Remember when phones were simpler and the flip phone reigned supreme, before the advent of responsive applications, great cameras, and lengthy group chats? The good old days are back, and the best flip phones can help you get some of the old simplicity back into your phone. Unlike today’s cell phones, which can have feature lists that stretch on pages, these gadgets are quite similar to one another. That leaves you deciding primarily between different prepaid, pay-as-you-go carrier plans and, potentially, the speed of your mobile data connection. There is still a wide selection of phones to choose from, despite the fact that most major manufacturers have inevitably abandoned the affordable clamshell phone. So, in this article,, we will discuss the best Flip Phones for seniors, and the smart ones from Verizon.
What Is a Flip Phone?
A flip phone, commonly referred to as a clamshell phone, is a cellular device characterized by its structural design with a hinge mechanism enabling the phone to be folded in half. The previous design served the purpose of safeguarding the screen and keypad of the phone during periods of inactivity, while simultaneously enhancing the phone’s portability and reducing its overall size.
For a number of reasons, flip phones have recently made a comeback in mainstream society. First and foremost, those who are dependent on their smartphones have been using both newer models of flip phones and older models as a means of “detoxing” their devices.
Switching to a flip phone from an app like Instagram or TikTok, which requires constant attention, is akin to going back to the basics. Some people in the modern world who fear technology are content with just the basics: phone, text, camera, and internet.
Second, on the complete opposite end of the spectrum, there are currently some very cutting-edge and hip flip phones available. All the necessary capabilities of a modern smartphone are present in these models, yet they nevertheless manage to offer that bold and delightful flip closing.
What’s Behind the Huge Revival of Flip Phones?
Some individuals are starting to long for the simpler, smaller flip phones that were once the norm because of the ever-increasing size of today’s smartphones.
Younger people, including many for whom a smartphone was their first phone, are coming around to the idea that simpler flip phones have their advantages. Dumb flip phones are making a comeback for various reasons, but here are the top five.
#1. TikTok Has Made Flip Phones Popular Once Again
Young people’s increasing preference for flip phones can be attributed primarily to the proliferation of social media. Flip phones are popular among influencers and celebrities on TikTok because they allow users to easily disconnect and enjoy the moment.
Sammy Palazzolo (@skzzolno on TikTok), who frequently posts movies about her experiences taking a flip phone out on the town with her friends, has created one of the most watched videos centered on the device. A flip phone limits her to taking photos and texting her pals, rather than allowing her to become caught up in social media or fixate on a single bad comment.
The trend toward abandoning social media and other forms of digital connectivity is hardly novel, but the excitement around flip phones certainly is. In addition, the future of flip phones, like that of bell-bottom jeans and scrunchies, is uncertain.
#2. They Cost Less Sometimes
For less than $100, you can get a genuine flip phone like one from the ’90s or 00s, like the TCL Flip 2 from TracFone or the Cricket Wireless Debut Flip, for under $50. That’s a lot less than the top low-priced smartphones, which can cost as much as $200 or $300.
However, there are also pricey flip phones available. The Galaxy Z Flip 4 from Samsung costs $999 at retail, while its main rival, the Moto Razr 2022 from Motorola, sells for around $899. Both of these are dual-purpose flip phones that can also function as smartphones; nevertheless, they are priced higher than the average smartphone.
#3. Flip Phones Are More Compact and Portable
The most recent flagship smartphones have displays that are comparable in size to tablets. The typical diagonal size of a screen on a current flagship model is 6.8 inches. These days, the average display size for a flip phone is 2.8 inches, and the phone body doesn’t occupy much more space than the screen.
Flip phones may be a little thicker than smartphones, but the difference is negligible. And when you’re wearing skinny jeans, a flip phone is considerably more convenient to carry around than a smartphone.
#4. A Decrease in Total Screen Time
Nowadays, people frequently unplug their electronic devices. The term “digital detox” describes this very concept. People spend a lot of time staring at screens, from their desktop computers at work to their televisions at home to their smartphones, at all hours of the day.
When you have no choice but to stare at screens for hours on end as part of your job, there are strategies you can use to avoid burnout. Switching to dumb flip phones can be an effective way to reduce screen time, especially if you rely heavily on your smartphone both at work and at home.
