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Mobile phones for seniors reviews

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Last updated: 16 October 2024
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Older people and young children may find a simple, easy-to-use mobile phone to be a more accessible (and cheaper) option than a smartphone. 

Our experts test and review a range of phones from Opel, Olitech, Doro, Telstra and more to help find the models that:

  • are best for low vision
  • are best for hearing loss
  • have the best sound when making and taking a phone call
  • have the largest buttons
  • make it simple to call out to emergency services
  • make it easy to install a SIM.

While none of the currently available models earned a recommendation, we found several of the phones are OK and would be worth considering if they have the features to suit your budget.

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This test covers popular phone models targeted at older Australians, such as the Olitech EasyFlip 2, Big Purple Phone and Swissvoice C50s.

While none of the currently available models are on our Recommended list, you can still find out which models scored best overall. Our comparison shows you which phones can automatically make emergency calls or send text messages, and which ones offer good support and help.

Matthew Steen
By Denis Gallagher
Matthew Steen
By Scott O'Keefe
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List of brands we tested in this review.

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The recommended retail price at the time of testing.

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Mobile type

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Bar mobiles and flip phones have a physical number keypad. Rugged mobiles can endure extra wear and tear and tend to have a rubber casing Smartphones can do a lot more than just talk and text with greater support for apps. Android mobile have an option to download and use an Android senior app, which provides a simpler main menu for common tasks. For the purpose of testing, all apps were assessed on a Google Pixel 5.

4G support

Hearing aid support

Maximum speakerphone volume (dB)

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Measurement (dB) taken at 1 metre from speakerphone.

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Included in this review

Members-only access
  • ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳Expert Rating
  • Recommended
  • Vision score
  • Dexterity score
  • Sound receiving score
  • Sound sending score
  • SMS score
  • Manual and support score
  • SIM installation score
  • Maximum ringer volume dBa
  • Maximum speakerphone volume dBa
  • Good points
  • Bad points
  • Price
  • Mobile type
  • 4G support
  • Screen size inches
  • Standard headphone socket 35mm
  • Hearing aid support
  • Emergency button
  • Charging cradle
  • USB type
  • Torch
  • MMS support
  • WhatsApp installed
  • Predictive text
  • Menu font adjustable
  • Video capture
  • Micro SD
  • FM radio
  • Removeable battery
  • Maximum speed dial storage
  • In use claimed hours
  • Standby claimed days
  • Battery capacity mAh
  • Camera resolution mp
  • Bluetooth
  • Total storage possible GB
  • Country of origin
  • SIM type
  • Dimensions mm h x w x d
  • Weight grams
  • SAR wkg
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Displaying all 12 products

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Aspera AS6

Aspera AS6
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$149
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The recommended retail price at the time of testing.

ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳Expert Rating
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This overall score is made up of vision score (25%), dexterity score (25%), sound receiving score (20%), sound sending score (15%), SMS score (10%), and manual and support score (5%). SIM installation is assessed but doesn't contribute to the overall score.

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Mobile type Smartphone
Expand to view more details.
Bar mobiles and flip phones have a physical number keypad. Rugged mobiles can endure extra wear and tear and tend to have a rubber casing Smartphones can do a lot more than just talk and text with greater support for apps. Android mobile have an option to download and use an Android senior app, which provides a simpler main menu for common tasks. For the purpose of testing, all apps were assessed on a Google Pixel 5.
Dexterity score
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We examine the process to install the SIM, access the battery, accept a call and dial a number. We also look at the indications of a call coming in such as vibration (haptic feedback) and ease of carrying.

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Vision score
Expand to view more details.
We check to see how well the mobiles perform under conditions relevant to a person with low vision. We look at how easy it is to read the display in general and in low light, and assess the icons showing battery level and reception.

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Sound receiving score
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Sound quality measurements are carried out with users assessing the sound quality of a call as a receiver and a caller.

