Best cell phone for seniors.: The Best Cell Phones For Seniors (June 2023)

The Best Cell Phones For Seniors (June 2023)

Through months of research and hands-on testing, our team has come up with a list of the five best phones for seniors, from simple flip phones to advanced smartphones.

If you’re looking for an easy way to call, text, surf the web, and connect with family, one of these cell phones is a great choice.

Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a specific type of phone, check out our lists of the best big-button phones and easiest cell phones for seniors.

List of the Best Cell Phones for Seniors

  • Jitterbug Flip2 : Most Affordable Flip Phone
  • Apple iPhone SE : Best Camera Quality
  • Alcatel Go Flip 4 : Best Battery Life
  • Jitterbug Smart3 : Best Smartphone for Seniors
  • RAZ Memory Cell Phone : Built for Dementia and Alzheimer’s
  • Consumer Cellular Verve Snap : Easiest to Use

Our Methodology

Everybody has different cell phone needs, but we looked for the following features when evaluating our favorites:

  • Affordability: Modern cell phones can cost upwards of $1,000, but we looked for devices that cost $400 or less. Most of the phones on this list cost under $200.
  • Visibility and hearing: All the phones on this list have adjustable font sizes, making them ideal for people with vision impairment. Every phone on this list is also compatible with hearing aids.
  • Simplified menus: In our tests, we looked for cell phones with menus and features that are easy to navigate. Even the smartphones included here feature highly intuitive interfaces that anyone can quickly learn to use.
  • Safety features: Many cell phones designed for seniors feature SOS buttons, GPS, and other medical alert features that keep users safe both in and out of their homes.
  • No long-term contracts: Gone are the days of locking into a lengthy service contract to get a low-priced phone. All the phones on this list can be purchased for a low, one-time cost and require no long-term agreements.

The Best Cell Phones For Seniors

1.

Jitterbug Flip2 – Most Affordable Flip Phone

4.8 / 5

View Packages

Call for best price:
855-403-6340

What We Like Most:
  • Alexa compatibility
  • 8-megapixel camera
  • Optional medical alert features
  • Magnifier and flashlight

Overview

Cost: $74.99 from Lively

Lively’s Jitterbug Flip2 isn’t quite a smartphone, but with its Alexa compatibility, dual camera design, and safety features, it redefines how modern flip phones can work. Its simple navigation menu, large backlit keypad, and built-in SOS emergency button make it stand out from conventional flip phones.

The Jitterbug Flip2 features a dedicated Urgent Response button

The Jitterbug Flip2 is the easiest phone to use on this list. A simple list-based menu makes it easy to navigate the phone’s features, including phone calls, messages, the camera, and Alexa. Each of my calls also came through with high-quality audio.

One of my favorite Flip2 features is its Alexa functionality. Simply by using my voice, I could call contacts, send messages, and even ask questions. For example, I asked my Flip2: “How many teaspoons are in a cup?” My phone responded: “There are 48 teaspoons in a cup.” For any queries related to weather, news, or current events, this feature was highly useful.

There are two Lively service plan options with the Jitterbug Flip2. For $14.99 per month, you’ll get 300 minutes and 10 cents per text. For $19.99 a month, you can get unlimited talk and text. The Flip2 also offers the option to purchase a Health and Safety package, which turns your phone into a full-fledged medical alert system. To learn more about these plans, check out our Jitterbug phones review.

To learn more about this phone, read my full Jitterbug Flip2 review.

Pros
  • Loud and Clear Speaker
  • Simple Navigation
  • Built-in Flashlight
  • Hearing Aid Compatible
  • Urgent Response Button
  • Speed Dialing
  • Amazon Alexa
  • Large Buttons and Screen
Cons
  • No Family Plans
  • Additional Charges for Going Over Minutes or Texts for Some Plans
  • Low-Quality Camera

2. Apple iPhone SE – Best Camera Quality

4.6 / 5

View Packages

Call for best price:
(844) 580-0512

What We Like Most:
  • Intuitive design and voice commands
  • Water and dust resistant
  • Great camera quality
  • Thousands of free apps

Overview

Cost: $429 from Consumer Cellular

It’s not designed specifically for seniors, but the iPhone SE is the ideal option for someone looking to upgrade from a traditional flip phone. If you’re looking for a phone with internet access and stellar camera quality — and you don’t mind a slight learning curve — then the iPhone SE is a great place to start.

iPhone SE

The iPhone SE excels in basic phone features. All our test calls worked exceptionally well, even when using hearing aids. The iPhone SE excels thanks to its built-in voice assistant, Siri. With this feature, you can make calls, send messages, and even browse the web simply by using your voice. The phone’s plethora of features may intimidate the uninitiated, but its voice commands make it easy to navigate.

The iPhone SE has the best camera of the phones on this list. All our test photos came through with a high level of definition, and they were easy to message to friends or post on social media. Newer iterations of the iPhone have higher-quality cameras, but the SE certainly does the job — and it costs less than half the iPhone 13.

The iPhone SE works with most major carriers, so it’s best to shop around to see which provider has the best deal. Consumer Cellular currently offers the iPhone SE for $429. Their unlimited talk and text plans with data also cost as low as $20 per month, with additional lines only costing $15 each.

If you’re looking for an iPhone, then check out our guide to the best iPhone for seniors.

