Did you know that 92 percent of adults ages 65 and older own a cell phone in the U.S.? If you’re in the market for a new or upgraded phone, we can help! If you’ve ever shopped for a cell phone, you know just how many options there are on the market; it can feel endless. To make it easier for you, our team started by narrowing the search to 25 phones by eliminating options that did not meet our standard criteria. After over 300 hours of research, online shopping, conversations with customer service, and hands-on testing of more than 25 phones, we arrived at 10 finalists that we’re calling the best cell phones for seniors.
From the Pros: Before you purchase a new phone, it’s important to make sure you know exactly what you’re signing up for and how to get the most bang for your buck. Our cell phone for seniors buyer’s guide shares important factors to consider before your big purchase.
A few Galaxy models offer slightly longer battery life than the Galaxy A14; however, this model offers the most bang for your buck. At only $228 for the device, it’s a few hundred dollars cheaper than other Galaxy models. If your main concern is battery life, the few extra hours of talk time you’ll get with a more expensive model really aren’t worth several hundred dollars. Plus, if you only need a phone for emergencies or making a few quick calls every day, the Galaxy A14 has one of the longest standby battery lives of any model. You’ll be able to leave it on when you’re not using it, and you won’t have to worry about it dying.
Device cost | $228 |
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Price range for talk, text, & data plans | $27.50 to $45 per line* |
Contracts | No |
Money-back guarantee | Within 14 days of purchase or lease |
* Starting prices per line for Unlimited 55+ plans
If you’re looking for more advanced features or a phone that has data and internet access, the Verve won’t be the phone for you. On the other hand, if your main concern is price and you only want a basic cell phone, this is one of the least expensive phones available. You’ll still be able to do all the essentials like take photos, make calls, and send texts.
Device cost | $62 |
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Price range for talk, text, and data | $20 to $50 per month |
Contracts | No contracts |
Money-back guarantee | 30 days |
Did You Know? AARP members receive a discounted monthly bill on Consumer Cellular plans. Check out our AARP membership guide for more information.
While Lively’s senior plan pricing begins at $14.99, it’s important to note that if you’re on a tight budget, you’ll have to pay both a product and an activation fee upfront. Their text, talk, and data plans tend to be on the pricier end as well. However, the Jitterbug Smart3 is very affordable compared to other smartphones on the market, and new customers typically receive big discounts on upfront fees. If you sign up for one of Lively’s add-on health and safety packages, you’ll need to pay an additional monthly fee. Lively offers a 30-day trial period to return your device for a full refund, minus a $10 restocking fee.
Device cost | $149.99 before discounts |
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Price range for talk, text, & data plans | $14.99 to $49.99 per month |
Add-on health & safety packages (optional) | $24.99 to $34.99 per month |
Contracts | No contracts |
Money-back guarantee | 30 days (requires a $10 restocking fee for returns) |
Saving Alert! Make sure to check out seasonal deals! Right not lively is offering 50 percent off the Jitterbug Smart3.
With a wide range of options, unique features, and flexible plans, we found Consumer Cellular’s phones and packages to be a top choice for seniors. The GrandPad is much larger than a cell phone, so it’s not as portable as the other phones on our list. If you spend a lot of time on the go or simply don’t want a large device, the GrandPad may not be the right fit for you. However, if you spend a lot of time at home and want a larger screen that’s easy to grip and use for things like reading, video chatting, and playing games, it’s a solid option. Also, keep in mind that the GrandPad tablet is more expensive than many of the cell phones on our list. On the plus side, you can pay off your device in affordable monthly installments if that works better for your budget.
Device cost | $149 |
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Unlimited data | $40 per month |
Contracts | No contracts |
Money-back guarantee | 30 days |
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 3 5G costs $1,499, which is significantly pricier than other phones on the market. However, if you’re looking for a compact, durable, and advanced foldable phone with a vibrant screen, this phone is a great choice. You can also choose financing options such as $63/per month with affirm.
Device cost | $1,499 |
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Mint Mobile price range for talk, text, and data plans | $15 to $30 per month* |
Mint Mobile contracts | No |
Mint Mobile money-back guarantee | Within 7 days of activation |
* With a 12-month plan
The iPhone SE starts at $429.99, making it one of the more expensive phones on our list. However, it’s one of the most affordable iPhone models, so if you’ve had your eye on an Apple phone, it’s a good option. Plus, the iPhone offers several advanced features that other phones don’t, so if you’re more concerned about tech than price, you’ll be set. Also, remember that this is our pick for the best advanced smartphone, which means it won’t be great for technology-averse seniors or those who are easily overwhelmed by extra bells and whistles. We believe that most older adults can learn to use an iPhone with a little persistence and patience (and possibly a grandchild’s help), but we also know that this high-tech phone is not for everyone.
