The Best Dumbphones of 2023
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
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.
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.
Less than $300
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.
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 :)
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