Numeric
Numeric pagers can display numbers only. They can indicate a phone number to call, or a code for a specific pre-planned message (e.g., "11" means you have a voice mail message, "22" means call the office).

Alphanumeric
Alphanumeric pagers offer the same capabilities as numeric pagers plus the ability to display short written messages, saving time by sparing you from making a call. A related type of pager is the voice pager, which can display a phone number and play a short voice message.

Two-way pager
These models can not only display a message, but also allow the recipient to send back a reply, saving even more time. Two-way paging tends to be offered only in large metropolitan areas.