Flip phone cost: Choosing The Best Flip Phones For Seniors 2023 – Forbes Health

The 7 Best Flip Phones in 2023 — Flip Phones for the Y2K Obsessed

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Best Upgrade

Total Wireless LG Classic Flip Phone

Best Upgrade

Total Wireless LG Classic Flip Phone

$119 at Amazon

Pros

Sleek design with modern details
8 GB of storage and 2-MP rear-facing camera
SOS key on back panel

Cons

Micro USB connector

This flip phone has similar features to the TCL above, with 8 GB of storage, a 2-MP camera, and a 2.8-inch screen. The phone charges via a micro-USB cord.

The LG’s exterior is dark metallic gray and its camera lens, battery life indicator, and time are set on a sleek and modern front panel. An SOS key on the back panel is a helpful features incorporated in its design.

Key Specs

Storage	8 GB
Cellular Technology	4G
Camera	2 MP
Connector Type	Micro USB

Best Rugged Smartphone

Bullitt Group Cat S22 Rugged Flip Phone

Best Rugged Smartphone

Bullitt Group Cat S22 Rugged Flip Phone

Now 48% Off

$75 at Walmart

Pros

Drop-tested to military standards and IP68 rating
Touchscreen works with wet and gloved fingers
5-MP and 2-MP cameras
Google Assistant preloaded
Comes with 2-year warranty

Cons

Locked to T-Mobile network

This smart and rugged flip phone is designed specifically for construction workers on job sites.

The Cat S22 is armed with a large battery and powerful speakers, built to achieve an IP68 rating. It can survive a six-foot drop on steel and up to 35 minutes in five feet of water, and its rigorously-tested hinge has been upgraded from the previous model.

Other highlights include a 2.8-inch touchscreen that works with wet or gloved fingers, a programmable key with push-to-talk mode, and a 2,000-mAh removable battery. It’s also preloaded with Google Assistant and features five- and two-megapixel cameras, plus there’s a USB-C port for charging and an included two-year warranty. The caveat is that it comes locked to T-Mobile’s network.

Key Specs

Storage	16 GB
Cellular technology	4G LTE
Camera	5-MP rear; 2-MP front
Connector type	USB-C

Most Durable

Kyocera DuraXV Extreme Flip Phone

Most Durable

Kyocera DuraXV Extreme Flip Phone

$250 at Amazon$275 at Walmart

Pros

Rugged design
Great call quality and loud speakerphone
16 GB of storage and 5-MP camera
USB-C connector
Phone comes unlocked

Cons

A bit clunky and heavy

There’s a lot to like about this flip phone, particularly if you’re an existing Verizon customer. It’s perhaps the best option among the carrier’s basic 4G phones as it’s exceptionally durable with great call quality and a super-loud speakerphone. It also comes with 16 GB of storage, a 5-MP rear-facing camera, and a USB-C charging port.

The flip phone is rated to military standards—it’s water-resistant and can withstand drops from five feet as well as extreme temperatures. It features a hard plastic casing and shock-absorbing bumpers on four sides. As a result, it’s a bit heavy and clunky.

Key Specs

Storage	16 GB
Cellular technology	4G
Camera	5 MP
Connector type	USB-C

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Most Affordable

TracFone TCL Flip2 Flip Phone

Most Affordable

TracFone TCL Flip2 Flip Phone

$44 at Amazon$20 at Walmart

Pros

Solid talk and text functionality for a rock-bottom price
8 GB of storage and 2-MP rear-facing camera
Sleek design and raised, oversized keys
TracFone is part of Verizon’s network

Cons

Phone comes locked

If you don’t want to plunk down a ton of cash for a flip phone, TracFone’s TCL Flip2 is an excellent choice. It features 8 GB of memory, a two-megapixel rear-facing camera, and a decent 2.8-inch screen. Also, TracFone was acquired by Verizon in 2022, so the flip phone is part of the carrier’s robust nationwide network.

The TCL Flip2’s design won’t wow you, but it’s attractive enough with a textured metallic gray exterior and rounded edges. Another plus is that the keys are raised and slightly oversized.

For more memory, 128 GB is the largest micro SD memory card the phone accommodates. This phone charges via micro-USB.

Key Specs

Storage	8 GB
Cellular technology	4G LTE
Camera	2 MP
Connector type	Micro-USB

Best Overall

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 Flip Phone

Best Overall

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 Flip Phone

Now 11% Off

$895 at Amazon$999 at Walmart

Pros

Compact without sacrificing large screen
Innovative design with customization
Impressive display

Cons

Minimal improvements to camera

If you want a smartphone packaged in a flip phone’s body, Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 4 is the best option.

