Best Flip Phones for Seniors in 2024, Tested and Reviewed by Tech Experts
Consumer Cellular’s IRIS Easy Flip is our favorite flip phone for seniors, thanks to its affordable price, simple design, and senior-friendly phone plans.
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- Costs $59
- M4/T4 hearing aid rating
- Unique features: Plan discounts for AARP members
- Costs $79.99
- M4/T4 hearing aid rating
- Unique features: Medical alert features
- Costs $999.99
- M4/T4 hearing aid rating
- Unique features: Hybrid flip phone and smartphone
- Affordable flip phone
- Loud speaker with built-in noise cancellation
- M4/T4 hearing aid rating
- Simple flip phone
- Medical alert features
- Large buttons
Our team of experts tested and researched the best flip phones for seniors and narrowed the list to our top recommendations.
Our team of experts tested and researched the best flip phones for seniors and narrowed the list to our top recommendations.
Learn MoreContents
Flip phones are among the best cell phones for seniors. They provide an affordable, convenient way to stay connected and entertained. With simple displays, large buttons, and easy-to-grip designs, flip phones can be an excellent choice for older adults. They’re also frequently cheaper than the alternatives. But if you need a phone with extra “oomph,” there are plenty of options with the bells and whistles of a smartphone. In this guide, our tech experts have evaluated the industry’s leading flip phones to create a list of the best flip phones for seniors. Consumer Cellular’s IRIS Easy Flip gets top honors for its affordable pricing, large keypad, and excellent hearing aid compatibility.
Testing out a flip phone from Consumer Cellular
Our Methodology: How We Tested and Selected the Best Flip Phones for Seniors
Our team orders and tests all of the phones on our list, including the IRIS Easy Flip from Consumer Cellular.
How We Tested the Best Flip Phones
We tested 10 of the highest-rated flip phones on the market to find out which ones worked best for seniors. Here are the details of our testing process:
- We researched each phone online, compared phone plans, and spoke with customer service representatives over the phone about their offerings.
- Then, we ordered our top picks, tested them, and noted our experience, from unboxing to daily use. We used each phone for two weeks, evaluating them for senior-friendly features, service, battery life, usability, and more. Whenever possible, we recruited older adults to try out the phones and provide their feedback. It’s always good to have multiple perspectives!
- After over a hundred hours of research and hands-on testing, we curated a list of our favorite flip phones for seniors.
How We Chose the Best Flip Phones for Seniors
Everyone is looking for different phone features, so each of our picks brings something a little different to the table. But each one had to meet three critical metrics to qualify for consideration:
- Senior-friendly: Every phone on our list has features that make seniors’ lives easier and safer. Each device provides at least one of the following: loud, adjustable speakers, hearing aid compatibility, Bluetooth compatibility, large keypads, bright screens, easy-to-grip designs, medical alert capabilities, and simple functionality.
- Good value: We prioritized phones offering the best value, so there’s an option for most budgets. You’ll find affordable flip phones for seniors with essential features and more expensive phones with higher-tech features that justify the price tag.
- No long-term contracts: Contracts aren’t consumer-friendly or senior-friendly — especially if this is your first time with a cell phone and you’re not sure it’s right for you yet. Our top picks don’t force you into a contract. You can choose month-to-month options and stop your service whenever you like.
Why Trust Us
Our senior tech experts try out the latest products and tech for older adults yearly. We’ve spent hundreds of hours testing and reviewing cell phones and plans available through regional and nationwide carriers. Our team consults with seniors (like my grandma!) to learn about their experiences with different phone models, including what they liked, disliked, and features they want to see in a quality flip phone.
