10 Best Dumb Phones 2024 – The Smart Choice for Non-Smartphones

In today’s world filled with fancy smartphones and tons of apps, a simple, old-fashioned “dumb” phone might feel like a blast from the past. But guess what? These phones are still important and have a big job in our tech-savvy lives.

While most people like to stay at the forefront when it comes to mobile technology, a huge percentage of users still love the basic phones with essential features that allow them to stay connected without too much intrusion and distractions with multiple apps and features.

These phones are often termed ‘Dumb Phones’. For people looking for a digital detox or avoiding overexposure to social media, these dumb phones are the best! If you are also looking for insight into the best dumb phone of 2024, we’re here to help!

We reviewed various phones and listed the best ones in this article; all the phones reviewed below are the best ones on the market. However, if you want to know our personal choice, we think the Nokia 2720-fold is the best dumb phone because of its dual display screens and clean foldable design.

Before letting you know about our top picks, let’s understand what a dumb phone is.

Keep reading!

What is A Dumb Phone?

Unlike smartphones, a dumb phone has limited features and capabilities. These are flip phones offering essential features like making calls and sending messages. The idea is to ensure a less addictive and simpler experience in compared to smartphones. Over the years, phone users have shifted from feature-rich phones to basic dumb phones.

Dumb phones sans internet browsing capabilities and applications to ensure digital deaddiction, mental well-being, and safety. According to Counterpoint Research, dumb phone sales are on a steady increase, i.e., approximately 10% of all mobile sales across the world. In a study by Pew Research Center), 17% of adults aged between 18-29 years use basic phones.

While some may consider it a fad, dumb phones are here to stay!

Over the years, smartphone usage has reached its saturation point. People are concerned about the harmful effects of digital exposure and its effect on mental health. Privacy concerns and recurring data breach incidents have reiterated the fact that dumb phones are the best, especially if you believe in simplicity and minimalism.

Pros and Cons of Dumb Phones

Dumb phones, often viewed as a simplistic alternative to smartphones, have gained popularity among users looking for basic functionality without the distractions of modern technology.  

While these phones may lack the advanced features of smartphones, they offer several advantages and a few disadvantages that make them a suitable choice for certain users. 

Pros 

• Enhanced Focus and Productivity: Since dumb phones lack social media apps and other distractions, they allow users to focus on their tasks, leading to improved productivity.
• Long Battery Life: With fewer apps and processes running, dumb phones typically last much longer on a single charge, often providing several days of usage.
• Affordability: Dumb phones are much cheaper than smartphones, both in terms of upfront cost and long-term usage, since they often come with no data plan requirements.
• Privacy and Security: With no access to internet apps and social media, dumb phones reduce the risks of data breaches, hacking, and online tracking.
• Durability: Many dumb phones are designed with a more rugged build, making them less susceptible to damage from drops, water, and dust compared to fragile smartphones.
• Reduced Screen Time: By limiting access to apps and the internet, dumb phones help users avoid excessive screen time and contribute to better mental health.
• Ease of Use: Dumb phones generally feature simpler interfaces, large buttons, and fewer functions, making them more accessible to seniors or those who are technologically challenged. 

Cons 

• Limited Features: The absence of apps, internet browsing, and advanced features such as GPS or high-quality cameras may be frustrating for users accustomed to smartphones. 
• Minimal Connectivity: Dumb phones typically don’t support features like Wi-Fi or mobile hotspots, making it difficult to connect to the internet or share data across devices. 
• Lower Entertainment Options: Without app stores, streaming services, or social media, entertainment on dumb phones is limited to basic games, FM radio, or pre-installed tools. 
• Lack of Advanced Communication Tools: While they can make calls and send text messages, dumb phones may lack the capability for video calls, email, or instant messaging through popular apps like WhatsApp. 
• Limited Customization: Unlike smartphones, dumb phones often come with fixed designs and features that can’t be customized or upgraded as per user preferences. 
• Slower Performance: Due to less powerful hardware, dumb phones may feel sluggish compared to the snappy performance of smartphones. 

