The 5 Best Samsung Phones for Seniors
Apple iPhones are among the most popular smartphones. But Samsung has a lot to offer older adults who use smartphones as well, such as super-fast processors, high-definition cameras, and voice assistants. Many of Samsung’s Android phones are just as user-friendly as iPhones, too.
Our tech team conducted thorough research and tests to compile our list of the best Samsung phones for a range of budgets, accessibility needs, and comfort levels with technology. In this guide to the best Samsung phones for seniors, we’ll take a closer look at five of their smartphones that excelled in performance, accessibility features, and overall value.
Almost every phone can be used on a range of networks. To find the networks with the best discounts for seniors, read our guide to the best senior phone plans.
The 5 Best Samsung Phones for Seniors in 2025
- Galaxy S24 : Best All-Around
- Galaxy A16 5G : Best Budget Option
- Galaxy Z Flip7 : Best Flip Phone
- Galaxy A54 : Best Camera
- Galaxy Z Fold7 : Best Screens
Our Favorite Android Phones Compared
Galaxy S24
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Galaxy A16 5G
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Galaxy Z Flip7
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Galaxy A54
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Galaxy Z Fold7
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---|---|---|---|---|---|
Rating out of 5 | 4.5 | 4.3 | 4.1 | 4.0 | 4.0 |
Device cost | $799 |
$199 |
$1,099 |
$499 |
$1,999 |
Screen size | 6.2 inches |
6.7 inches |
6.9 inches |
6.7 inches |
8 inches |
Battery life | Up to 23 hours |
20 hours |
18 hours |
12 hours |
32 hours |
Cameras |
|
|
|
|
|
Our Methodology: How We Evaluated Samsung Phones
Here’s a detailed look at the criteria we used to come up with our list of the best Samsung phones for older adults.
- Call quality: We made several calls to test sound quality, including calls while wearing hearing aids to ensure the phones are compatible with the devices.
- Affordability: The latest Samsung phones can cost well over $1,000, so we looked for the most affordable options that didn’t sacrifice function or lack useful advanced features.
- Battery life: We tracked how long each phone’s battery lasted and only included phones that could make it through an entire day with heavy usage.
- Ease of use: Accessibility features are important to many older adults, so we took into account any aspects of each phone’s operation that might prove challenging.
- Tech features: A Samsung phone can be a significant investment, so we evaluated and tested each phone’s high-resolution cameras, high-definition screen, and advanced voice commands to make sure they delivered as promised.
Best Senior-Friendly Samsung Phones
Galaxy S24 - Best All-Around
What We Like Most:
- Bright, colorful screen
- Good battery life
- Fast performance
- Simple design
Overview
Credit: AT&T
Retail price: $799
Recommended carrier: We suggest purchasing the Galaxy S24 from AT&T, which offers discounted phone plans for seniors.
If you’re looking for an intuitive design combined with one of the best smartphone cameras we’ve tested, the Samsung Galaxy S24 is your best option for (just) under $800. In all our tests, the phone punched above its weight in performance, and it’s ideal for anyone looking to break into the world of Android phones.
>> Read More: The Best Android Phones for Seniors
Standout Features
The call quality on the Samsung Galaxy S24 was exceptional. The phone’s advanced noise-canceling technology ensured that calls remained clear even in noisy environments, and we noticed no audio interference when using the phone with our hearing aids.
The Galaxy S24 has enough speed and memory to handle functions smoothly without any lag, and its battery lasts a full day on a single charge, with regular use. The Galaxy S24 is also equipped with three rear-facing cameras, so it captures stunning and detailed images both indoors and outdoors. Its camera is also great at taking photos of documents, such as a page in a cookbook, and scanning their contents.
Our Verdict
One of the most affordable phones on our list, the Galaxy S24 is a reliable option for older adults seeking an accessible smartphone with high-tech features for less than $1,000.
Pros
- Beautiful screen
- Fantastic performance
- Voice command capabilities
- 14-hour battery life
Cons
- Somewhat high price point
- Average-quality front-facing camera
- Fairly heavy (5.9 ounces)
Galaxy A16 5G - Best Budget Option
What We Like Most:
- Affordable price
- Big screen
- High-quality primary cameras
- Good battery life
Overview
Credit: Mint Mobile
Retail price: $199
Recommended carrier: To learn more about the carrier’s plans, read our guide to Mint Mobile plans for seniors.
Just under $200, the Galaxy A16 5G is tough to beat, with a long-lasting battery, large display, and great primary camera. It even has a headphone jack, which is great for people who have yet to jump on the Bluetooth headphone bandwagon.
Standout Features
The call quality on the Samsung Galaxy A16 5G was impressive, delivering clear and consistent audio during each of our test calls. We also liked that the phone’s battery lasted a full day with moderate usage. For a midrange device, the Galaxy A16 5G took vibrant, clear photos, although low-light shots were a bit underwhelming compared to the photo quality of other cameras on this list.
