Parent Control

Best 5 Phones that Only Call and Text in 2025

Are you struggling with the constant distractions of smartphones like this Reddit user? If so, you might long for a simpler cell phone with only talk and text. These phones, stripped of various features, return to the core of communication.

However, like smartphones, only call and text phones come in a wide variety. This can make choosing the right one a bit overwhelming. But don't worry! I've tested a bunch of them and handpicked the best ones for you. Check them out!

Top Picks For Phones With Only Call and Text

Nokia 105
Best for Budget
Nokia 105
Overview

When it comes to basic communication phones, Nokia is a household name. Among them, the Nokia 105 which was released in 2023 takes simplicity to the next level. It doesn't offer any distraction. What it does better is call, text, and nothing more.

Thanks to its large buttons, you won't strain your fingers while texting with it. Even though the screen is just 1.8 inches, the zoomed-out menu and large icons make navigation easy and clear.

Plus, with the 4G and VoLTE support, calls come through loud and clear. However, the only thing you may not like about it is that it supports only a few mobile carriers. Overall, it is a great choice for budget and simplicity.

Unique Selling Points
  • Has 4G and VoLTE
  • Large icon with zoom out icon
  • 12 hours battery life
  • Has FM Radio and LED flashlight
Pros & Cons
  • Crystal clear call
  • Compatible with few carriers
  • Available in different colors
  • Only text on 9 keys
  • Solid battery life
  • No camera
  • Compact and lightweight
Specs & Configurations
Dimension 4.78 x 1.97 x 0.57 inches
Weight78.7g
Bluetooth yes
WiFino
SIMDual Sim
Light Phone III
Best for Minimallists
Light Phone III
Overview

The Light Phone III is a smarter phone than others on this list. In addition to calling and texting, this phone packs smart and practical features, such as directions, music, notes, NFC, etc.

As it supports voice-to-text, you can keep texting hands-free, no matter the situation. With the 5G and 4G connectivity plus a noise-cancellation mic, your voice comes through loud and clear even in noisy environments.

Besides, it has buttons that are placed on one side, making it easy to use with one hand. Thanks to its IP54 rating, it can handle light rain and dusty conditions without any hitch.

Unique Selling Points
  • Noise cancellation mic
  • Supports voice-to-text
  • Fingerprint ID
  • Has a camera
  • GPS and directions
Pros & Cons
  • Highly versatile and smart
  • Highly pricey
  • Sleek design
  • Buttons can often be pressed accidentally
  • Water resistance rating of IP54
  • Little chuncky
Specs & Configurations
Dimension 4.17 x 2.81 x 0.47 inches
Weight124g
Bluetooth yes
WiFiyes
SIMSingle SIM + eSIM
TCL Flip 2
Best for Folding Phone Lovers
TCL Flip 2
Overview

Foldable phones can be your choice if you're looking for a phone with just call and text. And the TCL Flip 2 stands out. In addition to the main screen, it features a secondary display on the back, allowing you to keep track of notifications and the time at a glance.

What I even like more about the phone is the inclusion of VoWiFi (Voice over Wi-Fi) which makes the phone ideal for areas with poor cellular signal. Its lightweight and compact design also makes it very pocket-friendly.

With a 1,850 mAh battery offering up to 14 hours of talk time, you can chat for hours without any hassles. Though its 2MP rear camera won't blow you away, it's still a decent bonus for the price.

Unique Selling Points
  • Good microphone quality
  • Allows to view emojis in texts
  • Supports VoWifi and VoLTE
  • Has a browser
  • Allows email access
Pros & Cons
  • Customizable screen settings
  • Camera is not impressive
  • Pocket-friendly
  • Only text on 9 keys
  • Battery can last for days
Specs & Configurations
Dimension 4.22 x 2.19 x 0.78 inches
Weight140g
Bluetooth yes
WiFiyes
SIMSingle SIM
Raz Memory Phone
Best for Seniors
Raz Memory Cell Phone
Overview

If you're looking for a dumbphone for an elderly parent, especially with cognitive decline, the RAZ Memory Cell Phone is an excellent option.

This phone is designed for seniors with ease of use in mind. For instance, it's always on and has a single screen (photo-based dial). When an incoming call arrives, it can announce the caller's name, automatically answer calls after several rings, and turn calls into loudspeak mode.

Most amazingly, if you buy this phone for your parents, you, as a caregiver, can manage the phone remotely through the RAZ Care caregiver app, such as managing contacts, creating a call blocklist, setting reminders, and more.

Unique Selling Points
  • Supports video calls
  • Reminders
  • Large emergency call button
  • Remote managemwnt
Pros & Cons
  • Enhanced safety and communication
  • No texting function
  • Large photo-based dial
  • Available only in Canada and US
  • Wireless charging
Specs & Configurations
Dimension 6.45 X 2.95 X 0.326 inches
Weight160g
Bluetooth yes
WiFiyes
SIMSingle SIM
Bark Phone
Best for Kids and Teens
Bark Phone
Overview

The Bark Phone is a standard Samsung A13 but is purposely designed for kids and teens. Unlike many others, this phone comes with a wide range of parental controls because the Bark parenting software is built directly into the phone.

If you choose Bark's Starter Plan ($29/month) to activate the phone, then it will become a phone with only talk and text, no app, no social media, and no browser. Even with the basic plan, the phone supports emergency contacts and GPS tracking, giving you peace of mind.

Unique Selling Points
  • Standard smartphones
  • Remote parental controls
  • Built-in GPS tracker
  • Pre-installed phone number
Pros & Cons
  • Unlimited talk and text
  • Complex and manual setup
  • Sturdy and durable
  • It is billed monthly
  • Enhanced online and offline safety
  • Highly pricey
Specs & Configurations
Dimension 6.5 x 3.01 x 0.35 inches
Weight195g
Bluetooth yes
WiFiyes
SIMSingle pre-installed SIM

Alternatives: Limit Your Phone To Text and Call Only

If you want to quit phone addiction but don't want to create a separate budget for a dumb phone, we've got you covered. Here are some alternative ways:

Make The Smart Phone Dumb

Making the smartphone dumb is a popular habit among people who want digital detox without buying a separate dumb phone.

The process involved limiting or removing smart features like apps, internet, and notifications on your smartphones so it behaves more like a basic phone that only calls and texts. You can also use third-party apps, such as Dumb Phone, to make the iPhone or Android dumb without distractions anymore.

make iPhone dumb

Use Parental Controls

You can also use parental control apps to let your or your child's smartphone only text and call. Among the many options available, AirDroid Parental Control stands out. By blocking apps other than Phone and Messages, the mobile phone can only text and call.

With it, you can also schedule what time the smartphone can be turned into the only call and text phone. The good part is that the app works on both Android and iOS. Now, try it for free!

limit phone to text and call only

Bottom Line

Whether you're trying to break free from digital distractions or find a safer device for your loved ones, there's a dumb phone out there to meet your needs. From ultra-basic phones like the Nokia 105 and TCL Flip 2 to smarter alternatives like the Bark Phone and Light Phone III, your options range from affordable to premium.

However, if you're not ready to give up your smartphone, simply making it dumb with tools like Dumb Phone or AirDroid is a smart compromise.

Last Updated on May 1, 2025
Click a star to vote
1158 views
AirDroid Parental Control logo
AirDroid Parental Control
Safeguard Your Kids All-around
Try It Free
try AirDroid Parental Control Try It Free