6 Best Flip Phone for Seniors
Our phones can keep us connected, entertain us, and provide valuable access to information. In fact, according to the Pew Research Center, 82% of seniors who own a smartphone describe it as ‘freeing.’ While smartphones are popular, many seniors prefer flip phones because they’re easier to use, more affordable, and less overwhelming than smartphones.
Flip phones can also reduce the cognitive load that comes with trying something new and can be less distracting than a smartphone.
In this article, we’ll discuss the best flip phone for seniors. We’ll also highlight features to help find a phone that is easy to use, has helpful safety features, and helps seniors stay connected with their loved ones.
Key Takeaways
When choosing a flip phone for seniors, focus on features like a large display, good audio quality, emergency features, and long battery life.
Flip phones such as the Jitterbug Flip2 and Alcatel Go Flip 4 are specifically designed with seniors in mind.
Besides choosing a phone, it’s important to consider the network. Some phones are tied to specific networks, and not all networks provide good service in all areas.
Best for Easy Use: Jitterbug Flip2
The Jitterbug Flip2 is easy to use with a simple interface. Seniors can also call, text, and ask questions with Amazon Alexa voice commands. Jitterbug’s Urgent Response button provides peace of mind to seniors and their families. When pressed, seniors are connected with an Urgent Response Agent who can help with contacting emergency services and caretakers.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Large buttons that are easy to use | No internet browsing capabilities (but can ask questions through Amazon Alexa) |
| Built-in flashlight and magnifier | Extra fees for some safety features |
| Hearing aid compatible | Volume on calls can be quiet |
| Powerful safety features | |
| Flexible plans and no long-term contracts |
Best for Quality Audio: Nokia 2780 Flip
For seniors who enjoy talking on the phone, the Nokia 2780 Flip offers good call quality. One battery charge can provide up to 7 hours of talk time. Seniors regularly rank this simple flip phone as affordable and reliable.
| Column A | Column B |
|---|---|
| Large buttons are easy to use | Screen size is small, which can make it difficult to read |
| Hearing aid compatible | Limited storage can lead to slower loading times |
| SOS button for emergencies | Limited app support |
| Dual displays make it easy to see who is calling or texting | Lower quality camera |
| Wi-Fi access and 4G connectivity |
Best for Smartphone Features: Alcatel Go Flip 4
The Alcatel Go Flip 4, known as a “smartphone lite,” supports Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. It lets you access basic internet and apps like email and calendars. It also has large buttons and an ample screen that make it easy to use. Battery life is also good, offering almost 15 hours of talk time.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Simple interface and large buttons | Limited storage |
| Hearing aid compatible | Basic camera |
| Good battery life | Charging can be slow |
| Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity |
Best for Active Seniors: Kyocera DuraXV Extreme
Kyocera DuraXV Extreme is rugged and durable, making it a good choice for active seniors. It also has loud speakers and noise cancellation, making calls easy to hear, even in noisy environments.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Large, tactile keys are easy to use | Bulkier and heavier than other phones due to its durability |
| Clear call audio | Basic camera |
| Wi-Fi calling and mobile hotspot features | Limited apps |
| Water and dust resistant |
Best Budget-Friendly: Consumer Cellular Link II
Consumer Cellular Link II is a budget-friendly option, retailing for under $60. It’s compatible with Consumer Cellular plans and hearing aids.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable | No medical alert feature |
| Dual screen for previewing calls and messages | Limited apps |
| Compact and light | Poor reception in rural areas |
| Tactile, high-contrast buttons are easy to use | |
| No long-term contract |
Best Rugged: Sonim XP3 Plus
Sonim XP3 Plus is extra durable and military-grade tough, making it ideal for seniors who might drop it frequently or spend a lot of time outdoors. It also has clear audio.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Resistant to drops, dust, and water | Heavier and bulkier than other phones due to its durability |
| Designed to be used with gloves, making it a good option for seniors with limited dexterity | Limited apps |
| Loud, clear speaker | Basic camera |
| Programmable buttons |
Features to look for in senior flip phones
Knowing what features to look for in senior-friendly flip phones can make shopping easier.
Display and button design
Because our vision often changes as we age, looking for certain display designs can make flip phones easier to use. These include large, backlit displays with high contrast, which make them easier to read and cause less strain on the eyes.
