Best Smartphones for Seniors, Tested by Tech Experts

Motorola packs many features into the budget-friendly Moto G (2025), including two-day battery life, a large 6.7-inch screen, and stereo speakers tuned with Dolby Atmos. It has a 50 MP camera for crystal-clear photos, Bluetooth, and hearing aid compatibility (M3/T3). Priced at $179, it's the second most affordable phone on this list behind the Jitterbug Smart4.

Consumer Cellular offers several senior-friendly mobile plans to match this phone. Our Consumer Cellular phone plan review has all the critical details.

» Learn More: Consumer Cellular pricing guide

Moto G Power

Senior-Friendly Features

My grandma and I noticed the Moto G's user-friendly interface immediately. The home screen displays the day, date, and time at the top, with a Google search bar to browse the internet quickly. We used it to look up recipes for dinner.

The bottom third features recognizable app icons for calling, texting, taking pictures, and more. While my grandma is more familiar with iPhones, she quickly figured out how to use this device.

Here are my favorite senior-friendly features:

• Two-day battery life
• Large, high-definition display
• Fingerprint and facial recognition
• Hearing aid compatibility (M3/T3)
• 5G data

One drawback: During my testing, the fingerprint sensor wasn't always reliable. I sometimes had to press it multiple times before it unlocked. It could've been because I had recently put lotion on my hands, but it's worth noting.

Camera Quality

My grandma and I enjoyed the high-quality photos we shot with the Moto G. Its front-facing camera has a 16 MP lens, offering twice as much clarity as Lively's Smart4 selfie camera. The rear camera features a 50 MP lens. We took crystal-clear photos in most lighting environments.

Pricing

The Moto G 5G retails for $149.99, making it a solid option for seniors on a budget. The iPhone 13 and Samsung Galaxy S24+ cost $529.99 and $999.99, respectively, while the REVVL 7 5G costs $199.

Motorola offers several Moto Care options ranging from $20 to $99 for extended service or $35 to $399 for accident protection (depending on your device and length of protection). These plans offer peace of mind for one or two years.

» Get 5G Speeds: Best 5G Phones for Seniors

Motorola is not a mobile service provider, so your phone plan cost depends on the carrier you choose. I've found that Consumer Cellular is often one of the most affordable choices for seniors.

Most major carriers, such as Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, work with the Moto G. Consumer Cellular can finance your Moto G for as little as $7 per month (plus $11 upfront) with 0 percent interest. You might snag a refurbished model and save more than $30.

All Consumer Cellular plans feature unlimited talk and text, so you'll just choose the amount of data that's right for you. With an unlimited plan, you don't need to track your data, texts, or minutes. That's convenient, but it costs $50 per month.

You can save per line when you sign up for two or three lines instead of one. Get an additional 5 percent off your monthly premium if you sign up for at least two unlimited plans with an AARP membership. If you don't need unlimited data, Consumer Cellular has other plans starting at $20 per month.

» More Ways to Save: AARP membership guide

Choosing the Jitterbug Smart4 as one of the best smartphones for seniors was simple. It's designed specifically for seniors and is the most affordable phone on our list. My grandma found the 6.75-inch screen easy to see, and the list-based menu was a breeze to navigate.

» Learn About: Jitterbug Smart4 review

The Jitterbug Smart4 keeps you safer thanks to Lively's health and safety features. I could press the smartphone's Urgent Response button anytime to contact an IAED-certified agent. Urgent Response helps if you fall, get locked out, lose track of your location, or experience a medical emergency.

Your family and caregivers will love the Lively Link app. I downloaded it to stay connected with my grandma, monitor her activity, check her phone's battery level, and receive notifications if someone called Urgent Response. This feature made me feel more secure about my grandma's health and well-being.

The Jitterbug Smart4 home screen

Keep in mind that Lively's Jitterbug Smart4 won't be as fast as some other smartphones. I noticed a delay whenever I clicked certain buttons. I had no trouble using it for texts, calls, e-books, surfing the web, and playing music, but larger apps like Gmail took longer to load. That's one reason it's so affordable at just $119.99 (plus monthly plan, activation fees, and taxes). The website also regularly offers discounts of up to 50 percent during select sales.

