Products are chosen independently by our editors. Purchases made through our links may earn us a commission.

Best Jitterbug Phones

Updated
Experienced product tester and reviewer with 5+ years, providing unbiased reviews and ensuring product quality and user satisfaction.
Updated

Introduction

Jitterbug phones, created by GreatCall (now owned by Lively), are designed to cater to seniors and those who prefer simpler mobile devices. These phones emphasize ease of use, safety features, and affordability. This guide will help you navigate the process of finding the best Jitterbug phone to meet your needs or those of your loved ones.

Understand Your Needs

Before diving into specific models, it's crucial to identify the primary requirements. Consider the following aspects:

  • Ease of Use: Large buttons, a clear display, and intuitive menus.
  • Health and Safety Features: Emergency buttons and health monitoring.
  • Connectivity: Reliable network coverage and basic internet access if needed.
  • Affordability: Reasonable pricing for the device itself and any associated plans.

Popular Jitterbug Models

Jitterbug Flip2

The Jitterbug Flip2 is a classic flip phone that combines simplicity with essential features tailored for seniors. This model boasts large, backlit buttons that make dialing effortless, and a bright screen with easy-to-read text. The intuitive menu uses a straightforward Yes/No navigation system, reducing the learning curve for those who may not be tech-savvy.

The Flip2 also includes an Urgent Response button. This dedicated button connects users to emergency services and 24/7 help from trained agents. Additionally, the phone features a powerful speaker for clear conversations, and compatibility with hearing aids.

Jitterbug Smart3

For those who want more functionality while still keeping things simple, the Jitterbug Smart3 offers a touchscreen experience with senior-friendly features. This smartphone provides a larger screen with a simplified interface, larger icons, and a list-based menu system.

The Smart3 supports internet browsing, email, and basic app usage, making it suitable for users who want to stay connected online. It also includes the Urgent Response feature, along with a built-in camera for capturing photos and videos. Health and safety apps can be installed to monitor daily activities and medication reminders.

Evaluating Plans and Costs

Jitterbug phones are often paired with Lively plans, which offer various options to suit different needs:

  • Talk Plans: These are ideal for users who primarily need the phone for calling. Plans range from limited minutes to unlimited talk time.
  • Text and Data Plans: For those who want to send text messages or use the internet, plans with varying amounts of data are available.
  • Health and Safety Packages: These packages include access to health and safety services like Urgent Response, Nurse On-Call, and more.

When evaluating plans, consider your monthly usage patterns and choose a plan that provides the right balance between cost and functionality.

Additional Considerations

Customer Support

GreatCall (Lively) is known for its excellent customer support. Ensure that the provider offers comprehensive support, including setup assistance and troubleshooting.

Network Coverage

Verify that the phone will have good network coverage in your area. Jitterbug phones operate on the Verizon network, which has extensive coverage across the United States.

Warranty and Return Policy

Check the warranty period and return policy. A good warranty and a flexible return policy can provide peace of mind in case the phone does not meet expectations.

Conclusion

Selecting the best Jitterbug phone involves assessing the specific needs of the user, comparing different models, and choosing an appropriate plan. Whether you opt for the simplicity of the Jitterbug Flip2 or the enhanced functionality of the Jitterbug Smart3, these phones offer practical solutions tailored for seniors. Their user-friendly design, combined with health and safety features, make Jitterbug phones an excellent choice for those seeking reliability and ease of use in a mobile device.

Main Features

  • 6.2-inch screen
  • Simplified menu
  • Voice typing
  • Powerful speaker
  • Long-lasting battery
  • Lively Health and Safety Services

Product Overview

The Jitterbug Smart3, from Lively, is designed with seniors in mind. It features a 6.2-inch screen that makes it easy to navigate and read text. With a simplified menu and voice typing, it's accessible for those who may not be tech-savvy.

The phone also includes a powerful speaker for clear calls and a long-lasting battery to ensure you stay connected throughout the day. Plus, it comes with access to Lively Health and Safety Services, providing peace of mind for you and your loved ones.