10 Best Dumb Phones in 2024 – Our Top Picks

The mobile phone industry has a plethora of options for people who are looking for a digital detox and those that are technologically challenged. It’s time to look at simple yet efficient mobile phones that serve the purpose beautifully and let you enjoy the joy of simple living! Here are our top picks –

1. Nokia 2720-Fold

Nokia 2720-Fold

The Nokia 2720-Fold has a 1.8-inch TFT display with a 1.36-inch second external monochrome TFT display.

On the back, there is a single 1.3MP camera

SPECIFICATIONS

Battery
860 mAh

Hardware
N/A

Display
1.8 inches 120* 160 pixels

Storage
9MB

Camera
1.3 MP (Single Camera)

The Good

• Large numeric keypad for easy usage
• Long battery life
• Clean design
• Compatible with WhatsApp & some Google app

The Bad

• Plastic built
• Not water resistant
• Overpriced

The first one on the list is the classic Nokia 2720. It helps avoid distractions and boost productivity as it has useful features that let you make calls and send messages. It is one of the best mobiles phones for the elderly with big buttons. The best thing about this phone is its advanced features while keeping its simplicity intact, for instance, strong voice quality, Bluetooth, video recording, user-friendly navigation, FM radio, video recording, etc.  

With the Nokia 2720, you get more than you ask for! This smudge prone flip-phone has extensive controls with a decent design. It is available in different colours and has the ability to add more than 500 contacts to your address books. Features like hands-free speaker phones, STMP e-mail messages, built-in music player, good battery life, and talk time are icing on the cake! 

We’ve made a summary of all the technical features along with the pricing and weight so that you can look and decide.  

Weight: 90.3 gm, 17.9 mm thickness

Additional Features

• Games included
• MIDP 2.0 Java
• MP3/AAC player/MP4/H.263 player
• Organizer, Voice memo, Predictive text input
• Standup: Up to 432 h
• Talk time: Up to 5 h

2. Doro 1370

Doro 1370

The Doro 1370 with a 2.4-inch TFT display and hearing aid compatibility.
Provides the talk time of 7 hours.

On the back, there is a 3MP main camera.

SPECIFICATIONS

Battery
1000 mAh

Hardware
ARM7 360MHz processor

Display
2.4 inches

Storage
8MB

Camera
3 MP (Single Camera)

The Good

• Rich, vibrant colors
• Sleek, smart, and stylish
• Durable built
• Easy to navigate menu

The Bad

• Poor design
• Average battery life
• Supports 2g only

The second on the list is Doro 1370, a super easy and inexpensive phone with a large display screen and battery life. It has excellent sound quality with a vibrating ringer and additional features like alarms, reminders, etc., which make this phone one of the best options for the elderly as it is easy to use and maintain.  

The sleek design with easy-to-navigate buttons makes this phone a must-have! The phone is hearing-aid compatible and connects to the network real fast. Although the memory is limited, approximately 60 messages, it offers ease of usage and a sturdy body that lasts longer even after a little rough use. An easy-to-use phone for the elderly, the Doro 1370 has a wide display screen, easily removable separate buttons, and an auxiliary button that enhances security.  

Have a look at the features of this phone and don’t hesitate to buy if it serves your requirements! 

Weight: 106 gm; 2.4 inches

Additional Features

• • Primary sensor resolution: 3 Mpx
  • Built-in sensors
  • Hybrid Dual SIM

3. CAT B35

CAT B35

The CAT B35 has a 2.4-inch TFT display and a talk time of up to 12 hours.
Qualcomm Snapdragon 205, Dual-core processor.

On the back, there is a 2MP main camera.

SPECIFICATIONS

Battery
2300mAh

Hardware
Snapdragon 205, 512MB RAM

Display
2.4 inches 240 * 320 pixels

Storage
4GB

Camera
2 MP (Single Camera)

The Good

• Lightweight
• Dual-SIM
• Scratch-proof glass
• Water-resistant

The Bad

• 167 ppi pixel density
• 2.4-inch TFT
• Poor camera

The third on the list is the CAT B35 mobile phone, which is full of practical features apart from its eye-catching design and durable construction with a small, lightweight design. It has almost 12 hours of talk time and has Google Maps for navigation. It has two SIM slots and works with 4G and Wi-Fi connections. The phone has everything you would want in a work phone and goes above the requirements to give you an experience that is one step closer to a basic smartphone.   

