Inexpensive phones with good texting capabilities

[ToomuchStuff]

Same with T mobile and a bunch of others, just considered a prepaid plan.

[jp1]

I realize I’m very late to this conversation but if the main desire is texting then what about getting a Google voice number and then using it to text from a computer. (Assuming they have a computer, of course). They could only do it from home, or anywhere with WiFi if they have a laptop, but it would be free.

[Klunick]

I always get the oldest version I can which saves me a ton of money. I keep my phones for a long time so when it's time to get a new one, there might have been 3-4 versions out since mine. Let's say I currently have a 5 and the newest one is an 9 but version 7 is still being sold. I will get the 7 because it's not every expensive since it's an older version but is still an upgrade from what I currently have.

If your friend doesn't need every bell and whistle, look into getting an older model of the phone they are interested in getting.

[Tradd]

I realize I’m very late to this conversation but if the main desire is texting then what about getting a Google voice number and then using it to text from a computer. (Assuming they have a computer, of course). They could only do it from home, or anywhere with WiFi if they have a laptop, but it would be free.

Actually you can do the same with iPhones and IPads/Mac computers. You can flick a setting on iPhones that allows calls/texts to be answered on other Apple devices.

[Teacher Terry]

I have a prepaid plan with T-Mobile for 15 flat fee per month. It’s unlimited talk and text with 3gb of data.

[Tradd]

Pretty much any Android or Apple phone is going to text MUCH better than a flip phone. I’d just recommend they go with a prepaid plan, specifics depending on their usage and reception of the various carriers in your area.

[jp1]

Actually you can do the same with iPhones and IPads/Mac computers. You can flick a setting on iPhones that allows calls/texts to be answered on other Apple devices.

True, but if they don't need mobile connection they can do texting from a computer using their already existing home internet connection for free via a google voice account. (or yes, via imessage if they have an ipad or imac) Most people like you and me spend the money to have mobile internet access but a segment of the older population doesn't. My dad, who passed away 8 years ago was perhaps extreme, but he had no desire to have internet access anywhere. I assume there are other people slightly younger than him that don't think they need access other than the hardwired computer sitting in their living room or whatever.