Cheapest Cell Phones for Seniors
Our senior tech experts put together our top picks for the least expensive cell phones for seniors, so you can find the right phone for your budget in 2024.
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- Affordable smartphone at $149.99
- Designed for seniors
- Can double as an emergency-response device
- Priced at just $69
- Pairs with affordable talk, text, and data plans from Consumer Cellular
- Durable flip-phone design can last for years without replacement
- Retails for $99
- Easy-to-use flip phone
- Health and safety features
- Priced at $96
- Combines the flip-phone design with smartphone features
- Works with any of T-Mobile’s discounted 55+ plans
- Medical alert features
- Affordable phone
- Simple design
Contents
As SeniorLiving.org’s senior tech expert, I understand that searching for an affordable cell phone can be intimidating and overwhelming. I believe that you shouldn’t have to sacrifice quality for value, even if you’re budget-conscious like me. Our team put together this list of the cheapest cell phones for seniors to help you with your search. We found devices that bring the best of both worlds — quality and an affordable price! Continue reading to learn more.
Our Methodology: How We Chose and Tested the Cheapest Cell Phones for Seniors
After over 100 hours of research and hands-on testing, our tech team narrowed down the list to the best cell phones with features designed for seniors that are also affordable. Our list contains flip phones, smartphones, and brick-style phones, and every phone on our list was judged on the below criteria.
- Price: This one’s a no-brainer. Every cell phone on our list is affordable for seniors. We’ve included options for people on the tightest of budgets, along with some that have slightly higher price tags but still offer great value and won’t break the bank. There’s something for everyone!
- Value: We’re all about getting the best deals and discounts, but we also make value and quality a top priority. What’s the point of purchasing a cheap phone if it’s just going to fall apart or provide unreliable service? All the affordable phones on our list offer value that’s greater than the price tag.
- Senior-friendly design: You’ll find that the cheapest cell phones in this guide come with senior-friendly features, such as high-visibility screens, big buttons, medical alert capabilities, and hearing-aid compatibility. We also specifically tested each phone (with my grandma’s help) to make sure they were user-friendly in a senior’s hands.
Now that you know what we looked for in a cheap cell phone for seniors, let’s talk about the testing process:
- Our tech team spent time researching the cheapest cell phones on the market. We read reviews, did deep-dives on each phone, and spoke with customer service.
- I ordered each phone. I spent a few days testing each one to get a feel for the ins and outs. I took notes on my experience and evaluated each phone for price, value, senior-friendly features, service, camera quality, battery life, and more! I also recruited my grandma to test the phones whenever she was available.
- Once I had tested each phone, I took some time to narrow down the options to the best cheap phones for seniors.
The Cheapest Cell Phones for Seniors
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Jitterbug Smart4 from Lively - Least expensive smartphone
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Consumer Cellular IRIS Flip - Least expensive flip phone
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Jitterbug Flip2 from Lively - Least expensive phone with medical alert capabilities
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TCL FLIP Go from T-Mobile - Least expensive cell phone and unlimited senior plan combo
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Snapfon ez4G - Least expensive “brick-style” phone
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1. Jitterbug Smart4 from Lively - Least expensive smartphone
What we like most
- Affordable smartphone at $149.99
- Designed for seniors
- Can double as an emergency-response device
Jitterbug Smart4 from LivelyOverview
The Jitterbug Smart4 costs $149.99, making it one of the least expensive smartphones on the market, and it’s designed specifically for older adults. In addition to talk, text, and internet access, the phone doubles as a medical alert device thanks to Lively’s health and safety features. I’m a big fan of the features, since they offer even more bang for your buck. You won’t find them with many other phones, including the Iris Flip from Consumer Cellular.
