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Best smartphones for seniors – top picks on Back Market

2 May 2025

9 mins read

Haziq

Haziq

Tech Expert for Back Market UK, Ireland & Australia

In an increasingly digital world, the need for accessible and user-friendly technology for seniors is becoming more and more critical. The vast array of cell phones on the market can be overwhelming and often feature complex interfaces and tiny text that older users can struggle with.

In this article, we break down four of the best smartphones for seniors, available on Back Market, with unique features tailored to meet the needs of the elderly demographic. These phones are the Doro 8100, Motorola Moto G52, Samsung Galaxy A14 and Google Pixel 7a. Buying these products through Back Market promotes environmental sustainability and cost savings.

  • Front view of the Doro 8100 showing its large display.

    Doro 8100

    The Doro 8100 is specifically engineered for seniors, featuring an intuitive interface with large icons, a dedicated assistance button for emergencies and improved audio for clear communication, making it ideal for those prioritising ease of use and safety.

  • Front view of the Motorola Moto G52 with a bright screen.

    Motorola Moto G52

    With its large, bright OLED display for comfortable viewing, a long-lasting battery and a lightweight, easy-to-handle design, the Motorola Moto G52 offers a simple smartphone experience for seniors.

  • Front view of the Samsung Galaxy A14.

    Samsung Galaxy A14

    The Samsung Galaxy A14 offers a large screen for easy readability and a simplified "Simple Mode" interface, making it less daunting for new smartphone users, alongside a reliable battery life for everyday use.

  • Front view of the Google Pixel 7a.

    Google Pixel 7a

    The Google Pixel 7a stands out with its clean and intuitive Android interface, excellent camera capabilities for capturing family moments and robust suite of accessibility features designed to enhance usability for all, including seniors.

Why you can trust this guide

This guide has been compiled by technology experts with extensive experience in analysing smartphone features and understanding user needs. Our research involved a thorough review of various reputable tech publications and user feedback to make sure you have a balanced and informed perspective. 

We’ve specifically focused on identifying smartphones available on Back Market UK that offer key benefits for seniors, like ease of use, clear visibility, reliable performance and essential safety features. We aim to provide concise and expert recommendations you can trust.

Doro 8100 – the epitome of senior-friendly design

Verdict: 4.5/5

Doro 8100 smartphone for seniors with large icons.

The Doro 8100 is designed with the elderly in mind.

Doro 8100 specifications

  • Screen size: 6.1 inches

  • Battery capacity: 3,000 mAh

  • Camera: 13MP rear, 5MP front

  • Storage: 32 GB

  • Memory: 2 GB

  • Operating system: Android (simplified interface – EVA System)

  • Hearing aid compatibility: Yes (M3/T3 or M3/T4)

  • Assistance button with GPS: Yes

  • Water resistance: Splash-proof (IP54)

  • Remote assistance (TeamViewer pre-installed): Yes

Pros and cons of Doro 8100

Pros ✅

Cons ❌

The Doro 8100 features an extremely user-friendly interface with large, clear icons and the option to adjust the font size.

Excellent hearing aid compatibility ensures that conversations remain clear and understandable for users who rely on hearing aids.

A dedicated assistance button is a crucial safety feature, allowing for quick access to help in emergencies by alerting pre-selected contacts and sharing the user's GPS location.

The pre-installed TeamViewer software means trusted family members or friends can provide remote support, directly accessing the phone to help with settings or troubleshooting.

The durable build and splash-resistant design offer extra reassurance against accidental drops or minor spills.

The device comes with clear and simple instructions, facilitating easy setup and understanding of its features.

The camera quality, while functional, might not meet the standards of users accustomed to more advanced smartphone cameras.

The performance capabilities are geared towards basic use and might not be optimal for running very demanding applications or games.

The internal storage capacity is somewhat limited, which might require a microSD card for users who intend to store a large number of photos and videos.

"Unlike many other smartphones, the Doro 8100 is specially designed to meet the needs of the senior individual." - The Gadget Head
Image of the Doro 8100 assistance button.

Features and benefits of Doro 8100 for seniors

The Doro 8100 truly embodies a smartphone designed with seniors at its core. Its intuitive EVA interface makes navigation simple, using clear, action-based choices rather than complex menus. The large, high-contrast icons and adjustable text size significantly improve visibility for users with visual impairments. The dedicated assistance button gives immediate access to help by sending an alert with the user's location to pre-selected contacts. Enhanced audio and hearing aid compatibility helps with clear communication, while the pre-installed TeamViewer lets trusted family members remotely assist with the phone. The Doro 8100 is an excellent choice for seniors who want simplicity, safety and clear communication.