The Galaxy A16 5G comes with Google Assistant, which responds to voice commands. We found Google Assistant was easy to use and accurately interpreted what we were saying. Hands-free commands are a helpful cell phone feature for seniors with dexterity issues or arthritis.
Drawbacks
Unlike the Samsung Galaxy A14 5G, the A16 model doesn’t have a headphone jack. In addition, the camera quality is less than stellar, which is typical of lower-end smartphones, and there’s no 4K video recording. If super-sharp videos of your travels or grandkids are a priority, you might want to consider an upgrade.
Our Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy A16 5G is a solid budget phone that offers useful features at a low cost.
Pros
- Just under $200
- Large, colorful display
- Google Assistant voice commands
- Great primary camera
Cons
- Slow charging
- No headphone jack
Galaxy Z Flip7 - Best Flip Phone
What We Like Most:
- Advanced flip design
- Great performance
- Vibrant display
- Tons of customization options
Overview
Credit: T-Mobile
Retail price: $1,099.99
Recommended carrier: The Galaxy Z Flip7 is compatible with almost every carrier you can imagine, but we recommend T-Mobile senior plans. With T-Mobile’s 55+ Essentials Choice plan, you can get two unlimited lines for $30 each per month.
The Galaxy Z Flip7 brings the classic clamshell flip phone into the modern smartphone age with state-of-the-art performance and a beautiful 6.9-inch display when flipped open. If you enjoy playing games and streaming movies on your phone, the Flip7 offers dependable connectivity at a good value.
>> Read More: The Best Flip Phones for Seniors
Standout Features
The Galaxy Z Flip7’s design is not only modern and innovative, it also makes the phone easier to use. You can call and text with the Flip7 without even opening it. It’s also incredibly durable, with a Corning® Gorilla® Glass Victus® 2 display and an IP48 rating for water resistance, meaning the Flip7 can be submerged in up to 5 feet of water for 30 minutes without damaging it. (Note: The phone continued working perfectly after we dipped it in a bathtub of water, but note that Samsung says water resistance can diminish over time with repeated exposure.)
The AI-powered voice-command capability of the Galaxy Z Flip7 is one of our favorite features: Using Google Gemini, we could navigate the phone hands-free.
Drawbacks
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 has a lot to offer older adults, but affordability is not one of its selling points. The innovative design may justify the price for some, but it may be a barrier for seniors looking for a more budget-friendly option. For a similar phone at a lower price, we recommend the Galaxy A16.
Our Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7’s innovative design and intuitive features, such as AI-powered voice commands, water resistance, and an excellent camera, make it an appealing option for seniors willing to shell out for a fast and stylish smartphone.
Pros
- Vibrant display
- Voice-activated features
- Lightning-fast performance
Cons
- High price point
- Average battery life
Galaxy A54 - Best Camera
What We Like Most:
- Great storage
- Midrange price
- 5G support
Overview
Credit: Verizon
Retail price: $499
Recommended carrier: We recommend Verizon, which has plans starting at $65 per month with a three-year price lock and cheaper plans for older adults who live in Florida. Verizon also offers monthly discounts to members of the military, teachers, first responders.
A midrange smartphone, the Galaxy A54 offers a solid blend of performance, features (such as a surprisingly good camera), and affordability.
Standout Features
An ergonomic design, easy-to-use buttons, and large touch screen makes it easy to navigate the Samsung Galaxy A54’s many features. The A54 is one of a select few A-series phones that includes Bixby, an AI assistant included on Samsung’s higher-end phones that responds to voice commands.1
FYI: Samsung assigns a letter for their phone series: A, S, and Z. To familiarize yourself with what each series offers in terms of memory size, features and price, visit Samsung’s online guide.2
We found call connectivity and quality with the Samsung Galaxy A54 to be excellent, and its camera is also impressive. The device features three rear cameras (50 MP, 12 MP, and 5 MP), which capture vibrant and detailed photos in various conditions. Compared with the other phones on our list, we thought the A54 produced the best photos.
Drawbacks
We didn’t like that the Galaxy A54 is made of plastic. Although the material makes the phone more lightweight, the device feels cheaper than the glass construction of the S24.
Our Verdict
With its intuitive design, robust battery life, clear call quality, and versatile cameras, the Galaxy A54 is a great, affordable option from Samsung.
Pros
- Vivid display
- Expandable storage
- Bixby AI voice assistant
Cons
- Slightly slower performance
- Cheap, plastic feel
Galaxy Z Fold7 - Best Screens
What We Like Most:
- Great screen for gaming and movies
- Fun camera
- Water-resistant protection
- Slim, sleek design
Overview
Credit: Consumer Cellular
Retail price: $1,999.99
Recommended carrier: Consumer Cellular has some of the least expensive phone plans around, starting at just $20 a month, with discounts for multiple lines and AARP membership.