» Learn More: Easiest Cell Phones for Seniors to Use

Senior-Friendly Features

Lively's Jitterbug Smart4 greatly improves upon its predecessors. It's equipped with longer battery life (up to 37 hours of talk time), a larger screen, and dual speakers that deliver loud, crystal-clear audio.

When making calls, my grandma had no trouble hearing the person on the other end. It features voice-to-text functionality for those with vision issues or difficulty typing. I used Google Assistant to set reminders, make calls, and search the internet. The Urgent Response button was always visible (typically in the upper left corner), ensuring you can contact emergency help anytime.

Lively's Urgent Response button is clearly displayed on the home and lock screen

The Lively Smart4 boasts more senior-friendly features than most smartphones:

• Simple list-based menu and large touch screen
• Built-in GPS and navigation
• Google Assistant for voice navigation
• Urgent Response available for emergencies
• Your cell phone number displayed on the home screen
• Optional 24/7 monitoring

The simple, list-based menu lets me choose from basic options to navigate to the camera, messages, email, and more. This easy-to-use design makes Lively's Jitterbug Smart4 one of the most senior-friendly phones available.

The Jitterbug Smart4 is heavier due to its long-lasting battery and larger screen. It weighs 6.75 ounces, making it the heaviest phone on this list (slightly heavier than the Galaxy S24+). My grandma didn't have much trouble holding the Smart4 when taking pictures, but she noticed it felt heavier than many other phones we tested, especially the iPhone 14, which is more than half an ounce lighter.

Camera Quality

The cameras on Lively's Jitterbug phones have never been stellar, but I noticed improvement with the Jitterbug Smart4. It features a rear-facing triple camera system (13 MP/2 MP/2 MP) and an 8 MP front camera. The environment and lighting can affect photo quality.

If camera quality is critical, you're better off with the iPhone 13 or Samsung Galaxy S24+. Even the budget-friendly Moto G packs more power in its camera. Still, the Jitterbug Smart4 works fine if you're not concerned about quality and just want to capture memories.

A photo taken on Lively's Jitterbug Smart4 (1)

Pricing

The Jitterbug Smart4 costs $119.99, less expensive than the other phones on our list, including the Moto G. Shipping is free, but includes a $35 activation fee. How much you pay per month depends on the Lively phone plan you choose:

• Basic Plan: $19.99 per month (plus taxes and fees)
• Preferred Plan: $39.99 per month (plus taxes and fees)
• Premium Plan: $49.99 per month (plus taxes and fees)

The two higher-tier plans include the built-in Urgent Response service, while the most expensive plan also offers access to on-call nurses 24/7 and personal care advocates who can help you reach your health and wellness goals. These features are unique; I haven’t seen them from any other carriers. They’re entirely worth the price if you’re looking for ways to stay on top of your health.

Expert Insights

From Taylor Shuman, Senior Tech Expert

The Jitterbug Smart4 used to cost $149.99, but Lively recently reduced prices for both their phones. I appreciate these cost reductions and Lively's commitment to keeping things affordable for older adults!

You'll also need to add a data plan, which costs anywhere from $5 for 1 GB to $30 for unlimited data. Compared to other major carriers like T-Mobile and AT&T, whose 55-and-up plans start at $50 and $60 per month for one line, respectively, Lively is relatively affordable. However, if you want unlimited data and a Premium plan, be prepared to pay.

» Read About: A guide to senior discounts

If you're looking for a smartphone that isn't too complicated, say hello to the REVVL 7 5G from T-Mobile. At $199, it's affordable. My grandma and I found it simple to navigate, with high-tech features like fingerprint unlock.

T-Mobile and the REVVL 7 5G help stop spam calls with built-in five-layer scam-blocking protection. During my testing, I received far fewer spam calls than typical. That feature could save you from stress down the road. Phone scams are more costly to seniors than any other scams, including internet scams.

» Further Reading: T-Mobile Unlimited 55+ plan review.

Revvl 6 5G

Senior-Friendly Features

The REVVL 7 5G smartphone from T-Mobile features long-lasting battery life (up to 37 hours of talk time), M3/T4 hearing aid compatibility, and a bright, 6.58-inch screen. The home screen is minimalistic by design, with an internet search bar at the top and a few icons for favorite apps at the bottom. My grandma easily navigated the phone. Best of all, the REVVL 7 5G keeps out phone and text scams better than most smartphones, thanks to T-Mobile's Scam Shield app, plus built-in Scam ID and Scam Block features.