It doesn’t come cheap, but the phone itself is gorgeous. It’s compact, with a slimmer bezel than the Flip3, while still accommodating an impressive 6.7-inch screen. The Galaxy Z Flip4 also has a more powerful 3,700-mAh battery and 25-watt fast-charging than its predecessor.

Special features are pretty nifty, which include the ability to view multiple screens at the same time and to customize the cover screen to your liking with things like your most-used apps and calendar reminders.

The flip phone’s camera is solid, with 12-MP wide and 12-MP ultra-wide lenses and a 10-MP front lens, though these aren’t significantly better than the Flip3’s and are nothing to write home about.

Key Specs

Storage	128 GB
Cellular technology	5G
Camera	12-MP wide and 12-MP ultra-wide rear; 10-MP front
Connector type	USB-C

Best for Seniors

Lively Jitterbug Flip2 Cell Phone for Seniors

Best for Seniors

Lively Jitterbug Flip2 Cell Phone for Seniors

Now 26% Off

$74 at Amazon$75 at Walmart

Pros

Large backlit keys and extra-loud volume
Larger screen than most flip phones
Reasonable monthly plans

Cons

Health and safety services cost extra

The Jitterbug Flip2 is specifically designed for seniors. With that focus, it features large backlit keys, extra-loud volume, and a magnifier and flashlight for reading printed text. The screen, at 3.4 inches, is also larger than the average flip phone screen.

For an extra fee, you can get two health and safety packages on top of the standard or unlimited talk and text service plans. The basic plan includes direct access to urgent care and automatic notifications sent to family in an emergency, while the premium adds access to on-call nurses.

Key Specs

Storage	16 GB
Cellular technology	4G LTE
Camera	8-MP rear; 5-MP front
Connector type	USB-C

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Most Affordable Smartphone

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 Flip Phone

Most Affordable Smartphone

Samsung Galaxy Z Flip3 Flip Phone

Now 32% Off

$610 at Amazon$945 at Walmart

Pros

Slim design with slight difference to Flip4
Camera virtually the same as that in the newer Flip4

Cons

Battery isn’t as powerful as the one in the Flip4

If you like the idea of a smart flip phone but aren’t sure if you can quite stomach the Galaxy Z Flip4’s price tag, opt for the Flip3 and save $100. Put the flip phones’ features head-to-head and you won’t see a huge difference.

The Flip3 is a bit larger than the upgrade but the same width and close to the same weight. Also, the camera is virtually the same. The biggest difference is the Flip4’s more powerful battery and fast-charging capabilities.

Key Specs

Storage	128 GB
Cellular technology	5G
Camera	12-MP wide and 12-MP ultra-wide rear; 10-MP front
Connector type	USB-C

Rachel Klein

Senior Commerce Editor

Rachel Klein is a Senior Commerce Editor for Popular Mechanics, where she writes about everything from garden hose reels and patio furniture to mesh wifi systems and robot vacuums. She started her career as a daily newspaper reporter and was a travel editor for more than a decade before she started testing and reviewing luggage, noise-cancelling headphones, and other travel-related products. Fast-forward another five years and her area of expertise includes home decor, appliances, tech, and outdoor adventure gear. In her spare time, you’ll find her planning her next trip, reading historical fiction, and seeing as much art as she can squeeze into a weekend.

Jitterbug Cell Phone Plans, Cost & Pricing for Seniors

Updated Jun 6, 2023

While some older adults have mastered advanced smartphones like the iPhone, an even larger group needs a smartphone or flip phone more suited to their needs. That’s where companies like Lively come in. This company offers two affordable, accessible phones designed specifically for older adults. Both feature hearing aid compatibility, simple menus, a speakerphone, voice-to-text functionality, a long battery life, and add-on health and safety features.

If you’re looking for a basic phone that’s easy to use right out of the box, Lively is a great option. And both Lively phones made our list of the best cell phones for seniors in 2023, so we know you’ll be in good hands. Below, we’ll break down everything you need to know about Lively’s two phones and plan options so that you can make an informed choice.

Navigating the Jitterbug Flip3

Lively at a Glance

Senior-friendly cell phones
Affordable starting monthly rates
Optional medical alert features
U.S.-based call center
Partnered with Lyft for transportation services
Keep your existing phone number
No long-term contracts
No cancellation fees

The Fast Facts: Lively’s Senior Phone Plans

With Lively, all customers sign up for an Unlimited Talk & Text plan. If you go with the Jitterbug Smart3, you’ll also need to add a data package to your chosen plan for an additional monthly fee.

Monthly plans and data options	Jitterbug Flip2	Jitterbug Smart3
Unlimited Talk & Text	$19. 99 per month	$19.99 per month
1 GB data	No	$5 per month*
3 GB data	No	$10 per month*
5 GB data	No	$15 per month*
Unlimited	No	$30 per month*

* This is an additional monthly fee to your Talk & Text Plan.