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 is the most expensive phone on this list, but our experience with it was nothing short of awe-inspiring. With a long battery life, excellent call quality, great camera, and a tablet-like design, the Fold7 is a thoughtfully designed device that we think is worth the price.
Standout Features
Opening the Z Fold7 transforms it from a sleek compact phone to a larger tablet-like display that makes multitasking and navigating its features a seamless experience. We could, for example, browse the web on one screen while sending a message on the other — almost like having two smartphones pressed together.
Despite the increased energy needs of a two-screen device, the Z Fold7’s battery life is the most impressive of all the phones on our list. It consistently lasted through a full day of usage without needing to charge. Call quality was also exceptional, and we had reliable connectivity even in areas with less-than-ideal network conditions.
Drawbacks
Slim and lightweight, the Z Fold7 might be challenging for older adults with dexterity issues to unfold, which would be a bummer considering the tablet-like large screen is one of this phone’s most notable features.
Our Verdict
The Z Fold7 is a groundbreaking device that pushes the boundaries of smartphone design and functionality, making it a top-tier choice for users seeking an advanced smartphone experience.
Pros
- Large, clear screen
- Multitasking capabilities
- Durable
Cons
- Slowish charging speed
- Pricey
Setting Up and Optimizing Samsung Phones for Seniors
Setting up and optimizing a Samsung smartphone involves customizing the device to enhance usability, accessibility, and overall user experience. Below is a step-by-step guide to make the process more straightforward.
Initial Setup
Begin by turning on the Samsung smartphone and following the on-screen prompts for initial setup. During this time, you’ll want to create a Samsung account, which allows you to more easily store your files and potentially transfer data to a new phone in the future.
Adjusting the Display
Unlike iPhones, Samsung phones allow for a high degree of customization on your home screen and menus. Once set up, you can adjust font size, icon size, and screen brightness to enhance visibility. That can be done in the Display or Accessibility settings. Consider using a larger font for text messages, contacts, and other applications to make reading easier.
You can streamline the home screen by placing essential apps and contacts front and center. Remove unnecessary widgets or icons to reduce clutter. Use Samsung’s One UI features, such as Easy Mode, which simplifies the interface for straightforward navigation.
Configure Emergency and Medical Information
You can set up the emergency and medical information feature on your Samsung device. The information can be accessed from the lock screen and is invaluable in case you have a medical emergency.
Set Up Voice Commands
Enable and customize voice commands for hands-free operation. Samsung devices come with the company’s own AI assistant, Bixby, or with Google Assistant or Google Gemini.
Samsung vs. Apple: Which Is Better for Seniors?
While iPhones are renowned for their minimalist aesthetic, Samsung phones often feature larger screens and a variety of designs. Both companies offer phones in a price range that can accommodate most budgets, with the cheapest iPhone coming in at $600 and Samsung’s entry-level phone available for $299.
With Assisted Access, known as iPhone Senior Mode, iPhones can be even easier to use. Samsung, which runs on Android, provides customization options that might be overwhelming for some seniors. Although there might be a learning curve setting up some of Samsung’s advanced features, they offer excellent accessibility features that could be worth the extra setup time.
Ultimately, the choice between iPhones and Samsung phones for seniors depends on individual preferences and needs.
Bottom Line
Overall, our review of Samsung phones shows that the company offers plenty of reliable smartphone options for older adults with a range of budgets and levels of comfort with technology. In addition, both Apple and Samsung continue to improve accessibility features, such as voice assistants and visibility and hearing enhancements that make the phones easier to use for seniors with health challenges. Both companies have also pledged to continue releasing security updates to their phones for six to eight years, so you can enjoy whichever phone you choose for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Does Samsung offer a simple flip phone?
Samsung offers the Flip7 and the Fold7 series, which are revamped, high-tech versions of old-school flip phones. The company does not offer a cheap, simple flip phone, however, such as Consumer Cellular’s IRIS Easy Flip.
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What’s the difference between Samsung Galaxy A models and S models?
Samsung’s Galaxy A phones, such as the Galaxy A16 on this list, have mid-range processors, while the more expensive flagship Galaxy S series feature faster processors, advanced AI capability at a higher price point.
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Does Samsung also make tablets?
Yes, Samsung’s Tab S11 Ultra is their tablet that currently sells for $1,199 for 256 GB of storage and $1,699 for 1 TB of storage.
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Which is better for seniors, a Samsung Galaxy or an iPhone?
Both Samsung and Apple sell budget smartphones for less than $600, so choosing one over the other will depend on personal preference. The main difference is that Apple iPhones use proprietary software and user interfaces that not everyone is used to, while Samsung phones operate on the more familiar Google system.
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Why isn’t Bixby included on all Samsung phones? Was it discontinued?
Samsung’s AI assistant, Bixby, has not been discontinued. It’s available with Galaxy S series phones, Samsung buds and watch, and certain A series phones, such as the Galaxy A54 on our list.3