3. Alcatel Go Flip 4 – Best Battery Life

4.9 / 5

View Packages

Call for best price:
855-914-3412

What We Like Most:
  • Long-lasting battery
  • Loud and high-quality speaker
  • Two-week battery life
  • Large internal display

Overview

Cost: $96 when purchased through T-Mobile

The Alcatel Go Flip 4 features a simplified menu and large buttons.

The first thing you’ll notice about the Alcatel Go Flip 4 is its simple clamshell design. Like past Alcatel phones, it features a small outer screen displaying the date and time and a larger internal display that enables you to navigate the phone’s features. What separates the Go Flip 4, however, are its long battery life, call clarity, and app store compatibility.

In our tests, calls came through incredibly clear on the Go Flip 4, and its loud speakerphone made it easy to communicate hands-free. The Go Flip 4 lasted about two weeks on a single charge, making it a great option for people who sometimes forget to charge their devices. Another feature that impressed us was the phone’s app store. Normally confined to smartphones, the app store enabled us to download many free apps for seniors, including WhatsApp, Facebook, and a variety of games.

The Go Flip 4’s only downside is its camera. At only 2 megapixels, most of the images we captured came out fuzzy compared to pictures from other phones on this list.

The Alcatel Go Flip 4 can be purchased through T-Mobile for a one-time charge of $96 or monthly $4 payments. You can also purchase the phone from big-box retailers and pair it with a network of your choosing.

Pros
  • Classic Design
  • Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Connectivity
  • Mobile Hotspot Capable
  • Long Battery Life
  • Large Screen
  • Intuitive Buttons
  • Hearing Aid Compatible
Cons
  • Subpar Camera Quality
  • No Medical Alert Features

FYI: If you’re looking for a flip phone, then check out our list of this year’s best flip phones.

4. Jitterbug Smart3 – Best Smartphone for Seniors

4.8 / 5

View Packages

Call for best price:
855-403-6340

What We Like Most:
  • Large, bright screen
  • Easy menu navigation
  • Medical alert features
  • Affordable price

Overview

Cost: $149. 99 from Lively

A roundup of senior-friendly smartphones wouldn’t be complete without the popular Jitterbug Smart3 from Lively. The Smart3 features a bright, clear 5.5-inch display with a simplified menu that lets you quickly find frequently used features. The Smart3 is an easy-to-use, feature-packed phone, but where it really shines is with its emergency features.

The Jitterbug Smart3 features a built-in voice assistant.

Users of Jitterbug phones never have to worry about missed medications, thanks to MedCoach, which sends prescription and pill reminders. Lively also comes with Urgent Care (Preferred and Ultimate plans), which connects users to registered nurses and doctors who can answer medical questions. All plans come with 5Star, a medical alert service that connects to live help agents no matter what time of day or night.

Lively offers unlimited talk and text for $19.99 per month, but you’ll also want to add a data plan. Since the phone has Wi-Fi capabilities, you can likely get by with 500 MB of data for $5 per month. You can also get unlimited data for an additional $30 per month.

To learn more about this phone, read my full Jitterbug Smart3 review.

Pros
  • Intuitive Design
  • Hearing Aid Compatible
  • Large, Bright Screen
  • No Long-Term Contracts
  • Medical Alert Capabilities
  • Powerful Camera
Cons
  • Must Be Charged Nightly
  • Somewhat Large

FYI: If you’re looking for a full-fledged medical alert device, then check out our pick for this year’s best medical alert system.

5. RAZ Memory Cell Phone – Built for Dementia and Alzheimer’s

What We Like Most:
  • Designed for users with Alzheimer’s or dementia
  • Simple picture-based menu
  • Available on most major networks
  • Online portal for caregivers

Overview

Cost: $309 from RAZ Mobility

For people with dementia, Alzheimer’s, or an intellectual disability, the RAZ Memory Phone is a great option with simplified functionality. Through its picture-based contact list, users can easily make and receive calls from loved ones with minimal confusion.

When someone calls the Memory Cell Phone, a user can either accept or reject the call by pressing the corresponding button.

Despite the RAZ Memory Phone’s large touch screen, it has only one menu. It displays the contact info and photos for up to six contacts, in addition to a dedicated 911 button. The simplified menu may not work for everyone, but it can drastically cut down on confusion caused by endless menus and notifications.

With the Memory Phone, loved ones can keep track of a device through the RAZ online portal. They can create contacts, check the phone’s battery life, and even see its location. This information can be vital for people caring for a loved one with a degenerative condition.

The Memory Phone is certainly not for everyone, but it can provide a much-needed means of contact for people with Alzheimer’s or dementia. To learn more about these types of devices, check out our guide to phones for people with dementia.

Pros
  • Simple, easy-to-understand menu
  • Dedicated 911 button
  • Picture contact list
  • Large touchscreen
  • GPS location information
  • Video calling capabilities
Cons
  • No messages, apps, or internet access
  • Relatively costly

6. Consumer Cellular Verve Snap – Easiest to Use

What We Like Most:
  • 5 MP camera
  • Long battery life
  • Large, backlit keypad
  • Speed-dialing

Overview

Cost: $62 from Consumer Cellular

For those who just want a simple phone for talking and texting, the Verve Snap is a great option that often costs less than $50. At the time of this writing (April 2023), you can purchase this device for $40 from Target.

In terms of features, the Verve Snap keeps things pretty basic. It has a large, backlit keypad, a bright display, and a 5MP camera. Sure, the photos taken with the Verve Snap don’t compete with the smartphones on this list, but they’ll get the job done.

