Basic and feature phone deals
See the latest non-smartphones which are available on Pay as you go.
What are basic phones?
A basic phone, also known as a ‘feature phone’ or ‘dumb phone’ is a mobile that isn’t a smartphone and offers limited capabilities. They’re primarily designed for sending texts or answering phone calls, with limited access to the internet.
Popular brands that make basic phones include, Doro, HMD, Nokia, or TLC – which you can shop here at Vodafone.
Features of basic phones
Specific features may vary between brands, but all basic phones offer a similar type of experience. They usually have no touchscreen, a physical keypad, a limited range of apps, and basic functionalities.
Some basic phones, like the special feature HMD Barbie Phone, offer a daily meditation app and digital balance tips – framing itself as a device for taking a break from social media. Other phones like the Nokia 3210 offer a more classic design, with limited features and USB-C charging.
Benefits of non-smartphones
The following benefits apply to non-smartphones:
Long battery life: Feature phones often have a longer battery life than your standard smartphone. The Nokia 105 4G 2nd Edition offers up to 12 hours of calls and over two weeks of standby time from a single charge. While the HMD 2660 Flip offers up to 26 days of standby time.
Fewer distractions: There are no downloadable apps like TikTok or Instagram. While some dumb phones have a web browser, you won’t be able to watch or stream content like you can on a smartphone.
Easy to use: The limited features on basic phones mean they’re easier to use than a smartphone. A simpler navigation and user interface allow you to navigate to what you need more easily.
More durability: Basic phones are more durable than a smartphone. A phone without a glass touchscreen is less prone to breaking and is more robust.
Price point: Feature phones are extremely affordable and can cost as little as £20, like the TCL OneTouch 5041
Who needs basic phones?
Basic phones are a great choice for many, especially young children and older relatives who need a phone that’s easy to use. They can also be great as a backup phone for emergencies, due to their long battery life and their affordability.
More recently, dumb phones have been used as a digital detox tool, a phone that keeps you in touch with friends but without the distraction of scrolling. A basic phone could also be beneficial for people who do a lot of outdoor activities and don’t necessarily want to take their expensive phone in case it gets damaged.
Feature phones vs smartphones
Some of the key differences between feature phones and smartphones:
Feature phones | Smartphones |
|---|---|
Standard screen | Touchscreen |
Physical keypad | On-screen keypad |
120-260 hours of battery life (on average) | 8-12 hours of battery life (on average) |
4G/4G+ with limited 5G capabilities | 4G/4G+ and 5G/5G+ capabilities |
No app store, limited apps | App store with social media apps |
Minimal or limited internet access | Fast, intuitive web browsing |
Low resolution camera | High quality cameras |
Durable rugged design | Touchscreen glass prone to cracking |
A very affordable price point | A higher cost depending on model |