The Best Senior Flip Phones Compared
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IRIS Easy Flip from Consumer Cellular
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Jitterbug Flip2 from Lively
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Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 5G From AT&T
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TCL FLIP Go from T-Mobile
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Snapfon ezFlip
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rating | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.7 | 3.8 |
| Cost | $59 | $79.99 | $96 | $999.99 | $99.95 |
| Financing available | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Carrier | Consumer Cellular | Lively | T-Mobile | AT&T | Snapfon |
| Contracts | No | No | No | No | Yes |
| Camera quality | 5MP |
Rear: 8MP Front: 5MP |
2MP |
Rear: 12MP Front: 10MP |
Rear: 5MP Front: 2MP |
| Internet access | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Battery Life | 7 hours talk time | 12 hours talk time | 14 hours talk time | 32 hours talk time | 5.5 hours talk time |
| Hear aid compatibility | M4/T4 | M4/T4 | M4/T4 | M3/T3 | M3/T3 |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Special features |
|
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1. IRIS Easy Flip from Consumer Cellular - Most Affordable
What we like most
- Costs $59
- M4/T4 hearing aid rating
- Unique features: Plan discounts for AARP members
IRIS Easy Flip from Consumer CellularOverview:
Testing out the IRIS Easy Flip from Consumer Cellular
Overview
Consumer Cellular’s phone and plan pricing are some of the most affordable on the market. During testing, I found that the IRIS Easy Flip is a big step up from Consumer Cellular’s Verve Snap flip phone and costs only $59, making it one of the most affordable flip phones for seniors. Plus, AARP members can score a five percent discount on service. You won’t find that from other carriers on our list.
Consumer Cellular’s IRIS Easy Flip offers a great value option and essential senior-friendly features. I love its large keypad, which makes navigating the phone and texting simple. Plus, its two screens are extra bright, a welcome feature for those with low vision. I noticed that the screen and keypad were oversized compared to the company’s previous Verve Snap model — perfect for older hands and eyes. Most types of hearing aids work with the IRIS Easy Flip, too. It’s Wi-Fi and Bluetooth compatible, with an M4/T4 rating. The flip phone also has a one-touch favorites button to add medical providers, family members, and other critical contacts to your favorites list with one click.
Pro Tip: Shopping for a phone on a budget? Check out our guide to the cheapest cell phones for seniors!
What stood out to me was the internet connection and speed. The IRIS Easy Flip offers 8 GB of storage. Unlike its predecessor, the Verve Snap, it allows you to browse the internet, download apps, and even use GPS tracking and map directions. Many flip phones, like the Jitterbug Flip2, don’t offer these features, so they increase the phone’s value. However, I did notice that certain popular apps like YouTube don’t work very well on the IRIS Easy Flip.
» Check Out: Best prepaid phone plans for seniors
Pros & Cons:Pros About IRIS Easy Flip from Consumer Cellular
- Most affordable flip phone with internet access
- Large, 2.8” internal and external screen
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth compatible
- Large keypad and simple functionality
- USB-C charging port
- eSIM card
- Discount for AARP members
Cons About IRIS Easy Flip from Consumer Cellular
- Short battery life
- Consumer Cellular service required
- No built-in emergency response features
- Low-end 5 MP camera
- No 5G connection
Our Hands-on Experience:Usability
The IRIS Easy Flip features two screens. The large internal screen was what you would expect from any flip phone. The external screen displayed the time, battery life, and new notifications. I set up the home screen, which displays your most-used and favorite applications. It might be a little too advanced for some users, but you can swipe to a more “standard” screen with settings, a calendar, a clock, and even saved music and videos.
I had trouble navigating the phone when I first booted it up. I eventually realized that you click the large “OK” button to access the menu. It wasn’t intuitive (though I probably should’ve read the product manual first!), so it might initially confuse users. Still, with trial and error, the phone was easy to use.
The external screen on Consumer Cellular's IRIS Easy Flip is large and easy to see
Everything moves quickly on the IRIS Easy Flip, which stood out. With many “budget” flip phones, including the Jitterbug Flip2, you click a button and wait a few seconds for the next screen to appear. With the IRIS Easy Flip, I clicked between different apps or menus and was shocked at the speed and responsiveness. There were a few hiccups, like when I browsed the internet or tried to open YouTube. The IRIS Easy Flip’s internet browser is pretty basic and not that fast, and the YouTube app crashed a few times.
» Related Reading: Easiest cell phones for seniors to use
One drawback is that the IRIS Easy Flip has a short battery life. You’ll get just seven hours of talk time, much shorter than many of the flip phones on our list. I used the IRIS Easy Flip for talking, texting, taking pictures, and browsing the internet for most of the day before charging it again.
