Best Flip Phones in the UK

Review & Comparison, Last Update September 30, 2024
If you need a good emergency phone and don't mind getting back to the basics, a flip phone is a great offering for you. Made in ultra-durable ...Read more
PROS

The built-in torch will be very useful during the evening walks. It's able to illuminate your way 50-100 meters away. And the M4 / T4 Hearing Aid Compatibility will be useful for people with hearing problems.

CONS

The SIM card installation process is a bit tricky.

OUR VERDICT

The Easyfone Prime A1 proves that flip phones aren't as oldish as dinosaurs but stylish and functional. With an informative 1.44" external screen, 3G standard support, and handy cradle charger, it's a very feature-rich model.

detailed parameters
Display

Internal: 2.4” TFT (240x320)

External: 1.44" TFT

OS

Not listed

Sim-card

1 slot for SIM сard

Camera

2 MP

Battery

800 mah

Interfaces

3.5mm stereo headphone jack, microUSB port, microSD slot

Dimensions

100 x 50 x 20 mm

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The high-capacity 900mah battery lets the phone work up to 200 hours in standby mode and provides up to 3.5 hours of continuous talk time. With that, the charging takes only 2 hours (a convenient cradle dock station is included in the box).

CONS

The manual isn't that clear.

OUR VERDICT

If you use several mobile operators at once, we recommend making a choice in favour of this model since it's fitted with two SIM-card slots (both SIMs work in standby mode). The phone has been designed specifically for people with hearing or vision problems.

detailed parameters
Display

Internal: 2.4” TFT (240x320)

External: 1.77" TFT

OS

Not listed

Sim-card

2 slots for SIM cards

Camera

0.3 MP

Battery

900 mah

Interfaces

3.5mm stereo headphone jack, microUSB port, microSD slot

Dimensions

100 x 50 x 18 mm

Warranty

2 years

PROS

This phone comes with a good built-in audio player, so you can enjoy your favourite music on long hiking trips. It's also fitted with an FM-radio to keep you up to date with the latest news. There is a "mini-jack" port for connecting headphones.

CONS

Not as loud as described.

OUR VERDICT

Whereas many other phones are too bulky to fit in your pocket, this model is different. The TTfone Lunar flip phone measures 97 x 49 x 18 mm and weighs about 90 grams, so it will be the perfect companion when walking the dog or jogging.

detailed parameters
Display

Internal: 2.4” TFT (240x320)

External: 1.44" TFT

OS

Not listed

Sim-card

1 slot for SIM card

Camera

0.3 MP

Battery

800 mah

Interfaces

3.5mm stereo headphone jack, microUSB port, microSD slot

Dimensions

97 x 49 x 18 mm

Warranty

1 year

PROS

The ICE (In Case of Emergency) feature allows you to save important data on your phone. Besides standard Name, Birth, Address, and Language, you can save info on your Insurance Condition, Allergies, Blood type, Vaccination, and Medication.

CONS

The camera is almost useless since it takes bad-quality pictures.

OUR VERDICT

The Doro 2404 phone is not a simple clamshell model. It can become a reliable emergency assistant for older people with health problems as well as for those who have difficulties with operating smartphones.

detailed parameters
Display

2.4” TFT (240x320)

OS

Not listed

Sim-card

2 slots for SIM сards

Camera

0.3 MP

Battery

1000 mah

Interfaces

3.5mm stereo headphone jack, microUSB port, microSD slot

Dimensions

102 x 53 x 19 mm

Warranty

1 year

PROS

Although the integrated camera has VGA-resolution, you can still take decent photos and videos with it. High-sensitivity microphone with noise cancellation technology allows other people to hear your voice clearly even when talking in strong winds.

CONS

This phone doesn't come with a mains charger.