A true combination of simplicity and convenience, the CAT B35 has a highly durable casing, which is rugged and has IP68 certification. It has a Dualcore Qualcomm 8905 processor, built-in FM radio, 4G support, and 4GB storage with an expandable microSD card.  

For more details, read on and see if it fits your requirements. 

Weight: 130g

Additional Features

• 5% screen/body ratio
• 167 ppi pixel density
• Thicker, 1.4 cm

4. Nokia 225 4G Dual SIM

Nokia 225

The Nokia 225 with 2.4-inch TFT LCD display and a 256k colors
Unisoc UMS9117 Processor for light tasks.

On the back, there is a 0.3MP main camera.

SPECIFICATIONS

Battery
1150 mAh

Hardware
Unisoc UMS9117, 64MB RAM

Display
2.4 inches 240 * 320 pixels

Storage
128MB

Camera
0.3 MP (Single Camera)

The Good

• 4G compatible
• Sturdy, lightweight design
• Dual-SIM capability
• Can switch SIMs easily

The Bad

• Limited internal storage
• Not compatible with CDMA networks
• Lacks Wi-Fi

A well-built, inexpensive, and efficient phone, the Nokia 225 4G dual SIM phone is all you need to keep yourself connected to your colleagues and parents. It is a handy, compact, and sturdy phone with amazing features like a user-friendly design, the ability to sync contacts from Android, and old-school style features. However, if you love the old school vibe, this phone is just for you! 

Featuring a flat keypad with a four-way rocker, this phone has a decent display screen and a Unisoc USM9117 chipset. It is available in different colours and has multiple ringtones to choose from. You can play simple games on the phone; there is FM radio, single VGA camera, Bluetooth, and more.  

Here is a glimpse of all the Nokia 225 4G Dual SIM phone features.  

Weight: 90.1 g

Additional Features

• Compatible with 2G and 3G
• expandable storage via microSDXC

5. Nokia 3310

Nokia 3310

The Nokia 3310 with a 2.4-inch TFT display and has a talk time of up to 31 hours.
Spreadtrum SC9820 1x 1.2GHz ARM Cortex-A7 processor for small tasks.

On the back, there is a 2MP main camera.

SPECIFICATIONS

Battery
1200 mAh

Hardware
Spreadtrum SC9820, 256MB RAM

Display
2.4 inches 240 * 320

Storage
512MB

Camera
2 MP (Single Camera)

The Good

• Long battery life
• Thin and lightweight
• Apps like Twitter and Facebook work well
• Easy to use system

The Bad

• 2G only
• Costly
• Low built-in storage

It is one of the best senior-friendly phones, as all the features are designed to offer a great user experience. The phone was a milestone in the beginning of the modern era. Being one of the best budget-friendly phones in the market, the Nokia 3310 has a big screen with chunky and round buttons for high convenience.  

It is a compact, lightweight phone with a smooth, eye-catching finish, and a removable long-lasting battery. Using this phone, you can make calls, send messages, and play MP3 and FM Radio. The simple functionality, QVGA screen, headphone jack, 16MB of internal memory, and micro-USB charger.  

The phone will remind you of your first phone and will take you down memory lane. The best part is that it has an amazing battery life, which makes it a perfect choice as a backup phone while you are holidaying.  

Weight: 85 g 

Additional Features

• MicroSDHC card slot
• 0, A2DP Bluetooth camera
• MicroUSB 2.0
• Stand-by, up to 744 h
• Talk time, up to 22 h

6. Artfone CS182

Artfone CS182

The Artfone CS182 with a 1.77-inch TFT display

On the back, there is a small 0.3MP main camera.

SPECIFICATIONS

Battery
1400 mAh

Hardware
N/A

Display
1.77 inches 120 * 160 pixels

Storage
32MB

Camera
0.3 MP (Single Camera)

The Good

• Convenient and durable design
• Long-lasting battery
• Comfortable keypad for easy typing
• Inexpensive

The Bad

• Basic features
• 1.77” screen
• Limited ringtones

The design and functioning of the Artfone CS182 has been highly appreciated by everyone. It has big, bold numbers on the keypad, which are the best thing for seniors for easy calling and typing. The battery life is unmatched, and the features like a VGA camera, user-friendly interface, long-lasting battery, emergency SOS button, FM radio, camera, etc., take the phone to the next level.  

