Review of the Doro 824 SmartEasy

For seniors, smartphones can seem intimidating due to tiny text, low earpiece volume, and complicated software and menus. The $200 Doro 824 SmartEasy is built with these concerns in mind. Available on Consumer Cellular, the 824 SmartEasy comes has large, highly visible apps and icons, a loud, but clear, earpiece for calls, and customized software that guides you through the basics of using apps. Throw in an Emergency Alert button, and the 824 becomes a great option for both seniors and first-time smartphone users alike, and our Editors’ Choice for simple smartphones.

Design and Display

The 824 SmartEasy’s design stands out, melding a combination of physical buttons, heavy branding, and a black-and-blue color scheme on a polycarbonate body (the phone is also available in all black). At 5.74 by 2.85 by 0.40 inches (HWD) and 5.54 ounces, the 824 has roughly similar dimensions and weight to the Huawei Vision 3 (5.68 by 2.86 by 0.36 inches; 5.64 ounces) and the Motorola Moto G (5.59 by 2.85 by 0.48 inches; 5.47 ounces). It’s easy to hold and use in one hand, and the physical buttons on the front, side, and back are all within easy reach.