7 Best Talk and Text Only Phones (You Should Try!)
Smartphones are now flooding the market, and we all know they are much more than just talk and text phones. However, in the 1990s, all phones had only these two features. Sure, some had other useful features like alarm clocks, calendars, and simple games, but each of those was a cell phone without internet.
In today’s article, you’ll find out if there is a phone that only accepts texts and calls, as well as other useful information for those looking for simplicity and a cell phone without internet.
IS THERE A PHONE THAT ONLY TEXTS AND CALLS?
As previously stated, many phones in the past offered only these two basic features; as such, you can always find one of these models and try reactivating it. However, because these phones are over 20 years old, that is not an option.
You’ll need to look for a basic phone if you want to find talk and text phones in 2020. Yes, that is the current terminology. Because basic phones are not smartphones, they are also referred to as “dumb” phones. These phones lack touch screens and include only the most basic and necessary features.
Flip phones are the most popular types of basic phones, owing to their small size and ease of use – open the two halves of the phone to answer a call and close them to end it – it doesn’t get any easier than that.
However, because in 2020, even seniors and children, two populations that primarily use basic phones, will want some advanced features, even basic phones and flip phones will often come with 4G support, allowing you to connect to the internet.
Given the foregoing, the best way to completely eliminate online access is to obtain a wireless package (prepaid options are usually the best choice) that only includes texts and calls.
Alternatively, you can convert any phone (even a smartphone) into a talk and text phone, and most emphatically into a cell phone without internet. To do so, turn off your phone’s mobile data as well as any WiFi connections it may have.
WHAT IS A DUMB PHONE?
A dumb phone, also known as a feature phone or a simple phone, is a mobile phone that has little or no internet access. Dumb phones have small screens (no larger than three inches) and physical keypads that require you to press each key several times to find the letter you’re looking for. They allow you to call and text, but that’s about it.
Dumb phones have a basic rear camera that can only take low-quality photos. You can’t take a selfie because there isn’t a front-facing camera. Surfing the web on a dumb phone is usually possible, but it won’t be a pleasant experience.
WHAT IS THE BEST TALK AND TEXT ONLY PHONE?
We’ll look at some of the best talk and text only phones in one of the sections below. However, in this section, we’d like to take a broader approach. There is no single model of a cell phone without internet; however, there are some aspects that the best talk and text only phones should cover, which is what we will discuss here.
The following are the main aspects that a proper cell phone without internet should cover:
- Simplicity – For users looking for talk and text only phones, simplicity is critical. Calling and texting should be as simple as possible on the phone. Menu navigation should be simple and straightforward.
- Compactness – Talk and text-only phone users frequently prefer their devices to be as small as possible. As previously stated, the primary users are seniors and children, both of whom pay less attention to their cell phones. As a result, the best cell phone without internet should be resistant to drops and sit-ons. It should also be the perfect pocket size to fit into a variety of pockets with ease.
- Affordability – Because talk and text only phones are all about simplicity, it is only natural that they are inexpensive.
- Large Display – Because seniors are the ones who use talk and text only phones the most, they should have reasonably large displays or at the very least large enough fonts. The display should also be bright enough to be used outside in direct sunlight.
- Large Keypad – For the same reason as mentioned above, the best talk and text only phones should have a large and easy-to-use keypad.
- Long Battery Life – Because a phone can be charged easily every night, this may not be necessary, but it is a nice-to-have feature in the best talk and text only phones. As a result, a phone only needs to be charged twice or even once a week (depending on the user’s frequency of use, call length, and so on).
The qualities listed above are characteristics that the best talk and text only phones should have.
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HOW TO GET A CELL PHONE WITHOUT INTERNET ACCESS?
Now that you know what to look for in a cell phone that does not have internet access, it’s time to learn where to look for talk and text only phones.
You must first decide whether you want a basic phone or a smartphone (on which you will enable connectivity options). Then you must decide whether you want a new phone or if you are willing to settle for a used or refurbished one.
The following are some good places to get a cell phone without having internet access:
- Amazon
- eBay
- Prepaid wireless providers
- Local phone dealers
- Asking your family and friend if they happen to have any of their older cell phones
- Pawnshops
- Electronics shops
- If you are eligible, apply for a government cell phone (mention that you want a basic phone)
- Buy a low-cost burner phone
- You can even ask your existing provider to opt-out of mobile data on your existing service package.
7 BEST TALK AND TEXT ONLY PHONES
You are almost certainly ready to learn about the 7 best talk and text only phones at this point. Each of the models we chose and present below has its own set of benefits and drawbacks; as a result, you must decide which features and properties are most important to you, your parents, or your children.