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Aspera Rugged R40 4G

Aspera Rugged R40 4G
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$149
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The recommended retail price at the time of testing.

ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳Expert Rating
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This overall score is made up of vision score (25%), dexterity score (25%), sound receiving score (20%), sound sending score (15%), SMS score (10%), and manual and support score (5%). SIM installation is assessed but doesn't contribute to the overall score.

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Mobile type Rugged
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Bar mobiles and flip phones have a physical number keypad. Rugged mobiles can endure extra wear and tear and tend to have a rubber casing Smartphones can do a lot more than just talk and text with greater support for apps. Android mobile have an option to download and use an Android senior app, which provides a simpler main menu for common tasks. For the purpose of testing, all apps were assessed on a Google Pixel 5.
Dexterity score
Expand to view more details.
We examine the process to install the SIM, access the battery, accept a call and dial a number. We also look at the indications of a call coming in such as vibration (haptic feedback) and ease of carrying.

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Vision score
Expand to view more details.
We check to see how well the mobiles perform under conditions relevant to a person with low vision. We look at how easy it is to read the display in general and in low light, and assess the icons showing battery level and reception.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

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Sound receiving score
Expand to view more details.
Sound quality measurements are carried out with users assessing the sound quality of a call as a receiver and a caller.

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Big Purple Phone Family and Friends with Tabletop Fast Charger

Big Purple Phone Family and Friends with Tabletop Fast Charger
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$630
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The recommended retail price at the time of testing.

ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳Expert Rating
Expand to view more details.

This overall score is made up of vision score (25%), dexterity score (25%), sound receiving score (20%), sound sending score (15%), SMS score (10%), and manual and support score (5%). SIM installation is assessed but doesn't contribute to the overall score.

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Mobile type Smartphone
Expand to view more details.
Bar mobiles and flip phones have a physical number keypad. Rugged mobiles can endure extra wear and tear and tend to have a rubber casing Smartphones can do a lot more than just talk and text with greater support for apps. Android mobile have an option to download and use an Android senior app, which provides a simpler main menu for common tasks. For the purpose of testing, all apps were assessed on a Google Pixel 5.
Dexterity score
Expand to view more details.
We examine the process to install the SIM, access the battery, accept a call and dial a number. We also look at the indications of a call coming in such as vibration (haptic feedback) and ease of carrying.

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Vision score
Expand to view more details.
We check to see how well the mobiles perform under conditions relevant to a person with low vision. We look at how easy it is to read the display in general and in low light, and assess the icons showing battery level and reception.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

Join now

Already a member? Log in now

Sound receiving score
Expand to view more details.
Sound quality measurements are carried out with users assessing the sound quality of a call as a receiver and a caller.

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Results for paid members only
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Doro 6880

Doro 6880
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$149
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The recommended retail price at the time of testing.

ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳Expert Rating
Expand to view more details.

This overall score is made up of vision score (25%), dexterity score (25%), sound receiving score (20%), sound sending score (15%), SMS score (10%), and manual and support score (5%). SIM installation is assessed but doesn't contribute to the overall score.

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Mobile type Flip
Expand to view more details.
Bar mobiles and flip phones have a physical number keypad. Rugged mobiles can endure extra wear and tear and tend to have a rubber casing Smartphones can do a lot more than just talk and text with greater support for apps. Android mobile have an option to download and use an Android senior app, which provides a simpler main menu for common tasks. For the purpose of testing, all apps were assessed on a Google Pixel 5.
Dexterity score
Expand to view more details.
We examine the process to install the SIM, access the battery, accept a call and dial a number. We also look at the indications of a call coming in such as vibration (haptic feedback) and ease of carrying.

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Vision score
Expand to view more details.
We check to see how well the mobiles perform under conditions relevant to a person with low vision. We look at how easy it is to read the display in general and in low light, and assess the icons showing battery level and reception.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

Join now

Already a member? Log in now

Sound receiving score
Expand to view more details.
Sound quality measurements are carried out with users assessing the sound quality of a call as a receiver and a caller.