» Further Reading: Jitterbug Smart4 Review
The Smart4 features a large, red Urgent Response button. During testing, I pressed the button to connect with Lively’s 24/7 response center. After about 15 seconds, I was on the line with a live agent who could send whatever help was needed. The feature is essential for older adults, because they are more prone to health risks such as falls.1 You can also access features such as Lively Link for caregiver monitoring, 24/7 on-call nurses, and a care advocate. One caveat: The health and safety features are available only with Lively’s top-tier plans, which start at $39.99 per month. If you’re on a tight budget, that’s something to consider.
While testing the Jitterbug Smart4, my grandma and I were blown away by how easy it was to navigate the phone. It has a list-style menu and large, clear icons. It’s perfect for older adults who want to try a smartphone, but don’t want anything too complicated.
Pros About Jitterbug Smart4 from Lively
- Affordable smartphone designed for seniors
- Medical alert features
- Large 6.75-inch screen
- Voice typing
- Video-chat capabilities
- 13 MP camera for clearer photos
- Urgent response
- Internet access
- Simple list-style menu
Cons About Jitterbug Smart4 from Lively
- Health and safety features included only with top-tier plans
- Additional activation fees
- Cannot use the Smart4 with plans from another carrier
- Slow interface and internet browsing
Price and Value
The Jitterbug Smart4 costs $149.99, with additional fees for activation, shipping, and taxes. The activation fee is $35, while taxes and shipping vary based on your location.
Lively’s Basic phone plan, which comes with unlimited talk and text, is $19.99 per month. The Preferred and Premium plans, which come with a host of health and safety features, cost $39.99 and $49.99 per month, respectively.
» Learn More: Jitterbug Phone Plans for Seniors
The Jitterbug Smart4 also requires the purchase of a data plan. You can choose the amount of data you want based on your needs. Plans cost $5 per month for 1 GB, $10 per month for 5 GB, or $30 per month for unlimited data.
The prices are added to the standard cost for your plan. That means you could pay as much as $79.99 per month if you choose the Premium package with unlimited data. That’s a lot more expensive than the unlimited data plan from Consumer Cellular, which costs $50 per month. Still, Lively’s safety features are essential for many seniors and not available with most low-cost phones. You’re basically getting a smartphone and medical alert system in one device!
Flexibility is essential to me, so I appreciate that there are no long-term contracts or cancellation fees with these plans.
Can I Use the Jitterbug Smart4 With Other Carriers?
Unfortunately, the Jitterbug Smart4 is not compatible with carriers other than Lively. Lively uses Verizon’s nationwide network and offers an affordable Basic plan, but the option to pair the Smart4 with other senior-friendly carriers such as Mint Mobile or Consumer Cellular would have been nice. That’s something you can do with phones such as the Iris Flip and TCL Flip Go, although both of those phones have waiting periods before they can be unlocked for other carriers. In any case, I experienced reliable 4G service with Lively’s Smart4 in my home and around town. I didn’t feel like I was missing out on better service from another carrier.
Is the Jitterbug Smart4 Right for Me?
Research shows that older adults who use smartphone apps have increased feelings of connectedness with friends and family.2 With internet access, smartphones like the Jitterbug Smart4 can help older adults connect to resources that promote physical and mental well-being. The Smart4 allows users to stay connected through mobile apps, video chatting, texts, calls, and more. Plus, its simple design makes it ideal for first-time smartphone users.
FYI: Our in-depth cell phones for seniors buyer’s guide breaks down how to choose the best phone for your needs and budget.
While testing the phone, my grandma loved the simple interface. She could switch from taking a photo to sending texts with ease. The phone’s software is pretty sluggish though. On more than one occasion, I clicked a button repeatedly because the phone needed a few extra seconds to switch to the next screen. That often resulted in clicking the wrong thing once the new screen appeared. That sluggishness was particularly bad while browsing the internet. But if you want a senior-friendly smartphone that’s just under $150 and you don’t mind being a little patient with your device, the Jitterbug Smart4 is a solid option.