Expert InsightsFrom Taylor Shuman, Senior Tech ExpertMany of Consumer Cellular’s previous flip phone models, including the IRIS Flip, featured a voice assistant for hands-free typing and navigation. I was disappointed that the IRIS Easy Flip doesn’t offer this feature, as it’s excellent for those with arthritis, vision loss, or dexterity issues. However, the phone keeps things as simple as possible, ideal for less tech-savvy users.Value
At just $59, the IRIS Easy Flip is one of the cheapest flip phones on the market, but it has the speed and features of a basic smartphone, like the Jitterbug Smart4. It’s great for checking email, browsing the internet, downloading apps, and using the 8 GB of storage for photos, videos, and music.
FYI: Our hands-on review of Consumer Cellular walks you through how to select the best senior-friendly cell phone plan.
Consumer Cellular plans start at $20 monthly for unlimited talk and text with 1 GB of data, and prices top out at $50 monthly for an unlimited plan. The IRIS Easy Flip can connect to Wi-Fi, so you can always utilize your home network to reduce data usage. Either way, you still have to buy a plan with data if you want to text, which is important to note before you sign up.
» You Might Like: Best senior unlimited cell phone plans
Camera Quality
The IRIS Easy Flip’s 5 MP camera is pretty good, but it’s certainly not made to capture amazing HD pictures. I was disappointed that the phone didn’t have a front-facing camera for selfies, which is pretty standard. I took some photos in my backyard and living room. I found the colors appeared washed out occasionally, depending on the lighting. I’ve seen flip phones with better cameras, like the Jitterbug Flip2. Still, it’s adequate if you just want a phone that can take clear photos and videos. The 8 GB of storage ensures you can save over a thousand photos and dozens of videos simultaneously.
A photo taken on Consumer Cellular's IRIS Easy Flip
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2. Jitterbug Flip2 from Lively - Best Medical Alert Capabilities
What we like most
- Costs $79.99
- M4/T4 hearing aid rating
- Unique features: Medical alert features
Jitterbug Flip2 from LivelyOverview:
Testing out Lively's Jitterbug Flip2
Overview
The Jitterbug Flip2 made our list for its range of health and safety features accessible with Lively’s phone plans. Features like Urgent Response transform the flip phone into a personal safety device. My grandma and I tested the Urgent Response button to connect with a Lively Urgent Response team member. We found that the agents were kind and quick to ask what help we needed.
» Learn More: Best medical alert systems
Phone plans range from $19.99 to $49.99 per month, while the phone costs $79.99. For seniors struggling with any health problems, I recommend the Premium plan. You get 24/7 access to a live nurse or board-certified doctor. You can even order common prescriptions over the phone.
» Dive Deeper: Lively phone review
Even without the extra safety features, the Jitterbug Flip2 still offers a lot. It’s simple, practical, and compatible with most hearing aids. Plus, sending texts to the grandkids has never been easier! Use voice-to-text with the built-in Amazon Alexa or utilize the phone’s large keypad and screen to text manually. It’s up to you. I used Amazon Alexa to navigate the phone and send texts, and it was a breeze. I appreciate this feature for those with mobility difficulties or arthritis, like my grandma.
» Further Reading: Best voice-activated phones for seniors
Pros & Cons:Pros About Jitterbug Flip2 from Lively
- Doubles as a personal safety device
- Large, red Urgent Response button
- M4/T4 Rating
- Built-in Amazon Alexa
- Large buttons and screen
- Simple to operate
- Magnifier with flashlight
Cons About Jitterbug Flip2 from Lively
- Speaker quality could improve
- Monthly costs can add up
- Activation fees
Our Hands-on Experience:Usability
The Jitterbug Flip2 is a standard, no-frills flip phone. It’s perfect for seniors who only want to make calls, answer texts, and take photos and videos. While it has a similar layout to the IRIS Easy Flip, the Jitterbug Flip2 doesn’t have internet browsing or extra apps. Instead, it offers a list-style menu that keeps things as simple as possible. My grandma liked how simple the phone was. Since she’s had some experience with more advanced flip phones and smartphones, she felt like the Jitterbug Flip2 could’ve used some extra features and “oomph.”