Device cost | $429.99 to $579.99 (depends on storage size) |
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T-Mobile price range for talk, text, & data plans | $40 to $85 per month* |
T-Mobile contracts | No contracts |
T-Mobile money-back guarantee | 30 days after service begins |
*All prices are for one line. Customers can receive large discounts per line when more lines are added. Discounts may also be available for 55+ customers.
Saving Alert! For a limited time, receive a $50 Virtual Prepaid Mastercard when switching to T-Mobile Home Internet.
Although we love this phone’s durability and rugged design, it is a bit more costly than other flip phones. The Kyocera DuraXE Epic costs $269.99, but it features important functions for older adults, such as an SOS button, hearing aid compatibility, larger font sizes, and a waterproof design. If the Kyocera DuraXE Epic from AT&T fits in your budget, it’s worth the higher price point in our book.
Free Shipping Deal: Right now, you can order Kyocera DuraXE Epic and receive free shipping.
Device cost | $269.99 |
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AT&T price range for talk, text, and data plans | $50 to $85 per month for one line* |
AT&T contracts | Up to two years; no contracts on select plans |
AT&T money-back guarantee | Yes |
*All prices listed are for one line. Customers can receive large discounts per line when more lines are added.
At $240, the Kyocera DuraXV Extreme is a fairly expensive flip phone. However, its powerful speaker and M4/T4 hearing aid compatibility may be worth the price if you have hearing loss. Plus, you can pay off your phone in monthly installments if you don’t want to pay the total amount upfront. Also, keep in mind that this is a basic cell phone, so its capabilities will be more limited than smartphone options. You’ll still be able to send texts, make calls to friends and family, and take pictures, so if you’re just concerned with the basics, it’s a solid choice.
Device cost | $240 |
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Verizon price range for talk, text, and data plans | $30 to $90* |
Verizon contracts | No contracts |
Verizon money-back guarantee | Within 30 days of purchase (may require a $50 restocking fee in some cases) |
*All prices listed are for one line. Customers may be eligible for large discounts per line when more lines are added. Seniors in some states may also be eligible for a discount.
Just remember that this is a basic cell phone. If you’re looking for more advanced features like video chatting, a high-quality camera, or internet access, you may want to consider the Jitterbug Smart3 or another smartphone. However, if you want a simple, straightforward cell phone with all of the essential features to keep you connected, the Jitterbug Flip2 is a great choice. Also, keep in mind that Lively charges upfront equipment and activation costs, but again, you can typically get a discount on these fees as a new customer.
Device cost | $99 (before discounts) |
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Price range for talk & text (No data plans available) | $14.99 to $19.99 per month |
Add-on health & safety packages (optional) | $24.99 to $34.99 per month |
Contracts | No contracts |
Money-back guarantee | 30 days (requires a $10 restocking fee for returns) |
Because the Snapfon ez4G keeps things as simple as possible, it only has basic cell phone capabilities. For instance, the camera won’t be winning any awards for quality, and you won’t be able to video chat or watch videos in HD. But, if your main concern is ease of use, none of this will really matter to you. The Snapfon ez4G is a good fit for those who don’t want any extra frills.
Device cost | $99.95 |
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Price range for talk, text, & data plans | $10 to $35 per month |
sosPlus 24/7 Monitoring | $19.99 per month |
Contracts | No contracts |
Money-back guarantee | 30 days |
Each phone on our list was ranked using over 30 metrics, including price, senior-friendly features, battery life, durability, sound quality, appearance, ease of use, and provider perks. The three most influential metrics in our evaluation were:
Using the above criteria, along with our research, testing, and rankings, we created this year’s best cell phone list to help you choose the best senior-friendly cell phone.
A reliable cell phone provides numerous benefits to older adults. They allow seniors to stay connected with friends and family, receive help during an emergency, get some entertainment, capture special moments through photos, and so much more.
Cell phones can also positively impact a person’s health and well-being. Older adults may find themselves spending more time alone, which can lead to cognitive decline along with feelings of isolation or depression.2 Cell phones are a fantastic way for seniors to stay social, no matter where they’re located. Today, older adults embrace technology more than ever, with the vast majority of older adults owning a cell phone and more than 60 percent owning a smartphone.3
When you think about a cell phone or smartphone, your first thought might be that they’re too complicated or expensive. However, more and more cell phone providers are stepping up to the plate to build affordable, senior-friendly phones that allow older adults to enjoy all the perks of a phone without any confusion or frustration. Now, let’s get into all the details for this year’s best senior-friendly cell phones.