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Results for paid members only
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Doro 8100

Doro 8100
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$399
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The recommended retail price at the time of testing.

ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳Expert Rating
Expand to view more details.

This overall score is made up of vision score (25%), dexterity score (25%), sound receiving score (20%), sound sending score (15%), SMS score (10%), and manual and support score (5%). SIM installation is assessed but doesn't contribute to the overall score.

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Mobile type Smartphone
Expand to view more details.
Bar mobiles and flip phones have a physical number keypad. Rugged mobiles can endure extra wear and tear and tend to have a rubber casing Smartphones can do a lot more than just talk and text with greater support for apps. Android mobile have an option to download and use an Android senior app, which provides a simpler main menu for common tasks. For the purpose of testing, all apps were assessed on a Google Pixel 5.
Dexterity score
Expand to view more details.
We examine the process to install the SIM, access the battery, accept a call and dial a number. We also look at the indications of a call coming in such as vibration (haptic feedback) and ease of carrying.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

Join now

Already a member? Log in now

Vision score
Expand to view more details.
We check to see how well the mobiles perform under conditions relevant to a person with low vision. We look at how easy it is to read the display in general and in low light, and assess the icons showing battery level and reception.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

Join now

Already a member? Log in now

Sound receiving score
Expand to view more details.
Sound quality measurements are carried out with users assessing the sound quality of a call as a receiver and a caller.

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Results for paid members only
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Back to filters Go to compare selected box

Guardian Swissvoice C50s

Guardian Swissvoice C50s
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$449
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The recommended retail price at the time of testing.

ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳Expert Rating
Expand to view more details.

This overall score is made up of vision score (25%), dexterity score (25%), sound receiving score (20%), sound sending score (15%), SMS score (10%), and manual and support score (5%). SIM installation is assessed but doesn't contribute to the overall score.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

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Mobile type Smartphone
Expand to view more details.
Bar mobiles and flip phones have a physical number keypad. Rugged mobiles can endure extra wear and tear and tend to have a rubber casing Smartphones can do a lot more than just talk and text with greater support for apps. Android mobile have an option to download and use an Android senior app, which provides a simpler main menu for common tasks. For the purpose of testing, all apps were assessed on a Google Pixel 5.
Dexterity score
Expand to view more details.
We examine the process to install the SIM, access the battery, accept a call and dial a number. We also look at the indications of a call coming in such as vibration (haptic feedback) and ease of carrying.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

Join now

Already a member? Log in now

Vision score
Expand to view more details.
We check to see how well the mobiles perform under conditions relevant to a person with low vision. We look at how easy it is to read the display in general and in low light, and assess the icons showing battery level and reception.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

Join now

Already a member? Log in now

Sound receiving score
Expand to view more details.
Sound quality measurements are carried out with users assessing the sound quality of a call as a receiver and a caller.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

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Results for paid members only
Join to unlock
Back to filters Go to compare selected box

Olitech EasyFlip 2

Olitech EasyFlip 2
Compare
$199
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The recommended retail price at the time of testing.

ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳Expert Rating
Expand to view more details.

This overall score is made up of vision score (25%), dexterity score (25%), sound receiving score (20%), sound sending score (15%), SMS score (10%), and manual and support score (5%). SIM installation is assessed but doesn't contribute to the overall score.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

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Mobile type Flip
Expand to view more details.
Bar mobiles and flip phones have a physical number keypad. Rugged mobiles can endure extra wear and tear and tend to have a rubber casing Smartphones can do a lot more than just talk and text with greater support for apps. Android mobile have an option to download and use an Android senior app, which provides a simpler main menu for common tasks. For the purpose of testing, all apps were assessed on a Google Pixel 5.
Dexterity score
Expand to view more details.
We examine the process to install the SIM, access the battery, accept a call and dial a number. We also look at the indications of a call coming in such as vibration (haptic feedback) and ease of carrying.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

Join now

Already a member? Log in now

Vision score
Expand to view more details.
We check to see how well the mobiles perform under conditions relevant to a person with low vision. We look at how easy it is to read the display in general and in low light, and assess the icons showing battery level and reception.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

Join now

Already a member? Log in now

Sound receiving score
Expand to view more details.
Sound quality measurements are carried out with users assessing the sound quality of a call as a receiver and a caller.