» Learn About: Scams targeting older adults

Here are the best senior-friendly features I noticed:

• Fingerprint unlock
• Built-in scam-blocking protection
• Battery lasts all day
• Large, 6.58-inch full HD screen
• High-resolution triple-camera system

The only major drawback is the size and weight of the REVVL 7 5G. Weighing 7.27 ounces, it's the heaviest phone on this list—0.36 ounces heavier than the Galaxy S24+. My grandma preferred putting the phone on a table or flat surface while using it, especially for more than a few minutes. If you're worried about dropping your phone or experiencing discomfort from holding the device for extended periods, the REVVL 7 5G may not be your best option.

Camera Quality

The REVVL 7 PRO 5G offers a fantastic camera system at this price. The rear-facing triple-camera system features 50 MP/2 MP/2 MP lenses. The front-facing camera has an 8 MP lens. You'll get decent picture quality for selfies. Overall, its cameras were comparable to the Moto G, but we could take better selfies with the Moto G.

Pricing

The REVVL 7 5G costs $199, making it one of the less expensive phones on our list. When I signed up for T-Mobile online, you may be able to pay nothing upfront if you sign up for a new T-Mobile plan at the time of purchase. While your monthly costs vary based on the plan, T-Mobile offers some of our favorite unlimited cell phone plans for seniors. Its 55-and-over plans range from $50 to $90 monthly for one line.

» Further Reading: Best unlimited phone plans for seniors

You can save money per line on T-Mobile's 55+ Unlimited plans if you sign up for two or more lines. The Essentials Choice 55 plan comes with unlimited talk, text, and data for $50 per month for one line or $70 per month for two lines.

Alternatively, opt for the Experience More or Experience Beyond 55 plan, starting at $110 and $140 per month for two lines, respectively. Just make sure T-Mobile offers reliable coverage in your area. I've personally experienced spotty T-Mobile coverage where I live, so I'd recommend asking nearby friends and family about their experience.

» For Couples: Best 2-Line Cell Phone Plans for Seniors

Verizon's iPhone 13 earned its place on our list as the best Apple smartphone for older adults. Its Face ID system protects your privacy without passwords. For many older adults with memory loss, this is a big win. All I had to do to unlock the phone was hold it up and look at it.

Plus, you can upgrade your phone to 512 GB of memory. If your camera roll is packed with thousands of photos and videos like mine, this expanded memory is excellent. The phone's dual-camera system lets you shoot clearer images while zoomed in, at night, and with a wider angle than other smartphones on our list, such as the Jitterbug Smart4.

I'd recommend the iPhone 14 for seniors with family members or friends who also have iPhones. My grandma and I are both iPhone users, and sending iMessages and video chatting make staying in touch a breeze. Plus, if your loved ones are familiar with Apple products, they can help you learn how to use your new iPhone.

» Learn About: The best iPhones for seniors

Testing out the iPhone 13

Senior-Friendly Features

Apple products are user-friendly. Even if you've never used an iPhone, you can figure out the basics quickly. I opened the box, plugged in the iPhone 14, and handed it to my grandma. Within minutes, she was downloading apps and browsing the internet.

Here are our favorite senior-friendly features:

• Secure Face ID for privacy
• Fast, high-performing device
• Tough glass screen
• 12 MP front and rear cameras
• 6.1-inch Super Retina display
• 5G connectivity

Large icons make it easy to take a picture, browse photos, call friends and family, or look for new apps. Plus, the iPhone 13 is M3/T4 compatible and has strong speakers, making it great for seniors with hearing loss. My grandma loves chatting with friends and family, and she never has trouble hearing thanks to the phone's powerful speakers.

» Need New Hearing Aids? Guide to choosing a hearing aid

Camera Quality

I have over a decade of experience with iPhones. My grandma is also an iPhone owner, and she enjoys tinkering with different camera modes like portrait and panoramic. She even recorded a slow-motion video! The iPhone 14 has a dual 12 MP camera system great for taking photos of loved ones, snapping selfies, and recording and editing videos. I took the phone on a hike and captured beautiful photos.

