The best phones with big buttons
If you’re looking for a phone with big buttons for an older person that’s easy to use, there are plenty to choose from. Lots of people prefer a phone they can easily text and call on - and these types of phones are especially good for elderly people, people who are hard of hearing or use hearing aids, or people with limited sight.
Here are the phones with large, easy-to-use buttons we’d recommend.
Setting spending limits to avoid costly bills
Spend Manager sets a monthly budget for data and also covers the cost-per-minute part of premium rate calls, picture messages and one-off premium rate texts. It’s handy for older people who may be unaware of hidden costs when it comes to texting or calling premium-rate numbers or downloading films or games.
Once Spend Manager is set up, an older person won’t be able to go over their set data allowance, call or text premium-rate numbers or send any more picture messages. However, they’ll still be able to use WiFi, and contact you when they need to, as all of our plans come with unlimited texts and minutes. Plus, if you need to check how many minutes an older person is using every month, you can check their plan details.
You can easily buy one of our Extras to boost a plan’s data or add unlimited picture messages. Extras usually work out cheaper than racking up out-of-plan charges and they’re automatically added to the bill. You can choose a one-off Extra or set up a recurring Extra.
Adding someone to a Vodafone account
If an elderly person needs help managing their phone bill, you can add an additional person on to an account to monitor spending and phone usage. There are different levels of permissions so you can decide which level of access you’re both comfortable with.
Adding an extra person as an account owner means they can cancel a contract, see bills, see calls and messages, and make credit card payments to settle a balance.
Smartphones with big buttons
If you’re looking for a phone with big buttons which also has a simple smartphone screen, there are phones available which combine the best of both worlds. The MobiWire Oneida Lite with has a compact 2.8-inch display and comes in two variations - one with a camera, and one without. Both phones come with the same easy-to-use smartphone functionality, and are compatible with 4G and WiFi. You can access Facebook and WhatsApp directly from the home screen, check your emails, make calls and browse on the go - and everything’s wrapped up in a premium, glossy-looking exterior.
You can also access Facebook and WhatsApp on the Doro 7030, as it can also connect to 4G and WiFi networks. And if you want to send photos and videos, just use the 3-megapixel rear camera.
Buying a big button phone on Pay as you go
When you buy a Pay as you go phone from us, we offer a range of simple Pay as you go Bundles to keep your phone topped up and help you keep an eye on your spending.
These 30-day Bundles all come with unlimited minutes and texts, and range from 5GB to unlimited 5G data. Any unused data rolls into the next 30 days, and you're not tied into a contract.
If you find yourself running low on data, you can easily top up your Pay as you go Bundle. And if you're not ready to pick a Bundle yet, that's totally fine - you can order a free SIM for your Pay as you go device and add a Bundle later.
Find your perfect match
Here are the phones which we’d recommend for people who need big buttons and clear displays.
If you think a tablet would be a better choice for you, or someone you’re buying for, you can browse our range of the best tablets for older people.
Find out more about staying in touch
Phishing is when fraudsters send texts and emails and make calls pretending to be legitimate companies in order to gain access to personal details – like your bank account.
Criminals often target older people as they can be more vulnerable to scams, especially if they live alone.
Here's some information on how to protect yourself and your family, and stay safe online.
- Learn how to spot phishing texts and websites
- Find out more about receiving frequent missed calls from international numbers
- Discover how to keep your details safe online and avoid identity theft
- Who to contact if you’ve been a victim of phone or text fraud
If you have a smartphone which uses 4G or WiFi, you can make free voice and video calls if the person you’re contacting also has a smartphone which can access the internet. You can talk to your family and friends using just audio, like you would for a normal phone call, or even see them face-to-face using video. WhatsApp and Facebook Messenger are two of the best-known apps for making free video calls.
If you have an Android phone (for example, Samsung, Sony, Google, or Huawei) you can download these apps using Google Play. If you’re using an iPhone, you can use the App Store.
It’s worth bearing in mind that these calls will be free if you’re using WiFi, but they will use up your data if you’re using 4G, which could affect the cost of your bill.
Your phone or tablet can be a great help in checking and maintaining your health. Even the simplest phones have reminders, so you can set up prompts to take medication or get out in the fresh air. Smartphone and tablet apps can record and analyse your vital statistics such as blood pressure. There are also apps that help you make the most of fitness wristbands, smart watches and other 'wearable' devices.
We truly believe that we offer products and services are for everyone. We're here to help you get the most out of your devices so if you have restricted vision, difficulty hearing or speaking, or have limited dexterity or mobility, we're here to help. We offer SignVideo interpreting and text-to-voice/voice-to-text, and Braille bills. To find out more see our accessibility services.
The main hearing and vision charities, and manufacturers like Samsung and Apple, have lots of advice on their websites. There's also advice on the web about the best apps for elderly people, and people with a visual or hearing impairment, or mobility issues.
With our Protected Service scheme you can choose a trusted friend or family member to manage your account on your behalf.