Best basic phones

(Updated February 10, 2012 1:15 AM PST)

Jessica Dolcourt
Senior Associate Editor

Sometimes you want a phone that's just a phone. These no-frills models make the top of our list. They aren't smartphones, so they won't offer many fancy features, but they won't require data plans either. We'll update our selections as we review new models, so sign up for our Mobile Weekly newsletter, and we'll let you know when the updated list appears.

Samsung SPH-M370 - pewter gray (Sprint)

The comfortable Samsung SPH-M370 is a basic flip phone that does what it says, unadorned and unembellished, and at the right price.

As shown: $19.99
See manufacturer site for availability

4 stars

Good

Read full review

Samsung Evergreen SGH-A667 (AT&T)

An eco-friendly texting phone, the midrange Samsung Evergreen is comfortable and easy to use, although its mediocre call quality and plastic backing cheapen the feel.

Price: $179.99 (check prices)

4 stars

Very good

Read full review

Kyocera DuraMax (Sprint)

The Kyocera DuraMax is a basic but durable handset that offers Direct Connect services over Sprint's faster CDMA network, but a couple of issues will prevent some iDEN customers from making the switch for now.

Price: $69.99 - $309.99 (check prices)

4 stars

Good

Read full review