While most popular carriers offer phones that may be suitable for older adults, there are two main providers that focus solely on designing the best cellular plans and phones for seniors: Lively and Consumer Cellular. Check out the chart below for more details on these providers’ plans, phones, and pricing.
Phone Carrier | Cell phones starting at | Talk, text, and data plans starting at | Built-in medical alert features? | Add-on medical alert packages | Best for |
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Consumer Cellular | $62 | $20 per month | Yes, for some models | Not available | Those who want affordable, senior-friendly phones and plans |
Lively | $99.99 | $14.99 per month | Yes, with all models | Yes, starting at $24.99 per month | Those who need extra, customizable medical alert features |
Lively’s lineup consists of a flip phone, smartphone, and a medical alert device with built-in medical alert capabilities. These features can be activated by adding on one of their health and safety packages.
Buyer's Tip: If you’re interested in a prepaid plan, visit our list of the best prepaid phone plans for older adults.
Consumer Cellular offers their own flip phones and a tablet with varying features and medical alert capabilities. This provider also sells popular phones from other brands, like iPhones and Android phones, so if you’re looking for a smartphone from another provider with a senior-friendly talk, text, and data plan, this is also a good option.
The answer to this question will depend on the level of technology and advanced features you’re comfortable with. If you’re worried that a cell phone will be too confusing or have lots of complicated bells and whistles, a basic phone will be your best bet. Basic options like flip phones and slide phones allow you to send texts, make calls, and take pictures, and you can add a few extra features if you like. There’s no pressure to get a smartphone just because it’s what your grandkids or friends have, especially if you’re on a tight budget. On the other hand, if you want a phone with all the latest features like mobile apps, video chatting, internet access, GPS tracking, and a touchscreen, you’ll want a smartphone.
Quick Tip: If you’re looking for a flip phone, check out our best flip phones for seniors review.
When choosing a cell phone, you’ll need to account for any upfront device costs in your budget, as well as the monthly price for a talk, text, and/or data plan. Also, check if the provider charges extra fees for things like activation or shipping. If you want a smartphone with all of the latest features but your budget is only $50 for a device, you’ll need to reconsider. Basic flip phones start at about $30 and range up to around $100, depending on the provider and features. Basic smartphones begin at around $150 and may cost up to $1,000 for advanced options like the latest iPhone. Many providers will allow you to pay off your phone in monthly installments, so if that’s better for your budget, it’s an option.
You’ll need to decide if you just want a senior-friendly phone that comes with your standard calling, texting, and internet access, or one that’s designed with medical alert features. These features can include fall detection, an emergency help button, 24/7 monitoring, location tracking, and other health and safety add-ons. If you want a phone that’s easy to use, and you’re not concerned about medical alert capabilities, there’s no need to purchase a phone with these features or monthly monitoring charges. However, if you’re looking for the added protection that a medical alert device offers, you may want a phone with these features.
The more basic cell phones only offer texting and calling, while more advanced options allow you to add a data plan and internet access for a monthly fee. If you want to surf the web, use social media and other mobile apps, or watch shows on your phone, you’ll need to look for a phone that offers data. On the other hand, if you want to stick to the basics like texting and calling, there’s no need to pay for a data plan that you won’t use.
Did You Know? There are plenty of senior discounts for phone and internet service. Our senior discount page has over 100 discounts to explore.
The features that cell phones for seniors offer are endless, so it’s important to establish what exactly you’re looking for upfront. Do you want a phone that features a high-quality camera, medical alert capabilities, and touchscreen? Or maybe you’re looking for a flip phone with internet access and hearing aid compatibility. Whatever it is you want, make a list before starting your search to narrow down your options.
For over five years, Taylor has been writing, editing, and researching products and services covering topics such as senior care and technology, internet and the digital divide, TV and entertainment, and education. Her work has been cited by publications such as Forbes,… Learn More About Taylor Shuman
Pew Research Center. (2021). Mobile Fact Sheet.
National Institute on Aging. (2021). Loneliness and Social Isolation — Tips for Staying Connected.
Pew Research Center. (2021). Mobile Fact Sheet.
NIDCD. (2018). Hearing Loss and Older Adults.
National Council on Aging. (2021). Get the Facts on Healthy Aging.