OUR VERDICT

This inexpensive phone supports GSM 850/900/1800/1900 bands, so it's compatible with almost any mobile operator in the UK and Europe. It can become a respectable backup phone that holds its charge for a long while and ensures clear conversations.

detailed parameters
Display

1.77” TFT (128x160)

OS

Not listed

Sim-card

1 slot for SIM card

Camera

0.3 MP

Battery

800 mah

Interfaces

3.5mm stereo headphone jack, microUSB port, microSD slot

Dimensions

95 x 48 x 19 mm

Warranty

1 year

Designed for Elderly

What we have here is another great clam phone designed with seniors in mind. This feature-rich phone has large buttons, big font, and user-friendly operating system to let seniors lead full and rich lives.

Right out-of-the-box, it becomes obvious it's a prime device with the excellent build quality. The casing seems sturdy and all the keys have nice positive feedback. They are made from environmental rubber and offer better typing feeling.

The volume of the 15x11 box speaker is loud in both conversation mode and when used as a loudspeaker for the built-in FM app. It produces clear and real sound with high volume levels.

By the way, the phone is Hearing Aid Compatible, meaning it's perfect for customers with hearing aid devices. Also, the phone has a large programmable SOS button so that users can call for help in case of the emergency. Speed dial function is also available (M1 and M2 Speed dial buttons).

Other things that make the phone senior-friendly include ICE feature and a GPS tracking option. Additionally, the phone doubles as a torch and can light your way up to 50-100 meters, making it a reliable assistant for night activities.

As a nice touch, the phone comes with a lanyard. You can loop the long strap through the phone and wear it hanging from your neck, knowing it's always with you.

Two are Better than One

Surprisingly enough, the package includes not one but two 800mAh Nokia BL-4C batteries. That means you can always have a spare one as a backup. Each battery is very easy to charge owing to a convenient cradle charger. Unlike typical phones, you won't need to hassle with numerous cables - just put the gadget into the cradle base and away you are. No confusion with connecting the micro USB charging cord.

When being charged, the phone lets you check the time at a glance. That's achieved due to the dual-screen system with 1.44" external colourful screen. It allows you to see who's calling, time and date, messages, tasks, and reminds when the phone is closed. As for the main HD screen, its diameter makes 2.4 inches for easy texting, calling, gaming, and listening to music.

Last but not least, we would like to say that the Easyfone Prime phone basically takes a micro-size SIM card but also fits a nano-size SIM card (an adapter is included in the box). It supports any GSM and WCDMA(850/2100) network cellphone providers globally.

As you see, it's a perfect unlocked phone that is thought-out to the finest details. If you want a sophisticated clamp phone for daily use, this one hits the sweet spot.

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B07DFSGWKQ

So Simple, So Helpful

If you're looking for a high-quality mobile phone that will be extra-straightforward to use, the Geemarc CL8500 Clamshell phone may come to your liking. Designed for individuals who want something nice and simple, it can take the frustration out of using a phone.

To begin with, this model allows for two charging options - via a wall socket or via a desktop charging dock. To use the dock, you simply need to attach the included USB cable and then place your phone into it whenever you need a quick, convenient charge. The phone easily slips into the dock and needs two hours for a full charge. Ideal for people with dexterity problems who struggle with plugging in a USB cable.

The Geemarc CL8500 is also ideal for those with visual impairment since it has a talking caller-ID for 10 numbers, talking keypad, raised buttons and two bright LCD screens. The menu is also very simple and uncluttered. It lets you set up emergency contacts, quick contacts or add photos to the phonebook so it’s easy to see who you're dialling.

As a nice extra, the phone includes three one-touch memory buttons at the top of the keypad to allow for instant dialling. There’s also a handy SOS button on the back of the phone, which can alert your close people that you need help. By pressing the SOS button, you'll send an emergency text message and dial to emergency numbers preset by you or your family members.

Another safety option, I.C.E function, lets you enter your name, address, allergies, health conditions, taken medications, blood group, your GP and other important medical data that will be displayed to those who will assist you in an emergency.

Extra Loud

What also adds interest to this mobile phone is the extra-loud receiver, making it ideal for anyone with a hearing loss problem. Due to the powerful speaker, you'll be able to adjust a ringtone up to 90dB and amplify the speech of your callers up to 40dB, which is four times louder than regular mobile phones offer. Moreover, the phone is also compatible with hearing aids thanks to the built-in T-coil.