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2. Consumer Cellular IRIS Flip - Least expensive flip phone
What we like most
- Priced at just $69
- Pairs with affordable talk, text, and data plans from Consumer Cellular
- Durable flip-phone design can last for years without replacement
Consumer Cellular IRIS FlipOverview
Priced at $69, the Consumer Cellular Iris Flip is the least expensive phone on our list. It’s $27 less than the next cheapest option (the TCL Flip Go). Not only are Consumer Cellular’s plans inexpensive, but the Iris Flip also has many useful features for older adults, such as a large keypad, a bright screen for optimal visibility, and a designated button to quick-dial close contacts.
The Iris Flip comes with Bluetooth connectivity so users can go hands-free or connect hearing aids. I also love that it can hold up to a 32 GB microSD card, providing plenty of space for photos of the grandchildren or your favorite music tracks. During testing, I found that the phone has a long battery life of 14 hours of talk time and 16 days of standby time. That’s perfect for people who may forget to charge their phone every day like me.
Pros About Consumer Cellular IRIS Flip
- Very affordable price tag
- Durable flip phone means no cracked screens
- Hearing aid compatible
- Internet access
- 1 GB of RAM for fast navigation
- 8 GB of internal storage
- Virtual assistant for voice-to-text commands
- Simple, senior-friendly design
- Allows you to keep your old phone number
- Lightweight design
- Long battery life
Cons About Consumer Cellular IRIS Flip
- 5MP camera means lower picture quality
- Limited to KaiOS apps
Price and Value
Prices for both the Iris Flip and Consumer Cellular’s plans are big wins for me. The phone itself is just $69, and Consumer Cellular’s plans start at $20 per month for one line. One perk of sticking with Consumer Cellular is that, unlike Lively, the carrier charges no activation fees to get your device up and running. That makes it easier to know exactly how much you’ll need to pay for your phone and plan. No hidden fees always makes me happy! Plus, AARP members can score a 5 percent discount on plans. All I had to do was click a box saying I was an AARP member at checkout.
Did You Know? Approximately 17 million older Americans struggle with financial insecurity, making it difficult to afford everyday living expenses — including phones and phone plans.3
Best of all, the plans don’t have contracts, so you won’t have to worry about early termination fees if you need to switch carriers. The price per line for Consumer Cellular’s plans decreases as you add more lines. That means you could save a few bucks per line if you add a spouse or other family members to your plan.
Can I Use the Iris Flip With Other Carriers?
I love Consumer Cellular’s dependable service and low prices, and you can take your Iris Flip to another carrier if you want to — but there are a few caveats. Consumer Cellular requires you to stay with it for at least 60 days before you switch to another carrier. If you still want to make the switch after 60 days, you’ll need to contact the company to unlock the phone. You’ll then need to get a QR code from your new carrier to set up an e-SIM.
All of that can get a little confusing, so it’s not as convenient as a phone that comes unlocked right out of the box. It’s still a step up from the Jitterbug Smart4 and Flip2, however, both of which are tied to Lively with no way to change carriers.
» Related Reading: Jitterbug vs. Consumer Cellular
Is Consumer Cellular’s Iris Flip for Me?
If you or your loved one is new to the cell phone game, the Iris Flip is an excellent option. It is an easy-to-use flip phone that provides all the essential functions older adults may want, including talk, text, internet access, and a camera. Overall, it’s my pick for people who want a fast, simple flip phone that comes with many of the same features as a smartphone, such as mobile apps and internet browsing.
» Further Reading: 2024 Consumer Cellular review
I enjoyed using the Iris Flip because it’s fast and responsive, especially for a flip phone. I didn’t have to wait for the phone to respond to my inputs like I did with the Jitterbug Smart4. I also liked how durable and easy to grip the phone felt. It actually slipped out of my pocket at one point and fell on the driveway. Despite the hard impact, I couldn’t find a scratch on it! That means you could potentially put some solid wear and tear on the Iris Flip without needing a replacement. As a notorious klutz, I’m a big fan of that!