The convenient and durable design makes it one of the best phones for senior citizens. The keyboard is comfortable and allows the elderly to type easily and make a call without getting confused. It has a powerful speaker and a new UI operating system. The high-volume speakers, 2G compatibility, and large buttons are its USP, which makes it a must-have for senior citizen who are looking for an easy option.  

Weight: 90.7g

Additional Features

• Emergency SOS button
• Dual-SIM
• FM radio
• Powerful speakers
• microSD card 16GB
• Lithium-Ion battery

7. Nokia 8800

Nokia 8800

The Nokia 8800 with a 1.7-inch TFT display and 256k colors.

On the back, there is a 0.5MP main camera.

SPECIFICATIONS

Battery
600 mAh

Hardware
N/A

Display
1.7 inches 208 * 208 pixels

Storage
64MB

Camera
0.5 MP (Single Camera)

The Good

• FM available
• Scratch-resistant glass
• Video recording camera
• Good call quality

The Bad

• Hard to remove battery case
• Doesn’t work well with fast data speed
• Expensive

Another one on the list, Nokia 8800, features a scratch-resistant screen and solid stainless-steel casing, which enhances its durability. Power-packed with GSM technology, FM radio, a high-resolution camera, and a removable Li-Ion 600 mAh battery, the Nokia 8800 is a must-have for anyone looking for a utilitarian and durable phone.  

The phone has a mini/single SIM and is dustproof and waterproof. It has an OLED display and advanced features that make this sleek phone a perfect choice for people who like mobile phones with minimal features and high durability.  

Weight: 134 g

Additional Features

• FM radio
• Stand by up to 190 h
• Talk time up to 3 h

8. Punkt. MP02

Punkt. MP02

The Punkt. MP02 with a 2-inch display
This phone primarily focuses on security; that’s why you won’t find any of your favorite apps. in it

SPECIFICATIONS

Battery
1280 mAh

Hardware
Qualcomm Snapdragon 210

Display
2 inches 320 * 240 pixels

Storage
16GB

Camera
No camera

The Good

• Sleek and stylish design
• Secure VoIP calling
• Hotspot mode available
• Group messaging

The Bad

• Physical volume buttons not available
• Lack of band 71 connectivity
• It doesn’t sync contacts, calendars, or notes

The phone has a low-key, stylish design and a lean-menu system that helps you navigate easily. It has a solid construction and is made with glass fibre finished with an abrasion-resistant coating. The phone comes with a downloadable feature for privacy and has a minimalistic interface. The 4G device lets you call, message, and has basic features like calendar. The battery life is good and the MP02 feature is the highlight of the phone as it allows you to use end-to-end encryption service. 

The splash proof IP52 is a practical feature that adds to the quality of the phone. The phone features ringtones developed by the popular Norwegian sound artist Kjetil Rost Nilsen. 

Weight: 100g

Additional Features

• Android 8.1 operating system
• Splashproof to IP52 standards
• Gorilla Glass 3

9. Doro 780X

Doro 780X

The Doro 780X with a 2.8-inch TFT display, 143 PPI
MediaTek MT6731 1100 MHz, Quadcore for smooth performance

On the back, there is a 5MP main camera.

SPECIFICATIONS

Battery
1600 mAh

Hardware
MediaTek MT6731, 512MB RAM

Display
2.8 inches 320 * 240 pixels

Storage
4GB

Camera
5 MP (Single Camera)

The Good

• GPS localization
• Safety function
• 3G/4G technology
• Bluetooth/Wi-Fi/GPS

The Bad

• Limited buttons
• Simple device/basic features
• Setting up may require help

Considered a super easy phone with a ‘fall detection’ feature, the Doro 780 X is easy to use, water-resistant, and has GPS localisation. The mobile phone has a large button to ensure a user-friendly experience. The USP of the phone is the HAC (Hearing Aid Compatibility). It has easy to read display, a visual ring indicator, an assistance button, and 4G compatibility.  