The battery on this phone is particularly impressive. In our tests, it lasted roughly two weeks on a single charge and two days with heavy use.

While you won’t find apps, an internet browser, or safety features on this phone, its simplicity would be ideal for someone who only needs to talk and text.

Pros
  • Large 12-button keypad
  • 14-hour talk-time
  • Affordable plans
  • Bluetooth connectivity
  • Good quality camera
Cons
  • No selfie camera

The Best Phones for Seniors Video Review

Short on time? Then watch as our Managing Editor, Ryan Molloy, walks through three of our favorite cell phones for seniors.

The Best Cellular Providers for Seniors

Selecting a cellular provider that has the features you need is as important as choosing a phone. When checking out plans, try to find one with ample allowances for talk, text, and data.

I always recommend T-Mobile plans for seniors. T-Mobile’s trio of discounted unlimited plans for people 55 and up provide access to one of the largest cellular networks in the nation and do not require annual service contracts.

Did You Know: A good cell phone is nothing without a good network. To find out which are our favorites, check out our list of the best senior cell phone plans.

If you’re looking for a cell phone for yourself or a loved one, then check out our helpful cellular guides:

  • AT&T Phones for Seniors
  • Verizon Phones for Seniors
  • Cricket Wireless for Seniors
  • Consumer Cellular Review
  • Republic Wireless for Seniors
  • Best Smartphones for Seniors
  • Best Android Phones for Seniors
  • Best Cell Phones for Visual Impairments
  • Best Unlocked Phones for Seniors
  • Best Prepaid Phones for Seniors
  • Cheapest Phones for Seniors
  • Best Phones for Hearing Impairment

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the best phone for seniors?

    The Alcatel Go Flip 4, Jitterbug Flip2, and iPhone SE are all great options for seniors since they’re easy to use and compatible with hearing aids.

  • What features should seniors look for in a phone?

    No two users are the same, but most seniors will likely appreciate simplified design, hearing aid compatibility, loud speakers, voice commands, and large displays. Jitterbug phones have all of these features.

  • What is the best cellular provider for seniors?

    Both T-Mobile and Lively are great options. T-Mobile offers unlimited talk, text, and data plans for as low as $27.50 per month per line. Lively offers the popular Jitterbug phones with talk and text plans for as low as $14.99 per month.

  • Is there a smartphone for seniors?

    The Jitterbug Smart3 is a simple smartphone designed specifically for seniors. The iPhone SE is also a great option for seniors who want more advanced features.

  • Are there cell phones made specifically for seniors?

    Lively’s popular Jitterbug phones are simplified devices made particularly for older adults.

  • Are iPhones good for seniors?

    Although iPhones are much more advanced than flip phones, their controls are highly intuitive, making them a great option for seniors who aren’t afraid of a slight learning curve.

Best Android Cell Phones for Seniors in 2023

Best Android Cell Phones for Seniors in 2023

1

Jitterbug Smart3 from Lively

Overall Rating:

4. 8 / 5

View Packages

Call for best price:
855-403-6340

What We Like ↓

2

Samsung Galaxy A13 from Consumer Cellular

Overall Rating:

4.7 / 5

View Packages

Call for best price:
(844) 580-0512

What We Like ↓

3

Pixel 5a from Google

Overall Rating:

4.6 / 5

View on Amazon
What We Like ↓

4

OnePlus 9 Pro – Best Advanced Features

Overall Rating:

4.1 / 5

View on Amazon
What We Like ↓

Apple’s line of iPhones continues to be a popular option to seniors, but Android phones offer a solid alternative. Capable of doing nearly anything an iPhone can — and often coming at a lower price — an Android phone is a great choice for any older adult looking for a more customizable phone experience.

The newest Android phones are also compatible with 5G, which enables them to run at lightning-fast speeds.

FYI: If you’re looking to save money on a new phone or plan, check out our guide to senior discounts on phones.

List of the Best Android Phones for Seniors

  • Jitterbug Smart3 : Easiest to Use
  • Samsung Galaxy A13 : Best Camera and Battery Life
  • Google Pixel 5a : Best Overall Value
  • OnePlus 9 Pro : Best Advanced Features

How We Chose the Best Android Cell Phones for Seniors

When choosing the best Android phones for seniors, here’s what we looked for.

  • Cost: Other smartphones can cost upward of $1,000, but Android phones often offer an affordable alternative. We looked for the phones that come at prices for every budget.
  • Camera quality: If you’re upgrading from a flip phone to an Android, you’ll likely be impressed by the camera quality on these devices. When choosing our favorites, we looked for devices with cameras that could even replace your traditional digital camera.
  • Battery life: You’ll likely use your phone to accomplish many tasks, so make sure it will last a long time. When testing these phones, we made sure each of their batteries could last an entire day before needing a recharge.
  • Hearing aid compatibility: To make sure people who use hearing aids don’t experience excess noises, we tested these phones to see whether they’re compatible with hearing aids.
  • Low-cost data plans: If you purchase an Android, you’ll likely want to use it for streaming videos and browsing the web. Because of this, we looked only for phones that are compatible with affordable data plans that won’t slam you with overage charges.

