The Best Dumbphones of 2023
My thoughts on what you should buy or keep an eye on :)
Hey all! A lot has happened in this past year! Many dumbphone releases, my book got published, and we have more to come! That's why every year, I do a video around August about the best dumbphones. This year is no different. It is my opinion on what you should get and this year I am going to do it by price. There is a text version included in this email as well. Also, here is an interview you don’t want to miss with Guy Raz and the team at Light Phone!
Less than $50
At $20, this phone is amazing for those looking to get a basic experience with some extras. The phone is customizable and can install apps (like WhatsApp, Signa, Spotify, etc.) if you follow this guide (https://github.com/neutronscott/flip2/wiki). I love the price of the phone and if you find one unlocked, it will work with most major carriers in the US (and maybe beyond).
Nokia ThreadX devices (Nokia 225, Nokia 110, Nokia 105)
These phones are not exceptional. However, if you are looking for phone calls and basic SMS, it's hard to beat the battery life and "snappy" experience. Don't look at these for any apps or internet usage, they are terrible for that. They are extremely basic phones.
A phone that is smarter than the ThreadX phones, but not super smart. It runs KaiOS 3.0 which is a better version of KaiOS. It's fast enough for basic functions and it can run a few apps like podcasts, weather, and radio. No social media messaging apps like WhatsApp or Signal.
Less than $100
One of the best transition devices when understood properly. This device is not perfect (clearly it got discounted from $270 to $60-70). However, it does run apps, it will limit your usage because of its low res screen, and lack of snappy performance. It's a device to simplify your usage and still have that 1 app you "need."
Xiaomi F21 Pro
They are now being sold at $80-100. These work best for international use. However, you can follow this guide (https://www.reddit.com/r/dumbphones/comments/12ympf2/xiaomi_qin_f21_pro_with_us_bands_guide/) to make them work in the United States. This phone can install apps and essentially be used as a great mini smartphone without too many distractions.
Doro Devices (7030/6880/etc)
These phones are very basic. They are decently reliable and will work for most of your needs. They are preloaded with Whatsapp (some of them) and work for those purposes. Don't look at them as transition devices, they are simpler than that.
Less than $200
Still here after 3 years of these posts. The device is highly customizable, usable, and it has plenty of features. One of my favorites until this day.
A mini smartphone. It works globally and you can install essentially 99% of the apps. It's not a dumbphone, but it acts like one for many.
It has aged decently. Although they have had to fix some hardware and software matters, the company is fully behind the phone and it has delivered great performance over the years. A good simple phone with 3 versions to delight dumbphone users.
A good phone. It's a transition device and a bit bulky. You may need to compare this to the Xiaomi or CAT and make a call on what you prefer based on your needs.
Less than $300
Kyocera Dura XV Extreme+
A revamp of the original Extreme. It has a newer version of AOSP Android and it includes a mouse by default. A great phone for those looking for something long-term.
A personal favorite. It always earns the most improved award because they keep updating it and making it better each year. The phone just got a massive update this past month and it will continue to get better.
Less than $400
You can do this yourself with your current smartphone. However, if you want someone to do it for you, the folks at Ghostphone are sending you a fully wiped smart device with only certain apps. You can still install other apps via apk, but if you are looking for someone else to do it for you, the link is above.
The company has been updating the device more and more. It's a good phone for the basics and it is getting better over time. I hope they continue this trend and make it more reliable in the future.
A Japanese Ketai that works in the US and globally. Great phone, stylish, and amazing versatility!
As always, there are many other dumbphones and you can find the best for you via the Dumbphone Finder: https://dumbphonefinder.com. Also, check your carrier, make sure it's compatible, and don't forget that this is your own journey :)
Signal isn't a "social media app". It is necessary to use your phone as a phone without intermediaries being able to read and listen into all your communications. If you only intend to use your device in life-or-death emergencies, this is probably fine, but not otherwise.
iMessage/Facetime also provides this service but you need an Apple device to access them, and no Apple devices are dumb.