Using Flip Phones: The Old and the New
There was once to be a time where owning a flip phone was trendy, but those days are long gone with smartphones becoming the current trend. However, there are hybrids of flip mobile phones and smartphones in the market, though they may not be mainstream at the moment. Whether for nostalgia, practicality, or uniqueness, both traditional and modern versions of the flip phones serve well.
What is a Flip Phone?
There are two types of flip phones in the market right now, and they include:
- The traditional flip cellphone is one that has a clamshell design, opening to reveal one section with a keypad and another section with a screen. This type of phone is still available brand new from certain brands, including NEC.
- A modern version of the flip phone is the smartphone with the flip design. This type of phone flips open like a book or like a clamshell but reveals a dual-screen set up. There are also some flip phones that are smartphones, opening up to reveal another display underneath that pairs with a traditional keypad.
Why Choose a Flip Phone?
The old school flip phone is worth having simply for its nostalgic value, especially if you grew up in the nineties and early 2000s. Other than that, these traditional cellphones are good for senior citizens who may have a hard time learning how to use a smartphone. For younger people, the old school version is great if they want a phone that unplugs them from the online world, is long lasting, and reduces the chance of butt-dialing someone. As for the hybrid versions of recent years, having a dual-screen set-up on your phone sets you apart from the crowd, while allowing you the flexibility of converting a smartphone into a tablet-like device just by unfolding it.
How Do You Choose a Flip Phone?
Choosing a flip phone, whether traditional or hybrid, should take into consideration the following options:
- Brand: If you are going used, many big brands have produced traditional flip phones in the past. Brands like NEC have both the traditional and hybrid options available.
- Features: If you can't go without your mobile apps, then forgo the traditional flip phone for the hybrid versions. However, if all you want is to make calls, send texts, take pictures with an inbuilt camera, and unplug from the world, then old school is the way to go.
- Price: Hybrid flip mobile phones are costlier than traditional flips, as they have more functionality. For those on a very tight budget, a non-smartphone flip device is easier on the pocket.
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