Telephone vs. Textphone — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 26, 2024
Telephone allows voice communication over distances using audio signals, while a textphone is designed for text-based messages, aiding those with hearing impairments.
Difference Between Telephone and Textphone
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Telephones transmit voice across distances, enabling real-time auditory communication. On the other hand, textphones, also known as TTYs (teletypewriters), facilitate communication through typed text, converting it into signals that can be sent over telephone lines.
A traditional telephone requires both parties to be able to hear and speak. Whereas a textphone is specifically designed for those who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech impairments, allowing them to type messages which are then displayed on the recipient's textphone screen.
Telephones have been widely used in homes and businesses around the world for decades. On the other hand, textphones are primarily used in specific contexts where individuals need textual communication to replace or supplement voice calls.
The operation of telephones is largely intuitive, involving dialing and speaking into a handset. In contrast, textphones require users to type out their conversations, which may include learning specific protocols or abbreviations for efficient communication.
While telephones now often include features like voicemail, caller ID, and call waiting, textphones also have adapted, offering features like text storage, call alert visuals, and direct connection to telecommunication relay services.
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Comparison Chart
Primary function
Voice communication
Text-based communication
User demographic
General population
Deaf, hard of hearing, speech-impaired
Typical usage context
Homes, offices, general public
Specialized environments, accessibility needs
Operational mode
Audio signals, direct speaking
Typed text, displayed messages
Accessibility
Requires ability to hear and speak
Facilitates communication for hearing and speech impairments
Compare with Definitions
Telephone
A system of communication using electrical wires and signals.
The telephone network was disrupted due to the storm.
Textphone
Specialized equipment used by individuals with hearing impairments.
In her office, a textphone is available for client consultations.
Telephone
A device used for voice communication over long distances.
She answered the telephone to discuss the meeting details.
Textphone
A machine that displays typed messages from one user to another.
Their conversation continued smoothly on the textphone.
Telephone
An instrument connected to a telecommunications network.
He hung up the telephone after a brief chat.
Textphone
An accessibility device facilitating typed conversations.
The textphone has customizable text sizes for different visual needs.
Telephone
An apparatus that converts sound into electrical signals for transmission.
The old rotary telephone had a unique charm.
Textphone
A device that allows for typed text communication over phone lines.
The textphone beeped with an incoming message.
Telephone
A session of communication via this device.
During the telephone, they resolved the misunderstanding.
Textphone
A communication tool integrated with relay services for the deaf.
He used the textphone to connect with the relay operator.
Telephone
A telephone is a telecommunications device that permits two or more users to conduct a conversation when they are too far apart to be heard directly. A telephone converts sound, typically and most efficiently the human voice, into electronic signals that are transmitted via cables and other communication channels to another telephone which reproduces the sound to the receiving user.
Textphone
A telephone developed for use by people who are deaf or hard of hearing, having a small screen and a keyboard on which a message may be typed to be received by another textphone.
Telephone
An instrument for simultaneously transmitting and receiving speech or other sounds over a distance by converting the sounds into signals that are sent to a similar instrument and converting them back into sounds.
Textphone
(British) A telephone with a simple keyboard and a small screen, used by the deaf.
Telephone
To make or try to make a telephone connection with; place a call to
Telephoned the police station.
Telephone
To dial (a telephone number).
Telephone
To transmit (a message, for example) by telephone
I telephoned that I was sick and could not come to work.
Telephone
To engage in communication by telephone
She telephoned to invite us to the party.
Telephone
A telecommunication device (originally mechanical, and now electronic) used for two-way talking with another person (now often shortened to phone).
Telephone
The game of Chinese whispers.
Telephone
Chinese whispers; a situation in which an initial message has been distorted and misunderstood by being passed from person to person.
Telephone
(ambitransitive) To (attempt to) contact someone using a telephone.
Telephone
(transitive) To convey (a message) via telephone.
Telephone
An instrument for reproducing sounds, especially articulate speech, at a distance.
Telephone
To convey or announce by telephone.
Telephone
Electronic equipment that converts sound into electrical signals that can be transmitted over distances and then converts received signals back into sounds;
I talked to him on the telephone
Telephone
Transmitting speech at a distance
Telephone
Get or try to get into communication (with someone) by telephone;
I tried to call you all night
Take two aspirin and call me in the morning
Common Curiosities
What is the primary use of a telephone?
It is used for making voice calls across distances.
Are textphones and telephones compatible?
They can communicate through telecommunication relay services, but not directly.
How does a textphone work?
It allows users to type messages that are sent as text over telephone lines.
How do individuals communicate using a textphone during an emergency?
They use text-based emergency services or relay services.
What kind of maintenance does a telephone require?
Minimal; mainly keeping it clean and ensuring it's connected to a power source.
Can a telephone be used by someone who is deaf?
Yes, with additional equipment like a hearing aid loop or through relay services.
Who benefits most from using a textphone?
Individuals with hearing or speech impairments.
What accessories might be needed with a telephone?
Accessories could include headsets, covers, and additional handsets.
What features does a textphone have?
Features include text storage, visual call alerts, and compatibility with relay services.
Is a telephone or a textphone more common in households?
Telephones are more common in general households.
Can textphones be used for internet communication?
Modern versions can interface with computers and internet-based communication platforms.
Does using a textphone require special skills?
Yes, users should be proficient in typing and familiar with the device's functions.
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Written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