The phone has a backlit keypad for added practicality and a man-down alarm. The IP classification, one-press alarm dial-up, and one-touch memories enhance its utility. The handset has Bluetooth, GPRS, GSM, micro-SD card, and dual SIM option. The battery of 1600mAh Li-ion and headset outlet (3.5mm), along with other features such as 320 x 240 QVGA resolution (H x W pixels) take the phone to the next level.  

Weight: 117 g

Additional Features

• Water-resistant, user-friendly phone
• MicroSDXC supported
• Dor OS

10. Doro 6820

Doro 6820

The Doro 6820 with a 2.8-inch QVGA display
1GHz single core UNISOC processor

On the back, there is a 2MP main camera.

SPECIFICATIONS

Battery
1000 mAh

Hardware
Unisoc UMS9117

Display
2.8 inches 320 * 240 pixels

Storage
17.3MB

Camera
2 MP (Single Camera)

The Good

• Functional/easy to navigate
• Wireless dock charger
• Descent camera quality
• 4G supported

The Bad

• Basic features
• Average display

Renowned for its unmatched sound quality, Doro 6820 lets you enjoy calling, messaging, and taking pictures with ease. The phone has a large display with a contrasting key that makes calling and messaging super easy. The phone comes with an assistance button, which can be used in case of emergency to contact trusted people.  

The phone has 4G capabilities, a 2MP camera, an easy-to-read display, GPS, HAC (Hearing Aid Compatible), and a visual ring indicator. The main features include Firmware over-the-air-updates (FOTA), ICE, and wake up alarms are some of the main features of Doro 6820. The phone comes with an autofocus, image viewer, magnifier function, and video recording, making it a perfect choice in this budget! 

Weight: 117g

Additional Features

• GSM, UMTS, LTE
• Memory card: MicroSD, MicroSDHC, MicroSDXC (up to 128 GB)

Benefits of Dumb Phones

If you talk about facts, here are some eyeopeners-

Long Battery Life

As the best dumb phones don’t have many applications and other complicated features that consume battery, you can use these phones for long hours without needing to charge them. These phones are great if you are traveling and would like to remain connected without stressing about charging them frequently! Dumb phones are considered one of the best phones for battery life.

Distraction-free

There is no distraction, notifications, and over exposure to social media, as dumb phones don’t have these features. If you want to take a break from social media, go for the best dumb phone UK.

Better Security

With minimal features and uncomplicated applications that require you to give them access to your gallery and camera, dumb phones are one of the safest options when it comes to maintaining privacy. As compared to smartphones, dumb phones are the best when it comes to privacy and security.

Cost Effective

There is a massive difference in the cost of a smartphone and a dumb phone. While there is no limit to the price when we talk about an Android or an Apple phone, as the price goes up with advanced features. However, if you look at the cost of dumb phones, the price range is almost the same. The carrier’s network plans are also cheaper as compared to plans for smartphones that require data consumption.

High Durability

Smartphones are embedded with delicate components, including glass screens, sensors, etc., which can burn a hole in your pocket if damaged! Dumb phones, on the other hand, are made of sturdy material as they don’t offer your features that make them delicate.

As we now know the immense benefits dumb phones have to offer, it’s time to unlock some of the best dumb phones in 2024.

Conclusion

Technology has helped us in many ways to stay connected and to redefine the way we communicate. In this realm, we’ve engrossed ourselves in the digital world that has started showing a severe impact on our lives.

For those who believe that it’s time to take a digital detox and manage the stress, dumb phones are the best things. Embrace the joy of minimalism and simple living by adopting the best dumb phone in 2024.

Dumb phones are simple phones or old mobile phones with basic features that allow you to make calls and send messages. All the phones reviewed above are great in their own ways; however, as per our opinion, Nokia 2720-Fold is the best dumb phone.

If you are looking for the best dumb phone with WhatsApp, you’ll be glad to know that there are innumerable options to choose from. You can look at the top 10 best options fot 2024 and choose the one that best suits your needs.

Apart from these, if you have any other dumb phone, which can be in the top league without having too many features yet serving the purpose.