Lively: Easy-to-use phones and plans designed just for seniors

Lively’s medical alert features and senior-friendly phone plans make it one of our top picks for seniors.

4.5 of 5

See Pricing

A Closer Look at Lively’s Plans and Pricing

Lively offers one talk and text plan, add-on data options, and optional Health & Safety Packages starting at $24.99 per month. It’s easy to create a plan that works for your lifestyle and budget.

Unlimited Talk & Text

This plan, which costs $19.99 per month, keeps you connected with unlimited talk and text. That means you won’t have to worry about running out of minutes or racking up a bill every time your grandchildren text you! It’s an excellent choice for older adults who enjoy texting their friends, grandchildren, and other loved ones.

Data Plans

Seniors who opt for the Jitterbug Smart3 – Lively’s “simplest smartphone ever” — must choose a data plan to go with their talk and text plan. Data plans let you use the internet when you’re away from home or not connected to Wi-Fi. How much data you need each month depends on your habits. Lively lets you pay just for what you need with four options to choose from. For the average older adult, Lively recommends the 3 GB plan, which costs only $10 per month. However, if you enjoy watching videos, using Google Maps while you’re driving, checking email, or surfing the web while you’re out and about, you may want to consider the 10 GB plan at $15 per month or unlimited data for $30 per month. Or, if you don’t use the internet much, the 1 GB plan, which costs $5 per month, may be your best bet.

If you choose a limited data plan, know that if you ever go over your data allowance, it costs $0.10 per megabyte. Thankfully, this isn’t as steep as other cellular providers.

Health & Safety Packages

The optional Lively Health & Safety Packages offer peace of mind to older adults who require additional assistance and want their cell phone to double as a medical alert device. You can add any of the Health & Safety Packages to either Lively phone for a monthly fee.

Health & Safety Packages	Basic	Premium
Cost	$24.99 per month	$34.99 per month
Urgent Response	Yes	Yes
Care Advocate	No	Yes
Nurse On-Call	No	Yes
Lively Link	Yes	Yes
Personal Operator	Add-on	Add-on

Here’s a breakdown of each service offered:

Urgent Response: A big red button on your phone connects you to highly-trained agents who are available 24/7 should you need any help.
Care Advocate: An expert care team that will work with you to identify health areas you want to focus on and provide a personalized care plan to help you set goals and resolve issues.
Nurse On-Call: Call and speak to a live nurse or board-certified doctor any time without an appointment. They can order prescriptions for common medications and answer your medical questions.
Lively Link: This is an app that keeps friends and family in the loop if your battery is running low or you call Urgent Response.
Personal Operator: A friendly personal operator is available 24/7 to help you find addresses or phone numbers, schedule transportation, provide directions, and more.

Lively App

If you want to access these health and safety features but aren’t in the market for a new phone, check out the Lively mobile app. You can purchase a package and access your health and safety features through the Lively app on an iPhone or Apple Watch. Just keep in mind, if you go this route, your Health & Safety Package will cost an extra $5 per month.

Lively also offers a discount on new Apple Watches. If you sign a two-year contract for the Preferred Health & Safety Package, you can receive up to $200 off a new Apple Watch at Best Buy.

Lively is now available for Alexa devices. You can ask Alexa to call for help to be connected with an emergency operator. The operator will have access to your personal profile containing your conditions, medications, allergies, and more, starting at just $24.99 a month.

How to Get the Best Deal With Lively

Lively already offers great rates on phone plans for older adults, but if you’re hoping to save a few extra bucks, we have some tips for you! For starters, always check the Lively website and call customer service before purchasing a Lively phone or plan. Lively has various discounts throughout the year. Sometimes it’s a percentage off the phone’s price, a credit to your account, or a free gift, such as a car charger.

The Best Lively Cell Phones for Seniors

Lively simplifies their phones. They even make it easy to choose by only providing two options: The Jitterbug Flip2 and the Jitterbug Smart3.

Unboxing the Jitterbug Flip2

Jitterbug Flip2

The Jitterbug Flip2 costs $99.99, making it very affordable, especially compared to smartphones. There are a few less expensive senior-friendly flip phones on the market like Consumer Cellular’s affordable options; however, Lively’s medical alert capabilities are much more extensive. This phone requires an Unlimited Lively Talk & Text plan for $19.99 per month.

A flip phone, like this one, is a great option if you want to keep things simple. You can accept calls by opening the phone; end calls by closing it. Great for older adults, the Jitterbug Flip2 offers a large screen, powerful speaker, flashlight, and built-in magnifier for reading. Plus, you can use your voice to navigate your phone, send texts, and make calls thanks to built-in Amazon Alexa functionality. What a great perk for those with dexterity or vision difficulties!

