Got these to replace an old Uniden set which we liked, but these we like even better. The keypad is larger which assists older eyes and the display is larger too. Key pushes are crisp. Speaker phone function is easy and works well – microphone is sensitive and can pick up someone who isn’t right next to the phone. I’ve used call block once and discovered that you can activate it during the call or after the fact from the menu recalling the number and adding it to call blocking. The basic menu functions are fairly easy. I programmed in for speed dialing the most common numbers we use and there are multiple directory groups you can assign numbers two (I did group 1 for family and group 2 for others). There are 9 groups total should you need that many group categories and a menu option to simply scroll through “All Groups” should you forget which group you put a particular number in. From the menu you can select the specific group you want and scroll right to the name and number to auto dial it. There appear to be more sophisticated menu options/functions (e.g. baby monitor) accessibly by number codes which are printed in the extensive paper instruction manual under the function being discussed, that most likely I won’t ever use, but they are there. The answering machine keys are well labeled and function in an obvious way. Messages can be retrieved via the handsets using the menu options. My Unidens used to flash a light on the handset when a message was left, but not so on these Panasonics, but it isn’t difficult to just check for messages with the handset by using the menu option. Haven’t encountered any reception issues. Batteries appear to be “rechargable AA) size. Overall we are pleased with this portable phone set and believe it was a good choice.