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Flip phones in 2022 - A Buying Guide for AT&T, Verizon and T-Mobile in the US.

Flip phones are stylish, easy-to-use and simplistic. They're best for older people and children.

4G has tremendously increased the transfer of data nowadays. The evolution in network connectivity has also upscaled the growth of mobile devices. Newer models that support the new generation of technology are constantly produced, providing faster data rates and connectivity. 

However, some of us still have a taste for the simpler phones we had back in the day, and nothing evokes the nostalgia of old school phones like flip phones. Lucky for us, they still produce them nowadays, but this time with an added flavor of 4G technology. They're easy to use, fulfill basic connectivity by calls and text messaging, serve their purpose and appeal to both older or younger folks. 

We're here to tell you everything you need to know about flip phones with 4G, so stay with us!

Buying Flip phones in 2022 in the U.S. for AT&T, Verizon and T-mobile:

Major mobile carriers will be shutting down older 3G networks in 2022, rendering older phones and certain devices useless. According to the Federal Communications Commission, the shutdown will make way for more advanced services like 5G, but will result in many older cell phone models being unable to make or receive calls and texts. These include calls to 911 or using any data services.

The change will affect 3G mobile phones and some older 4G phones that don't support Voice over LTE. It will also affect certain medical devices, tablets, smart watches, vehicle SOS services, home security systems and other connected products that use 3G.

The 3G shutdowns will start occurring as early as January 1 but will vary depending on the carrier. AT&T will finish shutting down its 3G network by February 2022 while Verizon’s changes will be complete by December 31, 2022. T-Mobile will finish shutting down Sprint’s 3G CDMA network by March 31, 2022 and Sprint’s 4G LTE network by June 30, 2022. It also announced it will shut down T-Mobile’s 3G UMTS network by July 1, 2022 but has not yet announced a shutdown date for its 2G network.

For AT&T, it will be hard to activate new phones now unless they're on the AT&T whitelist.

For Verizon, most phones might not work unless approved by them. And since Verizon has different LTE bands from AT&T and T-mobile, phone manufacturers usually don't make a version for Verizon due to economies of scale.

Please beware, most phones here might not work with AT&T if you are an AT&T or Verizon subscriber. We have listed several phones below and along with the carriers they work with.

What are Flip Phones?

Flip phones are smaller and compact factor phones that are easy to use and provide the basic purpose of connectivity. They have a smaller screen that's on the upper half of the phone and a keypad or physical buttons on the lower half. The keypad goes underneath the screen when the phone is folded or is not in use.

Unlike other certain models, flip phones open up vertically rather than horizontally. They're equipped with a primary camera, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, a radio and long-lasting battery life. They're also useful to older people because they typically come with a 3.5 mm audio jack, allowing the use of headphones to help them hear better.

While they were originally designed for everyone in general, they ended up being well suited for older people and children. The dedicated SOS buttons, easy-to-use physical keypad and basic interface make them an excellent choice.

Recent flip phones are well-equipped and support all the latest technologies. They also come with essential social media apps and other connectivity apps for video calling. 

In summary, their key features are:

  • Compactness in form
  • Basic phone functionality
  • A unique flip design
  • Fun to use
  • Longer battery life
  • Cheaper than Smartphones in general
  • They have physical keypad 

Differences of Flip vs Foldable phones:

The primary differences between a foldable phone and flip phone are the build, size and structure.

Foldable Phones

  • Foldable phones are folded horizontally with the help of a hinge between two folds. They are taller when closed and rectangular when opened
  • The screen size is much larger, almost like a tablet when opened
  • A secondary fully functional top-spec screen is also present on the outer side
  • Size of batteries
  • Camera placement
  • Can be used as both a phone or a tablet.
  • Examples for the foldable phone are Samsung galaxy fold and the Oppo Find N

Flip phones

Flip phones, on the other hand, come in various sizes. Small flip phones (dumbphones) come with a minimalistic design and basic functionalities.