Due to the lack of engaging content, you’ll find yourself using your smartphone less frequently. A dumb flip phone may have a display, but it’s not designed for social media or mobile gaming, the two most popular ways that smartphone owners waste their time.
Unless you buy one of the more premium smart flip phones, switching to a smartphone with a flip form factor probably won’t reduce your daily screen time. But if you value less screen time above all else, a stupid flip phone is the way to go.
#5. Flip Form Factor Is Satisfying
Opening and closing a flip phone is quite pleasant if you’ve ever used one. It opens with a flick of a finger and makes a quiet clicking or popping noise when it snaps into place.
However, putting the cover back on a flip phone is the best part. If you’ve just gotten off the phone with an irritant, there’s nothing quite like the click when your flip phone closes.
You can’t slam your smartphone shut in frustration; you could toss it, but that would be silly because cell phones are too expensive to risk losing. In addition, a flip phone has momentum when it closes, making it extremely difficult to slam it closed with enough force to damage it.
What Are the Advantages and Disadvantages of a Flip Phone?
Thanks to their innovative design and useful functions, flip phones are currently at the cutting edge of mobile phone innovation. These adaptable gadgets provide an exciting and novel user experience.
Flip phones have many benefits, including portability, ease of use, and a certain retro charm. Their slim design makes them an ideal traveling companion, fitting easily into a pocket or handbag. However, flip phones, unlike their more powerful equivalents, have a longer battery life, reducing the risk of being caught off guard by a dead battery at an inopportune time. In addition, its limited functionality aids in the reduction of unnecessary distractions.
There are, of course, drawbacks to this device that must be taken into account. You might find yourself wishing for more advanced functions.
Advantages of flip phones:
- Compact and Reliable. Flip phones are characterized by their affordable pricing, compact size, and superior durability compared to smart cell phones. The use of a flexible design serves to safeguard the primary screen of the phone by minimizing the potential for accidental damage when the device is in a closed state.
- Enhanced Battery Performance. Flip phones, in contrast to modern smartphones, may go for days without needing a charge. This is a great addition for people who care most about how long their batteries last.
- User-Friendly Design. Flip phones are simple mobile devices that, when opened, reveal a secondary display and navigation buttons below the main screen. As a result of their straightforward design, flip phones are particularly appropriate for the needs of seniors and those who are content with fewer features.
- Usable with Only One Hand. You can operate a flip phone entirely with your thumb, making it ideal for one-handed use. This allows you to do things like check messages and take calls without having to use both hands.
- Dual Displays for Essential Data. Flip phones have a secondary, smaller screen on the clamshell’s front side, so you can see the time and date even when the phone is closed. Users may quickly glance at crucial information without even opening the phone.
Disadvantages of flip phones:
- Functional Restriction. Flip phones don’t have nearly as many options as smart cell phones today. Flip phones may not satisfy the needs of consumers who want access to the most up-to-date applications, web browsing, and multimedia features.
- Display Resolution and Size. In comparison to today’s smartphones, the primary displays of flip phones are often smaller and lower in resolution. The quality of the user’s experience may suffer as a result, especially while watching videos or surfing the web.
- Poor Web Navigation. Flip phones have a small screen and use a simple web browser, making internet browsing a chore. Websites that are too complex may not load correctly, making it impossible for the user to access the content.
- Poorer Camera Resolution. The cameras of flip phones tend to be of inferior quality than those on more recent smartphones. Users who place a high value on photography might be dissatisfied with the poor quality of the images taken by flip phone cameras.
- There are fewer apps to Choose From. Due to their simplistic software, flip phones are often unable to run modern services and apps. Incompatibilities can be a headache for users who rely on particular programs for work or play.
Overview of The Best Flip Phones
Here are the best 7+ flip phones you might want to consider.
#1. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip
Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 4 is the best choice if you want a smartphone but like the convenience of a flip phone.
The phone is beautiful, but it’s expensive. Its bezel is narrower than that of the Flip 3, making it more portable, and yet its 6.7-inch screen is just as striking. The 3,700 mAh battery in the Galaxy Z Flip4 is larger and faster to charge (up to 25 watts) than the battery in the previous model.