Clear, readable fonts and number visibility are also important. As some seniors may find some fonts easier to read than others, testing out phones in-store can be helpful. Having the option to adjust font sizes can also help make phone screens easy to read.
Look for oversized buttons with tactile feedback. These are easy to use, even if the individual has difficulty seeing, and can be helpful for people with limited dexterity. For seniors who want a bigger screen, a tablet might be a good option for video calls from home.
Audio quality and hearing aid compatibility
Our hearing can also change as we age, making it important to consider audio quality. Opting for a loud flip phone for seniors can make it easier to call and video chat with family and friends. Considering the speakerphone is also important, as many seniors prefer to use the speakerphone for calls. It allows them to hear calls at a higher volume and with greater clarity, so they don’t need to hold the phone to their ear.
If the person shopping for the phone wears hearing aids, you’ll also want to check hearing aid compatibility (HAC) ratings. These include both “M” and “T” ratings. “M” ratings tell you how much interference a phone causes when using a hearing aid, with M4 being the best option. “T” ratings tell you how well a hearing aid connects with a phone’s electromagnetic field. T4 is the best rating.
Emergency and safety features
Many elderly flip phones come with emergency and safety features. This can provide peace of mind for both the seniors themselves and their loved ones. One-touch emergency calling and SOS buttons make it simple to reach emergency services and loved ones in an emergency. For example, with an SOS button, you can program it with certain contacts. When you press this button a certain number of times, it alerts these contacts.
GPS tracking and location sharing are other features to look for that help to balance safety with independence. Location sharing is helpful for seniors who have mobility issues or dementia. If they should have a fall or medical emergency, emergency services or loved ones can use location services to easily find them. Loved ones also appreciate having the ability to check in on seniors to make sure they’re safe when out and about.
Medical IDs and emergency contacts can also be helpful should there be an emergency. This allows health information, such as medical conditions and medications, to be saved to the phone. First responders can access this information, even if the phone is locked.
Battery life and charging considerations
While seniors might use their phones less often, they might wish to look for a phone that has a longer battery life, so they don’t need to stop what they’re doing and charge it throughout the day. Seniors might also be more reliant on their phones for emergencies, so good battery life is essential. When thinking about battery life, consider both standby time and talk time. Batteries tend to drain faster when using the phone, so seniors who enjoy talking on the phone will want to look for a phone that offers a longer talk time.
How you charge the phone is also important. While charging cables are often used, these can be difficult for people with more limited dexterity. Charging docks can be easier to use, as all seniors need to do is rest their phone in the dock, no lining up cords required. Some seniors also prefer to change the battery in their phones. If this is the case, look for a phone that allows the battery to be removed.
How the phone displays a low battery is important to consider, as battery life indicators can be small. For people who have difficulty seeing, a low battery life indicator that is both visual and audible may be helpful.
Bottom Line
Choosing the best flip phone for seniors depends on their needs. The Jitterbug Flip2 is a good option for an easy-to-use phone. However, those needing something tougher might choose the Kyocera DuraXV Extreme or the Sonim XP3 Plus. It’s also important to think about carriers alongside device features to ensure the best coverage. Trying phones in-store and comparing plans is a good way to choose the best phone for you.
FAQs
What is the easiest flip phone for seniors to use?
Flip phones such as Jitterbug Flip2 and Alcatel Go Flip 4 often receive high ratings for ease of use. Seniors appreciate the large, easy-to-read buttons.
Do flip phones work with hearing aids?
Many flip phones are compatible with hearing aids. It’s best to check for the hearing aid compatibility (HAC) rating to ensure that flip phones work with hearing aids.
Can seniors get emergency services on flip phones?
Yes, seniors can call 911 from flip phones. Many flip phones for seniors also have SOS or urgent response buttons that can be used to call for help with the touch of a button.
Sources
Anderson, M. (2015, April 29). For vast majority of seniors who own one, a smartphone equals ‘freedom’. Pew Research Center. https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2015/04/29/seniors-smartphones/
National Council on Aging. (2024, August 8). Frequently asked questions: Technology resources for remote evidence-based programs. https://www.ncoa.org/article/frequently-asked-questions-technology-resources-for-remote-evidence-based-programs/