Motorola Moto G52 – a bright and easy-to-handle option

Verecit: 4/5

Front view of the Motorola Moto G52 with a bright screen.

The Motorola has a light design and a large screen.

Motorola Moto G52 specifications

  • Screen size: 6.6-inch OLED

  • Battery capacity: 5,000 mAh

  • Camera: 50MP main, 8MP ultrawide, 2MP macro rear, 16MP front

  • Storage: 128 GB

  • Memory: 6 GB

  • Operating system: Android 12 (clean MyUX interface)

  • Hearing aid compatibility: Standard Android accessibility features are available

  • Assistance button: Standard Android emergency features can be configured

  • Water resistance: Splash-proof (IP52)

  • Lightweight: 169 g

Pros and cons of Motorola Moto G52

Pros ✅

Cons ❌

The Motorola Moto G52 boasts a large 6.6-inch OLED display, offering vibrant colours and excellent contrast, which can significantly enhance readability for seniors.

Its impressive 5,000 mAh battery ensures that the phone can easily last a full day, reducing the need for frequent charging, a key convenience for many seniors.

The phone's lightweight design, at just 169 grams, makes it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods, which is particularly beneficial for those with limited hand strength.

Running on a clean and user-friendly Android interface (MyUX), the Moto G52 avoids unnecessary complexity and pre-installed bloatware, providing a smoother experience.

The inclusion of stereo speakers enhances the audio experience for calls, listening to music and watching videos.

The phone might occasionally experience lags or stutters, especially when running more demanding applications.

The camera performance is considered average, and it might not perform well in low-light conditions.

Unlike some other senior-focused phones, the Moto G52 does not feature a dedicated physical assistance button for emergencies.

It only supports LTE (4G) networks and cannot connect to faster 5G networks.

"The Motorola Moto G52 offers several advantages for senior users, most notably its excellent battery life, large and vibrant OLED display, relatively lightweight design and user-friendly Android interface." - NotebookCheck
Image showing the side profile of the Motorola Moto G52.

Features and benefits of Motorola Moto G52 for seniors

The Motorola Moto G52 gives us a comfortable and practical smartphone experience for seniors. Its large 6.6-inch OLED display makes sure text and images are clear and easy to read. The 5,000 mAh battery means seniors don't need to worry about their phone running out of power often. The lightweight design makes it easy to hold and carry. It avoids unnecessary complexity by running a clean version of Android for a straightforward user experience. While it lacks a dedicated assistance button, standard Android emergency features can be set up for quick access to help if needed. The combination of a large, high-quality display, long battery life and easy handling makes the Moto G52 a compelling choice for elderly customers.

Samsung Galaxy A14 – large screen and simplified interface

Verdict: 3.8/5

Samsung-Galaxy-A14

Samsung Galaxy A14 specifications

  • Screen size: 6.6-inch LCD

  • Battery capacity: 5,000 mAh

  • Camera: 50MP main, 5MP ultrawide, 2MP macro rear, 13MP front

  • Storage: 64 GB

  • Memory: 4 GB

  • Operating system: Android (with Simple Mode)

  • Hearing aid compatibility: Standard Android accessibility features are available

  • Assistance button: Software SOS features can be configured

  • Water resistance: No

  • Weight: 201 g

Pros and cons of Samsung Galaxy A14

Pros ✅

Cons ❌

The Samsung Galaxy A14 features a large 6.6-inch screen for seniors to comfortably read text, view photos and navigate applications.

Simple Mode streamlines the Android interface with larger icons and a more straightforward layout.

The 5,000 mAh battery ensures that the phone can typically last for a full day of moderate use, reducing concerns about battery life. A budget-friendly option for seniors. The primary camera captures good-quality photos in various lighting conditions.

The phone lacks any official water- or dust-resistance rating.

The charging speed of the device is reported to be relatively slow.

Some user reviews have indicated potential issues with the phone's microphone quality.

The Galaxy A14 is slightly heavier than some other smartphones.

"The Samsung Galaxy A14 5G impressed us with its combination of high-powered features and comparably low costs. Its affordability – paired with 5G connectivity and user-friendly features – positions the Galaxy A14 5G as an appealing option, especially for older adults." - The Senior List
Front view of the Galaxy A14 screen on Simple Mode.