Among the coolest features is the option to see multiple screens at once and personalize the cover screen with your most-used apps and calendar reminders.
The camera on the Flip phone is decent, with 12 megapixels for the wide and ultra-wide lenses and 10 megapixels for the front camera, but it isn’t any better than the camera on the Flip 3.
#2. Alcatel Prepaid My Flip 4G
This is a top-tier, cutting-edge flip phone, comparable to the best of the best. It comes with an in-built GPS, a 2.8-inch screen, and a quad-core processor. Incoming calls and texts can be quickly viewed on the device’s outside display. The battery life in standby mode is also outstanding, lasting for 16 days.
You can record high-definition video with the phone’s 2MP camera, and because it supports 4G, you won’t have to worry about the sluggish transfer speeds you’d get with older 2G or 3G networks when sharing your footage with friends. Customers are raving about the phone’s intuitive design, high-fidelity sound, and extensive software choices (which include Google Maps).
#3. Cat S22 Flip Phone
The CAT S22 is a fantastic flip phone because of its extremely sturdy construction. Blue-collar workers, those prone to dropping their phones, and anyone else who values durability will find this to be the perfect phone. The phone can withstand being dropped, submerged, and washed thanks to its IP68 and MIL-SPEC 810H certifications.
Furthermore, CAT claims to have tested the hinge over 150,000 times to ensure its longevity and is confident enough in the product to offer a 2-year guarantee. Android Go is what drives the CAT S22. It packs a powerful Qualcomm quad-core processor and 16GB of internal storage, which can be upgraded using the device’s dedicated microSD card slot. The battery will last for 12 hours of continuous use before needing to be recharged.
#4. ZTE Cymbal Z-320
This ZTE alternative has a small and stylish form factor, making it convenient to carry around in your pocket. One of the few current flip phones, this one is compatible with 4G LTE networks. Reading letters and viewing images on the 3-inch screen is a breeze.
Despite the 2MP camera’s low quality, the Cymbal’s 650 MB of built-in storage and microSD card slot mean you won’t have to worry about running out of room. You may use your wireless headphones with this device because it features both Bluetooth and an FM radio.
#5. LG Classic Flip Phone
This flip phone, like the TCL one up top, offers 8 GB of storage, a 2-megapixel camera, and a 2.8-inch display. The phone utilizes a micro-USB cable for charging.
The LG has a sleek and futuristic design, with a dark metallic gray casing and a front panel that houses the camera lens, battery life indicator, and time. It has a handy SOS button on the back panel in case of emergency.
#6. Tracfone TCL FLIP2
The TCL Flip2 from TracFone is a great option if you don’t want to spend a lot of money on a flip phone. It has a good 2.8-inch screen, 8 GB of storage space, and a 2-megapixel rear camera. Since Verizon acquired TracFone in 2022, the company’s countrywide network now includes the inexpensive flip phone.
Although the TCL Flip2’s textured metallic gray appearance and rounded corners won’t blow you away, they are pleasant to look at. The higher and slightly enlarged keys are another attractive feature.
The maximum capacity of external storage provided by a microSD card the phone will accept is 128 GB. This cell phone is micro-USB charged.
#7. Nokia 2780 Flip
The Nokia 2780 Flip is a highly capable flip phone. It has all the important features of a modern phone while maintaining the convenience of a flip phone with large buttons.
It operates on a platform dubbed KaiOS, which has the familiar, user-friendly design of Nokia phones, but also includes Google services like Search, Maps, and YouTube.
It’s up to date with modern standards thanks to its USB-C charging port and the fact that it’s compatible with hearing aids for people who need them. In addition, with 4G/LTE access, you can quickly download or watch anything that normally takes time online.
#8. BLU Tank Flip
Blu is most known for its affordable Android smartphones, but the company also produces a steady stream of more traditional feature phones. It supports 4G and LTE networks, but only if you’re content to stick with T-Mobile or one of its MVNOs. We regret to inform you that this product does not work with AT&T, Verizon, Cricket Wireless, Sprint, or Boost Mobile.