The Iris Flip uses the KaiOS system, which comes with its own quirks. I discovered that the KaiOS app store has many of the most popular apps you may want (Facebook, YouTube, etc.), but it has way fewer apps than the Google Play or Apple App stores. That said, I liked using KaiVA (the phone’s voice assistant) for voice-to-text. It was faster and easier than texting with the T9 keypad. I noticed, however, that I had to speak pretty loudly for KaiVA to pick up what I was saying. The voice assistant is also great for older adults with arthritis or mobility issues that could make typing a hassle.
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3. Jitterbug Flip2 from Lively - Least expensive phone with medical alert capabilities
What we like most
- Retails for $99
- Easy-to-use flip phone
- Health and safety features
Jitterbug Flip2 from LivelyOverview
Similar to the Lively’s Jitterbug Smart4, the Jitterbug Flip2 can turn your phone into a medical alert device. It has a simple flip-phone design at an affordable price (just $99.99), so you can stay safe and connected without putting a dent in your wallet. Just like the Smart4, I could connect with urgent-response staff in an emergency, speak with a doctor or registered nurse, and order prescriptions over the phone. I’m a big fan of those extra features for older adults. It’s crucial that we stay on top of our health as we age to maintain a high quality of life, and Lively makes that a little bit easier.
» Learn About: Best Medical Alert Systems of 2024
The phone is designed with big buttons and a large screen, perfect for older hands and eyes. It has an 8 MP camera, which provides clearer photos and videos than the Iris Flip.
Lively has also teamed up with Lyft to make it easier for older adults to get around. All I had to do was contact Lively and tell them where I wanted to go. They scheduled a Lyft to pick me up right away. It’s perfect for seniors who no longer drive or those who don’t know how to use ride-hailing apps.
Pros About Jitterbug Flip2 from Lively
- Device costs just under $100
- Easy to use
- Amazon Alexa voice assistant
- Powerful speaker
- Hearing-aid compatibility
- Urgent response and Lyft connections
- Variety of health and safety features
Cons About Jitterbug Flip2 from Lively
- Health and safety features increase plan costs
- No internet connectivity
- Only works with a Lively plan
Price and Value
The Jitterbug Flip2 is $99.99 (roughly the same as the Snapfon ez4G), with a $35 activation fee. Prices start at $19.99 per month for the Basic plan, with unlimited talk and text. If you want to upgrade to a plan with more safety features, prices range up to $49.99 per month. Unlike the Smart4, the Jitterbug Flip2 does not require a data plan because it doesn’t have internet access. I was a bit disappointed to see that, since other flip phones, such as the Iris Flip, have internet access. Still, it’s perfect for older adults who just want a simple way to stay connected.
» Compare Your Options: 2024 Jitterbug Phone Review
You can, however, connect the Flip2 to your home Wi-Fi to use the built-in Amazon Alexa virtual assistant. I used the voice assistant to make calls, check my phone’s battery life, and pull up apps. The feature is great for people who may have trouble using physical keys.
If you’re not interested in using the internet and you don’t need a smartphone, you can save on the equipment and data costs with Lively by purchasing the Flip2 instead of the Smart4.
Can I Use the Jitterbug Flip2 With Other Carriers?
Like the Jitterbug Smart4, the Flip2 is compatible only with a Lively plan. Since Lively uses Verizon’s network, that wasn’t a big issue for me. I almost always had three or more bars, and I never experienced dropped calls. Still, it would have been nice to try the Flip2 with a carrier that offers cheaper plans, such as Mint Mobile.
» Compare Prices: Mint Mobile Senior Phone Plan Review 2024
Is the Jitterbug Flip2 Right for Me?
If you’re looking for a simple, affordable cell phone that does the job without any frills, the Jitterbug Flip2 may be for you. It’s a great option for older adults who are not necessarily interested in the bells and whistles of smartphones or those who don’t frequently use the internet.