  • Flip phones are connected with a center hinge that allows the upper and lower part to close.
  • Newer flip phone models can have a taller screen and aspect ratio, like the Samsung Galaxy Flip.
  • They have smaller batteries than a foldable phone.
  • The secondary screen is smaller, and is only for basic notifications.
  • Modern flip phones appeal to younger people due to their small pocket size and relaxed look.

Do Flip Phones have some Smartphone Features?

Are there flip phones with WhatsApp?

Yes, flip phones are smart enough to support WhatsApp and other related apps. Not all flip phones can, but they most will.

Are there flip phones with Spotify?

There are very few flip phones that allow their users to download apps and support Android OS. Yes, you can download Spotify on these phones.

Are there flip phones with Wi-Fi?

Yes, almost all 4G phones have Wi-Fi out of the box.

Who might prefer Flip phones Over Smartphones:

It depends on different factors. Flip phones are pretty handy, easy-to-use and basic. Anyone can use them. Their unique design and form factor make them appealing to most people in general. These are some common reasons for why people would rather have a flip phone instead of a smartphone:

  • Older people find it challenging to use smartphones and need a less complex device.
  • Children can call their parents, send them their location and play games on it.
  • The retro or "old school" aspect of it appeals to younger people who want to try it out.
  • Some people want to take a break from social media and extended smartphone usage.
  • Many people use them as their secondary phones due to their long battery lives.
  • Some people want a separate button for SOS.

Why do they prefer a Flip phone over a smartphone?

  • Ease-of-use and size.
  • Seniors have an easier time using them because of the physical buttons.
  • Some people find it taxing to use a cluttered interface and prefer a simpler device with fewer apps.
  • All they need is the fundamental purpose of connectivity i.e., phone calls and texting.
  • Longer lasting battery due to lesser apps and a smaller screen. 
  • The physical design.
  • They're a good way to help you take a break from all the "technology" and have more time for other things.

Critical features of Flip phones that are different from smartphones:

Many features make them different and unique from smartphones, not only in functionality but also from a design perspective.

Design

The main feature of flip phones is their design and form factor. They are small, easy to carry and comfortable in your pocket. The flip design and the satisfying sound of closing and opening them set them apart from smartphones.

Battery

Their batteries last longer because they have smaller screens, use less apps and have fewer functions. More battery life means you won't need to charge it as frequently as you would your smartphone. On that note, the talk time and standby time are also much longer in flip phones.

Ease of Use

Their basic design makes them much easier to use. Their physical buttons ultimately make them a great choice for older people who are more comfortable with an actual keypad than a touch screen.

Price

Flip phones check all the boxes for connectivity and ease of communication. They are compatible with all the networks, loaded with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, 4G, and GPS support. Despite having all these features, they're significantly cheaper than the vast majority of smartphones.

Pros and Cons of Using Flip Phones:

Depending on their usage, several factors keep them relevant even in this era of smartphones. Due to their unique features which are still in use, the demand for them increases over time. Companies still produce them due to the market demand.

Pros:

  1. They're quite 

user-friendly. Even children and older people can operate them without difficulty.

  1. They serve the main purpose of keeping you connected to your family and friends.
  2. Less app usage in them makes them appealing to people who want a break from smartphones.
  3. They have longer battery lives with more standby and talk time.
  4. They’re  much 

cheaper than smartphones.

  1. They can be compatible with all the networks.
  2. They are equipped with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and F.M. radio.

Cons:

  1. The smaller screen size might make it harder to use for some people.
  2. They have a lower resolution screen.
  3. Physical buttons require more time to type words.
  4. Fewer models are available in the market.
  5. They have slower processing power and less storage memory.
  6. Their cameras are VGA standard, which aren't as good as the ones on smartphones.

Important Considering Factors before Buying Flip phones:

Buying a flip phone  nowadays can be a bit tricky. With fewer choices in the market, you must thoroughly compare them to decide which model suits you best. Lucky for you, we did the research and came up with some important factors to consider.