It’s available in your choice of three colors, is solidly constructed, and includes a sizable 2.8-inch color screen on the interior in addition to two 2-megapixel cameras that are perfect for snapping shots of yourself or your friends. A full charge of its 1350mAh battery will last for days on end, and it is compatible with Facebook and WhatsApp.
#9. Jitterbug Flip2
The Jitterbug Flip2 phone was designed with the elderly and those with limited dexterity in mind; thus, it features large, easily discernible buttons and a simplified interface. The list menu is straightforward, and there’s an Alexa voice assistant built in if you choose to use that instead. To top it all off, the phone has a huge red button that will connect you to emergency services, nurses, and doctors whenever you need them.
Lively is a dedicated carrier that you can activate your phone with online or over the phone. Once activated, you may sign up for a minutes plan (starting at $14.99 per month) and, optionally, a Health and Safety package to get the most out of your phone. You should know that it is incompatible with every other US carrier before you commit to it.
#10. Kyocera Duraxv Extreme Flip Phone
This flip phone has a lot going for it, especially if you’re already a Verizon user. It has remarkable durability, excellent call quality, and a very loud speakerphone, making it a strong contender among the carrier’s entry-level 4G phones. It also has a 5-megapixel rear camera, 16GB of storage, and a USB-C connection for charging.
Also, the military-grade flip phone is resistant to water, drops from five feet, and high heat. The four corners are protected by bumpers, and the exterior is made of durable plastic. This makes it somewhat cumbersome and unwieldy.
Best Flip Phones for Seniors
Some seniors might find it hard to accept, but not everyone craves a smartphone. For some, a phone is a necessity for making calls or maintaining emergency contact. Which is why we still see people using flip phones. There are no confusing apps or touchscreens to navigate, no daily charging required, and no Lexus-like price tag. It’s just easy, cheap, and gratifying to slam shut. The Enterprise, please beam us up. Kirk leaves.”) Here’s a list of the best flip phones for seniors.
#1. Jitterbug Flip2
It should come as no surprise that the phones made by Lively, makers of the Lively Mobile Plus medical alert system, cater to seniors. The Jitterbug Flip2 was developed with the needs of seniors in mind. The 5Star button on the handset can also be used as a medical alert system, connecting the user to emergency services.
However, the Jitterbug Flip2 is designed with a large, backlit display and simple controls in mind. It includes two cameras, one for taking standard images and the other for taking selfies, as well as a bright light and a magnifier. In addition, this phone makes it simple to access all of these capabilities using list-based menus. The fact that you can use your voice to control Alexa is just another cool thing about this phone. You can use your voice to do things like ask Alexa for a reminder, make a phone call, or seek out simple information.
Additionally, Flip2 offers the same medical alert functions that are available on any Jitterbug phone. For a monthly fee of $19.99 and above, subscribers of Lively’s Health and Safety package enjoy access to monitoring agents, board-certified nurses, and even personal operators.
The Jitterbug Flip2 is a great option for seniors who skip the advanced features of a smartphone but still want to stay in touch with family and friends.
#2. Consumer Cellular Verve Snap
The Consumer Cellular Verve Snap may not have as many bells and whistles as some other flip phones, but it’s hard to beat the price. When combined with Consumer Cellular’s already low costs, you get one of the cheapest flip phones available.
The Verve Snap has only the most essential functions. It can have phone conversations, send and receive text messages, and snap pictures. It boasts a big, easy-to-read keyboard and Bluetooth, so you can use a wireless headset or stream media wirelessly. Researchers did tests while wearing hearing aids, and found no interference from the phone. This device has a hearing aid compatibility rating of M3/T4. The battery life of this phone was very impressive. It survived four days on a single charge through rigorous testing. Researchers were able to keep it on standby for two weeks.
The Consumer Cellular Verve Snap does the bare minimum of what a phone should do, at a price that no other phone on this list comes close to matching.
#3. Easyfone Prime-A1 Pro 4G Flip Phone
A multipurpose, user-friendly, and low-cost phone that is especially suited for seniors.
The clue is in the name: this is a simple phone, and initial reports are positive. When a spam call comes in, simply press the big red “Block” button, and the caller will be immediately blocked. When you set up photo-based speed dialing, calling friends and family is as simple as pressing the contact button and scrolling through a gallery of images to select the desired call recipient.