Expert InsightsFrom Taylor Shuman, Senior Tech ExpertIf you’re interested in a smartphone, but you love the simplicity of a flip phone, check out Lively’s Jitterbug Smart4. When my grandma and I tested this phone, we found that it was very easy to navigate and offered clear instructions.It all comes down to personal preference, but if you have some experience with cell phones, you might feel the same as my grandma. The Jitterbug Flip2 is the definition of simplicity, and this can be a huge plus for seniors who don’t feel comfortable with more advanced tech. Regardless, the bright screen and big buttons made it easy for my grandma to use the Jitterbug Flip2 without much assistance.
» Learn More: Best big-button cell phones for seniors
Value
$79.99 is pretty affordable for a modern flip phone. The TCL FLIP Go and the Snapfon ezFlip 4G fall between $95 and $100, but the Jitterbug Flip2 ultimately shows its value if you’re willing to purchase a plan with Lively’s Urgent Response feature. This way, your flip phone can double as an emergency response device with 24/7 monitoring. If you don’t pay for the upgrade, the extra cost of the phone may not be worth it. It falls particularly short when compared to a cheaper, internet-ready flip phone like Consumer Cellular’s IRIS Easy Flip. All of Lively’s phone plans also include unlimited talk and text.
Quick Tip: Our in-depth cell phone buyer’s guide includes a side-by-side comparison of the top senior-friendly cell phones.
One negative that my grandma and I agreed on was the lackluster speaker quality. We could always hear each other during test calls, but the volume didn’t go as high as we would’ve liked. There were also some occasional feedback issues, so if you have hearing problems, you may opt for a phone with a better speaker, like the TCL FLIP Go.
Camera Quality
The Jitterbug Flip2 has a decent selfie camera (5 MP) and a better-quality external camera (8 MP) for regular photos and videos. There are still much better options out there, but if you’re happy with the simplicity of the Jitterbug Flip2, you’ll likely be pleased with the quality of its dual-camera system. My grandma and I could take high-quality photos and videos with it, and you can easily zoom in and out using the up and down arrows. The camera even has a built-in magnifier to make text easier to read.
Photo of my potted flowers taken with the Jitterbug Flip2
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3. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 5G From AT&T - Most Durable
What we like most
- Costs $999.99
- M4/T4 hearing aid rating
- Unique features: Hybrid flip phone and smartphone
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 5G From AT&TOverview:
Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4
Overview
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 from AT&T has a compact flip phone design that’s water-resistant and durable. If you’re looking for an advanced flip phone with smartphone capabilities, I recommend this user-friendly phone with a high-resolution, foldable screen. At first glance, the phone looks like a traditional smartphone, but you can fold it in half like a flip phone. It felt unnatural to fold a smartphone in half at first. But, as advertised, it worked!
» Related Reading: Best Android phones for seniors
The durable Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 has an IPX8 rating, which means it’s water-resistant and can survive going underwater (up to five feet). It is excellent for those like me who are prone to dropping phones in inconvenient locations that, to my dismay, often involve water. On the flip side (no pun intended), it’s not dust-resistant. I was delighted by the various advanced features like Flex mode, which allowed us to use the phone like a laptop. I folded the phone and set it upright to use the top half of the phone as a screen and the bottom half as a keyboard.
The Galaxy Z Flip4 is also compatible with most hearing aids (M3/T3) and has a talk time of up to 32 hours, which is more than double the talk time of the TCL FLIP Go. The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 is durable and flexible due to its convenient, user-friendly flip design. It can be a major help for seniors with dexterity issues. It’s also the only phone on this list that’s 100 percent smartphone and flip phone!
» For Couples: Best 2-line cell phone plans for seniors
Pros & Cons:Pros About Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 5G From AT&T
- Durable screen and back
- Five-star device eco-rating
- Weather-resistant
- 5G connection
- Voice dialing and voice commands
- Up to 32 hours of talk time
Cons About Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 5G From AT&T
- Not dust-resistant
- Not as affordable as other flip phones
Our Hands-on Experience:Usability
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 is an enhanced smartphone, so while it has stellar features like 5G connectivity and access to mobile apps on the Google Play Store, it may be a little advanced for some seniors. My grandma loved the look and feel of the phone, but she needed a little help setting it up and downloading her favorite apps. Once we installed the basics, my grandma didn’t have many issues. It even has an Emergency SOS feature. Either way, it’s a complete smartphone with all the bells and whistles, so it’s ideal for more tech-savvy folks or those who feel more comfortable using touch-screen smartphones.