If you love to connect with your family and friends through phone calls and texts, the Flip2 paired with Lively’s Basic plan offers the best deal. The Flip2 is also great for older adults who live alone and could benefit from the added protection of the urgent-response features, ensuring they’re protected inside and outside their homes. All I had to do to connect with a live agent was press the phone’s red Urgent Response button.
» Dive Deeper: 2024 Jitterbug Flip2 Review
My grandma really liked that the Flip2 had the same list-style menu as the Smart4, without the sluggish load times. The lack of internet was a bummer, but my grandma enjoyed using Amazon Alexa to send texts, call contacts, and even check the weather. When we tried the Urgent Response button together, we were able to connect with a Lively agent in less than 30 seconds. Fast response times are always a plus!
You can watch our Jitterbug Flip2 video review below for a closer look at our experience.
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4. TCL FLIP Go from T-Mobile - Least expensive cell phone and unlimited senior plan combo
What we like most
- Priced at $96
- Combines the flip-phone design with smartphone features
- Works with any of T-Mobile’s discounted 55+ plans
TCL FLIP Go from T-MobileOverview
During testing I found that the TCL Flip Go strikes the right balance between Consumer Cellular’s Iris Flip and Lively’s Jitterbug Smart4. It combines the durability of a flip phone and the technological capabilities of a smartphone, all at a great price of $96. It also works on T-Mobile’s nationwide network, one of the country’s largest providers.
» Check Out: T-Mobile 55+ Cell Phone Plans Review
Older adults who purchase the phone can choose any of T-Mobile’s Unlimited 55+ plans to go with it. T-Mobile’s three 55+ plans offer discounted rates, great perks, and unlimited talk, text, and data. They offer some of the best value for older adults that I’ve seen.
Pros About TCL FLIP Go from T-Mobile
- Robust flip phone for less than $100
- Can be combined with T-Mobile’s Unlimited 55+ plans
- 4G internet access
- Mobile hotspot data
- App shortcuts
- Large, tactile keys
Cons About TCL FLIP Go from T-Mobile
- 2MP camera, limited photo and video quality
- Small screen for internet browsing
Price and Value
The TCL Flip Go costs $96. T-Mobile also has a payment plan with no-interest financing for $4 per month for 24 months. If you plan to have the phone for a while and don’t want to pay the full cost up front, this is a convenient and affordable option. You can save extra money with one of T-Mobile’s Unlimited 55+ plans. Unlimited talk, text, and data start at $45 per month for one line. I was really impressed with T-Mobile’s perks, which include hotspot data, in-flight Wi-Fi, and data abroad. If you love to travel like I do, those features are super useful!
T-Mobile’s pricing is certainly competitive, considering Lively’s and Consumer Cellular’s unlimited plans start at $49.99 and $50 per month, respectively. I learned, however, that T-Mobile’s cheapest 55+ plan doesn’t include taxes and fees in the advertised price. I’m always disappointed to see hidden (or less obvious) fees. Still, T-Mobile’s extra perks and solid nationwide coverage may be worth it to you.
Can I Use the TCL Flip Go With Other Carriers?
Like the Iris Flip, the TCL Flip Go is compatible with other carriers, but you’ll have to jump through a few hoops. T-Mobile requires users to maintain a T-Mobile plan for the first three months before the TCL Flip Go can be unlocked and used with other carriers. Since T-Mobile doesn’t lock you into any contracts, that means you can use T-Mobile for three months and then call customer support if you still want to switch. They can unlock your phone and end your plan upon request.
» You Might Also Like: Best Unlocked Phones for Seniors
The TCL Flip Go uses a physical SIM card, so it’s easy to take it to just about any major carrier and get it up and running with a new plan. Waiting three months to get it unlocked may be a pain, however, especially if you already have your sights on a better plan from another carrier.
Is the TCL Flip Go Right for Me?