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3.5 (2 member reviews)
Results for paid members only
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Olitech EasyMate 2

Olitech EasyMate 2
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$179
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The recommended retail price at the time of testing.

ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳Expert Rating
Expand to view more details.

This overall score is made up of vision score (25%), dexterity score (25%), sound receiving score (20%), sound sending score (15%), SMS score (10%), and manual and support score (5%). SIM installation is assessed but doesn't contribute to the overall score.

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Mobile type Bar
Expand to view more details.
Bar mobiles and flip phones have a physical number keypad. Rugged mobiles can endure extra wear and tear and tend to have a rubber casing Smartphones can do a lot more than just talk and text with greater support for apps. Android mobile have an option to download and use an Android senior app, which provides a simpler main menu for common tasks. For the purpose of testing, all apps were assessed on a Google Pixel 5.
Dexterity score
Expand to view more details.
We examine the process to install the SIM, access the battery, accept a call and dial a number. We also look at the indications of a call coming in such as vibration (haptic feedback) and ease of carrying.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

Join now

Already a member? Log in now

Vision score
Expand to view more details.
We check to see how well the mobiles perform under conditions relevant to a person with low vision. We look at how easy it is to read the display in general and in low light, and assess the icons showing battery level and reception.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

Join now

Already a member? Log in now

Sound receiving score
Expand to view more details.
Sound quality measurements are carried out with users assessing the sound quality of a call as a receiver and a caller.

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Results for paid members only
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Back to filters Go to compare selected box

Opel BigButton M

Opel BigButton M
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$129
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The recommended retail price at the time of testing.

ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳Expert Rating
Expand to view more details.

This overall score is made up of vision score (25%), dexterity score (25%), sound receiving score (20%), sound sending score (15%), SMS score (10%), and manual and support score (5%). SIM installation is assessed but doesn't contribute to the overall score.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

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Mobile type Bar
Expand to view more details.
Bar mobiles and flip phones have a physical number keypad. Rugged mobiles can endure extra wear and tear and tend to have a rubber casing Smartphones can do a lot more than just talk and text with greater support for apps. Android mobile have an option to download and use an Android senior app, which provides a simpler main menu for common tasks. For the purpose of testing, all apps were assessed on a Google Pixel 5.
Dexterity score
Expand to view more details.
We examine the process to install the SIM, access the battery, accept a call and dial a number. We also look at the indications of a call coming in such as vibration (haptic feedback) and ease of carrying.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

Join now

Already a member? Log in now

Vision score
Expand to view more details.
We check to see how well the mobiles perform under conditions relevant to a person with low vision. We look at how easy it is to read the display in general and in low light, and assess the icons showing battery level and reception.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

Join now

Already a member? Log in now

Sound receiving score
Expand to view more details.
Sound quality measurements are carried out with users assessing the sound quality of a call as a receiver and a caller.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

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4 (2 member reviews)
Results for paid members only
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Opel Flipphone 6

Opel Flipphone 6
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$99
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The recommended retail price at the time of testing.

ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳Expert Rating
Expand to view more details.

