8 Best Basic Cell Phones 2025 in the United States

The Moto G Play 2024 is an unlocked basic cell phone suitable for everyday use. It excels in several key areas, starting with its impressive battery life. The 5000mAh battery ensures you can work and play for extended periods without needing frequent recharges, making it ideal for users who prioritize longevity. The display is a 6.5-inch HD+ screen with a 90Hz refresh rate, providing smooth visuals and a decent viewing experience, although the resolution is not the highest available.

Durability is addressed with a splash-resistant design, which is effective against minor water exposure but not submersion, making it reasonably durable for daily handling. Ease of use is enhanced by the Android 13.0 operating system, offering a user-friendly interface that most people will find intuitive. Call quality is robust, supported by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 processor which ensures reliable performance during calls.

Text messaging is straightforward and efficient, as expected from a basic cell phone. Additional features such as stereo speakers, Dolby Atmos, expandable memory up to 1TB, and GPS capability add value and versatility to the device. However, the phone's camera, despite being advertised as 50MP, effectively delivers 12.5MP photos due to pixel binning. While the phone offers solid performance and features for its category, it may not meet the needs of users looking for higher-end specifications or advanced functionalities.

The SAMSUNG Galaxy A35 5G is a versatile cell phone that offers several strengths for users seeking basic functionality with a touch of modern features. It boasts a 6.6-inch AMOLED display with a 120 Hz refresh rate, offering vibrant and clear visuals that adjust to lighting conditions thanks to Vision Booster technology. This makes it enjoyable for streaming, browsing, and gaming even in bright sunlight.

The phone features an advanced triple camera system with optical image stabilization and Nightography for capturing high-quality photos and videos, including clear low-light shots. The 128GB internal storage, expandable up to 1TB, ensures ample space for all your memories and apps without worrying about running out of space. The rugged design enhances durability, making it suitable for daily use and handling the occasional drop or bump.

The phone operates on ONE UI 6.0 and Android 14, giving a smooth and user-friendly experience. Call quality and text messaging are reliable, providing clear audio during calls and ease of texting. Additional features like Circle Search enhance its utility by enabling quick searches for information based on images. The Galaxy A35 5G seems best suited for users who want a blend of basic cell phone functionality with advanced features and a robust design.

The LIVELY Jitterbug Flip2 is a basic cell phone tailored specifically for seniors. It excels in ease of use with its large buttons, powerful speaker, and simple navigation options, making it very senior-friendly. The 3.2-inch LED display is sufficiently large for easy readability. Durability is enhanced by its flip form factor, which helps protect the screen when closed.

Battery life is commendable, offering up to 36 hours of talk time with its 1780mAh battery. Call quality is good, supported by the 4G cellular technology, and text messaging is straightforward with the large keypad. Notable additional features include voice assistance and an Urgent Response button for emergencies, adding both convenience and safety. However, the phone is only compatible with Lively phone service, which limits carrier flexibility.

While it has Wi-Fi connectivity, it lacks many advanced features found in smartphones, which may be a downside for users looking for more versatility. This phone is ideal for seniors who prioritize simplicity, ease of use, and reliable emergency support over advanced functionalities.