Keypad | Hard Keys | Hard Keys |
| Made in | China | China |
| MP3 Player | Yes | Yes |
| Phonebook | Built-in | Microsoft Exchange Integration |
| Power Over Ethernet (PoE) | Yes | Yes |
| Screen Size / Resolution | 3.2” / 320 x 240 | 3.5” / 320 x 240 |
| Security | WEP & WPA | HTTPS |
| SIP | Yes | Yes |
| Soft Keys | 9 | 4 |
| Touch Screen | No | Yes |
| USB Ports | 1 | 2 |
| Voice Activity Generation | Yes | Yes |
| Wi-Fi | Built-in | Built-in |
| Widgets | News, Weather | News, Weather |
| Price on Amazon | $212.95 | $289.45 |
| Price on Buy.com | $249 | n/a |
| Price on VoIP Supply | $244.99 | $234.99 |
| Highlighted Features |
-Call hold, transfer, waiting, pickup, park/unpark |
-Call hold, transfer, waiting, pickup, park/unpark -3-Way Calling -Advanced Caller ID function, including distinctive ring and call block rules -Do Not Disturb -Flexible line appearance (one or more line keys can be assigned for each line extension) -Remote missed call notification -Shared call/bridged line appearance -Speed Dial, Redial, Last Call Dial |
| In the Box | -SPA 525G2 Console -Handset with handset cord -Network LAN cable -Quick start guide -Product registration card -E911 Info -A/C Adapter -Stand |
-VVX 500 console |
The Verdict: I’ve used the Cisco SPA 525G phone, and I haven’t used the Polycom VVX 500. One of the things that bothered me about the Cisco was the minor annoyances, like adding contacts or other information using a keypad. For that reason alone, I’m interested in a phone with a touch screen. Yet, I can’t help but feel that the Android and iOS platforms are the future of VoIP and SIP. But, in practical terms, I’ve yet to see a full-fledged device built around a tablet – so far it’s just videoconferencing software. For the present, I’d like to see what Polycom has to offer. Judging from the feature set, it looks to be easier to use and easier to integrate with cloud and PC applications.
The Polycom’s AC power adapter will run you around $30, or you can use Power over Ethernet. From what I’ve read, PoE can actually cause a lot of infrastructure problems if your system isn’t ready for it, and it isn’t reported to be a big energy saver. The Cisco 525G2 also has built-in WiFi and Bluetooth, which require a USB dongle on the Polycom VVX 500. Despite the slightly higher price tag, I think you’re getting more.
Final Thoughts:
The more comfortable you are with new technology, the more likely the Polycom VVX 500 is for you. If you think touch screens are confusing and would rather have the feedback of real keys, the Cisco 525G2 is the way to go.
Read more on Polycom & Cisco:
– VoIP Phone Reviews
– PolyCom SoundPoint IP 550
– PolyCom HDX 7000 EagleEye Bundle
– Cisco SPA525 Hands-on Video
– Cisco UC Tools
