Dumbphones: Back to basics (and rest)
Do you feel the urge to take a break from the constant stream of apps, likes and push notifications? Or are you just looking for a phone that does what it was once invented to do: make calls? You're not the only one. The "dumbphone" is making a huge comeback. Whether you're looking for ultimate peace of mind (digital detox), an indestructible phone for festivals, or a reliable emergency device for the glove compartment: here you can instantly compare the best simple phones of the moment.
7 products
Featurephones
8 products
Senior phones
Why a "dumbphone" is the smartest choice
In a world where smartphones are getting bigger, more expensive and more compelling, the dumbphone offers a breath of fresh air. It is the ultimate anti-smartphone. Models such as the popular Nokia 105 or the HMD 130 Music offer benefits you won't find on an iPhone or Samsung anymore:
- Focus & peace: No social media, no email, no distractions. You're accessible, but not "always on."
- Unprecedented battery life: Not on the charger every night, but easily a week (or more) of standby time.
- Indestructible & inexpensive: Drop it? Don't panic! And for the price of one smartphone case, you often have a complete device.
What type of user are you?
Not every simple phone is the same. To find the best deal, it is important to know what you will use it for.
- The Digital Detoxer: You want to kick your screen addiction. Opt for a minimalist model without an Internet browser, such as the Nokia 105 (2024). Playing Snake is allowed, of course.
- The Festival Goer: You're looking for a phone that can get dirty, lasts a long time and where it's not a disaster if you lose it.
- The Spare User: Looking for an emergency phone? Then make sure the device supports 4G (see below) so you can stay connected in the future.
Please note: The importance of 4G support
You'll see terms like "2019," "2023" and "2024" in our overview. Our advice: opt for a model with 4G (VoLTE), such as the Nokia 105 4G. The old 2G network is slowly being phased out. With a 4G dumbphone, you are assured of better call quality and future-proofing.
Having doubts? Dumbphone vs. Featurephone
A common mistake is that a dumbphone is the same as a senior phone or a featurephone.
- Dumbphone: Calling and texting. Item. (What you see on this page).
- Featurephone: Looks like an old phone, but sometimes has Facebook or Maps (for example, via KaiOS). Check out the featurephones here if you do need a bit more.
- Senior Phone: Specifically focused on large keys and emergency buttons. Go to Senior Phones if ease of use is paramount.
Complete your dumbphone: Don't forget the SIM card
You buy the phones on this page as a standalone device ("loose sale"). That means there is no subscription attached and you still need to provide a SIM card yourself. Because you won't be on TikTok or Instagram with a dumbphone, a standard subscription with lots of data is a waste of your money.
What should you look for in a Sim Only for a dumbphone?
- Please consider calling only: Just because a dumbphone has 4G doesn't mean you can surf the Internet with it. And what you don't need, you don't have to pay for. Therefore, consider a simonly without internet.
- Unlimited Calls: Do you use the phone for hours of calls (for example, for work or as a regular home phone)? Then choose a Sim Only with unlimited calls.
- Flexibility: Do you use the dumbphone only for festivals or vacations? Then opt for a monthly-cancellable subscription. These days, this is often more economical and convenient than old-fashioned prepaid.