Of course, we think the most impressive feature is the Jitterbug Flip2’s Urgent Response button. Press it at any time to receive immediate assistance from an IAED certified agent. Urgent Response is available with either of Lively’s Health & Safety Packages.

In addition to senior-friendly cell phones, Lively sells wearable medical alert systems. Visit our latest Lively medical alert review to learn more.

Using the Jitterbug Smart3

Jitterbug Smart3

From the outside, the Jitterbug Smart3 looks like any ordinary smartphone. It features a 6.2-inch screen, dual rear cameras (13MP/5MP), a front camera, voice typing, and video chat capabilities. However, the key difference is that it was made for the 61 percent of adults age 65+ who use a smartphone.2 Senior-friendly features include an Urgent Response button, M4/T4 rating for hearing aid compatibility, a simple list-based menu for easy navigation, a powerful speaker, and brain games to keep you sharp.

Great for on-the-go seniors, the Jitterbug Smart3 also includes GPS capabilities. This will come in handy if you need directions or roadside assistance and are unsure of your location. It’s also useful if you’re prone to becoming disoriented. You can even share your location with friends and family if they download the Lively app.

FYI: Keep in mind that Lively often runs sales throughout the year and around holidays like Mother’s Day or Memorial Day. Check their website to stay posted on upcoming sales.

The Jitterbug Smart3 costs $149.99, plus a $35 activation fee. You’ll also need to add a talk, text, and data plan, with options ranging from $24.99 for the Unlimited Talk & Text plan plus 1 GB of data to $49.99 per month for unlimited talk, text, and data. We certainly think it’s worth the price seeing, as it’s on our list of best smartphones for seniors.

Still struggling to choose a phone? Visit our cell phone buyers guide to learn more about how to make the decision that’s right for you.

How Does Lively Compare to Other Phone Carriers?

Lively sets itself apart from other providers by offering medical alert features with their cell phones. Not even Consumer Cellular, another senior-specific provider, offers these features. However, that integration means you must purchase a Lively device to use a Lively phone plan. If you’d like similar features to Lively but want to bring your own device, consider Snapfon’s plans instead. For more information, you can visit our JItterbug and Snapfon comparison guide.

Lively is powered by America’s largest and most dependable wireless network: Verizon. They also use 100 percent U.S.-based customer service agents. Price-wise, Lively is similar to the competition. A fully unlimited talk, text, and data plan from Lively costs $49.99 per month. Fellow senior-friendly carrier Consumer Cellular charges $50 for the same package. Consumer Cellular does have Lively beat with its $69 flip phone, but again, it lacks the advanced health and safety features that Lively is known for.

Final Thoughts on Pricing and Value for Lively

The Jitterbug Flip2 and Jitterbug Smart3 are great phones for older adults that deliver excellent value. Compared to other options on the market, the phones and plans are both very affordable. Plus, your Lively phone doubles as a medical alert device when you add on a Health & Safety Package, saving you the hassle of buying a second device. Overall, a phone and plan from Lively are worth considering if you‘re looking for a simple device that will help you stay connected and safe.

Visit our latest JItterbug phone review to learn about our hands-on experience with this provider.

Frequently Asked Questions About Lively

What is the cheapest Lively plan?

The most affordable Lively plan is $19.99 per month, though this includes calls and texts only.
Should I opt for a senior plan with my existing cellular provider or choose a Lively plan instead?

The answer comes down to what you want to get out of owning a cell phone. If you’re looking for something that’s easy to use and doubles as a medical alert device, you can’t go wrong with Lively’s senior-friendly flip phone or smartphone. Your existing cellular provider may offer you a senior discount for your monthly bill, but you won’t get the benefit of having a phone designed for seniors.
I need help setting up my Lively phone. What should I do?

Lively has a U.S.-based customer service line at 800-733-6632. Lively also has video tutorials on how to use all their phones.
Can AARP members receive discounts with Lively?

Yes, AARP members can receive a discount on Lively’s Health & Safety Packages.

Citations

No Isolation. (2018). Why do many seniors have trouble using technology?
Pew Research Center. (2021). Mobile Fact Sheet.

Written By

Taylor Shuman

Senior Tech Expert & Editor

As SeniorLiving.org’s tech expert and editor, Taylor has years of experience reviewing products and services for seniors. She is passionate about breaking down stigmas related to seniors and technology. She loves finding innovative ways to teach seniors about products and… Learn More About Taylor Shuman

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Folding books, on the Samsung Galaxy Fold or Huawei Mate X as a folding hinge.

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