PROS
  • Easy to use
  • Large screen
  • Good battery life
  • Health and safety features
CONS
  • Limited app options
  • Not the fastest processor

Product Specifications

  • Screen Size 6.2 inches
  • Battery Life Up to 12 hours
  • Camera 13 MP rear, 5 MP front
  • Storage 32 GB
  • Operating System Android
Best Price / Quality
Lively Jitterbug Flip2

Main Features

  • Large buttons
  • Bright 3.2-inch screen
  • Urgent Response button
  • Powerful speaker
  • Built-in camera
  • Long battery life

Product Overview

The Jitterbug Flip2, also from Lively, is a straightforward flip phone designed for seniors. It features large, easy-to-press buttons and a bright, 3.2-inch internal screen that makes reading text simple.

The phone includes a dedicated Urgent Response button, providing immediate access to emergency services if needed. The Flip2 also boasts a powerful speaker for clear, loud calls and a built-in camera for capturing moments with ease.

With its long battery life, this phone ensures that you stay connected without constant recharging.

PROS
  • Large, easy-to-press buttons
  • Emergency response features
  • Clear call quality
  • Compact and durable design
CONS
  • Basic camera
  • Limited storage

Product Specifications

  • Screen Size 3.2 inches
  • Battery Life Up to 10 hours
  • Camera 2 MP
  • Storage 4 GB
  • Operating System Proprietary

Main Features

  • 5.5-inch screen
  • Intuitive interface
  • Large icons
  • Health and safety services
  • Simple camera
  • Long battery life

Product Overview

The Jitterbug Smart2 is a senior-focused smartphone offering a balance between simplicity and functionality. It boasts a 5.5-inch screen, making it easy to see and use. The intuitive interface features large icons and simple navigation for those who may not be familiar with smartphones.

Health and safety services from Lively are readily accessible, providing an added layer of security. Additionally, the phone includes a straightforward camera for capturing photos and a long-lasting battery to keep you connected.

PROS
  • Easy to navigate
  • Good screen size
  • Health services access
  • Decent camera
CONS
  • Limited storage
  • Lower performance

Product Specifications

  • Screen Size 5.5 inches
  • Battery Life Up to 10 hours
  • Camera 8 MP rear, 5 MP front
  • Storage 16 GB
  • Operating System Android

Main Features

  • High-resolution screen
  • Simplified menu
  • Large icons
  • Clear audio
  • Health and safety services
  • Long-lasting battery

Product Overview

The Jitterbug Touch3 is crafted to provide seniors with a user-friendly smartphone experience. Its large, high-resolution screen makes it easy to view text and images. The phone features a simplified menu system with large icons and an easy-to-use interface.

It includes a powerful speaker for clear audio, ensuring that calls are easily heard. Access to Lively's health and safety services is also a key feature, providing peace of mind. The long-lasting battery ensures that the phone is ready when you need it.

PROS
  • User-friendly
  • Large screen
  • Clear sound quality
  • Health services
CONS
  • Limited storage
  • Lower processing speed

Product Specifications

  • Screen Size 5.5 inches
  • Battery Life Up to 12 hours
  • Camera 8 MP rear, 5 MP front
  • Storage 16 GB
  • Operating System Android

Main Features

  • Large backlit buttons
  • Bright 3.2-inch screen
  • 5Star Urgent Response
  • Powerful speaker
  • Long battery life

Product Overview

The Jitterbug Flip is a classic flip phone designed specifically for seniors. It features large, backlit buttons that are easy to see and press. The phone's 3.2-inch internal screen is bright and clear, making it easy to read texts and navigate the menu.

A dedicated 5Star Urgent Response button provides immediate access to emergency services. The phone also includes a powerful speaker for loud and clear calls. With its long battery life, the Jitterbug Flip ensures reliable performance throughout the day.

PROS
  • Easy to use
  • Emergency response features
  • Clear call quality
  • Durable design
CONS
  • Basic camera
  • Limited storage

Product Specifications

  • Screen Size 3.2 inches
  • Battery Life Up to 10 hours
  • Camera 2 MP
  • Storage 4 GB
  • Operating System Proprietary