There’s an SOS button on the back of the phone that, when held down for three seconds, not only sounds an alarm but also dials the first person you’ve designated as an emergency contact. Your current GPS location will also be sent via text message.
The SIM card for SpeedTalk Mobile, which is included in the bundle, is what really provides the service. The service provider uses T-Mobile’s network for voice and text communications and offers plans beginning at just $5 monthly. You’ll get 100 minutes of talk time and 100 texts for that, with an increase in benefits for a few extra dollars. This is one of the most affordable choices available, even if you choose the unlimited plan (which costs a ridiculous $9 per month).
How to Choose the Best Flip Phones for Seniors
Our criteria for evaluating different models of flip phones included:
- Minimalist layout: The primary advantage of a flip phone is its simplicity. In order to make calls, send messages, and take images with minimal hassle, we sought out gadgets with user-friendly interfaces.
- Durable batteries: Flip phones, in contrast to smartphones, do not typically need to be charged more than once every few days, if at all. The standby time for each of these phones was at least a week.
- Intuitive functions: Many of our favorite flip phones also have access to the internet, app stores, and even medical alert features—all of which are more commonly associated with smartphones.
- Affordability: The inexpensive price and ease of use of flip phones are major selling points for seniors. There isn’t a single phone on this list that costs more than $200.
Best Flip Phones Verizon
Back before smart cell phones became mainstream, flip phones were the must-have accessory. Flip phones are popular mostly among seniors and others who value their simplicity.
Even though some flip phones have more features, the vast majority of them just let you make and receive calls, send and receive texts, and take the occasional picture. Originally intended for the masses, the cell phone industry has shifted its focus in recent years to simplify the flip phone for seniors.
Things to Consider Before Buying Verizon Flip Phones
Here, we’ll examine the most important considerations for modern Verizon flip phones.
#1. Simplicity
For the most part, seniors prefer flip phones because of their ease of use. While most cell phones strive for ease of use, others can be confusing. You should seek out handsets with the simplest principal operation conceivable. The senior should be able to access calls and messages without difficulty, and the menu should not be cluttered with options the senior will never use. If you only plan on using your phone for making and receiving phone calls and text messages, then you should get the most basic model available.
#2. Durability
Most seniors are not as cautious with their phones as younger people. As they get older, they continue to disregard a phone’s value and carelessly set it down, sit on it, or accidentally break it. This necessitates that the Verizon flip phones they acquire are both small and sturdy enough to endure frequent drops.
#3. Price
Elderly people are not interested in purchasing an expensive cell phone. Although there is a wide variety in pricing for flip phones, in general, they are more affordable than smartphones. A flip phone with water resistance will likely cost more than one without. Check to see whether the cost of a new flip phone fits within your budget. The Lifeline Assistance program can help those with low incomes who cannot afford a new phone, however, they do not provide free flip cell phones to those who qualify.
Overview of the Best Verizon Flip Phones
Here are some of the best Verizon flip phones:
#1. Kyocera DuraXV LTE Flip Phone
The Kyocera DuraXV LTE is a durable Verizon flip phone that can withstand the elements, dirt, and even the occasional drop. It can operate for up to half an hour in water as deep as 6.5 feet, has big buttons, a big talk button, loudspeakers, and a loud voice. The robust characteristics make the 6.2-ounce phone heavier than other flip phones. It can capture basic images, measures 4.21 by 2.22 by 0.99 inches, and contains a camera. Also, it’s a black flip phone with a long-lasting battery designed for seniors.
#2. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip combines the best features of a traditional flip phone and a smartphone, making it an ideal choice for Verizon customers. This phone is ideal for the slightly tech-savvy senior who prefers a tiny yet contemporary device.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip combines the power and sophistication of a smartphone with the portability of a flip phone. It boasts a high-quality camera, a large 6.7-inch screen, 256 GB of storage, the Android operating system, a sizable battery, and more.
Also, the Samsung Flip phone is a foldable, pocketable, and technologically advanced smartphone. This phone’s price tag is higher than what many retirees are willing to pay for a mobile device. This 5.46-ounce phone may be too much for the average senior to justify, but it’s well worth it if you’re a tech-savvy senior in need of a great camera.
