iPhones may be sexy, but have you considered one of the best flip phones as your next mobile? Flip phones have been enjoying a renaissance of late, largely thanks to recent models with folding screens that enable you to turn your phone into a versatile tablet before folding it up and putting it in your pocket.
But what if you don't fancy a folding screen? Traditional flip phones are a great choice if you're already sorted for a smartphone but want an additional, compact device that isn't constantly distracting you when you need to focus or simply switch off at the end of the day.
Plus, if you already own one of the best smartphones on the market and don't want to be seen pulling out a high-end flagship handset in public, purchase a flip phone to take out with you instead. Not only are most flip phones built tough enough to survive the occasional knock, but they're also less tempting to thieves.
And then there are those who may be fine with a traditional flip phone as a primary mobile device. Older people who are looking for an unintimidating cell phone that handles basic calling and messaging well would find that in a flip phone.
Whether you're looking for a suitable backup phone or intend to eschew modern smartphones altogether, our list of the best flip phones has just what you want.
The best flip phones in 2021
Before the Fold, there was the Folder. The was released without fanfare back in 2016 and has largely been forgotten in the shadow of its flashier younger siblings. That's a shame because it's still an excellent flip phone and more practical than the Fold in many ways. The fact that it runs a full version of Android means it could work well as either a primary or secondary phone.
It's a great choice if your design work takes you around the world because the Samsung Galaxy Folder 2 has dual SIM cards so you can easily switch networks while overseas and avoid incurring roaming charges. The Galaxy Folder 2 is also quite durable. Without a flexible screen to worry about - the phone's lower portion contains a set of reassuringly tactile physical buttons - it's more likely to survive the rigours of daily use than Samsung's more sophisticated Fold smartphones.
Whether you're looking for a secondary phone or a full-time handset, the could be just what you need. Its sleek, minimalist design is faithful to Nokia's classic flip designs and is far lighter and smaller than more feature-filled folding phones like those from Samsung and Razor.
The Nokia 2720 Flip uses Nokia's own KaiOS operating system rather than Android, which greatly limits your choice of apps, but that's not a bad thing if you're looking for a minimalist flip phone that'll help you avoid distractions when you're working (or trying to get away from work).
Better yet, the Nokia 2720 Flip has 4G LTE support, which means you won't have to deal with slow data speeds when streaming media. The Nokia 2720 Flip gives you the best of both worlds: a sleek retro design with modern hardware where it counts.
The Alcatel GO FLIP V is a Verizon-exclusive flip phone that was released in 2019. This minimalist feature phone has an emphasis on accessibility, which makes it a good choice for senior citizens or anyone who is hearing/visually impaired. It has a large, tactile keypad plus Real-Time-Text (RTT) support so the phone can transmit messages as you write them.
In addition to a 2.8-inch internal screen, the Alcatel GO FLIP V also features a full-color 1.44-inch external display so you can screen calls and messages without having to flip the phone open. And while this may be a rather simple flip phone, the Alcatel GO FLIP V is powered by Verizon's 4G LTE network and supports voice-over Wi-Fi. It can even serve as a hotspot for up to 10 devices, which could come in handy if you ever have to work in a location with limited internet.
The Alcatel GO FLIP V is not available in the UK or Europe, but the Artfone C10 Flip Phone is quite similar and even includes a charging cradle.
The NUU Mobile F4L LTE flip phone runs on Android - albeit, a stripped-down version of 8.1 Oreo called Android Go Edition. Still, it enables the 4FL to run apps such as Facebook Lite and WhatsApp.
This Android flip phone also has rear and front-facing cameras, 4GB of onboard storage, and a microSD card slot that supports up to 64GB. The build of this phone is guaranteed for over 100,000 flips thanks to a reinforced flip mechanism - which is good news if you're prone to opening and closing your phone often.
Just released in late 2020, the NUU Mobile F4L LTE is a step beyond a standard feature phone but not quite as feature-rich as a smartphone. It'll suit well as either a backup for a much more expensive phone or as a regular day-to-day mobile. However, if you're in the UK, this particular NUU model is sadly not available to purchase.
If you like the look of the Samsung Galaxy Folder 2 but are keen to stick with Verizon in the US, the LG Exalt VN220 is well worth your time. Its clamshell design ensures the screen is always protected, and its durable hinge will survive many years of use.
The 5-megapixel camera won't set the world on fire, but it's surprisingly good for a budget flip phone. It's just a shame there's no flash. You do, however, get a generous 8GB storage for your stills and videos.
With hearing assistance, text-to-speech, and large, clear buttons, the LG Exalt VN220 is also a strong choice if you find modern touchscreen smartphones tricky to use, or are buying a handset for a senior family member.
The TTfone Lunar flip phone is made for senior citizens and anyone else who needs a mobile with accessible features. This model includes a large keypad, colour display with large fonts, and a dedicated emergency button that can be programmed with any phone number.
Another convenient feature of the TTfone Lunar is the included charging dock. With an outer display and a built-in FM radio, this enables users to turn the Lunar into a desktop alarm clock.
The TTfone Lunar is a UK-exclusive flip phone; it's comparable to the Jitterbug Flip in the US. It may not be the most feature-forward flip phone, but the TTfone Lunar is a fine choice for elderly family members who just need something accessible, reliable, and affordable.
Technically, the is not a flip phone. However, it does have an intriguing aesthetic with a sliding keypad cover, curved design, and a bright yellow paint job. It does, indeed, look like a bananaphone - but it's much more than that.
The Nokia 8110 4G is a refresh of the original Nokia 8110 that was first released in 1996. For the 21st century, this iteration of the classic mobile phone boasts 4G connectivity, a modest 2-megapixel rear camera with a single flash, and access to apps you'd commonly find in modern smartphones like WhatsApp and Facebook.
One quality the Nokia 8110 4G shares with its predecessor is excellent battery life. A single charge will provide enough juice for up to 25 days of standby. That feature, along with its overall affordable price, makes the Nokia 8110 4G a great phone to have for emergencies.
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