US Warranty

Check whether the flip phone provider gives a warranty for their product. If they do, it will definitely help you if your device has problems. It also shows that the company's reliability and confidence in it's products

Carrier Support

Most flip phones don't meet the requirements and aren't compatible with U.S. carriers, so you’ll need to be careful while purchasing these phones. Some carriers are also less open to unlocked phones; they prefer phones that are released under their own contracts. Make sure to check this critical factor when you shortlist them.

4G Network (Voice Over LTE, Voice Over Wi-Fi)

Make sure the model you want supports the 4G LTE network. This is imperative. You’ll need this in order to support functions like calling via the internet or Wi-Fi. It also affects the quality of your calls, allowing you to hear the voice of the person you're talking to more clearly and without any lag. Moreover, you’ll be able to call through different social media apps if your phones have them already.

GPS Support

If you want to keep track of your child's location, choose a model with GPS support. By enabling the GPS, you can see your child's location.

Charging Method

An easy way to charge would be a great relief to older family members. Finding the charger, connecting it to the phone and then plugging it into the socket can be quite a hassle for older people. Lucky for us, some of these phones come with a charging dock. All you need to do is put your phone on it to charge.

Apps

Check all the apps you would want, especially the ones for communication. The more options the better. Look for models that provide more apps for communication so you won’t have to rely on a single one. And lastly, the network coverage or signal may not always be good, so Wi-Fi connectivity will be a great relief.

How We Chose Our Favorite Senior Cell Phones

We thoroughly examine a phone's features and consider different factors before recommending it to seniors.

Affordability

Modern cell phones can cost upwards of $1,000, but we looked for ones that cost $400 or less. Most of the phones on this list cost less than $200.

Simplistic Design

The main reasons people prefer flip phones are their simplistic design and their ease-of-use. Their primary interface is pretty straightforward. Making calls, texting and taking photos are much easier.

Longer Battery Life

The smaller screens, fewer apps and simple functionality help their batteries last longer. Their standby time can usually last for almost a month, and their talk times are also much longer than that of a typical smartphone. They can survive for days on a single charge.

Smart Safety Features

Many cell phones designed for seniors feature SOS buttons, GPS, and other medical alert features that keep users safe in and out of their homes.

No long-term contracts

Gone are the days of locking into a lengthy service contract to get a low-priced phone. All the phones on this list can be purchased for a low, one-time cost and require no long-term agreements.

Our Recommendation

Although not a flip phone, the best dumbphone model you can get based on the factors we just discussed is still the VoicePing P-one. It checks all the boxes that make it the best choice for seniors and children. This model is loaded with all the necessary features you need. 

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The VoicePing P-one is the perfect phone for older people and children. It's compact, durable and has a protective casing around its body for better grip and reliability. It’s definitely one-of-a-kind with all the must-have features that meet the demands and requirements for modern phones. 

Its simplistic form factor, minimalist user interface, intelligent features, and affordability makes it a worth considering device. Some of its notable features include:

  • Android OS: You can download and install apps like Skype, WhatsApp and Zoom from the app store.
  • AT&T and T-Mobile Compatibility: It supports AT&T and T-Mobile, and provides out-of-the-box connectivity.
  • Processor: It comes with a 1.5 GHz quad-core processor with 1 GB of RAM.
  • Storage: It has a built-in storage space of 8 GB and supports up to 128 GB with an SD card.
  • Camera: Its 8 MP camera is perfect for video calls and taking pictures.
  • GPS Enabled: It comes with a GPS as a standard feature, making it a great choice for children's phones.
  • Wi-Fi, 4G LTE: It’s one of the few dumbphone models equipped with Wi-Fi and 4G LTE technology.
  • Physical Buttons: It has the T9 button keyboard that is simple but provides all the necessary functions.
  • SOS Button: A separate SOS button is integrated with its keyboard for emergencies.
  • Warranty: It comes with a one year warranty. 

