This pick is ranked on published specs, accessibility features and support, not on any payment from a retailer.
What We Loved ✓ Large 6.75-inch screen with big text and a list-based menu (Lively)
✓ Urgent Response button for 24/7 help when the service is added (Lively)
✓ Live call captions and a read-out feature (Lively)
Keep in Mind ✗ The Urgent Response button is disabled without the service (Lively)
✗ Needs a Google account to get the most from it (Lively)
Price changes often: Check current price
This pick is ranked on published specs, accessibility features and support, not on any payment from a retailer.
What We Loved ✓ Big, backlit, tactile buttons and a 3.2-inch high-contrast screen (Lively)
✓ Help button reaches Lively Urgent Response agents 24/7 with that service (Lively)
✓ Adjustable text size, Read Out, Real Time Text and hearing aid compatibility (Lively)
Keep in Mind ✗ Works only on a Lively plan; it cannot be used with other carriers (Lively)
✗ The Help button is disabled without the Urgent Response service. Dial 911 in an emergency (Lively)
Price changes often: Check current price
This pick is ranked on published specs, accessibility features and support, not on any payment from a retailer.
What We Loved ✓ Bigger onscreen items and fewer, more focused features (Apple)
✓ A family member or caregiver can choose the apps and contacts (Apple)
✓ Messages can be sent as emoji or a video selfie instead of typing (Apple)
Keep in Mind ✗ Apple describes it as designed for people with cognitive disabilities; some people may find it too limited
✗ Needs a separate passcode to enter, exit or change it (Apple)
Price changes often: Check current price
This pick is ranked on published specs, accessibility features and support, not on any payment from a retailer.
What We Loved ✓ Enlarges on-screen items on the Home screen (Samsung)
✓ High-contrast keyboard and help preventing accidental touches (Samsung)
✓ Turn it on or off any time in Settings > Display > Easy Mode (Samsung)
Keep in Mind ✗ Easy mode menus can differ by model and software version; check your phone
✗ No built-in monitored help button like the Jitterbug phones
Price changes often: Check current price
Side-by-Side Comparison Phone Best For Type Help button Price Lively Jitterbug Smart5 Simplified smartphone Smartphone, Lively plan Yes, with Urgent Response service Check price Lively Jitterbug Flip3 Calls and texts only Flip phone, Lively plan Yes, with Urgent Response service Check price iPhone with Assistive Access iPhone families Built-in iPhone mode No monitored button Check price Samsung Galaxy with Easy Mode Android families Built-in Galaxy setting No monitored button Check price
Frequently Asked Questions Do we need a special senior phone? Not always. iPhone (Assistive Access) and many Samsung Galaxy phones (Easy Mode) have built-in simpler layouts. A Jitterbug phone adds a simple menu and a monitored help button, but it only works on a Lively plan.
What if they wear hearing aids? Look for the hearing aid compatibility (HAC) information on the maker or carrier page. Lively lists HAC details for its phones on its device compatibility page.
How we chose These picks are researched, not hands-on tested. We did not use these devices ourselves. We compared what each maker publishes (features, setup steps, plan requirements) and the public health guidance listed under Sources. We do not show prices or ratings: prices and plans change, so use the "Check price" links. We may earn a commission, only when a live partner program applies, at no extra cost to you; that never changes the order.
Last checked: 2026-10-11