This overall score is made up of vision score (25%), dexterity score (25%), sound receiving score (20%), sound sending score (15%), SMS score (10%), and manual and support score (5%). SIM installation is assessed but doesn't contribute to the overall score.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

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Mobile type Flip
Expand to view more details.
Bar mobiles and flip phones have a physical number keypad. Rugged mobiles can endure extra wear and tear and tend to have a rubber casing Smartphones can do a lot more than just talk and text with greater support for apps. Android mobile have an option to download and use an Android senior app, which provides a simpler main menu for common tasks. For the purpose of testing, all apps were assessed on a Google Pixel 5.
Dexterity score
Expand to view more details.
We examine the process to install the SIM, access the battery, accept a call and dial a number. We also look at the indications of a call coming in such as vibration (haptic feedback) and ease of carrying.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

Join now

Already a member? Log in now

Vision score
Expand to view more details.
We check to see how well the mobiles perform under conditions relevant to a person with low vision. We look at how easy it is to read the display in general and in low light, and assess the icons showing battery level and reception.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

Join now

Already a member? Log in now

Sound receiving score
Expand to view more details.
Sound quality measurements are carried out with users assessing the sound quality of a call as a receiver and a caller.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

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3 (1 member review)
Results for paid members only
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Opel TouchFlip

Opel TouchFlip
Compare
$169
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The recommended retail price at the time of testing.

ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳Expert Rating
Expand to view more details.

This overall score is made up of vision score (25%), dexterity score (25%), sound receiving score (20%), sound sending score (15%), SMS score (10%), and manual and support score (5%). SIM installation is assessed but doesn't contribute to the overall score.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

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Already a member? Log in now

Mobile type Flip
Expand to view more details.
Bar mobiles and flip phones have a physical number keypad. Rugged mobiles can endure extra wear and tear and tend to have a rubber casing Smartphones can do a lot more than just talk and text with greater support for apps. Android mobile have an option to download and use an Android senior app, which provides a simpler main menu for common tasks. For the purpose of testing, all apps were assessed on a Google Pixel 5.
Dexterity score
Expand to view more details.
We examine the process to install the SIM, access the battery, accept a call and dial a number. We also look at the indications of a call coming in such as vibration (haptic feedback) and ease of carrying.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

Join now

Already a member? Log in now

Vision score
Expand to view more details.
We check to see how well the mobiles perform under conditions relevant to a person with low vision. We look at how easy it is to read the display in general and in low light, and assess the icons showing battery level and reception.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

Join now

Already a member? Log in now

Sound receiving score
Expand to view more details.
Sound quality measurements are carried out with users assessing the sound quality of a call as a receiver and a caller.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

Join now

Already a member? Log in now

Results for paid members only
Join to unlock
Back to filters Go to compare selected box

Simply Big B1000 V2 Seniors Mobile

Simply Big B1000 V2 Seniors Mobile
Compare
$249
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The recommended retail price at the time of testing.

ÐÓ°ÉÂÛ̳Expert Rating
Expand to view more details.

This overall score is made up of vision score (25%), dexterity score (25%), sound receiving score (20%), sound sending score (15%), SMS score (10%), and manual and support score (5%). SIM installation is assessed but doesn't contribute to the overall score.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

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Mobile type Bar
Expand to view more details.
Bar mobiles and flip phones have a physical number keypad. Rugged mobiles can endure extra wear and tear and tend to have a rubber casing Smartphones can do a lot more than just talk and text with greater support for apps. Android mobile have an option to download and use an Android senior app, which provides a simpler main menu for common tasks. For the purpose of testing, all apps were assessed on a Google Pixel 5.
Dexterity score
Expand to view more details.
We examine the process to install the SIM, access the battery, accept a call and dial a number. We also look at the indications of a call coming in such as vibration (haptic feedback) and ease of carrying.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

Join now

Already a member? Log in now

Vision score
Expand to view more details.
We check to see how well the mobiles perform under conditions relevant to a person with low vision. We look at how easy it is to read the display in general and in low light, and assess the icons showing battery level and reception.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

Join now

Already a member? Log in now

Sound receiving score
Expand to view more details.
Sound quality measurements are carried out with users assessing the sound quality of a call as a receiver and a caller.

Unlock this by becoming a member.

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Already a member? Log in now

4 (4 member reviews)
Results for paid members only
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