The TCL Flip Go is a perfect companion for older adults who want smartphone essentials but are loyal to the flip-phone style. It’s also a great option for those who venture out often. I was able to use the internet for GPS navigation and looking things up on the go. I also took advantage of T-Mobile’s hotspot data to work from my laptop in coffee shops or parks that didn’t have Wi-Fi.
I was happy with the Flip Go’s interface, because it was easy to navigate the menu, download apps, make calls, send texts, and even watch videos. My only real complaint was that the screen was a bit too small. Its 2.8-inch screen is the same size as the Snapfon ez4G, but it felt much smaller than the 3.2-inch screen of the Iris Flip. My grandma struggled to read the text while browsing the internet. If you have vision issues, you may want to choose a phone with a bigger screen, such as the Iris Flip, Jitterbug Flip2, or Jitterbug Smart4.
» Related Reading: The Best Cell Phones for Visually Impaired Seniors
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5. Snapfon ez4G - Least expensive “brick-style” phone
What we like most
- Medical alert features
- Affordable phone
- Simple design
Snapfon ez4GOverview
Last but not least, the Snapfon ez4G is another cheap phone for seniors, priced at $99.95. Don’t let its simplicity fool you. The Snapfon ez4G has many smartphone capabilities in an easy-to-use device. The brick-style phone comes with internet access, so I could use it for GPS navigation, to connect with friends on Facebook, and to check my email. Snapfon runs on AT&T and T-Mobile’s 4G LTE networks, so I experienced pretty reliable coverage wherever I went.
Safety is always a priority for me, and I’ve found that it’s a priority for Snapfon as well! The phone has a variety of easily accessible SOS emergency features to keep you protected at all times.
Pros About Snapfon ez4G
- Affordable plans and pricing
- Fall detection available
- SOS button
- Hearing-aid compatible
- Simple design and navigation
- Speech-to-text capabilities
- Internet access
Cons About Snapfon ez4G
- Small internal memory
- Not available in all areas, check availability first
- Small screen size
Price and Value
The Snapfon ez4G costs $99.95, putting it around the same price as the Jitterbug Flip2 and the TCL Flip Go. Snapfon offers various talk, text, and data options at different price points. Unlimited talk and text start at $15 per month. If you want to add data, prices range from $20 per month (1 GB) to $75 per month (20 GB).
I also added Snapfon’s sosPlus mobile monitoring service package for $10 per month, which gave me access to Snapfon’s medical alert capabilities. The Snapfon sosPlus package allowed me to connect with a 24/7 response agent. I just had to press the red Help button located on the back of the phone to call for help. I could also list my emergency contacts, medications, allergies, and important medical conditions. The sosPlus service even offers automatic fall detection, a feature we haven’t seen from any other phone carriers, including Lively. Not bad for just $10 per month. For comparison, Lively’s plans with 24/7 monitoring start at $39.99 per month.
» Compare Your Options: Snapfon vs. Jitterbug
Can I Use the Snapfon ez4G With Other Carriers?
If you buy your phone directly from Snapfon, it will come locked to the Snapfon network. That means you’ll have to contact Snapfon and request to have your phone unlocked. You can also purchase an unlocked Snapfon ez4G phone from third-party retailers and use a SIM card from major carriers such as T-Mobile or AT&T. Based on my experience, Snapfon does not institute any wait times to switch carriers, unlike T-Mobile and Consumer Cellular. Just know that if you want to use Snapfon’s medical alert features, such as fall detection and 24/7 monitoring, you’ll need a Snapfon plan.
» You Might Also Like: Best Medical Alert Systems With Fall Detection
Is the Snapfon ez4G Right for Me?
Snapfon ez4G is an excellent option for on-the-go seniors. The 4G LTE internet access provides connectivity away from home, and the SOS emergency features offer monitoring for added safety. The ez4G can double as a hotspot, which is great if you enjoy working outside your home like I do. The biggest data plan is 20 GB, so the phone is best for older adults with low to moderate internet usage.