Features and benefits of Samsung Galaxy A14 for seniors

The Samsung Galaxy A14 is a top choice for seniors, thanks to its large 6.6-inch screen for reading and viewing media. Its most notable feature is the Simple Mode, a user interface setting that gives users larger icons and a simplified layout. The phone's 5,000 mAh battery offers all-day power. While it lacks a dedicated emergency button, the software includes SOS features that can be configured for quick assistance. The affordability of the Galaxy A14 makes it an accessible entry point into the world of smartphones for seniors.

Google Pixel 7a – user-friendly with excellent accessibility

Verdict: 4.2/5

Front view of the Google Pixel 7a.

A clean interface and excellent camera.

Google Pixel 7a specifications

  • Screen size: 6.1-inch OLED (90 Hz refresh rate)

  • Battery capacity: 4,300 mAh

  • Camera: 64MP main, 13MP ultrawide rear, 13MP front

  • Storage: 128 GB

  • Memory: 8 GB

  • Operating system: Android (clean and intuitive)

  • Hearing aid compatibility: Yes

  • Assistance button: Google Assistant and accessibility features offer support

  • Water resistance: Yes (IP67)

  • Accessibility features: TalkBack screen reader, adjustable font and display size, magnification, contrast and colour options, voice access, live caption and more

Pros and cons of Google Pixel 7a

Pros ✅

Cons ❌

A clean and intuitive Android interface, which is generally considered easy to navigate.

Its camera system is regarded for consistently producing excellent quality photos.

The Pixel 7a has a comprehensive suite of accessibility features, including TalkBack for screen reading, options to adjust font and display sizes, magnification tools and voice control.

Google provides timely Android updates for Pixel devices.

Wireless charging offers a convenient way to power up the device without needing to plug in a cable.

Some reviews suggest that the screen's brightness might not be optimal for comfortable viewing in direct sunlight.

The battery life might require daily charging, especially for anyone who uses their phone extensively.

The phone does not have a standard 3.5 mm headphone jack.

The Pixel 7a does not feature a dedicated assistance button for immediate emergency help. However, Google Assistant and other accessibility features can be configured to provide support.

"The Google Pixel 7a appears to be a capable and user-friendly smartphone with several features that could appeal to seniors, like a good display, solid performance, long battery life and a clean software experience." - PCMag
Google Pixel 7a smartphone showing accessibility settings menu for seniors.

Features and benefits of Google Pixel 7a for seniors

The Google Pixel 7a offers a smooth and user-friendly experience thanks to its clean Android interface. Seniors will find a wide array of accessibility features, including TalkBack for spoken feedback, adjustable font and display sizes to improve readability and magnification options for detailed viewing. The excellent camera makes it easy to capture high-quality photos. While it lacks a dedicated assistance button, the integration with Google Assistant allows for voice commands and quick access to information and help. The phone's water resistance adds durability.

Comparing the top smartphones for seniors

Feature

Doro 8100

Motorola Moto G52

Samsung Galaxy A14

Google Pixel 7a

Screen size

6.1 inches

6.6-inch OLED

6.6-inch LCD

6.1-inch OLED (90 Hz)

Battery capacity

3,000 mAh

5,000 mAh

5,000 mAh

4,300 mAh

Ease-of-use rating

Very easy

Easy

Easy (with Simple Mode)

Easy

Hearing aid compatibility

Yes (M3/T3 or M3/T4)

Standard Android features available

Standard Android features available

Yes

Assistance button

Dedicated button with GPS

No dedicated button

Software SOS features configurable

No dedicated button

Simple mode

No

No

Yes

No

Price range on Back Market UK

£130-£190 (Based on Doro 8100 listings)

£100-£150 (Based on Moto G52 listings)

£80-£130 (Based on Galaxy A14 listings)

£200-£300 (Based on Pixel 7a listings)

Smart shopping tips for seniors’ smartphones on Back Market

When buying a smartphone for seniors on Back Market UK, consider the excellent value of refurbished devices. You’ll often find models in excellent condition at significantly reduced prices compared to buying new. Back Market offers a warranty on all its devices, giving you peace of mind. By choosing refurbished, you're also contributing to environmental sustainability by giving a second life to electronics. 

Before buying, carefully review the condition of the phone as described by the seller to make sure it meets your expectations and budget. Back Market's return policy offers an added layer of security, so you can return the device if it doesn't meet your needs. Look for sellers with high ratings and positive reviews for a smoother buying experience. Think about factors like the seller's warranty period and customer feedback to make an informed decision.

Visit Back Market to explore the range and make a smart, sustainable choice today.

Haziq

Written by Haziq, Tech Expert for Back Market UK, Ireland & Australia

When not fighting the good fight for environmental sustainability, Haziq loves making reviews of everything and anything tech-related.

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