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Samsung T259 (photos)

The flaws are few and strengths many of this very simple, satisfying flip phone.

Jessica Dolcourt
Jessica Dolcourt is a passionate content strategist and veteran leader of CNET coverage. As Senior Director of Commerce & Content Operations, she leads a number of teams, including Commerce, How-To and Performance Optimization. Her CNET career began in 2006, testing desktop and mobile software for Download.com and CNET, including the first iPhone and Android apps and operating systems. She continued to review, report on and write a wide range of commentary and analysis on all things phones, with an emphasis on iPhone and Samsung. Jessica was one of the first people in the world to test, review and report on foldable phones and 5G wireless speeds. Jessica began leading CNET's How-To section for tips and FAQs in 2019, guiding coverage of topics ranging from personal finance to phones and home. She holds an MA with Distinction from the University of Warwick (UK).
Jessica Dolcourt
34504082_PALM.jpg
1 of 5 James Martin/CNET

Simply flip

The Samsung SGH-T259 is another one of Sammy's many flip phones, but it's one we grew to like despite a few annoyances.
34504082_BUTTON.jpg
2 of 5 James Martin/CNET

Sure press

The large dial pad is easy to see and press, and quite comfortable. The default dial screen displays large numbers as well.
34504082_SIDE.jpg
3 of 5 James Martin/CNET

Sharing isn't caring

The one case with a cell phone where the adage "sharing is caring" falls flat is when the headphone jack and power plug share a single Micro-USB port. You'll need an adapter for wired headsets.
34504082_FRONT.jpg
4 of 5 James Martin/CNET

Camera

The 2-megapixel camera is extremely average; don't sell your digital camera.
SamsungT259.jpeg
5 of 5 James Martin/CNET

Photo close-up

In our studio shot, photos had a pinkish-gray hue and lacked vibrancy.

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