» Learn More: Best smartphones for seniors
Value
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 costs $999.99. That’s roughly 10 times more expensive than any other phone on this list. However, it has everything you would expect from a modern touch-screen smartphone. Plus, it’s durable and water-resistant, so you won’t need to replace it soon. It could be well worth the purchase price if you want the perks of a flip phone and a smartphone rolled into one. If you purchase through AT&T, you can finance your phone for as little as $15 monthly.
» Learn About: Best senior phone plans for 2024
AT&T offers a variety of phone plans for older adults, including a 55+ unlimited plan available to Florida residents. I was disappointed that the 55+ plan isn’t available outside of Florida like T-Mobile’s 55+ plans are. Still, AT&T has plenty of other competitive plan options. Check out our AT&T senior plan review for more details.
Camera Quality
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 has the best camera of any phone on our list. It takes excellent photos and videos, with a 12 MP rear camera and a 10 MP front camera. My grandma and I also enjoyed the FlexCam feature, which let us use the flip phone design to take selfies and videos from different angles. My grandma liked that she could even take self-portraits using the exterior camera with the phone completely closed. If the camera is an important feature to you, consider the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4, as it offers one of the best all-around cameras of any flip phone we’ve tried.
» Also Check Out: Best Samsung phones for seniors
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4. TCL FLIP Go from T-Mobile - Easiest to Use
What we like most
- Affordable flip phone
- Loud speaker with built-in noise cancellation
- M4/T4 hearing aid rating
Overview:
TCL FLIP Go from T-Mobile
Overview
The TCL FLIP Go from T-Mobile made our list of best flip phones for seniors because it checked all the boxes. With a simple design, easy navigation, and affordable price, older adults will love this phone. It features a powerful speaker and noise cancellation, and I could hear very clearly during testing. The TCL FLIP Go also has shortcut keys, so I could easily find messages and favorite contacts. Plus, the phone has Bluetooth compatibility and an M4/T4 rating, which is as good as it gets for hearing aid-compatible phones.
Pros & Cons:Pros About TCL FLIP Go from T-Mobile
- Simple, accessible menu
- Internal and external display
- Large keypad
- M4/T4 hearing aid compatibility
- Mobile hot spot
- 14 hours of talk time
- Noise cancellation
Cons About TCL FLIP Go from T-Mobile
- Low-end 2 MP camera
- Limited features
- Not as advanced as other models
Our Hands-on Experience:Usability
The TCL FLIP Go is one of the simplest phones my grandma and I have ever used. That’s nothing but a compliment! My grandma started using the phone before I did, and she quickly understood how to do everything, from accessing the camera to making phone calls. But, like the Jitterbug Flip2, the simplicity of the TCL FLIP Go could be a drawback for some seniors; it doesn’t have a lot of extra features. You can make calls, send texts, and take photos and videos, but that’s about it. The TCL FLIP Go is ideal for those looking for a basic, no-frills phone.
Value
At just $96 with the option to finance your purchase through T-Mobile, the TCL FLIP Go is a very affordable flip phone for seniors. However, it doesn’t have a lot of extra features. Unless you want a no-frills flip phone or a plan with T-Mobile, you might prefer something with more value. Consumer Cellular’s IRIS Easy Flip only costs $59 and is internet-ready (not to mention pretty easy to use). However, T-Mobile will allow you to finance your TCL FLIP Go for as little as $4 per month, which is fabulous for those on a tight budget.
Fun Fact: At least 90 percent of adults aged 65 and older use the internet.2
T-Mobile offers unlimited phone plans for those aged 55 and older, with perks like in-flight Wi-Fi, service abroad, and free Apple TV Plus. Prices start at $40 for one line, with no contract required. I give high marks to T-Mobile’s reasonable pricing. Plus, all plans include five layers of scam-blocking protection to keep pesky robocalls, scammers, and telemarketers at bay. If you’re looking for a provider that offers plan perks and discounts, visit our latest T-Mobile review for more details.
Camera Quality
If you want quality vacation photos or print-worthy pics of your furbabies, the FLIP Go probably isn’t the best fit. I was disappointed with the 2MP camera, which takes relatively low-quality photos and videos. My grandma didn’t mind using the camera, as it’s pretty easy to point and click to take a photograph or switch to video mode. However, the final results aren’t always clear, especially in lowlight environments. If you want high-quality images, we’d recommend checking out the other phones on our list with better cameras, including the Jitterbug Flip2 and Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4.