Android Phones for Seniors Compared

Phone Price Screen Size Camera Quality Battery Life Ideal For
Google Pixel 5 $449. 99 6.43 inches 16MP
  • 9 hours talk time
  • 7 days standby
People who want a high-powered smartphone without the hefty price tag.
Samsung Galaxy A13 $189 6.6 inches 50MP
  • 38 hours talk time
  • 5 days standby
People who want a long-lasting batter and high-quality camera.
Jitterbug Smart3 $149.99 6.2 inches 13MP
  • 12 hours talk time
  • 10 days standby
People who want a simple phone that can make video calls, send messages, and browse the web.
OnePlus 9 Pro $969.00 6.7 inches 50MP
  • 12 hours talk time
  • 11 days standby
People who want an advanced smartphone with high-powered cameras, battery, and processing.

Best Android Based Phones for Seniors

1.

Jitterbug Smart3 – Easiest to Use

4.8 / 5

View Packages

Call for best price:
855-403-6340

What We Like Most:
  • Large, bright screen
  • Easy menu navigation
  • Medical alert features
  • Affordable price

Overview

Price: $149.99

Made by Lively, the creators of the original Jitterbug Flip Phone and other phones for seniors, the Jitterbug Smart3 combines simple design with the advanced features of a smartphone. Powered by the Android operating system, the Jitterbug Smart3 can make video calls, send messages, and browse the web with aplomb.

What stands out most about this phone, however, is how easy it is to use. With its intuitive list-based menus, the Jitterbug Smart3 streamlines the traditional Android layout. The downside is that you can’t customize this phone as much as others on this list, but it also allows just about anyone to pick it up and start using it. The learning curve is practically nonexistent.

When you purchase a phone from Lively, you’ll have the option of adding a health and safety package to your cellular plan. These plans, starting at an additional $19.99 per month, give you quick access to emergency responders, turning your phone into a medical alert device.

Jitterbug Smart3

Pros
  • Intuitive Design
  • Hearing Aid Compatible
  • Large, Bright Screen
  • No Long-Term Contracts
  • Medical Alert Capabilities
  • Powerful Camera
Cons
  • Must Be Charged Nightly
  • Somewhat Large

To learn more about this phone, read our Jitterbug Smart review. If you prefer a simpler option, take a look at our Lively Flip review.

Lively consistently ranks as one of our favorite cellular providers for seniors. To learn more, check out our list of this year’s best smartphones for seniors.

2. Samsung Galaxy A13 – Best Camera and Battery Life

4.7 / 5

View Packages

Call for best price:
(844) 580-0512

What We Like Most:
  • 50 MP camera
  • Long-lasting battery
  • Under $200
  • 5G option available

Overview

Price: $189 when purchased through Consumer Cellular

The Samsung Galaxy A13 is a great value for budget-conscious shoppers. It has a 6.6 inch display, a rear 50 MP camera, and long-lasting battery life with fast charging capability. It runs on the Android 12 operating system and is powered by the Exynos 850 octa-core processor. Plus, it has 3GB RAM and 32GB of internal storage, expandable up to 1TB with a microSD card.

While this phone lacks a fingerprint scanner or the ability to use wireless charging, it’s still a highly powerful phone for under $200 and a great entry-point for those curious about Android phones.

To learn more about the plans for this phone, read our guide to Consumer Cellular.

Pros
  • Powerful camera
  • Long talk times
  • Affordable data plans
  • Optional 5G compatibility
  • Large screen
Cons
  • No support for wireless charging
  • No fingerprint scanner

3. Google Pixel 5a – Best Overall Value

4. 6 / 5

View on Amazon

What We Like Most:
  • High-quality camera
  • IP67 water-resistance
  • Large, bright screen
  • Compatible with 5G

Overview

Price: $449.99

Made by Google, the Pixel 5a is our favorite Android phone for seniors because of its large screen, durability, and striking camera quality. Despite its impressive specs, it costs less than half of other premier Android phones.

The first thing we loved about this phone was its large and bright screen, which made it incredibly easy to adjust the size of text and navigate the internet. The screen makes the Pixel 5a one of the best phones for visually impaired seniors. In our tests, we also found the Pixel 5a worked with hearing aids without causing any extra noise or feedback.

When it came to the Pixel 5a’s camera, we were impressed by the quality of images we were able to capture. The rear-facing camera took photos worthy of a photo album, and the front-facing camera made for high-quality selfies and video calls.

On top of all this, the Pixel 5a was simple to use. Android devices are known for their high level of customization, but inexperienced users can pick up the Pixel 5a and use it with little hassle.

Google Pixel 5a

Pros
  • High-quality camera
  • IP67 water resistance
  • Large, bright screen
  • Compatible with 5G
  • M4/T3 hearing aid compatibility
Cons
  • Average battery life
  • No wireless charging

The Pixel 5a is our choice for the best Android phone for seniors.

FYI: Did you know Android phones can be purchased unlocked, which means they can be used on any network? To learn about the process, check out our rundown of the best unlocked phones for seniors.

4. OnePlus 9 Pro – Best Advanced Features

4.1 / 5

View on Amazon

What We Like Most:
  • Stellar camera
  • Long battery life
  • High-definition screen
  • Water-resistant

Overview

Price: $969.99

If we think of the Jitterbug Smart3 as the Toyota Camry of Android phones — durable, reliable, and affordable — then the OnePlus 9 Pro would be a Rolls Royce. Its 120-hertz display renders videos and images with a high level of clarity and definition, and the overall design is beautiful to look at.

