The best dumb phones, according to hackers
9 dumb phones recommended in Hacker News comments over the past year, ranked by how many separate people recommend each one.
- Most recommendedMinimal Phone 234 people recommend it
- Least regretNokia phones29 recommend, 10 criticize
All dumb phones
- Minimal Phone 2A small e-ink phone that people like for its compact size, look, and design to reduce phone use. Critics point to its high price, weak specs, and US-only keyboard.34recommend
- Commodore Flip PhonePeople like its distinctive retro design and its limits on distractions, with a basic set of smartphone features kept. Critics say the $500 price is too high and that it looks cheap.31recommend
- Nokia phonesPeople recommend Nokia phones for their sturdiness, replaceable batteries and long battery life, though critics say the software is weak and the phones lack modern features.29recommend
- Commodore Digital Detox PhoneSmall Linux-based phone pitched as a distraction-free alternative; people like its open setup and compact size, but many find the price too high and question the Commodore brand.14recommend
- Mudita KompaktPeople recommend it as a small, degoogled e-ink phone that avoids social media and distraction, and many use it as a dedicated phone. Critics say it is limited because of its small size and lack of Google services.8recommend
- HMD Touch 4GA small dumbphone that makes normal calls and works as a Wi-Fi hotspot, recommended as a cheap basic phone. Critics say it lacks 5G, WhatsApp and a good camera, and it is sold only in India.8recommend
- Nokia 3310People recommend it for its long battery life and durability, and for nostalgia for the original era. Critics say the newer versions try too hard to keep the original interface.6recommend
- Punkt MP02Recommended for its hardware and reliable call quality; critics cite frustrating T9 typing and limited carrier support.5recommend
- Rotary Un-SmartphoneRecommended as a true dumb phone that is well built and beautiful; one critic says it costs enough to buy some used smartphones.5recommend