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5. Snapfon ezFlip - Best Additional Features
What we like most
- Simple flip phone
- Medical alert features
- Large buttons
Snapfon ezFlipOverview:
Snapfon ezFlip 4G
Overview
I know what it’s like to be concerned about a loved one’s safety. That’s why I’m a big fan of the Snapfon ezFlip 4G. Not only is it easy for older adults to use, but you can also add Snapfon’s sosPlus package, which offers medical alert features. When pressed, the phone’s accessible SOS button connects you to a 24/7 emergency response center and sends a message to your emergency contacts. If you want, it can set off a siren, which is an excellent feature if you live near neighbors who could help during an emergency.
When I tested the SOS button, I found the siren was quite loud. But I connected quickly to an emergency response agent. This feature is similar to the Jitterbug Flip2’s emergency response services; however, Lively has many additional health and safety features, including on-call nurses and a caregiver mobile app, that Snapfon doesn’t offer. If you just want no-frills medical alert protection, the ezFlip 4G is a great option. But if you want all the bells and whistles, I’d recommend the Jitterbug Smart2.
» Compare Providers: Jitterbug vs. Snapfon
The Snapfon ezFlip 4G does its part to protect older adults after a fall, which one in four Americans age 65+ experience each Thanks to the SOS button and built-in fall detection, you can call for help immediately after a fall, which is crucial for preventing life-threatening injuries. The only drawback to this (and other phones with an SOS button, like the Jitterbug Smart2) is that you’ll need your phone on you to call for help. If you’re looking for more robust medical alert protection that doesn’t require a phone, I’d recommend a medical alert system.
Pros & Cons:Pros About Snapfon ezFlip
- Doubles as a personal safety device
- SOS button
- Touchscreen
- Straightforward functionality
- Large external screen
- Fall detection capabilities
- Excellent call quality
- Can access the internet
- 8 speed dial keys
- Hearing aid compatibility
Cons About Snapfon ezFlip
- Snapfon Network Plan required
Our Hands-on Experience:Usability
I found the Snapfon ezFlip 4G surprisingly easy to use. It has more features and capabilities than expected, including easy-to-use volume controls and an excellent speaker. It can function as an LED flashlight, an emergency alert device, and a GPS locator. The SOS button is on the back of the phone, which is unique. I noticed it’s in a place that’s easy to press during an emergency but wasn’t likely to be pressed accidentally. That means fewer false alarms! Overall, the ezFlip 4G is a good mix of a basic, easy-to-use cell phone and an enhanced medical alert device for seniors.
» Learn About: Best medical alert systems
I had no issues using the Snapfon ezFlip 4G from the start. The phone has a simple menu that’s easy to navigate. It combines a large keypad with touch-screen capabilities, which are easy to use. I could see the screen being small for those with vision loss, but the browser and other built-in applications were surprisingly fast. Screen size aside, this phone is ideal for those who just want a bare-bones flip phone with medical alert features.
Value
At just $99.95, the ezFlip 4G strikes the perfect balance between an affordable price and useful features; you can check your email, text friends, surf the web, and play simple games. Snapfon has competitively priced plans, starting at just $15 for unlimited talk and text. If you want to access Snapfon’s medical alert features, you’ll need to add the sosPlus plan for $10 per month, which is pretty affordable. If you want data, prices are similar to Consumer Cellular, starting at $20 monthly for 1 GB. As mentioned above, for more robust medical alert features and a phone for a similar price, we’d recommend the Jitterbug Flip2. On the other hand, if you’re content with the basics, Snapfon is a solid option.
Camera Quality
Snapfon’s ezFlip 4G has a 5 MP external camera, which matches the quality of Consumer Cellular’s IRIS Easy Flip. Unlike the IRIS Easy Flip, the Snapfon ezFlip 4G has a front-facing camera. It’s not much to write about, boasting just a 2 MP lens. The Snapfon ezFlip 4G is pretty good for taking regular photos and videos but less than ideal if you want to take selfies. Low-quality cameras are pretty typical for flip phones, but if you want to take pictures worthy of framing on your wall, we’d recommend a smartphone.
