Overview and selection of push-button telephones

For many, the words "mobile phone" and "smartphone" have become synonymous. However, there are still enough fans of conventional push-button phones. Most often, they are appreciated for their ease of use and affordable price. In the end, everyone has the right to choose: carry a full-fledged computer (only a small one) or a tiny push-button "dialer" in their pocket.

Criterias of choice

Of course, everyone chooses a model for themselves, which means that they take into account their own preferences. And yet, there are universal criteria that are important to pay attention to in any case:

• Number of SIM cards;
• Screen characteristics;
• Form Factor;
• Battery capacity (this is perhaps the most important indicator for many users);
• Multimedia capabilities (internet connection, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, memory card slot, FM radio, camera, MP3 player);
• Additional functions and capabilities (body security, "blind" dialing, etc.).

Let's take a closer look at some of the criteria.

Number of SIM-cards

Today it is difficult to surprise with a phone with two SIM cards, especially since the market is actively promoting models that support as many as 3 (!) SIM cards. And it seems that the more such cards, the better for everyone. However, there is a very important nuance: the more “SIM cards”, the more energy is consumed, because the phone has to keep two (or three) cards in working order.

Therefore, if long battery life is more important for you than an additional SIM card, choose models with one SIM card.

Screen characteristics

The diagonal, resolution and color of the display are not only “aesthetic” and practical. In particular, the battery life of the device, as well as convenience, depend on them.

• In mobile push-button phones, which are designed exclusively for calls, it is better to give preference to a black and white screen. Usually, a distinctive feature of monochrome displays is increased contrast, which means that even visually impaired people can read information on it.

• The color of the screen is a very conditional concept. As a rule, the image is still not clear, blurry, and on a sunny day outside, it is simply impossible to read anything from the phone.

• The diagonal determines how many characters will fit on the screen: the larger the diagonal, the more information. Well, since this indicator is not the most significant for push-button models, then 1 or 2 inches is quite enough.

• Screen resolution affects autonomy. The higher the resolution, the more power the device will consume. The most optimal resolution indicators range from 160x128 to 320x240.According to experts, it is not worth buying phones with a higher or lower resolution.

Form Factor

Today, push-button devices are mostly presented in three variations: candy bar, clamshell and slider.

• Monoblock. The most common option. Differs in strength, resistance to mechanical stress, reliability in operation.

• Cot. It often looks more stylish and interesting. An important point: almost all clamshells support the function of ending the call when the lid is closed, which means that you will never "hang" on the line. The disadvantages include lower mechanical strength and durability than monoblocks.

• Sliders are even more fashionable than a clamshell. However, its usability is highly questionable. However, this is a matter of purely personal preference.

Battery capacity, battery life

The most objective indicator of the autonomy of a phone is considered to be its operating time in communication mode. It is at the time when you are talking that the battery power is consumed most intensively.

Most popular models

We offer a rating of the most popular push-button models in different price segments.

NOKIA 3310 Dual Sim. This model has been delighting Nokia fans since 2017. It features support for two SIM cards, loud speakers and a clear image on the screen. Affordable, and one of the most reliable push-button phones around, judging by the rave reviews. Screen 2.4 inches, resolution 320x240. Has large buttons. Equipped with the most necessary multimedia capabilities: radio, player, camera. The battery allows you to talk for 23 hours in a row without recharging. It is possible to install a memory card.

NOKIA 106. Another "favorite" of many fans of this company. Two SIM cards, a shock-resistant case and low weight are, perhaps, its main advantages. Users note the interesting design and high-quality assembly of the model. It does not have a camera, and the 4 MB of internal memory cannot be increased by using a memory card, since this is not provided. Also, you will not find any multimedia capabilities in it. Probably, all this determines the more than affordable cost of the model.

BQ 2436. Finally, the Russian model took its rightful place in the ranking of phones. The main feature is the ability to install as many as 4 SIM cards of full size (!), Provided that there is a slot for micro SD. An extremely simple contact book - it is possible to assign only one number to one subscriber, as well as a sufficient battery life - these are, perhaps, the main advantages of this device. No multimedia features and other delights.

NOKIA 8110 4G. This model of a well-known company was named "banana phone". Probably due to the non-standard shape and variations in the yellow version. Slider form factor. In general, the characteristics of the device are quite good: support for two SIM-cards, resolution 320x240, diagonal 2.45 inches. The model is equipped with a 2MP camera, not much, but quite enough for a push-button device. Built-in 4GB memory, no memory card slot. Users consider the main advantages to be the high quality of communication, and the disadvantages include the not very good case - it is a little loose and easily scratched.

NOKIA 216 DUAL SIM. This phone got into the rating of the most popular models due to its form factor - candy bar is always in fashion - and also due to its modest size and decent display quality (resolution 320x240). Two SIM cards, the ability to increase the built-in memory by using a memory card. There is also a video camera, but 0.3 megapixels is too little for decent photos. So, this multimedia component is rather conditional. Loud speakers and a good battery are also indisputable advantages of the device.

Phillips Xenium E125. The obvious advantages of the model are its shape (the phone fits comfortably in the hand) and a very capacious battery. A purely symbolic 0.3MP camera, and a modest display, just 1.77 inches. An accessible menu and a handy flashlight are also considered "pluses". In this model, you can use two SIM cards, and there is also a slot for a memory card. In general, a good device with a full range of necessary functions.

Of course, in order to determine the best push-button phone according to the rating of 2020, you need to take into account your own needs and preferences. The above review of phones will allow you to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the models, so as not to make the wrong choice.

VIDEO: Top 5 push-button phones in 2020.