For privacy and simplicity, try one of these expert-recommended minimalist cell phones for calls, texts, and other basic functions.

We’ve rounded up our favourite basic feature phones and the best non-smartphone handsets for older people in 2025.

Cat’s rugged non-nonsense flipper is built to withstand just about anything you can throw at it — or throw it at, for that matter. Running a stripped-back version of Android, the S22 Flip offers smartphone-like functionality in a nearly indestructible package.

We recommend the Easyfone Prime A6, which keeps things nice and simple with big buttons, large fonts, and basic, easy to use functionality. We also love that it comes with an SOS button for emergencies (which you can disable if you prefer), and that it's hearing-aid compatible.

If you really can’t live without a smartphone but want to cut back on your phone use, or simply want a genuinely small phone, then take a look at the Jelly 2E.