Nostalgic tech is back, and the Y2K flip phone trend has gone full circle. These Clamshell-style folding phones were popular in the early 2000s, and have been adapted to the modern age with newer models from Samsung and Motorola boasting super AMOLED displays and 4K video capabilities.
But the more basic and affordable flip phone models out there continue to be the top mobile of choice for those who don't enjoy the latest feature-packed flagship camera phones, or need to disappear off the social media grid for a while.
The best flip phones available now
The best flip phone for minimalists
Release Date: September 2019
Camera: 2MP
Operating system: KaiOS
Screen size: 2.8 inches
Connectivity: 4G
The sleek and minimalist Nokia 2720 Flip could be just what you need. It's light and petite, offering the best of both worlds: a sleek retro design with modern hardware where it counts. It has 4G connectivity, to boot!
The latest flagship flip phone
Release Date: August 2023
Main Camera: 12MP
Operating system: Android 13
Screen size: 6.7 inches
Connectivity: 5G
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 is one of the best flip phones that money can buy right now, with all the features of a modern smartphone but with a flippy design. It's expensive, but nostalgia costs these days.
A hardy flip phone that can take a beating
Release Date: September 2021
Camera: 5MP
Operating system: Android 11 (Go)
Screen size: 2.8 inches
Connectivity: 4G
This rugged phone is great for accident-prone or adventurous callers, with IP68 protection against dust and water and a customisable side button. It's a T-Mobile exclusive in the US, so not quite as easily bought as others listed.
The biggest cover display of any flip phone.
Release Date: June 2023
Main Camera: 12 MP (f/1.5)
Operating system: Android 13
Screen size: 6.9 inches
Connectivity: 5G
The Motorola Razr has been around for a few years now, but the latest model is the Razr 40 Ultra model (or Razr+ in the US) replacing the 2022 Razr model. It has a 3.6-inch AMOLED cover display and a large 6.9-inch unfolded display. This flip phone is premium, priced well over $1000/£1000 but worth it if you're looking for a flashy flip.
A hearing-aid-compatible flip phone
Release Date: July 2022
Camera: 0.3MP
Operating system: Nokia OS
Screen size: 2.8 inches
Connectivity: 3G
This super simple and slick flip phone is perfect if you only need the absolute basics, not including social media - and it's even better suited to those who use a hearing aid. It has an inbuilt emergency button, big numeric buttons for an easy typing experience, and a large display too, making it extremely accessible and friendly for the elderly.
A beautiful, retro-style flip phone
Release Date: August 2022
Main Camera: 12MP
Operating system: Android 12
Screen size: 6.7 inches
Connectivity: 5G
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip4 has brought flip phones into the modern age, being one of the first modern smartphones to take this nostalgic form. It has a full range of modern features to boot, but it doesn't come cheap. Since the release of the Z flip5 model (see above) the price of last year's flip has come down.
A solid flip phone with accessible features
Release Date: November 2019
Camera: 3MP
Operating system: Doro OS
Screen size: 2.8 inches
Connectivity: 4G
Designed for seniors, the Doro 7030 has a big, high-contrast screen that's easy to see, an 'assistance' button that automatically sends location data to trusted contacts, and can be remotely controlled by another phone; but it is a little pricey.
A solid flip phone with accessible features
Release Date: July 2019
Camera: 2MP
Operating system: KaiOS 2.5.2
Screen size: 2.8 inches
Connectivity: 4G
The Alcatel Go Flip V is available for under $100 and ideal as a compact pocket phone with a durable design. It has large backlit keys and easy-to-navigate features, like dedicated text and camera buttons, which make this phone very simple to use.
A solid flip phone with accessible features
Release Date: August 2023
Camera: 50 MP (f/1.8)
Operating system: Android 13
Screen size: 6.8 inches
Connectivity: 5G
The Oppo Find N3 Flip is another new flip phone to enter the mainstream market, with an AMOLED cover display and a large 6.8-inch main display, plus a premium price tag. The triple-rear camera unit is impressive, with a 50MP main, 32MP telephoto, and a 48MP ultra-wide camera setup.
