Cheapest Cell Phones for Seniors
The Jitterbug Smart4 is our top pick for affordable phones, thanks to its senior-friendly design and medical alert features.
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- Costs $149.99
- Smartphone for seniors
- Health and safety features
- Costs $59
- Simple flip phone
- Hearing aid compatible
- Costs $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. We believe 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! We’ve also listed the perks of each phone so you can decide which features are best for you.
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 we judged each phone on the criteria below.
- 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 while focusing on value and quality. What’s the point of purchasing a cheap phone if it’s going to fall apart or provide unreliable service? All the affordable phones on our list offer value 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 ensure 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 and spent a few days testing each to familiarize myself with the ins and outs. I noted 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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IRIS Easy Flip from Consumer Cellular - 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 -
Snapfon ez4G - Least expensive “brick-style” phone
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1. Jitterbug Smart4 from Lively - Least expensive smartphone
What we like most
- Costs $149.99
- Smartphone for seniors
- Health and safety features
Jitterbug Smart4 from LivelyOverview:
Testing out Lively's Jitterbug Smart4
Overview
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 Easy 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 the help needed. The feature is essential for older adults because they are more prone to health risks such as falls. 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 monthly. If you’re on a tight budget, that’s something to consider.
Lively's Urgent Response button is clearly displayed on the home and lock screen
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 & Cons: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
Summary: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 multiple 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 monthly for 5 GB, or $30 monthly for unlimited data.
The prices are added to the standard cost for your plan. That means you could pay as much as $79.99 monthly if you choose the Premium package with unlimited data. That’s more expensive than the unlimited data plan from Consumer Cellular, which costs $50 monthly. Still, Lively’s safety features are essential for many seniors and unavailable 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 there are no long-term contracts or cancellation fees.
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. However, an 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 Easy Flip and TCL Flip Go, although both 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 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.
Using the internet on Lively's Jitterbug Smart4
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2. IRIS Easy Flip from Consumer Cellular - Least expensive flip phone
What we like most
- Costs $59
- Simple flip phone
- Hearing aid compatible
IRIS Easy Flip from Consumer CellularOverview:
Testing out Consumer Cellular's IRIS Flip
Overview
Priced at $59, the Consumer Cellular Iris Easy Flip is the least expensive phone on our list. It’s $27 less than the next cheapest option (the TCL Flip Go). Consumer Cellular’s plans are inexpensive. The Iris Easy 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 Easy Flip includes 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 shorter battery life of 7 hours of talk time and 14 days of standby time. This is a drawback to consider, but if you don’t mind charging your phone every day, it’s not a major issue.
Pros & Cons:Pros About IRIS Easy Flip from Consumer Cellular
- 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
- Simple, senior-friendly design
- Allows you to keep your old phone number
- Lightweight design
- Long battery life
Cons About IRIS Easy Flip from Consumer Cellular
- 5MP camera means lower picture quality
- Limited to KaiOS apps
Summary:Price and Value
Prices for both the Iris Easy Flip and Consumer Cellular’s plans are big wins for me. The phone itself is just $59, and Consumer Cellular’s plans start at $20 monthly 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 make 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 Easy Flip With Other Carriers?
I love Consumer Cellular’s dependable service and low prices, and you can take your Iris Easy 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 switch after 60 days, you must contact the company to unlock the phone. You’ll then need 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. Both are tied to Lively, as there’s no way to change carriers.
» Related Reading: Jitterbug vs. Consumer Cellular
Is Consumer Cellular’s Iris Easy Flip for Me?
If you or your loved one is new to the cell phone game, the Iris Easy 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. It’s my pick for people who want a fast, simple flip phone 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 Easy 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 it was to grip the phone. It 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 Easy Flip without needing a replacement. As a notorious klutz, I’m a big fan of that!
Using the Kai Virtual Assistant on Consumer Cellular's IRIS Flip
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3. Jitterbug Flip2 from Lively - Least expensive phone with medical alert capabilities
What we like most
- Costs $99
- Easy-to-use flip phone
- Health and safety features
Jitterbug Flip2 from LivelyOverview:
Navigating the Jitterbug Flip2
Overview
Similar to 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 Easy Flip.
Photo of my potted flowers taken with Lively's Jitterbug Flip2
Lively has also teamed up with Lyft to make it easier for older adults to get around. I simply contacted Lively and told 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 don’t know how to use ride-hailing apps.
Pros & Cons: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
Summary: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 monthly. Unlike the Smart4, the Jitterbug Flip2 does not require a data plan because it doesn’t have internet access. I was disappointed to see that, as other flip phones like the Iris Easy Flip have internet access. Still, it’s perfect for older adults who 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 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. It wasn’t a big deal for me since Lively uses Verizon’s network. I almost always had three or more bars and 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!
Watch our Jitterbug Flip2 video review below for a closer look at our experience.
Curious about the Jitterbug Flip 2? Jeff Hoyt provides the full in-depth review on the durable flip phone. -
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
Overview:
TCL FLIP Go from T-Mobile
Overview
During testing, I found that the TCL Flip Go strikes the right balance between Consumer Cellular’s Iris Easy 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 I’ve seen.
Pros & Cons: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
Summary:Price and Value
The TCL Flip Go costs $96. T-Mobile also has a payment plan with no-interest financing for $4 monthly for 24 months. It is a convenient and affordable option, if you plan to have the phone for a while and don’t want to pay the full cost upfront. 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, including 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.
Can I Use the TCL Flip Go With Other Carriers?
Like the Iris Easy 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, 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 any major carrier and get it up and running with a new plan. Waiting three months to get it unlocked may be a pain, 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 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 and Iris Easy 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 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:
Snapfon ez4G
Overview
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 within an easy-to-use device. The brick-style phone includes 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 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 & Cons: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
Summary:Price and Value
The Snapfon ez4G costs $99.95, around the same price as the Jitterbug Flip2 and the TCL Flip Go. Snapfon offers various talk, text, and data options at different prices. Unlimited talk and text start at $15 monthly. If you want to add data, prices range from $20 monthly (1 GB) to $75 monthly (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 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 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 monthly.
» 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 be locked to the Snapfon network. You’ll have to contact Snapfon and request them to unlock your phone. 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 that Snapfon doesn’t have an unlimited plan like the other carriers on our list. Still, 20 GB is substantial for everyday things such as checking email, using social media, and watching videos. If you want to use your phone as a hotspot to stream TV and movies on your laptop, your data may get used 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 (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 for the device.
How to Pick an Affordable Cell Phone Plan
Choosing the right cell phone plan will require evaluating your needs, budget, and options. Here are a few things to consider when shopping for an affordable phone plan for seniors.
- Phone usage: Picking the right plan is all about determining what you 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 or no data limits. 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 spend on a phone plan before shopping. Setting a limit will ensure 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 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 wise to choose a carrier with no contracts. 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, too!
- Additional features: Most plans cover talk, text, and data. Carriers catering to seniors may have perks like 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.
>> More Affordable Plans: PureTalk Phone Plans
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 to expect below. You’ll also want to consider the cost of your cell phone plan, plus 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, consider a phone and plan that offers internet capabilities. Data costs extra on some plans, so you may be paying for it unnecessarily if unused.
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Are all cell phones for seniors compatible with hearing aids?
Most cell phones 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.