Bottom line, the Geemarc CL8500 is one of the best phones for people with some visual impairment, hearing problems, or dexterity issues. With the dual well-readable screens, extra-loud ringer, large buttons, and talking keypad, this phone is one of the simplest to use on the market. Plus, the charging dock further takes the hassle out of use.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B010ASFFKQ

Compact and Straightforward

Those who need a small, lightweight and affordable flip phone with a straightforward interface and good battery life may really like the TT750 Lunar. Available for less than £40, it's a perfect all-rounder with compact design and an easy-to-read colour display.

Besides the main display, the phone is fitted with an additional external display that shows notifications and allows for the clam shell auto-answering without a need to open the flip cover. Short-sighted individuals will especially appreciate the ability to receive calls just by opening the flip cover since this will save them the need to squint at the keys for the answer button. Likewise, you'll be able to end the call simply by closing the clam.

Still, if you need to use the buttons frequently, you'll like the fact that the keypad here is larger than that found on a normal phone and the buttons have a more grippy finish to be easier to press. Also, the phone has predictive text capability for those with visual impairment.

What also adds to the convenience of use is the desktop charger that rids users of the need to fiddle with cables and wires in order to get the phone charged. You can simply cradle your phone into the dock as you'd do with cordless models.

One more nice feature is the built-in torch that can light your way when walking the dog in the nighttime, for example. And since the phone can easily fit into a pocket or worn around your neck (there is an attachment for a lanyard included), it's the model that can be carried 24/7. Add to that an SOS function, and you'll get a perfect phone that can give you the total peace of mind.

Nice Extras

Despite the seemingly minimalist design, this Lunar phone has some nice extras that can provide you with entertainment on demand. For instance, the integrated camera can help you take quick snapshots and then use them as the background or send to friends and family via Bluetooth. Also, you can later connect the phone to your computer to transfer files (all the needed drivers will install automatically).

In addition, the phone has a built-in audio player and FM radio to let you enjoy music or listen to the latest news on-the-go. So, it doesn't matter whether you're an active person searching for an affordable flip phone to go into your pocket during strolls or you need an extra safety layer, the TTfone Lunar TT750 will get you covered. The little flashlight and the emergency SOS button will give you real confidence to be out of the house again.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price £42.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B01DCCTT3G

For Seniors

The folks behind Doro are doing their best to help seniors live a better life and make them more mobile and independent. And what we have here is the Doro 2404, great mobile phone for elderly people or those individuals with poor eyesight.

To begin with, this mobile phone has a 2.4" well-readable display with very bright and sharp colours; it's well-visible even under the direct sun. The screen size gives users a really good display that is sufficient for the enlarged text. But when closed, the phone is surprisingly small and compact enough to fit into a pocket. What is nice, the casing boasts a soft-touch coating to provide you with a firmer grip.

Inside, the unit has a heavy-duty battery that is able to last up to an incredible 600 hours in standby time after a 9-hour charge. The set includes a standard mains charging plug and USB cord to charge the device.

As far as functionality is concerned, we would like to note that the phone offers predictive text function, adjustable font sizes, FM-radio and visual ring indicator. Also, the phone has a torch, making it handy for use in low-light conditions.

The 0.3-megapixel camera onboard is actually almost useless for taking high-quality photos but it's quite OK for shooting text documents, menus, or prescription. And all the captured images can be easily transferred via the Bluetooth 3.0.

For Emergency

Importantly, the phone is compatible with hearing aids, meaning it's suitable for people with hearing problems. Also, it has a very powerful speakerphone that won't let you miss a thing.

But what makes the phone an absolute catch for people with health problems is the addition of the assistance button. The aforementioned button is situated on the back side of the casing and can be easily reached even without a need to open the phone. It allows users to easily access the predefined numbers in case of emergency.

