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Simple phones that make clear calls

Who says basic phones can't make great calls? Here are five that delivered crisp, clear conversations, and that won't cost you an arm and a leg.

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Jessica Dolcourt Editorial Director, Content Operations
Jessica Dolcourt's career with CNET began in 2006, and spans reviews, reporting, analysis and commentary for desktop software; mobile software, including the very first Android and iPhone apps and operating systems; and mobile hardware, 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 practical advice on expansive topics ranging from personal finance to phones and home. She holds an MA with Distinction from the University of Warwick (UK).
Expertise Team leadership, audience engagement, iPhone, Android, iOS, tips and FAQs.
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Jessica Dolcourt
Samsung SPH-M360
This feature phone sounds great, and is easy to use. Josh Miller/CNET

Just because a phone doesn't cost an arm and a leg doesn't mean you should settle for shoddy call quality.

In fact, we know of several high-end smartphones that bulk up with features while audio clarity suffers, proving once again that there's no correlation between the price tag and a satisfying calling experience.

With that in mind, here are six straightforward feature phones that produced great-sounding calls during our tests.

Call quality is ephemeral and ever-changing, so we can't promise that the high standards we experienced during tests conducted in San Francisco will duplicate wherever you live. Overall, however, we had few complaints.