Big button phones are not all the same. A few practical checks will tell you whether a phone will genuinely be easier to use, or just look the part.
Start with the hands and the eyes
The two things that make a phone easy to use are buttons that are simple to press accurately, and a screen that is easy to read. Look for large keys with clear spacing, and a display with big, high contrast numbers and letters.
Then check sound and network
- Loud, clear earpiece volume, and compatibility with hearing aids if relevant.
- A 4G phone, so it keeps working as 2G and 3G networks close.
- A charging method the person can manage, such as a simple cradle or USB-C.
How we researched this
The Elovi Score is our editorial rating out of 10. We assess every product against the same criteria — everyday usefulness, ease of use, value, suitability and reputable sourcing — using the manufacturer's stated information, product specifications and retailer details. It is an editorial judgement based on available information, not a lab or hands-on test, and it is never influenced by commercial relationships.
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