Furthermore, keep in mind that each of the models presented below possesses the necessary characteristics to be the best cell phone without internet. Let’s get started.
1. Mosthink Unlocked
Mosthink unlocked is one of the best phones for those who want to keep things simple. It has the most basic features, such as a large keypad and a bright large-font display. It also has an SOS button, which can be extremely useful. When the button is pressed for 5 seconds, it dials a pre-entered emergency phone number (which can be a relative’s number or any other number).
Mosthink has a relatively powerful (1400 mAh) battery that can last for 10 days on standby. It also comes with a charging stand, which is useful for seniors in particular.
The phone is unlocked and can thus be used with any wireless provider (the compatibility should be checked before deciding for a particular provider).
Amazon is the best place to get the Mosthink Unlocked.
PROS
- SOS button
- Large and well-separated keys
- Clear sound system
- Extremely user-friendly menu and interface
- Extremely user-friendly menu and interface
CONS
- The charging stand must be purchased separately
- It could be cheaper
2. Kyocera Dura XV LTE
The ‘LTE’ in the name of this talk and text only phone already indicates that it operates on a 4G LTE network, which means it can connect you to the internet. This, however, can be disabled using any of the methods described in the preceding sections.
The durability of the Kyocera Dura XV LTE is its best feature. This flip phone is designed to withstand extreme conditions. As a result, it is an excellent cell phone without internet option for all heavy-duty workers, first responders, and anyone who wants to be worry-free. It can withstand drops, water, dust, and other elements.
The phone has an outer display that displays the time, date, and basic notifications. Its simplicity may not be as high as that of the preceding model, but it, like a flip phone, provides you with ease of use. Verizon is the best place to get this phone.
PROS
- Extremely rugged
- Waterproof
- You can block the internet with ease
- Flip phone functionality
- Compact size
- Clear sound system
- Solid battery
CONS
- It might be too pricey for some users
3. Nokia 3310
The Nokia 3310 is yet another cell phone without internet that deserves to be included among the best talk and text phones. It is a 3G-enabled phone, which means it can connect to the internet (albeit at slow speeds); however, this feature is easily disabled.
The Nokia 3310 is a basic phone with a high level of simplicity. It has a large, bright display as well as an easy-to-use keypad and menu.
Most users who choose this phone do so primarily for texting and calling, but it also has some additional features that may come in handy. Bluetooth connectivity, an FM radio, an MP3 music player, a simple calculator, a calendar, some fun games, and a 2MP camera are all included. All of this can be ignored if it is not of interest.
PROS
- Comes in various colors
- Highly affordable
- Easy to use
- It has music and games, which can be good entertainment for kids
- Bright and large display
- Well separated keys
CONS
- If you plan on snapping photos you are limited by small internal storage
- as it has no micro SD card slot.
4. Alcatel Cingular Flip 2
Another excellent flip phone is the Alcatel Cingular Flip 2. However, because it is a newer flip phone, it has many advanced features, including internet access options because it operates on LTE networks. If you want to keep things as simple as possible, you can ignore all of these features and disable internet access.
The phone is small and fits easily into any pocket. It has two displays (outer for basic notifications). We recommend getting the unlocked version so you can use it with any postpaid or prepaid wireless plan you want.
The phone has excellent loudspeakers, a large keypad, a large battery (1350mAh), and an easy-to-navigate menu. All of this makes it ideal for those seeking maximum simplicity as well as those seeking to stay fully connected while avoiding smartphones.
PROS
- Comes with flip phone functioning
- Highly affordable
- Offer solid calls quality
- Packs powerful loudspeaker
- Solid battery
- Large keypad
- Many advanced options are available
CONS
- The volume key is not well protected and as such often pressed accidentally when the phone is in a pocket
5. BLU Tank II T193
Blu Tank II T193 is yet another entry-level cell phone. Its main selling point is a powerful 1900 mAh battery that can easily last several days. It has an easy-to-use keypad and menu. The display is large enough and bright enough to be used in any lighting condition.
Another significant advantage is that the phone is extremely durable and resistant to drops. The phone also has one of the loudest speakers available.
It should be noted that the phone operates on a 2G network, which is being phased out by many major carriers. So, before you buy, make sure you find a carrier with which you will be able to use this phone. For added affordability, we recommend pairing it with the T-Mobile Go SIM card.