The phone features three cameras: a 50-megapixel ultra-wide, a 48-megapixel wide, and an 8-megapixel telephoto, all of which adds up to the phone being able to take professional-quality photographs. Its 16-megapixel front camera also makes for quality selfies and video chats.

Another thing we love about the OnePlus 9 Pro is its battery life. In our test, the phone lasted for 12 hours with heavy use (streaming, calling, etc.), giving it the longest battery life of any phone on this list. It can also charge — wirelessly or traditionally — in less than 30 minutes, which makes it perfect if you’re prone to using all your battery life.

OnePlus 9 Pro

Pros
  • Stellar camera
  • Long battery life
  • High-definition screen
  • Water resistant
  • Rapid charging
  • Advanced processing
Cons
  • More expensive than other phones on this list
  • Difficult to use with one hand

The main drawback of the OnePlus 9 Pro is its cost. Starting at $969, it is on the more expensive end. It’s priced lower than flagship phones from Samsung and Apple, though, which makes it a decent deal.

Which Cellular Network Is Best for Android Phones?

Android phones are compatible with most major networks, but you’ll want to select a provider that offers unlimited data. Otherwise, you risk getting hefty overage charges. Currently, the best and most affordable unlimited plans are from T-Mobile.

T-Mobile cellular plans for seniors start at $27.50 per month. They include unlimited talk, text, and data, in addition to 5G access, allowing your phone to operate at faster speeds.

If you’re interested in medical alert features, then you may want to consider Lively phones for seniors. Unlimited data will cost a bit more with this provider, but some plans provide access to urgent responders and board-certified doctors to help answer any medical queries.

Why Should Seniors Consider an Android Phone?

The primary benefit of choosing Android is freedom. iPhones are known for simplicity and a general sleekness, but Android phones come in all shapes, sizes, and price points, allowing you to find the best option for your needs.

If, however, you’re interested in an iPhone, check out our rundown of the best iPhones for seniors. Additionally, check out our other helpful guides to phones.

  • Best Cell Phone Plans for Seniors
  • Cheapest Cell Phones for Seniors
  • Easiest to Use Cell Phones for Seniors
  • Best Flip Cell Phones for Seniors
  • Best Phones for Seniors
  • Mint Mobile for Seniors
  • Cricket Wireless for Seniors
  • Jitterbug Phone Reviews

Best Androids for Seniors Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the easiest smartphone to use for seniors?

    The Jitterbug Smart3 is the easiest smartphone to use for seniors due to its large screen, simple design, and voice commands.

  • Which Android phone is best for senior citizens?

    The Google Pixel 5a is our favorite Android phone for seniors due to its durability, hearing aid compatibility, and ease of use.

  • What is the best smartphone for seniors?

    The best smartphone for seniors will depend on the person, but you can’t go wrong with the iPhone 12, the Jitterbug Smart3, or the Google Pixel 5a.

  • Which is better: Samsung or Apple?

    Both manufacturers make quality smartphones, but we prefer Apple’s iPhones since they are incredibly easy to use and their cameras offer consistently good quality.

Written By

Amie Clark

Amie has been writing about senior care products and services for the last decade. She is particularly passionate about new technologies that help improve the quality of life for seniors and their families. Seeing her parents and grandparents age made Amie ask herself, “Would this be good enough for my loved ones?” In her spare time, Amie enjoys outdoor adventures and spontaneous road trips. Learn more about Amie here

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Best mobile phone 2023 for seniors with loud sound and big font

To get a discount, use the promo code MG1000-AF

Modern phone models have made a huge leap in their development. Models with multiple cameras, a capacious battery, a large frameless screen and a powerful processor have appeared on the market, which in terms of performance can be compared with a computer or laptop. But these technologies are not of interest to older people, grandparents, who need a simple and inexpensive phone with a loud speaker.

They should have a large display, a good battery and large buttons, which ensures comfortable use. We have prepared a rating of phones for the elderly and pensioners, which included inexpensive and easy-to-use models. The top includes both push-button and touch models, as well as clamshells from manufacturers Philips, Alcatel, Nokia, Texet, Samsung, Xiaomi and other famous brands.



If you don’t know what simple phone to give to a pensioner, then pay attention to this model. It comes with a 1.4-inch display. It’s small so it won’t suit people with poor eyesight, but other than that it’s very good. The screen covers 64,000 colors, due to which a contrasting and saturated image is formed.

Up to 2000 contacts can be stored in the memory. 800 mAh battery is enough for 15 hours of talk time or 25 days of standby time. Accordingly, you can charge your grandmother phone several times a month. Cellular has a high quality of sound transmission, you will clearly hear the speech of the interlocutor. There is an FM radio and several pre-installed games.

Pros:

  • Compact;
  • Holds up to 2000 contacts;
  • Amazing autonomy.

Cons:

  • Small matrix.


Review of phones for the elderly moves on to the BQ-2301 Comfort, which will make communication with loved ones even more comfortable. For photography, a 0.08 MP camera is provided, but as you understand, you should not expect much from it. A flashlight will become an indispensable assistant in the dark. There is an MP3 player and FM radio.

Good reliable phone for the elderly supports memory cards up to 32 GB, and the manufacturer assumes a warranty period of 12 months. The TN display has limited viewing angles, but at right angles it produces true-to-life colors. It stretched to 2.31 inches at a resolution of 320×240 pixels. The battery capacity reaches 1400 mAh. The case is assembled from strong and durable plastic.

