As business communications continue to blur the line between traditional telephony and smart collaboration devices, desk phones are being asked to do more than ever before. Yealink’s T8 series answers that shift with a new generation of IP phones that place intelligence, ergonomics, and user experience front and center.
In this article, we delve into the T8 series of IP phones, share with you some of their most attractive features, and showcase some typical use cases. We also compare them with the T7 series so you can get a better idea of what each series offers and where enhancements have been made, allowing you to make the most informed decision for your business.
Yealink's T8 series is the pinnacle of modern desk phone design. Every model follows Yealink’s latest ultra-slim aesthetic, features a large and vibrant color display, and supports up to 16 SIP accounts. Bluetooth 5.0 and dual-band Wi-Fi 6 are built in, eliminating the need for extra dongles. Each device also includes both USB-A and USB-C ports along with Yealink’s full suite of high-quality audio technologies, ensuring a premium experience across the entire lineup. And if the generous screen space and abundant programmable keys still aren’t enough, you can add up to three Yealink EXP55 expansion modules, providing an additional 234 dynamically labeled buttons.
All devices support Bluetooth and USB headsets, pairing with your smartphone, and content sharing. They are all capable of hosting a conference with up to 10 participants and a local phonebook of up to 1,000 entries. Virtually all industry-standard security, telephony, networking, deployment, and connectivity features are supported across the whole series of phones as well. From the most basic device in the series all the way up to the top, these phones are designed explicitly with executives, administrators, and power users in mind.
The T85W is the introductory model in the series yet has no need to envy its more advanced siblings—this is a powerful phone built for a wide variety of use cases. It has a 5.5-inch screen, 12 physical line keys, and up to 60 programmable digital (DSS) keys. The device runs Linux OS, an extremely stable and trustworthy platform. It can be thought of as a premium device for power users who don’t need the highly customizable nature of Android-based phones.
The T87W model is an upgrade from the T85W, offering all the same great features with the added benefit of a larger 7-inch screen. It is also a touchscreen, making user interaction with the device much more ergonomic, and it offers up to 84 programmable DSS keys.
The T88 model provides all the features of the T85W and T87 plus more, the exact details depending on which of the three versions you go with. All three run the Android 13 OS and feature a 7-inch 1024x600 resolution touchscreen. All three also support the BTH88 Bluetooth wireless handset, delivering a higher degree of freedom.
The T88W comes with a corded handset but supports the cordless Bluetooth handset as an additional accessory. The T88W Pro includes the cordless Bluetooth handset, while the T88V Pro also has an HD 720p camera that enables native video telephony.
The following table illustrates the primary differences among all the phones, allowing you to make a more informed decision concerning the features you need.
While both the T7 and T8 series are designed for professional environments, they are optimized for different types of users and workflows. Understanding where each series excels can help organizations deploy the right devices without over- or under-equipping users.
Open office environments
In open office settings, clear audio and flexible connectivity are essential. The T7 series is a dependable choice for teams that need straightforward, reliable desk phones at scale. The T8 series becomes more compelling when background noise, frequent headset use, or wireless connectivity are factors, thanks to its more advanced audio processing and modern connectivity options.
Executive offices and power users
This is where the T8 series clearly differentiates itself. Larger touchscreens, Android-based flexibility on select models, optional wireless handsets, and even native video calling make the T8 lineup well suited for executives, administrators, and power users who rely heavily on their desk phones throughout the day. T7 devices can serve these roles, but the T8 series offers a more refined and ergonomic experience.
Shared spaces and common areas
For conference rooms, common areas, and other shared spaces, simplicity and ease of use are often the top priorities. T7 models typically meet these needs well. T8 phones add value in shared spaces where enhanced audio quality, wireless connectivity, or a more intuitive interface improves the overall user experience.
In a nutshell, use the T7 series for broad, standardized use and the T8 series where advanced features and user experience deliver the greatest impact.
The Yealink T8 series represents a clear evolution in desktop IP telephony, bringing together refined design, improved ergonomics, and a feature set built for how professionals work today. With larger, high-resolution displays, modern connectivity options, and a choice between Linux- and Android-based platforms, the lineup gives organizations the flexibility to match each role with the right level of capability.
For businesses that value proven reliability and straightforward operation, the T7 series remains a solid, dependable choice. The T8 series is designed for environments where productivity, user experience, and future-ready functionality matter more.
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