These features make it a strong contender; it addresses all the problems that phones in this category usually have. It has the technology and capabilities of modern phones with the simplicity and design of an old phone. 

Our picks for the best flip phones in 2022

Now that we’ve gotten that out of the way, these are our picks for the best flip phone models available in the market for 2022. 

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The Nokia 2720 is one of the stylish flip-able phones currently available in the market. Its distinct classic flip design and features make it worth considering.

Some of its notable features include:

  • Technology: It supports the 4G technology
  • Screen Size: 2.8 inches with 240 x 320 pixel ratios
  • Rear Camera: 2 MP rear camera
  • Battery Life: Standby battery time of 28 days and 10.9 hours of talk time
  • Storage: 4 GB of text messages and contacts storage
  • Dimensions: 

192.7 x 54.5 x 11.6 mm

  • Weight: 118 grams
  • Price: Approximately 120 dollars
  • Works on: AT&T and T-Mobile

This model is definitely the most reminiscent of the Nokia and flip phones days, and the best choice for people who miss Nokia’s old school style. Nokia is a world-renowned, trustworthy company that introduced good, innovative and durable models in the past. Its product quality remains one of the best to this day.

It’s built-in 4 GB storage also lets you browse smoothly, store music and take more pictures!

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The Alcatel Go flip V is a 4G LTE phone. Its sleek design and dual-screen make it distinct from other models. It can provide both functionalities, whether it's H.D. voice or voice-over Wi-Fi. It also has an internet sharing Hotspot option that supports up to 10 devices. 

Some of its notable features include:

  • Technology: It supports 4G LTE technology
  • Screen Size: 2.8 inches with 240 x 320 pixel ratios
  • Rear Camera: 2 MP rear camera
  • Battery Life: Standby battery time of 28 days and 10.9 hours of talk time
  • Storage: 8 GB of standard storage that can be expanded with an SD card
  • Dimensions: 104.9 x 52.8 x 18.7mm
  • Weight: 118 grams
  • Price: Approximately 60 dollars
  • Works on: Verizon
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Nuu is similar in design to Alcatel flip. It is also equipped with a dual-screen. The upper screen is for notifications and the larger inner screen is its primary one. It has a sleek minimalist design, supports 4G and features voice of internet calls.  

Some of its notable features include:

  • Technology: It supports 4G LTE technology
  • Screen Size: 2.8 inches with 240 x 320 pixel ratios.
  • Rear Camera: 2MP rear camera and 0.3 MP front camera
  • Battery Life: Standby battery time of 28 days and 6.17 hours of talk time
  • Storage: 4 GB of standard storage that can be expanded to 64 GB with an SD card 
  • Dimensions: 109.07 x 57.8 x 21mm
  • Weight: 127.5 grams
  • Price: Approximately 60 dollars
  • Works on: Verizon. T-Mobile (lacks band 71)

It also comes with Android Oreo, which means you can download and run all the social media apps. However, its small screen makes it better for video calling than for browsing.

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TTfone Lunar is a clamshell design flip phone that avoids accidental pocket dials. Its big font keyboard is ideal for older people. It has separate SOS buttons, large volume buttons, a dock charging system and Bluetooth connectivity. 

Some of its notable features include:

  • Technology: It supports 3G technology
  • Screen Size: 2.4 inches with 240 x 320 pixel ratios.
  • Rear Camera: It is equipped with a VGA standard camera.
  • Battery Life: 3.5 hours of talk time.
  • Storage: 4 GB of standard storage that can be expanded to 64 GB with an SD card 
  • Dimensions: 185 x 49 x 12 mm
  • Weight: 90 grams
  • Price: Approximately 60 dollars.
  • Works on: T-Mobile

It's a decent basic phone with a charging dock, big buttons and larger volume and SOS keys.

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Plum flipper is a single SIM 4G flip phone. Its square design layout makes it a good choice for seniors. It has two screens. The one on the outside is for notifications and allows you to check for missed calls, time and battery information without having to open your phone. 