PROS
- Highly affordable
- Durable and withstands harsh impacts
- High-quality calls
- Very strong loudspeakers
- Impressive battery
CONS
- It does not include WiFi connectivity
6. Snapfon ezTWO
Another excellent option is the Snapfon ezTWO. It is extremely popular among seniors who want maximum simplicity and ease of use. The phone’s compatibility with hearing aids has a lot to do with it.
The phone is unlocked, which means it can be used with any provider (make sure to check compatibility first). The Snapfon ezTWO has large keys and a large display for simple navigation and texting.
The phone has an incredible feature that makes menu navigation as simple as possible: a speaking keypad. The phone also has increased volume, a keypad lock side switch, and an SOS button, which can mean the difference between life and death in an emergency.
The battery on this phone is not particularly impressive, but it is adequate for a full day’s use. The phone is made of strong plastic, so it is not easily broken.
PROS
- Very easy to use
- Fast processing speed
- Large keypad buttons
- It comes with a Micro SD card slot
- It even has a solid camera
- SOS button
- Hearing Aid Compatibility
CONS
- Not as affordable as some other options
- The battery could be better
7. Samsung Convoy 3
The Samsung Convoy 3 is yet another tough and rugged flip phone. This makes it an excellent choice for all users who want to be worry-free and never have to worry about dropping their phones because it can withstand being dropped in a shallow puddle. This feature makes it ideal for people who enjoy outdoor activities as well as all other users who spend a lot of time in harsh environments.
Aside from military specifications, the phone has a number of advanced features that can be ignored or even turned off by those who prefer simplicity. The phone also has a push-to-talk button, which allows you to converse with a single touch of the button.
The phone also includes a basic camera and a microSD card slot. It has a long battery life and a dual microphone for easy voice capture even in noisy environments. On top of that, it includes noise cancellation technology.
Amazon is the best place to buy the Samsung Convoy 3.
PROS
- Surrounding noise-canceling technology incorporated
- Comes with some advanced features
- Packs a solid camera
- Extremely tough and rugged
- Push-to-talk button
- Extremely affordable
CONS
- Some other models have larger keypads for easier navigation of the menu
HOW TO TRANSFER DATA BETWEEN TWO PHONES WITHOUT AN INTERNET CONNECTION?
This procedure is determined by the type of phone you use. You can transfer data to a computer and then to another phone if you use smartphones or basic phones that can connect to a laptop or PC via USB.
If your phone has an external memory card slot (microSD), you can store all of your data on it and transfer it from one phone to another. If both phones have Bluetooth connectivity, you can transfer data between them by pairing them. This is not appropriate for large amounts of data.
If you have a very basic phone, it does not store much else besides contacts. Contacts can be stored on a SIM card and then transferred to another phone by physically swapping the SIM card.
WHY ARE DUMB PHONES BETTER THAN SMARTPHONES?
Dumb phones are significantly less expensive than smart phones, with prices ranging from £5 to £100. They’re also more durable, which means you won’t have to pay a fortune to replace a smashed screen.
They’re more compact, and the battery lasts much longer – expect anywhere from six days to a month from a single full charge! Dumb phones should be easier to use for older people who are unfamiliar with modern technology, but they are not for everyone. Using a physical keypad is inconvenient and time-consuming.
WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN BUYING A DUMB PHONE?
There are two kinds of dumb phones: candy bar phones (rectangular-shaped handsets with the screen on top and the buttons underneath) and flip phones (screen folds down over the keyboard).
Dumb phones have little storage space – think megabytes rather than gigabytes. A Micro SD memory card is required to store photos and music on the phone.
Examine the network you intend to use. O2, Vodafone, and EE all provide a 2G network through which calls and text messages are routed, but Three does not. Three will not work with dumb phones that do not support 3G or 4G sim cards.
CONCLUSION: Best Talk and Text Only Phones
The most basic cell phone would allow you to make and receive calls as well as send and receive texts. However, even the most basic phones now have some extra features. The list of basic phones presented above will give you a good idea of what some of the best options for talk and text-only phones are these days.
FAQs on Talk and Text Phones
Is there a phone that just calls and texts?
The Light Phone 2 is a stunning, minimalist “dumb phone” that can only do a few things. There are no apps on the phone. Instead, it can make phone calls, send text messages, follow simple instructions, and set alarms.
Are there phones without internet?
Their phone, the Gabb Z2, resembles a smartphone but does not have internet access. Children can make phone calls, send texts, and access a variety of kid-friendly apps such as a calendar, calculator, camera, and clock.
What are phones that are not smartphones called?
A dumb phone, also known as a feature phone or a simple phone, is a mobile phone that has little or no internet access.