The Firebox VoIP Cyberphone (£30 www.firebox.co.uk) allows you to phone people around the world at a fraction of the cost of a normal call from a BT landline.

How will it change my life?

Using a broadband connection and Skype, the Cyberphone connects to a PC via a USB cable and allows you to make calls over the internet. The Skype software is rather like Instant Messenger applications from MSN or AOL, but with the added benefit of sound. Plug in the Cyberphone and you can talk on a handset rather than using a headset.

Why this one over the rest?

Skype to Skype calls anywhere in the world are free, however you can also call standard landlines at a reduced price — 1.2p per minute to America rather than BT’s 13p. Plus, when someone rings you, instead of an icon on your desktop bouncing up and down, the phone will actually ring.

Or you could always?

Just use the phone.

Verdict

VoIP is the next big thing and this Firebox Cyberphone will allow you to get even more out of your broadband connection. Your call costs will come down and it is very easy to install. If you’re not sure about investing the £30 you should at least check out the free software at www.skype.com.

Ease of use

Cost saving

Stuart Miles