Bar mobiles and flip phones have a physical number keypad. Rugged mobiles can endure extra wear and tear and tend to have a rubber casing Smartphones can do a lot more than just talk and text with greater support for apps. Android mobile have an option to download and use an Android senior app, which provides a simpler main menu for common tasks. For the purpose of testing, all apps were assessed on a Google Pixel 5.

We recommend currently available (i.e. not discontinued) mobiles with an overall score of 70% or more.

This overall score is made up of vision score (25%), dexterity score (25%), sound receiving score (20%), sound sending score (15%), SMS score (10%), and manual and support score (5%). SIM installation is assessed but doesn't contribute to the overall score.

We check to see how well the mobiles perform under conditions relevant to a person with low vision. We look at how easy it is to read the display in general and in low light, and assess the icons showing battery level and reception.

We examine the process to install the SIM, access the battery, accept a call and dial a number. We also look at the indications of a call coming in such as vibration (haptic feedback) and ease of carrying.

Sound quality measurements are carried out with users assessing the sound quality of a call as a receiver and a caller.

Sound quality measurements are carried out with users assessing the sound quality of a call as a receiver and a caller.

We look at the ease of composing and sending a text message as well as reading a received text message. Models without SMS capabilities are not penalised in the overall score.

We look at the quality of the supplied manual (not a link to a website) as well as whether a support phone line is supplied.

Some of these mobiles can have a very fiddly SIM holder which can cause issues for some users and may require assistance for installing the SIM or taking it out when moving to another mobile carrier.

Measurement (dB) taken at 1 metre from ringer.

Measurement (dB) taken at 1 metre from speakerphone.

'Tested model' means you ought to be able to find this phone in stores and online. Discontinued models may still be available second-hand.

The recommended retail price at the time of testing.

The ability for the mobile to support a 4G mobile network is crucial as the existing 3G network is scheduled to be shut down for mobile phone calls and texting during 2024.

A handy feature for using standard earphones for conversation.

The Microphone (M) rating and T-coil (T) rating determine how well your hearing aid will work with your mobile phone. If you use your hearing aid in Microphone mode (M), look for a phone with an M3 or M4 rating. If you prefer telecoil coupling (T), look for a phone with T3 or T4 rating. 

Smartphones generally support predictive text while only some of the simple mobile phones support this feature.

The number of buttons on the phone that can be programmed to call user-generated phone numbers. This feature, usually available on mobiles with a number keypad rather than a touch screen, can be handy when you need to call a few people often.

We indicate the last point of manufacture before shipping (where available).

There are three types of SIM card in use today. There's a Standard (or Mini) SIM, a smaller Micro SIM and an even smaller Nano SIM.

The specific absorption rate (SAR) indicates the amount of energy per kilogram of body weight absorbed when using the phone as claimed by the manufacturer. All are well below government limits, or you wouldn't be able to buy the phone in Australia. Although evidence relating to exposure to electromagnetic fields remains inconclusive, you may want to choose a model with a lower SAR value if this is a concern to you.

This button sends an automatic notification to 000/112 emergency services.

A dedicated charger removes the need to insert a cable and physically plug in the phone for charging. This can also make it easy to find compared to a cable that could be used for another device.

This feature allows you to view photos and/or sound sent to your phone. While some mobiles with support for MMS may not be able to take video or photos, this feature provides the contact you may need with your family and friends.