Pros:

  • Large buttons;
  • Intuitive menu;
  • Quick call can be configured from 2 to 9 keys;
  • SOS panic button;
  • Speaks numbers;
  • Long battery life;
  • 2 SIM cards.

Cons:

  • Inconvenient blocking of buttons with a lever on the side.


Top grannyphones of 2020-2021 completes an interesting option from Texet, which offers good opportunities at an affordable price. There are many features, but the main ones are a notebook with 500 numbers and a large keyboard. Thanks to the 2.31-inch screen, the pensioner will not have to strain his eyesight. Built-in memory is small, but you can install a flash drive up to 16 GB. There is an organizer, audio and video player, hands-free function, calendar, SOS alarm button and much more. Battery capacity – 1250 mAh.

Pros:

  • Variety of features available;
  • Notebook size;
  • User comfort.

Cons:

  • It is difficult to see the battery charge.


For an elderly person, I would like to advise push-button phone Philips Xenium E207 with large print on the screen, which is both convenient and inexpensive. It is suitable for senior citizens with poor eyesight due to large and easy to read numbers. The protruding relief of the keys allows you to move around the system and type a number without looking at the display.

There is an SOS emergency key for an emergency signal to a specific number. To combine the benefits of tariff plans from different mobile operators will help the tray for two SIM-cards. The display with a diagonal of 2.31-inch transmits up to 65,000 colors. There is an FM receiver, a flashlight and a 1700 mAh battery, the resource of which is enough for 13 hours of talk time.

Pros:

  • Loud;
  • Speed ​​dial available;
  • Large numbers and fonts;
  • Simple and reliable;
  • Convenient release;
  • Good autonomy;
  • Panic button.

Cons:

  • Inconvenient docking station.


Most push-button phones have a serious drawback – they cannot work in 3G and 4G networks. Alcatel 3025X is a comfortable clamshell without this flaw. There is everything that an elderly person needs – a large font, an impressive margin of brightness, a separate LED indicator that displays the battery level and missed events, two microphones, an automatic call recording function, and much more. The screen is color and has a diagonal of 2.8 inches. This is a TN matrix, so when you look at it from a large angle, the picture fades. The battery can be called the weak side of our hero – with a capacity of 970 mAh is only enough for 4 hours of talk time and 200 hours of standby.

Pros:

  • Support 3G;
  • Large keys and inscriptions on them;
  • Good white illumination;
  • Solid conversational speaker;
  • The function of automatic recording of telephone conversations and a number of other interesting features.

Cons:

  • A call can only be rejected by opening the lid.


A good feature phone with a compact size and stylish design. You can install 2 active SIMs in it. The screen is large enough – 2.4 inches with a resolution of 320×240 pixels, which is exactly what an elderly person needs. Its memory is 32 MB, but you can install MicroSD , getting additional storage space for music, video and photos.

The battery is 3500 mAh, so the battery life is good. Even with active use, you have to charge it no more than a few times a month. In addition, the battery is removable, so you can always buy a replacement one. There is an FM radio and a flashlight, and if necessary, a cell phone can be used to recharge other devices. You can use teXet TM-530R even in pouring rain, because the body of the novelty is reliable is protected from water and dust according to the IP68 standard.

Pluses:

  • Possibility of simultaneous installation of two SIM-cards;
  • The screen is large enough and with good color reproduction;
  • Resistant to dust and water;
  • Comfortable keyboard;
  • Slot for memory card;
  • Rubberized contour for impact protection;
  • Bright flashlight;
  • Notebook for 500 contacts;
  • Radio can be listened to without headphones;
  • 3500 mAh long life battery;
  • Can be used as a powerbank.

Cons:

  • The maximum capacity of the memory card is only 16 GB;
  • Small amount of built-in memory.


The most user-friendly feature phone for the elderly according to customer reviews, is clad in a shockproof housing that complies with the US military standard MIL-STD-810G. It withstands mechanical shocks and drops from a height of up to 1.5 meters, while maintaining its performance in extreme conditions. The battery life is enough for 5 hours of talk time and 600 hours of standby time. You will take a photo with a simple 0.3 megapixel camera, the flash for which also plays the role of a flashlight.

The clamshell is equipped with a 2.4-inch color screen with a resolution of 320×240 pixels. In the lower part there is a block with a keyboard. The keys are large and pressing each of them is accompanied by a sound. The Panasonic TU456 gets into the rating of phones for pensioners due to its loud speakers, designed for people with hearing impairments. Thanks to the large font, the best push-button phone is suitable for visually impaired grandparents.

Pros:

  • Dimensions both folded and unfolded;
  • Font size setting;
  • Three separate shortcut buttons;
  • Loudspeaker for hearing impaired;
  • Unlock when opened;
  • Impact-resistant design withstands drops up to 1. 5 meters;
  • Appearance;
  • Large characters.

Cons:

  • Only 1 SIM.


The good push-button telephone is equipped with large keys that make it convenient to type text messages or a subscriber’s number. This model has a big advantage – a 3100 mAh battery, which lasts for several days of use. There are two trays for SIM cards, which allows you to combine the tariffs of two different operators.

All information is displayed on a 3.2-inch color screen. Grandmother’s phone has a flashlight, an alarm clock and a number of other useful features. The case is made of durable metal and matte plastic, which is less dirty. The main camera was endowed with a modest resolution of 2 megapixels. The contact book is designed for 1000 subscribers, and the LED indicator will notify you of missed events. There is 32 GB of internal memory where you can save music, games and photos.