To activate the assistance function, you should enter recipients in the number list and save the template SOS message. And when the help is needed, you need to press and hold the button for 3 seconds to make the assistance call. With that, your SMS will be sent to all recipients in the list as well. In short, the emergency assistance button pushes the phone to text and call to pre-saved numbers in your prefered sequence.

All this makes the Doro 2404 cell-phone an excellent offering for those who would like to maintain contact in emergencies and other situations.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £36.50
Stock In stock
ASIN B075JGQ78B

Great as an Auxiliary Phone

If you're searching for a second backup phone or need a simple phone for your kids, the TTsims Flip TT140 may catch your fancy. It's a very simplistic model that is currently one of the cheapest mobile flip phones on the market. It costs about £20 and is great for everyday use.

Although it’s a bit "plasticky", it looks reasonably good and is available in black or red colour. It’s also lightweight and reasonably small (you'll be able to read the numbers quite well). It has a large keypad for easy typing and a user-friendly menu with sizeable icons, making the TTsims Flip TT140 model quite good for texting.

The phone takes a standard SIM card and works on all networks that run on 2G frequencies. It also boasts a quite loud volume that’s controllable for the ringtone and the voice. Each time it rings, you can answer or end calls with just a flip, which is very handy and can help you stop accidental pocket dials. But take note that there is no way to see who is calling or whether you have missed a call since the TT140 phone doesn't have an external display for notifications.

Yet, the cover is fitted with a built-in 1.3MP camera that can let you capture some important moments. As for the other extras, there is a basic FM radio, Bluetooth, and a torch function.

Long Lasting

The biggest advantage of the TT140 is obviously its extra-long battery life. Since the device is pretty basic and isn't featured with lots of apps that may drain the battery, it's able to work in a standby mode up to a whopping 120 hours, meaning you will need to recharge it only twice per week. The talk time here is also quite impressive and makes 5 hours, which is almost twice more than many other clamshell phones offer.

Take note that the TTsims Flip phone comes only with a USB charging cable, and you'll need to use any existing USB charger plug or connect it to your PC for recharging. The phone is fairly quick to charge and there is an icon showing 3 bars to give you an idea of the battery status.

Bottom line, the TT140 is an affordable frills-free model that does its work well and holds the charge for a very long time. It can easily become a respectable secondary phone with good sound quality. You'll also get a torch, a radio, and a very basic camera to take and watch snaps and videos.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price £25.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B0771MR9BG

What Is a Flip Phone?

Remember the iconic Motorola RAZR that caused ripples on the market at the beginning of the third century? No matter whether you want to get back to the basics or look for an ultra-durable phone that is likely to survive the apocalypse, we'll get you covered.

Our review includes the best flip phones available on the market today. All the models are perfectly suitable for harsh conditions, which makes them a stellar choice for field workers, individuals on challenging job sites, avid hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. The reviewed phones will let you send/receive calls and messages from deep in the woods, meaning they can become the #1 safety issue in your life. So, what is a flip phone?

Flip phones (also called clamshell phones) have two or more sections that fold via a hinge. They are typically quite compact and can be neatly carried in a pocket. With that, they are long and convenient when expanded. And what many users appreciate the most - you don’t have to block the screen or keyboard. Just collapse your flip phone and that’s it.

And if you'd like to complete your phone with high-quality music and perfect photos, you may be interested in the best bridge cameras and MP3 players.

What Features to Compare

No matter whether you're seeking simplicity, want your dose of nostalgia or need a break from your super smart phone, our flip phones will hit that sweet spot. They offer great durability, simplicity, and long-lasting batteries. However, prior to purchasing, you should consider specific factors like these:

Construction

If you're fond of trekking or hiking, you surely need a ruggedised flip phone designed especially for harsh conditions. That's why it's better to consider models that are made in accordance with military standards and can stand up to water, dust, shock, vibration, altitude, solar radiation, and more factors. Push-to-Talk technology for radio-style communication would also be a welcome addition.

Camera

Without doubts, one of the major considerations is the quality of the images and video captured by a flip phone. However, don't expect fantastic specs and a dazzling range of features here. Obviously, flip phones are not for committed amateur photographers. They are good just for capturing special moments occasionally.

