How to Record Phone Calls: Cell Phone and Landline Options (2026)

The short answer

Recording a phone call depends on what type of phone you have. Cell phone calls require a Bluetooth recorder that connects to your phone wirelessly and captures both sides of the conversation. Landline and VoIP calls require an inline recorder that connects between your handset and wall jack and records automatically whenever a call begins. Both methods require no app, no carrier permission, and no software.

Why apps don't reliably record phone calls

Mobile apps that claim to record calls face the same problem on both iOS and Android: the operating system restricts direct access to call audio. iOS has blocked third-party access to the call audio stream entirely since iOS 10. Android manufacturers including Samsung and Google have progressively removed the call recording API from their devices. Apps that appear to work typically route the call through a conference bridge, which requires the other party to join a third number, degrades audio quality, and fails with many VoIP systems.

Hardware recorders avoid the operating system entirely. They work by capturing the phone's audio output directly via Bluetooth or by intercepting the call signal at the phone line, which means they work on any phone with any carrier on any OS version.

Cell phone calls: the PR200 Bluetooth call recorder

The PR200 pairs with any iPhone or Android via Bluetooth. When you make or receive a call, it captures both voices: your voice through its built-in microphone and the caller's voice through the Bluetooth connection. The result is a single MP3 file on the PR200's 8GB storage (288 hours capacity). The battery runs 9 hours in call recording mode, covering a full day of calls on one charge. The PR200 also functions as a standalone voice recorder for meetings and memos in voice recorder mode, with 20 hours of battery in that mode.

To retrieve recordings, plug the PR200 into any Mac or Windows computer. Files appear as a removable drive with no software required. The device also functions as a USB flash drive for storing documents alongside recordings.

PR200 Cell Phone Call Recorder — $119
View PR200 details | See all phone recorders

Landline and VoIP calls: the TR600 inline recorder

The TR600 connects between your desk phone and the wall jack using standard telephone cables included in the box. When a call connects, recording starts automatically. When the call ends, it stops. No button to press, no manual action required. The 16GB SD card stores 1,024 hours of calls, expandable to 32GB for 2,048 hours. Loop recording overwrites the oldest files when storage fills so the device never stops due to capacity.

The built-in LCD screen shows caller ID, recording status, and timestamps. An integrated speaker lets you review calls directly from the TR600, or plug in headphones for private playback. Wall power keeps the TR600 running continuously, which is ideal for offices where calls happen throughout the day.

TR600 Phone Call Recorder (Landline) — $159
View TR600 details

Setup

For cell phones (PR200):

1. Enable Bluetooth on your phone and power on the PR200.
2. Pair the PR200 in your phone's Bluetooth settings.
3. Place or receive a call, then slide the call recording switch on the PR200.
4. End the call normally. The recording saves automatically to the device.

For landlines (TR600):

1. Unplug your desk phone from the wall jack.
2. Connect the wall jack to the TR600's Line input using the included cable.
3. Connect the TR600's Phone output to your desk phone.
4. Plug the TR600 into power. All calls record automatically from that point.

Frequently asked questions

Can I record both sides of a cell phone call?
Yes. The PR200 captures both voices in a single file: your voice through its microphone and the caller's voice through the Bluetooth connection to your phone's call audio.

Do I need an app or carrier permission?
No. The PR200 and TR600 are standalone hardware devices. They do not require apps, carrier permissions, or operating system access. They work on any phone with any carrier.

Does the TR600 work with VoIP phone systems?
Yes. The TR600 is compatible with analog, IP, and digital phone lines. It works with VoIP adapters that connect to a standard physical handset.

Is it legal to record phone calls?
Requirements vary by state and country. Many allow one-party consent (only the person recording needs to agree), while others require all parties to consent. Verify the specific rules in your area before recording conversations.