Pros:

  • Large buttons for easy text typing;
  • Autonomy time;
  • Robust and reliable housing;
  • Built-in FM receiver;
  • 3. 2-inch large screen with large fonts;
  • Looks nice and feels good in the hand;
  • Auto-recording of calls sorted by folders;
  • Easy to use.

Cons:

  • Charges for a long time – about 6 hours;
  • Short charger cord – only 45 cm;
  • You cannot set an individual ringtone for a contact.

We’ve looked at the best feature phones for the elderly, it’s time to move on to touch models. Some retirees have difficulty using the touch screen, but in reality it is very convenient and you get used to it quickly.



The rating is replenished by the Samsung phone for the elderly, which has a large screen and capacious battery 5000 mAh. In terms of technical characteristics, everything is simple – a Unisoc SC9863A processor and 2/32 GB of memory are used. The volume can be increased by installing MicroSD in a separate slot.

The pensioner will be comfortable using the phone thanks to a large IPS-display with a diagonal of 6. 5 inches. In its upper part, they left a teardrop-shaped cutout for a 5 megapixel front camera. The main camera is only one and with a resolution of 8 megapixels.

Pros:

  • Separate memory card slot;
  • Inexpensive but good;
  • Nice looking;
  • Large quality screen;
  • You can hear the interlocutor well;
  • Autonomy;
  • Large fonts available;
  • Responsive sensor;
  • Lightweight and fits well in the hand;
  • Camera flush with body.

Cons:

  • No film or case included;
  • Obsolete MicroUSB.


Best phones for visually impaired grandparents releases Xiaomi , attracting with large print and easy-to-learn MIUI shell. The popular smartphone received an NFC chip for contactless payments, 3/64 GB of memory with the ability to put up to 256 GB in a separate MicroSD slot and a powerful MediaTek Helio G35 processor. Using a triple main camera of 13, 2 and 2 megapixels, you can take good photos or record videos.

A waterdrop notch above the 6.53-inch HD+ IPS screen houses a 5MP front-facing camera. Autonomy has become the crown feature of the mobile phone – a 5000 mAh battery can withstand several days without recharging. There is a fingerprint scanner at the back, and the tempered glass Gorilla Glass v5 is responsible for protecting the screen from scratches.

Pros:

  • Enough performance for any purpose;
  • Impressive amounts of memory + a dedicated slot for a flash drive;
  • Good design and ergonomics;
  • Large selection of cheap accessories;
  • NFC and MIUI functional shell;
  • Long battery life;
  • Quality screen;
  • Fingerprint scanner.

Cons:

  • No case and film included;
  • No event LED.


Realme C21y with a powerful 5000 mAh battery gets into the top phones for the elderly. True, it will be charged via MicroUSB at a speed of 10 watts. The performance of the shell is provided by the 8-core chipset Unisoc Tiger T610, 3/32 GB of memory. The tray was made triple, which means you can simultaneously put two SIM-cards and one MicroSD of the required volume.

The image is displayed on a 6.5-inch IPS screen with a resolution of 1600×720 pixels. Color rendition and brightness margin is normal. A 5-megapixel front camera is integrated into the teardrop-shaped notch at the top. On the back side, we are met by a triple module of 13, 2 and 2 megapixels. Next to it is the platform of the fingerprint scanner. NFC opens up the possibility of contactless payments, for example, allowing you to pay for public transport using your phone.

Pros:

  • Lightweight, beautiful and practical case;
  • NFS and fingerprint scanner available;
  • 5000 mAh high-capacity battery;
  • Shield;
  • Feels good in the hand;
  • You can put 2 SIM-cards + MicroSD;
  • Build quality and materials;
  • Catches the net well.

Cons:

  • No event indicator;
  • Charged via legacy MicroUSB.


The simplest smartphone for a senior citizen is equipped with a Unisoc T616 8-core high-performance processor with a frequency of up to 2.0 GHz, which is responsible for the smooth operation of the device. 4 GB of RAM provides simultaneous launch of several programs, and 128 GB of internal memory, expandable up to 1 TB via microSD card, is enough to store pictures, video content, music and other files on your smartphone. The Android 11 operating system means simple, intuitive controls and access to a vast database of apps that let you work and play at your best.

A huge 6.6-inch FHD+ high-definition screen makes the image easy to read, natural and full of vibrant colors. Thanks to the high resolution display of 2408×1080 pixels, we see a clear picture, rich in details and quite smooth, which will especially appeal to fans of games and movies (refresh rate is standard 60 Hz). In addition, natural colors are useful when shopping online, accurately reflecting the look of the product being offered and allowing for quick viewing.

The 50 MP main camera, together with intelligent shooting modes, allows you to take extraordinary photos in excellent quality in sunlight, at night, on the move, as well as capture portraits and distant landscapes. Pictures delight with naturalness, beautiful color saturation and sharpness. The optional front camera is ideal for selfies and handheld video recording. For those who want to take high-quality photos, the Realme C35 has a camera dedicated to portrait photography and a macro camera for capturing small objects at close range (both 2MP). The front camera has an 8-megapixel SONY sensor and AI support.

Reliable 5000 mAh battery with power saving function allows you to talk for 37 hours or 16 hours of continuous video viewing. Therefore, the smartphone is ideal for people who are often away from home and cannot constantly charge it or for those who forget to do it on time.