#3. Alcatel Go Flip V
This black Alcatel Go Flip from Verizon is 4G LTE-capable and can act as a mobile hotspot for up to ten other phones. The phone’s big, backlit keypad, text keys, and individual camera button all contribute to its user-friendliness. It has a 2.8-inch main screen that is both bright and clear, making it ideal for reading, and a separate display for alerts.
In addition, the Alcatel Go Flip supports hearing aids, has a loudspeaker, and has a 3.5mm connection for headphones. The Verizon flip phone has 8GB of internal storage, a 24-hour talktime battery, and an SD card port.
Smart Flip Phone
Even though flip phones first gained popularity in the 1990s, they continue to be widely used today. Smartphone flip phones with Android and 5G support are now available. These are some of the best options for a new smart Android flip phone. Also, read Best Smartphone for Seniors: Top 7 in 2023(
#1. Motorola Razr 5G
The Motorola Razr 5G is an homage to the first flip phone, with innovative new features unimaginable back then.
You should check out this new smartphone model if you liked the design of the original Motorola Razr. It has an improved hinge, a superior camera, and a battery that can be charged extremely quickly.
This phone, however, is more than simply a facelift for a model from the early 2000s. This is an entirely new mobile phone. When opened, the display is horizontal, like that of the Galaxy Z. The external “Quick View” screen is great for quickly checking notifications and more.
Launched in 2020, the Razr 5G has already had some of its technology rendered obsolete. The Snapdragon 765G 5G octa-core processor and an earlier version of Android are included as standard features. Its enormous storage space and excellent 6.2-inch OLED HD+ display more than makeup for these drawbacks.
#2. Nokia 2720 V Flip
Although not officially an Android flip phone, the Nokia 2720 V Flip is nonetheless a smartphone with a flip-phone design. If you want a smart flip phone but don’t want to break the bank, this is the one for you.
A “smart” version of a classic Nokia phone is hardly surprising despite the company’s recent surge in popularity. The Nokia 2720 V Flip is not an Android phone; rather, it runs on Linux-based KaiOS.
Don’t let the OS deceive you. Apps like Facebook, WhatsApp, and Google Duo are already installed on this phone. It has Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, as well as a camera (albeit a 2MP one). It features excellent standby battery life with 4G/LTE support.
You don’t get a lot of space or processing power for your $79 MSRP. This phone includes a Qualcomm 8909 chipset, 4GB of storage space, and 512MB of RAM. However, if you’re only looking for a phone to make calls and check email, this could be a fine option.
#3. TracFone My Flip 2
The inexpensive TracFone My Flip 2 smart flip phone may be worth considering if you don’t mind carrier lock.
The TracFone My Flip 2’s technological specifications aren’t quite jaw-dropping. The phone includes a Quad-Core 1.1 GHz processor, 4 GB of RAM, and only 4 GB of internal storage. A 2MP camera and that design give the impression of a rudimentary flip phone from the early 2000s.
However, the My Flip 2 has far more features than initially appears. It’s an Android flip phone with all the bells and whistles, including access to the Google Play Store and some preloaded apps. You can access all of your social media accounts, use Google Maps, and even watch YouTube videos (although in miniature) on the go.
Its headphone jack, more accessible functions, and customizable SOS button make it suitable for all ages of family members. What’s even better? It’s just going to cost you $20.
Bottom Line
Flip phones are superior to slab phones in almost every aspect that I care about when it comes to a smartphone. Because, just so you don’t forget, even when you flip it open, it’s still just a flat phone! It merely… brings an end to things. But there’s one more fantastic thing about flip phones that you might not immediately think of: they take considerably better pictures than standard smartphones.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Easiest Flip Phone to Use?
Nokia 2780 Flip. It’s a sturdy flip phone with plenty of extras, like support for Bluetooth headsets and loud volume. When it comes to flip feature phones, the Nokia 2780 Flip is among the best. It’s loaded with all the major features of today’s smartphones while maintaining the convenience of a traditional flip phone.
Are Flip Phones Going to Be Obsolete Soon?
Flip phones, medical warning devices, and even some home security systems will become obsolete with the introduction of 5G technology.
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