Some of its notable features include:

  • Technology: It supports 4G technology 
  • Screen Size: 2.4-inch screen with 240 x 320 pixel ratios
  • Rear Camera: It has a VGA spec camera.
  • Battery Life: Standby time of 96+ hours and a talk time of 7 hours.
  • Weight: 96.2 grams
  • Storage: 32 GB
  • Dimension: 104.2 x 50 x 17.8 mm
  • Price: Approximately 70 dollars
  • Works On: AT&T 

It has Bluetooth, an FM radio, a 3.5 mm audio jack and GPS. It also has good talk time, a big primary screen, easy to use big buttons, internet access and Facebook.

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The Kyocera Extreme is a rugged and military-grade model. It's exceptionally solid and durable. It has dustproof, waterproof and shockproof ratings with a programmable key to operate or set different functions. It is an excellent choice for seniors who need a tough and durable phone that will last for a long time. 

Some of its notable features include:

  • Technology: It supports 4G technology 
  • Screen Size: 2.4-inch screen and 240 x 320 pixel resolutions.
  • Rear Camera: 5 MP
  • Battery Life: Standby time of 25 days and 8 hours of talk time
  • Weight: 192.7 grams
  • Storage: 16 GB 
  • Dimension: 

110.80 x 56.40 x 27.30 mm

  • Price: Approximately 275 dollars
  • Works On: AT&T 

It's a durable and rugged phone with a decent camera, storage, flashlight, dual-screens and 16 GB of memory. This model is one of a kind in this category. It has dual noise cancelling mics for clear voice, video recording and can connect ten devices via mobile hotspot.

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The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip is a modern flip phone. It has a giant 6.7 inch super bright AMOLED panel and a sleek secondary smaller notification screen present on the top of the flip side.  

Some of its notable features include:

  • Technology: It supports 4G technology
  • Screen Size: 6.7 inches with  1080x2636 pixels resolutions
  • Rear Camera: 12 MP
  • Battery Life: 6 hours of talk time
  • Weight: 183 grams 
  • Storage: 256 GB and 8GB RAM 
  • Dimension: 167.3 x 73.6 x 7.2 mm
  • Price: Approximately 725 dollars
  • Works On: AT&T 

This model is equipped with the latest and greatest chipset available in the market; The  Snapdragon 888 chipset, world-class cameras and latest Android version certainly make this model one of the best you can get in the market today. As a new addition to flappable screen panels, however, it is prone to cracks and screen panel issues. This model should be handled with care due to the all-glass form.

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The Samsung Galaxy Z fold 2 is the modern foldable phone. It folds horizontally instead of vertically. It's foldable screen makes it stand out in this category. Ithas a giant 7.6 inch super bright AMOLED main panel and a 6.23-inch second panel.

  • Technology: It supports 5G technology
  • Screen Size: 7.6 inches with 1768 x 2208 pixels resolutions
  • Rear Camera: 12 MP
  • Battery Life: 6 hours of talk time
  • Weight: 282 grams
  • Storage: 256 GB and 12GB RAM 
  • Dimension: 159.2 x 128.2 x 6.9 mm while unfolded and 159.2 x 68.0 x 16.8mm (Hinge) - 13.8mm (Sagging) while folded
  • Price: Approx 950 dollars
  • Works On: AT&T 

It's a modern phone with all the latest technologies. The camera, processor and screen panels are loaded with all top-notch specs. The only drawbacks are its price and the caution needed to keep it safe from breaking its large panels.

Conclusion:

Newer models naturally come with better processing, connectivity, storage, pricing and battery, flip phones remain popular due to their unique design and basic functions. They are an excellent choice for people who need to take a break from their smartphones but want to stay connected.  

The VoicePing P-one, although not a flip phone or a smartphone, is a great choice for seniors and children. It has all the features you would want in a modern phone but comes at a lower price.