In today’s digital world, smartphones with access to apps like WhatsApp and Google Maps have become almost a necessity. However, not everyone needs or wants a fancy smartphone with multiple complex features. Some people prefer a simple, affordable phone that can just make calls, send texts, and access a few key apps. So which basic phones have WhatsApp and Google Maps? Let’s explore some options.
Key Factors for a Simple Phone
When looking for a simple phone with WhatsApp and Google Maps, there are a few key factors to consider:
- Price – Inexpensive, budget-friendly options under $100
- Basic functions – Calling, texting, some app access
- Durability – Sturdy, long-lasting build quality
- Battery life – Long battery life, up to a few days on standby
- Network compatibility – Works on major cellular networks
You’ll have to weigh whether you want the absolute cheapest phone, or a slightly more expensive model that may be higher quality and last longer. But in general, a basic phone with WhatsApp and Google Maps access should cost well under $100 without a contract.
Nokia 225 4G
One of the top contenders for a simple phone with WhatsApp and Google Maps is the Nokia 225 4G. Here are the key details:
- Price – $69.99
- Network – Compatible with AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon
- Features – Calling, texting, WhatsApp, Google Maps, wireless FM radio, MP3 player
- Battery – Up to 27 days standby
- Build – Sturdy design with long battery life
The Nokia 225 4G has solid essential features like calling, texting, WhatsApp and Google Maps in an extremely durable and long-lasting phone. It lacks more advanced features, but delivers great battery life and the basic smartphone connectivity you need.
Nokia 225 4G Pros
- Affordable price
- Supports WhatsApp and Google Maps
- Long battery life – up to 27 days standby
- Compatible with major 4G LTE networks
- Sturdy, durable build quality
- Wireless FM radio and MP3 player
Nokia 225 4G Cons
- Very basic T9 keypad, no full touchscreen
- No access to app store for additional apps
- Very limited internal storage
- No advanced features like WiFi or mobile hotspot
- Small low resolution screen
Overall, the Nokia 225 4G is an excellent pick if you need a super simple phone with just the basics – calls, texts, WhatsApp and Google Maps. It lacks the bells and whistles of a smartphone, but delivers great durability and battery life.
Alcatel Go Flip 3
Another option to consider is the Alcatel Go Flip 3:
- Price – $99.99
- Network – Compatible with AT&T, T-Mobile, Verizon
- Features – Calling, texting, WhatsApp, Google Maps, 4G LTE, WiFi
- Battery – Up to 7 days standby
- Build – Flip phone design
The Alcatel Go Flip 3 steps up with a few more features like WiFi connectivity, while maintaining a simple flip phone design.
Alcatel Go Flip 3 Pros
- Affordable price
- Supports WhatsApp and Google Maps
- 4G LTE and WiFi connectivity
- Long battery life – up to 7 days standby
- Flip phone design is simple and nostalgic
Alcatel Go Flip 3 Cons
- Small internal storage
- No app store for downloading additional apps
- Flip phone can feel slow and clunky
- Small low resolution screen
The Alcatel Go Flip 3 is a slightly more advanced 4G flip phone that delivers the core apps you need, along with improved connectivity. The retro flip phone design may appeal to some users as well.
Nokia 6300 4G
The Nokia 6300 4G is another affordable WhatsApp and Google Maps enabled phone:
- Price – $79.99
- Network – Compatible with AT&T, T-Mobile
- Features – Calling, texting, WhatsApp, Google Maps, wireless FM radio, MP3 player
- Battery – Up to 19 days standby
- Build – Slide-out keyboard with tactile buttons
This slick Nokia slider phone provides a tactile keyboard and long battery life along with WhatsApp and Google Maps.
Nokia 6300 4G Pros
- Affordable price
- Supports WhatsApp and Google Maps
- Long battery life – up to 19 days standby
- Slide-out keyboard with tactile buttons
- 4G LTE connectivity
- Wireless FM radio and MP3 player
Nokia 6300 4G Cons
- Limited internal storage
- No touchscreen
- No app store for additional apps
- Small low resolution screen
The Nokia 6300 4G delivers the essential calling, messaging, WhatsApp and Google Maps functions with long battery life. The slide-out keyboard is great for typing on the go. But the small screen and limited storage and apps make this a very basic device.
