Digital Trends

While the Uniden EXAI 5180 is a very attractive looking phone, its performance and usability are very poor. We ran into consistent interference issues with the EXAI 5180 through walls and any point past 30 feet. Contrary to what the EXAI 5180 packaging says, operating at a 5.8GHz frequency will usually give the phone worse range than a 900MHz phone, and we found this to be true with the EXAI 5180.

Another thing worth pointing out is that the EXAI 5180 is not a true 5.8GHz phone. It also uses the 900MHz band when operating. The package shows a large 5.8GHz graphic on the front of the box, but if you look in the lower left hand corner you will find the fine print that says the EXAI 5180 also uses the 900MHz band to increase clarity. Clarity on the EXAI 5180 is only good as long as you are within 20 feet of the base.

And lastly, the EXAI 5180 is not a 100% digital phone. So there is still the possibility that you can get interference from other cordless phones in your area. If you want a true digital 5.8GHz phone, then we recommend looking at one of Unidens TRU or TCX product lines which feature DSS (Digital Spread Spectrum). If you can stand the look of Motorola's MA560 phone, then we would recommend it over the Uniden EXAI 5180.