I was disappointed to see that Snapfon doesn’t have an unlimited plan like the rest of the carriers on our list. Still, 20 GB is substantial for everyday things such as checking email, using social media, and even watching videos. If you want to use your phone as a hotspot to stream TV and movies on your laptop, however, your data may get used up pretty quickly.
Can Seniors Get a Cell Phone For Free?
The short answer is yes. There are a few ways to get a free cell phone for seniors. Getting a phone for free often comes down to catching the right deal at the right time from the right carrier. Large carriers such as AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon often run promotions that allow you to get a phone at no extra charge, as long as you sign up for an eligible plan and stick with that plan for a set period of time (often one to three years). It’s essentially the same as signing a contract, but it’s still the easiest way to get a quality phone and plan without paying anything for the device.
How to Pick an Affordable Cell Phone Plan
Choosing the right cell phone plan will require you to evaluate your needs, your budget, and your options. Here are a few things to think about when shopping for an affordable cell phone plan for seniors.
- Phone usage: Picking the right plan is all about determining what you actually want to do with your phone. If you like to watch videos while you wait at the doctor’s office, you’ll want a phone plan with higher data limits or no data limits at all. On the other hand, if you mainly want to use your phone for emergencies or to keep in touch with loved ones, you may be happy with a simple plan that covers just calls and texts.
- Monthly budget: Think about the maximum amount you can afford to spend on a phone plan before you start shopping. Setting a limit will ensure that you don’t accidentally buy more phone coverage than you can reasonably afford.
- Available carriers: Even if you find the perfect plan online, there’s no guarantee that it’s available in your area. Moreover, just because a carrier offers plans in your area doesn’t mean you’ll get great service in or around your home. That’s why it’s a good idea to choose a carrier with no contracts so you can test the signal strength and switch to another carrier if necessary. I’d also recommend asking friends and family members in your area about their phone carriers. If they have solid coverage with a carrier, you’ll probably have great coverage with them too!
- Additional features: Most plans cover talk, text, and data. If you choose a carrier that caters to seniors, however, you may find extra features such as fall detection, emergency-response services, and other health and safety features that could be essential to your well-being. If the features are important to you, consider a Lively or Snapfon plan.
How Much Do Cell Phones for Seniors Cost?
Cell phone prices vary depending on the device’s style and features. We broke down the average prices you can expect below. You’ll also want to consider the cost of your cell phone plan, along with any taxes or hidden fees.
Style | Price range |
---|---|
Flip phone | $60 to $100 |
Smartphone | $100 to $1,000 |
Bar/brick | $60 to $100 |
Frequently Asked Questions About Cell Phones for Seniors
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What makes a cell phone for seniors different from other cell phones?
Seniors can use any cell phone they’d like, but senior-specific cell phones have user-friendly features such as larger buttons, clearer screens, and more powerful speakers to address older adults’ needs.
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Should I get a cell phone that connects to the internet?
That depends on your estimated monthly internet use. If you connect to the internet daily or weekly, it may be worth it to have a phone and plan that offers internet capabilities. Data costs extra on some plans, however, so you may be paying for it unnecessarily if it’s not used.
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Are all cell phones for seniors compatible with hearing aids?
The majority of cell phones made for seniors have hearing-aid compatibility through Bluetooth, but it may depend on your hearing aids’ connectivity. Many standard cell phones for seniors have M4/T4 ratings, which offer the best hearing-aid connectivity and sound quality.
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Can I keep my existing phone number?
Most people can transfer their existing cell phone number to their new phone line. It depends on your location and your previous service provider.
Pew Research Center. (2024). Mobile Fact Sheet.
National Council on Aging. (2024). Get the Facts on Economic Security for Seniors
National Library of Medicine. (2020). 15 Smartphone Apps for Older Adults to Use While in Isolation During the COVID-19 Pandemic.