Phones

Best Flip Phones: Top 5 Flip Phones in 2024

Author:

Chris Holmes

Last updated:

October 21, 2024

Table of contents

Considering a flip phone instead of a one-screen device? We’ve got the breakdown of the best flip phones of 2024.

If you’re a fan of old-school flip phone form looking for smartphone functionality, there’s good news. Many top phone manufacturers offer smart flip phones and fold phones for people just like you.

While yesteryear’s flip phones have a reputation for being clunky and chunky, today’s flip phones have ultra-high definition screens, excellent connectivity, and all the specs you would expect from another type of cell phone. These foldable phones are just as capable of running on 4G LTE and 5G networks as other smartphones. They also have standard compatibility with accessories like Bluetooth earbuds.

So, here’s the question: is a flip phone right for you, and if so, which one? Let’s take a closer look.

What you should consider when choosing a flip phone

When considering the top picks for the best flip and foldable phones, we focused on a range of criteria:

Performance: How well does the phone handle multiple apps, from WhatsApp to Amazon, ensuring a seamless experience?
Battery Life: Smartphone battery life is key, especially for those who rely heavily on their cell phone throughout the day.
Screen Resolution and Size: Whether it’s for reading, browsing, or taking stunning selfies, a high-quality display is key.
Additional Features: We look at extra aspects like water resistance and external screen functionality for notifications.
Availability: These phones are all available in U.S. markets.

Our Top Pick for Flip and Fold Phones

1. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6

The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 is Samsung's finest version of the phone to date—and arguably the best flip phone you can buy, period.

The Galaxy Z Flip 6 features two sharp, bright displays, the powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, an excellent configuration of cameras, and the ability to take advantage of Galaxy AI features. Best of all, the phone is priced much more reasonably than many foldable phones, starting at $1,099 for the 256GB version.

But really the biggest appeal of the Galaxy Z Flip 6 comes down to its unique design, which functions just like foldable phones of yore—except that the screen on the inside takes up both sides of the device. When it's flipped closed, the Galaxy Z Flip 6 fits easily in your pocket. If you want to check something or open an app without unfolding it, you can use the cover screen, which itself has been improved upon since the Flip 5 to become bigger and more usable. All in all, Samsung has produced a winner in the Galaxy Z Flip 6.

Find the Best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 6 Deal

2. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 5

While it's since been usurped by the Galaxy Z Flip 6, Samsung's Galaxy Z Flip 5 is still an altogether great phone.

Thanks to its chipset, this flip phone has a large battery, fast charging abilities, and excellent performance. The cameras are a step above its predecessor, the Galaxy Z Flip 4 — a set of dual 12-megapixel rear cameras and a 10-megapixel front camera that takes clear photos even in low-light. You can also turn one half of the main screen into a trackpad for ease of use and extra intuitive fun.

Choose this phone if you want a powerful Android flip phone offering the joys of flip phones and the ability to physically hang up. It’s also fairly water-resistant and durable.

Find the Best Samsung Galaxy Z Flip5 Deal

3. Motorola Razr Plus

The 2024 iteration of the Motorola Razr Plus deserves special mention for its excellent aesthetic style. It’s a great-looking flip phone with a 3.6'' pOLED external display that’s durable and useful in equal measure.

The external display is big enough to easily type on the keyboard, so you don’t always have to flip open the phone to check notifications or respond to a message. You can still access key apps like the map, mirror, and cameras when the phone is shut.

However, the Motorola Razr Plus cameras don’t compare to the competition. Battery life could also be a bit better. That said, the Motorola Razr Plus flip phone is a good option for smartphone fans who want a sleek flip phone design at an affordable price and are willing to sacrifice photo quality.

4. LG Classic Flip Phone

The devices we've discussed so far are all fairly sophisticated options, leveraging foldable screen technology to give users a smartphone experience in their flip phone. The LG Classic Flip Phone is more of a basic flip phone option, familiar to anyone who had a mobile device back in the 2000s. The phone doesn't have 5G connectivity built in, and can only take advantage of 4G networks from the likes Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile. If you need a basic device that you mostly use for calls, the LG Classic Flip Phone should fit the bill.

5. Nubia Flip 5G

The Nubia Flip 5G strikes a balance between high-tech flip phone designs and the classic flip phone models. The 5G-ready phone makes use of foldable screen technology to give you a modern experience, yet stops short of some of the high-end features of the Samsung Z Flip series like fast processing or next-level camera setups. On the positive side, the Nubia Flip 5G is distinctly less expensive than these high-end models. This may be more of an obscure choice, but the Nubia Flip 5G can be purchased via Walmart and Amazon.

What Are the Perks of Picking a Flip or Foldable Phone?

Convinced of the benefits? Why not try out our Phone Deal Finder to get the best deal on a flip or fold phone? We keep an updated list of all the top offers so you can be sure you're getting the best selection of phone deals for your situation.

Find the Best Phone Deals

Flip and foldable phones are more than just a trend. Plenty of practical benefits are packed into their sleek, folding form factors. So why consider hopping aboard the flip-and-fold bandwagon? Here are some main benefits.

Compact and Convenient

Remember the days when fitting your phone in your pocket was simple? Flip phones like the Motorola Razr or the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip have brought back the joy of compactness. Fold them up, and they snugly fit into the smallest of spaces, making them super convenient for on-the-go lifestyles.

Double the Screens, Double the Possibilities

With foldable phones like the Galaxy Z Fold4, you’re getting a phone and a tablet in one. Open up your device, and a larger screen unfolds, perfect for reading, browsing, or watching your favorite shows on Amazon or Netflix.

Enhanced Durability

Worried about your screen getting scratched up in your bag? Foldable phones offer a neat solution with their clamshell design. When closed, the main screen is protected, reducing the risk of accidental scratches and scuffs — just keep in mind that this could open up the outside screen to damage.

Battery Life That Lasts

Long battery life is a must, whether you’re scrolling through social media, taking endless selfies, or using GPS on the go. Many foldable phones come equipped with large batteries to keep up with the demand for their larger screens.

Next-Level Camera Capabilities

Flip and foldable phones don’t skimp on camera quality. With models like the Galaxy Z Flip5, you’re looking at high-spec cameras that can rival traditional smartphones, ensuring your Instagram game stays strong.

Unique Features

Some foldable phones offer unique features like external displays for quick notifications or part of the screen transforming into a trackpad — adding a layer of functionality and fun that traditional smartphones can’t match.

In short, flip and foldable phones bring together the best of both worlds: The nostalgia of flip phones with the advanced features of modern smartphones. No matter where your loyalties lie, there’s something uniquely appealing about these folding wonders. So, why not flip the script on your phone experience with a device that’s as fun as it is functional?

The Bottom Line

Whether you’re shopping for a basic entry-level flip phone, a smart flip phone, or a cell phone for any other specific purpose, Navi’s Phone Deal Finder can help. It’s free, unbiased, and designed to help you find the best phone deals based on your unique needs.

Try our Phone Deal Finder out today to explore the best options for your taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best brand of flip phone?

Samsung is arguably the best flip phone brand, with its innovative and functional line of Galaxy Z Flip and Fold devices. However, Samsung has had a lot of competition lately, especially from Google, which makes the popular Pixel Fold phone.

Are flip phones really coming back?

Yes, flip phones have become increasingly popular, with pared down options from brands like Motorola, to innovative smartphone versions from the likes of Samsung and Google.