The Realme C35 has an ultra-slim design that fits perfectly in your hand, ensuring exceptional comfort even during prolonged use of your smartphone. The case of the device is made of plastic material with high light transmission, due to which it slightly changes its color under the influence of light rays. In addition, the model is quite durable and resistant to accidental damage.

Pros:

  • Large 6.6-inch display with good detail and brightness;
  • Moderately productive processor and RAM, suitable for multitasking and gaming without delay;
  • Fast and sensitive fingerprint sensor;
  • Good main camera 50 MP;
  • Huge 5000mAh battery with 18W fast charging;
  • Long battery life;
  • There is NFC for paying for public transport;
  • USB-C connectivity;
  • Available 3.5mm for wired headphones;
  • You can put a memory card in a separate slot;
  • FM radio;
  • Slim and light;
  • Pleasant cost with decent quality.

Cons:

  • No case included;
  • Sufficiently large frame under the screen.


Choosing the best touch or feature phone for the elderly is not easy, because it has specific requirements. Reviews of grandparents indicate that they need a large screen and buttons, a loud speaker, a panic button, bright backlighting, a simple interface and a capacious battery. These requirements are met by smartphones and cell phones that are included in our rating. We can safely recommend them for purchase to pensioners and the elderly. The top has both simple granny phones and good sensory models.

Realme C35

Realme C35

Realme C35

Nomination Winner
Best Camera
Longest battery life Philips Xenium E182
Price/quality leader
Better screen Realme C21
Best feature phone Panasonic TU456
Leading Touch Screen Phone


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Comments for the site Cackl e

15
Apr
2023

13 Best Phones for Seniors

Features

Until now, a fairly common opinion is the idea that only push-button models of phones will fit for the elderly, because these are simple devices. However, everything is not at all like that, and today a simple and inexpensive touch smartphone can be much clearer and simpler. At the same time, it is able to give its user much more options, while remaining simple and understandable not only in setting up, but also in management. As an example, the ability to open and respond to SMS without unlocking the phone, with just one touch. Push-button models are not capable of this. All the main functionality of a modern gadget fits on the main screen, so it will be difficult to get confused. In addition, you can always put on the display especially important applications that you may need quick access to.

Button devices are not always a safe option. Some of them even respond from the modern market. Such phones can easily become the prey of scammers or hackers.

Of course, in order for an elderly person to be as simple as possible with his new phone, you should first prepare the gadget. Some smartphones have special functionality, for example, Samsung has an “Easy Mode”. When it is activated, there is an automatic increase in icons and fonts, and it makes me noticeably simpler. If you took a phone where this is not provided – it does not matter. Now there are free applications, by installing which you can get the same simple and understandable functionality. But, if the universal setting does not fit, or some of the criteria do not suit you, you can always personalize the interface to your own taste by going to the appropriate settings section. There are a number of some recommendations for preparing the phone for use by an elderly person:

  • Turn off all possible notifications for applications, excluding only the most necessary ones, so that the user is not scared when they appear or does not click on something unnecessary.
  • Set silent mode at night, excluding your number, in case of an emergency.
  • All sounds should be maxed out, vibrate on incoming calls. Another useful action is to visit the “Accessibility” section in order to increase the brightness of the screen, etc.
  • Unnecessary, superfluous applications are best deleted or at least hidden in some separate folder. Thus, only the necessary and important will be on the desktop.
  • You can install a special remote access application that will help you solve problems with your phone remotely if they happen.

Display diagonal

The first thing we should pay attention to when choosing is the diagonal of the model display. A large indicator is a value of more than 5.5 inches. It is this parameter that is most preferable, because it will make it possible to view images without straining your eyes. Such dimensions will be convenient not only to comfortably read the news on the screen or communicate via video link, but also to simply look at where the application icons are. It is also important that the display responds quickly to touch. But what is not particularly worth considering is the screen resolution, as well as the refresh rate.

Ease of use

The second important criterion is that the phone is easy to use. In fact, all Android phones have a similar menu structure. However, do not forget about brand differences. iPhone phones can and will be a more convenient option, however, the cost of such gadgets is much higher. It is recommended to check before taking the phone how intuitive the interface of the smartphone is, how easy it is to get used to and understand the settings of such a device. Thus, after the purchase, you can adjust everything to the needs of the user in order to optimize the work with the gadget as much as possible.

Battery capacity

Another important parameter is the battery capacity. Today you can find inexpensive smartphones that can easily last two days without recharging. However, it is important to consider that many factors affect the rate of charge loss, such as a large number of open applications, screen brightness, and media being played. A capacious battery will help to avoid a situation where the phone will require recharging several times a day. For those who need to always stay in touch, models that run out of power with minimal use will not work. What’s the point of a device that doesn’t work?

Memory

Another important criterion is the memory of the device. Older people like to take photos or don’t care about deleting the postcards they receive via messengers, which are very often automatically uploaded to the gallery. Therefore, very soon, the memory of the smartphone may be full. In order to avoid such problems, you should not take phones with a meager amount of storage. Another option is to choose a model that supports an additional memory card. Thus, it will be possible to significantly expand the storage space.

Modern models often put the buyer in front of a choice, making a slot for either a SIM card or a memory card. But given that an older person is unlikely to need a second SIM, the decision isn’t difficult and doesn’t hurt in any way.

Speaker volume

Last but not least, the selection criteria is the volume of the device’s speakers.