A photo taken during my hike on the iPhone 13

Pricing

The iPhone 14 is certainly not the cheapest smartphone on our list, as the Jitterbug Smart4, Moto G 5G, and REVVL 7 5G all cost at least $300 less. Still, if you get your iPhone with a qualifying T-Mobile plan, you won't pay anything upfront.

Instead, you pay a small amount monthly in addition to your service fee toward the cost of the phone until it's paid off. T-Mobile lets you finance your phone over two years with no interest. The iPhone 14 currently retails for $629.99. Even with zero-interest financing, it's far more expensive than basic Apple models like the iPhone SE, which retails for $429.99.

Verizon offers several unlimited plans for the iPhone 13. Live in Florida? You might be eligible for the Verizon 55+ Unlimited plan. I don't love that the plan is available only to Floridians, because other carriers like T-Mobile offer 55-and-over plans nationwide. If you live outside Florida, my next-best pick is the Prepaid 5 GB plan with unlimited talk, unlimited text, and 5 GB of data. Our latest Verizon review found that you'll pay only $35 monthly with loyalty and AutoPay discounts. Consumer Cellular's 5 GB plan costs $25, which is affordable.

The Samsung Galaxy S24+ from AT&T is one of my favorite Android phones for seniors. It's pricey at $999.99, but it offers the best in new technology.

» Learn More: Best Android phones for seniors

The high-tech Galaxy S24+ lets you take and send amazing pictures. My favorite senior-friendly features are its durable glass screen and battery life. If you're hard on your devices, fear not. The Gorilla Glass Victus+ screen delivers superior shatter- and scratch-resistance. I'm hard on my devices, and I dropped the phone a few times during testing with no scratches or dents.

You won't have to worry about charging your phone constantly. The phone has up to 44 hours of talk time. And if it dies, you won't be without power for long. When the Galaxy S24+ died during my tests, it took around 20 minutes to charge back to 50 percent.

Testing out the Samsung Galaxy s24+

Senior-Friendly Features

Because the screen is extra durable, I didn't have to worry about pressing down too hard. It was designed to take a beating. The Samsung Galaxy S24+ has a fast-charging battery that helps conserve battery life.

Here are features my grandma and I liked most:

• Charges to 100 percent in 66 minutes or less
• Intelligent battery conserves battery life
• Super durable Gorilla Glass Victus+ screen
• Stream music via YouTube Music
• Triple 50 MP/10 MP/12 MP rear camera with 12 MP front camera
• 44 hours of talk time
• 6.7-inch display
• Wireless charging

Camera Quality

I was particularly fond of the Samsung Galaxy S24+ camera system. It's easy to use and offers some of the best picture quality on this list. The rear-facing camera features a 50 MP front lens, plus two additional lenses (10 MP/12 MP). Even the selfie camera has a 12 MP lens. Compared to the Apple iPhone 14, which has an excellent camera, the Samsung Galaxy S24+ camera surpasses the competition.

A photo taken on the Galaxy S24+

The phone weighs 6.91 ounces. It may not sound like much, but it's over 12 percent heavier than the iPhone 13. I didn't have issues holding up the phone for pictures, but my grandma felt it was too heavy to comfortably hold for more than a few minutes. Still, it's lighter than the REVVL 7 5G.

Pricing

The Samsung Galaxy S24+ may seem pricey at $999.99, but you get what you pay for. Don't forget to take advantage of AT&T's perks and discounts. When I tried the Samsung Galaxy S24+ from AT&T, the carrier was offering a deal to trade in your old smartphone for up to $200 in credit toward monthly installments.

You can also finance the Samsung Galaxy S24+ for $27.78 per month over 36 months (even less with an eligible trade-in). Only select postpaid phone plans are eligible. If you want to avoid spending too much on a smartphone, you could save upwards of $800 by opting for the Jitterbug Smart4 or Moto G.

» Take a Closer Look: Best Samsung phones for seniors

AT&T also offers a 55+ plan, priced at $40 per month for one line or $70 per month for two. This plan is available nationwide, which is a major bonus, as their former 55+ plan was only available in Florida.