Is a Flip Phone or Smartphone Right for Me?
If you’re looking for a cell phone, you’re probably trying to decide what type of phone you want. Do you join the 61 percent of seniors with smartphones or the 29 percent of seniors with more traditional cell phones?1 Let’s compare your options.
Overview of Smartphones
Trying out the Jitterbug Smart4 smartphone
First, let’s talk about what a smartphone is. Your kids and grandkids likely have them. They’re mobile touch-screen devices that can easily access the internet. You can download movies, use social media apps like Facebook, and play games. Since their screens are oversized, tasks like web surfing, sending emails, and following GPS directions are simple. Plus, smartphones take excellent pictures and let you video chat with your loved ones.
» Dive Deeper: Best smartphones for older adults
Since smartphones have advanced features, they can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially if you’re new to cell phones. There are great smartphones for seniors, but they’re still more complicated than a simple flip phone. Smartphones are best for those who:
- Want a touch-screen experience
- Expect internet access
- Have previous experience with cell phones
- Want to enjoy more apps and games
- Want a higher quality camera
Did You Know? According to the Pew Research Center, the number of adults 65 and over who own a smartphone grew from 13 percent in 2012 to 61 percent in 2021.
Overview of Flip Phones
Navigating Consumer Cellular's flip phone, the IRIS Easy Flip.
In a lot of ways, flip phones are the opposite of smartphones. They don’t typically have a touch screen. Instead, you get easy-to-use tactile buttons. Many older adults prefer this over the swiping and clicking of a touch-screen smartphone.
Flip phones also keep things simple. You get a few essential features, so you only need to master a couple of things. You won’t have to worry about downloading and switching between phone apps. Plus, flip phones are usually smaller in size. They’ll fit in your purse or pocket more comfortably. In other words, you’ll be more likely to keep it on you. Flip phones are best for those who:
- Want a simple, bare-bones device
- Prefer tactile buttons over a touchscreen
- Are purchasing their first cell phone
- Don’t feel comfortable with the internet or new technology
Buyer’s Guide for Choosing a Flip Phone
Here are some questions and features to consider when deciding what flip phone to purchase.
Battery Life
If remembering to charge your phone is challenging, look for phones with long battery life. You won’t need to charge them as often as others. Some flip phones have up to 36 hours of talk time (or more), so you’ll make it through multiple phone calls before charging time.
Do I Need Data?
Not all flip phones let you use data. If you think you want data, pick one that does. You can find flip phones that let you browse Facebook, send emails, use GPS, surf the web, download simple games, and more. All of these tasks will require the use of data.
What’s My Budget?
You can find a flip phone at any price point. On our list above, prices range from $59 to $999.99. Ensure you factor in the service cost whenever you buy a new phone. Even the cheapest cell phones for seniors can bust your budget if the service plan is expensive.
What Features Do I Want?
Everyone’s looking for different features in a phone. Think about what you want and need. Do you need a bright screen because of low vision? Do you wear hearing aids? If so, make sure the phone is compatible. What about medical alert capabilities? Some flip phones offer built-in fall detection, alerts, and assistance buttons.
You might also want large tactile buttons, SOS buttons, a speed dial, a low-battery warning system, a high-quality camera, internet access, GPS, a mobile hotspot, and durability.
Medical Alert Capabilities
Some flip phones can double as personal safety devices. Others are just cell phones. Lively and Snapfon should be a top priority if you’re interested in medical alert capabilities. Both providers sell devices with built-in medical alert functions and separate monthly services that help you during emergencies.
FYI: Every year, roughly three million emergency department visits are attributable to older adults suffering a fall.
Seniors who live alone, are at higher risk for falls, or have chronic medical conditions should seriously consider a phone with medical alert features. It’s often cheaper than purchasing a separate medical alert device.
Lively's Jitterbug Flip2 has an Urgent Response button that seniors can use in an emergency to receive help 24/7
More Cell Phone Resources for Seniors
If you’re looking for a certain type of cell phone or just want to compare all the options, check out our additional resources. We’ve tested and compared cell phones for a variety of different needs:
Pew Research Center. (2021). Mobile Fact Sheet.
National Library of Medicine. (2022). Older adults can use technology: why healthcare professionals must overcome ageism in digital health.