CheckMag | 9 dumb phones that are actually smart purchases in this day and age

The resurgence of "dumb phones" in recent years is more than just nostalgia. Rather, it's a deliberate response to growing concerns over digital overload, attention fragmentation, and always-on screens. Smartphone fatigue is clearly a growing problem, so millions are choosing basic phones for their reliability, and essential functionality.

To be fair, this trend is driven by both cultural and practical factors. With huge increases in feature phone sales among younger adults and a wider recognition of technology's impact on mental health, the market for affordable, durable, and distraction-free devices is booming. Whether it’s about saving money, resisting the pressures of being connected all the time, or seeking a more intentional digital life, dumb phones are taking us back to what meaningful mobile use looks like in a hyperconnected world.

Here are 9 of the best dumb phones for value in 2025 - based on reliability, features, and overall worth for your money.

1. Nokia 6300 4G - $70

Great overall value

The Nokia 6300 4G tries to bridge the gap between basic and smart functionality. It features a 2.4-inch display, runs KaiOS 2.5, and includes essential apps like WhatsApp, Facebook, Google Maps, and Google Assistant. Key advantages include dual SIM support, WiFi hotspot capability, and 4G connectivity. The 1500mAh battery can provide up to 25 days of standby time. While it has a basic VGA camera and micro-USB charging, the feature set far exceeds its price point.

2. Nokia 2780 Flip - (curr. $89.99 on Amazon)

A solid traditional flip phone

This modern flip phone has a nostalgia-heavy design with a lot of contemporary features. It offers dual displays (2.7-inch main and 1.77-inch external), KaiOS, and 4G VoLTE support. The 5MP camera with LED flash should provide decent photo quality, and the device includes WiFi, Bluetooth 4.2, and dual SIM support. Battery life reaches up to 18 days standby (as stated by Nokia) with great call quality. The flip-to-end-call feature and accessibility options make it particularly user-friendly.

3. Nokia 110 4G - (curr. $48.99 on Amazon)

An ultra-budget option

Despite its extremely low price, the Nokia 110 4G is remarkably reliable. The 1.8-inch display, 1450mAh battery, and basic camera delivers the bare minimum, but does it well. It includes Bluetooth connectivity, FM radio, built-in torch, and Opera Mini browser. The nano-pattern finish offers scratch resistance, and battery life can extend to weeks with minimal usage. The 2024 version also includes improved Bluetooth support and better build quality over the 2021 variant. 

4. CAT S22 Flip - $234

The most rugged option in this list

Designed for extreme conditions, the CAT S22 Flip features military-grade durability with IP68 and MIL-SPEC 810H ratings. It runs Android 11 Go Edition with Google Play Store access. The 2.8-inch touchscreen and physical keypad give you two ways of interacting with the device. With waterproofing up to 5 feet for 35 minutes and drop-tested to 6 feet onto steel, it's virtually indestructible in daily conditions.

5. Mudita Kompakt - $369

Best for privacy and digital wellness

The Mudita Kompakt puts privacy and mindfulness over everything else with its custom MuditaOS K (Google-free). The 4.3-inch E-ink display cuts down on eye strain while providing excellent battery life up to 6 days. The unique Offline+ mode physically disconnects GSM, microphones, WiFi, and Bluetooth for complete privacy. Other features include an 8MP camera, dual SIM support, NFC, and offline GPS navigation.

6. Sunbeam F1 Pro Series - $329-$359

A host of customizable features

Sunbeam has multiple F1 Pro models with different feature combinations, letting users select their ideal balance of functionality. The options range from basic models without media capabilities to full-featured versions with email, Waze navigation, and WiFi hotspot. All models come with a rugged design, large battery, USB-C charging, and water resistance. The customizable approach is great for those who only want to pay for features they actually need.

7. Punkt MP02 - (curr. $319 on Amazon)

A premium, minimalist design

Designed by renowned industrial designer Jasper Morrison, the Punkt MP02 is pretty stylish, apart from being secure. It features BlackBerry security upgrades, secure messaging via Pigeon, and WiFi hotspot capability. The minimalist 2-inch monochrome display and premium materials justify its higher price for design-conscious users. However, the interface does require learning specific button combinations and workflows.

8. TCL Flip 2 - $80

A more affordable alternative to the Sunbeam F1 Pro

The Flip 2 is a compact flip phone with large, tactile buttons and a 2.8-inch internal display, which should make dialing and texting straightforward - even for users with accessibility needs. Running a streamlined version of KaiOS, the device supports 4G LTE for clear calls and basic web browsing, alongside essentials like a 2MP camera, external display for notifications, and support for Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. Battery life extends up to 6 days of standby, with a removable battery and microSD slot for additional storage flexibility.

9. Unihertz Jelly Star - $200-250

The best tiny smartphone alternative

While technically a smartphone, the Jelly Star's credit-card size (3-inch display) should limit excessive usage on its own. Running full Android 13 with 8GB RAM and 256GB storage, it includes all smartphone features in an extremely compact form. The device features a 48MP rear camera, 8MP front camera, NFC, 3.5mm headphone jack, and infrared port. Its tiny size should make one-handed operation comfortable while discouraging prolonged screen time.

Honorable mention: Sidephone

First spotted nearly three months ago, the Sidephone is an upcoming dumb phone with a unique physical keypad system that can be swapped out depending on your needs. Using magnets and clips, users can switch between different keypad layouts based on what they find comfortable. The phone will launch with a 2.8-inch touchscreen, a 12MP rear camera, and support for 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. It will also feature modern conveniences like USB-C charging, a web browser, and apps such as WhatsApp, Apple Music, and Uber, alongside traditional phone functions.