And if you're planning to use the camera extensively, it's better to opt for a lens with more megapixels. You can find models from 1.3 MP cameras to 5 MP. The more, the better.

Music

Are you a music fan? If yes, you probably want to keep your playlist close at hand at all times. That's why you should choose models with great memory capabilities. Consider the capacity of built-in memory and whether the phone offers you an ability to expand that memory with a microSD card. Also, don't overlook the availability of a digital audio player and the audio formats it can read.

Typically, most flip phones come with a 3.5mm stereo headphone jack for your phones. Yet, you can also find a 2.5 port for your earphones. If you prefer to use Bluetooth speakers, check if the chosen phone supports the Bluetooth technology.

Extras

Mobile Hotspot, WiFi Support, and some other popular features can be found even on basic modern flip phones. So, you should decide whether your phone needs to become a mobile hotspot to share the Internet connection with other devices or not. How about WiFi? Do you need to pay extra for that?

Lastly, take note that you can find special phones designed for seniors and people with sight/hearing problems. Some of the phones even can double as personal safety devices with 24/7 access to health services and emergency agents.

Did you know?

The First Flip Phone

Surprisingly enough, the first-ever flip phone was introduced in early 1996. It was called the StarTAC and was released by Motorola. This phone was so revolutionary and popular that it sold more than 60 million units. This was quite shocking considering its whopping $1,000 price tag.

In addition to being the first flip phone in the world, the StarTAC was one of the pioneers to use a lithium-ion battery. The display of the phone was also revolutionary - it was digital and considerably larger compared to other models at that time. Additionally, the phone was able to vibrate instead of just ringing when a call came in.

The flip form factor began to experience a huge decline in popularity with the invention of touchscreen smartphones in the late 2000s. Yet, flip phones still remain popular among users that cherish simplicity and durability above all. But actually, there’re many more factors to like about them.

Top Benefits of Flip Phones Over Smartphones:

They are smaller

Unlike bulky phones with enormously large touchscreens that don’t even fit in a palm, flip phones are tiny and can easily fit into jeans pockets. And owing to their flip design, the possibility of "butt dialling" is reduced to zero. Therefore, embarrassing dialling will never happen.

Better reachability

Though, the buttons are easier to reach when you really need it. Just flip a cover and do your business. No lagging with Touch IDs or whatever.

Greater durability

Today, iPhone screens get scratches even if you accidentally drop them a foot above the ground. But flip phones are literally indestructible. More likely than not, their screen won't shatter even if you drop it out of a 10th-story window.

Can serve as an organiser

If you happen to forget your purse at home, you can use your flip phone as a clip, thus, neatly organising your credit cards and money inside your bag.

Let you answer with style

Actually, you can hang up and pick up your phone like a boss. Every time you hung up, the clickety-clack of the flip phone will look cool.

Longer battery life

Think that staying alive for a week at a time sounds fantastic? Then, you should give a clamshell phone a try. Probably, the battery in a flip phone lasts longer than the paint on its buttons. That is to say, you never need to worry about constant re-charging.

Furthermore, unlike smartphones, most flip phones allow you to replace the battery if the old one dies. No need to buy a new phone.

They make a statement

All flip phones are unique. Of course, the choice isn’t that vast but any of them will let you stand out from the crowd.

Clearer sound

Flip phones are still considered to be the best phones to hear conversations. That’s because their earpieces are larger than those in smartphones.

They allow you to relax

Imagine yourself in a tropical paradise, spending a much-deserved vacation, and nobody is disturbing you... Sounds like a dream? With the flip phone that was actually invented before email, it can become a reality. Since flip phones are free from unnecessary apps, you won’t be distracted with annoying notifications and beeps. The best phone if you want to disconnect from the whole world for a while!

Great thief repellents

When it came to safety, flip phones are obviously your safest option. They literally repel thieves and muggers, meaning they are the smartest option for the safety-conscious people.

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