Sonim XP3
If you need incredible durability, check out the Sonim XP3:
- Price – $149.99
- Network – Compatible with AT&T, Verizon
- Features – Calling, texting, WhatsApp, Google Maps, extra loud speaker
- Battery – Up to 25 days standby
- Build – Rugged design built to military specifications
This rugged phone is built to withstand extreme conditions, while providing access to WhatsApp and Google Maps.
Sonim XP3 Pros
- Very durable – can survive drops, shocks, water submersion
- Extra loud speaker
- Huge battery – up to 25 days standby
- Supports WhatsApp and Google Maps
Sonim XP3 Cons
- Expensive for a basic phone
- Very limited storage and features beyond calling and messaging
- No touchscreen or keyboard
- Small low resolution screen
The Sonim XP3 is an excellent choice if you need unmatched durability and don’t mind paying more for it. But beyond its ruggedness, it lacks features and storage space compared to other options.
BLU Tank II T193
The BLU Tank II T193 is a budget-friendly option:
- Price – $59.99
- Network – Compatible with AT&T, T-Mobile
- Features – Calling, texting, WhatsApp, Google Maps
- Battery – Up to 5 days standby
- Build – Rugged, waterproof and dustproof
While not as rugged as the Sonim, the BLU Tank II T193 still provides excellent durability along with access to WhatsApp and Google Maps.
BLU Tank II T193 Pros
- Affordable price point
- Waterproof and dustproof
- Decent battery life – up to 5 days standby
- Supports WhatsApp and Google Maps
BLU Tank II T193 Cons
- Very basic otherwise – no touchscreen or keyboard
- Small screen and limited storage
- Durability not as high-end as Sonim
- No access to additional apps
The BLU Tank II T193 delivers great durability for the low price, although serious outdoor enthusiasts may need something more heavy duty.
Nokia 800 Tough
One more durable option is the Nokia 800 Tough:
- Price – $109.99
- Network – Compatible with AT&T, Verizon
- Features – Calling, texting, WhatsApp, Google Maps
- Battery – Up to 43 days standby
- Build – Rugged, waterproof and dustproof
Nokia 800 Tough Pros
- Affordable for a rugged phone
- Waterproof and dustproof
- Huge battery – up to 43 days standby!
- Supports WhatsApp and Google Maps
Nokia 800 Tough Cons
- Very limited storage and features
- Small low resolution screen
- Not as rugged as Sonim XP3
- No additional app access
The Nokia 800 Tough provides excellent durability and battery life at a relatively affordable cost. But you sacrifice storage space, processing power, and an app ecosystem.
Comparison Table
To summarize the key options, here is a comparison table:
| Phone | Starting Price | Network | Key Features | Battery Life |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nokia 225 4G | $69.99 | AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile | Calling, texting, WhatsApp, Google Maps, wireless FM radio, MP3 player | Up to 27 days standby |
| Alcatel Go Flip 3 | $99.99 | AT&T, Verizon, T-Mobile | Calling, texting, WhatsApp, Google Maps, 4G LTE, WiFi | Up to 7 days standby |
| Nokia 6300 4G | $79.99 | AT&T, T-Mobile | Calling, texting, WhatsApp, Google Maps, slide-out keyboard, wireless FM radio, MP3 player | Up to 19 days standby |
| Sonim XP3 | $149.99 | AT&T, Verizon | Calling, texting, WhatsApp, Google Maps, extra loud speaker, rugged military grade body | Up to 25 days standby |
| BLU Tank II T193 | $59.99 | AT&T, T-Mobile | Calling, texting, WhatsApp, Google Maps, waterproof and dustproof | Up to 5 days standby |
| Nokia 800 Tough | $109.99 | AT&T, Verizon | Calling, texting, WhatsApp, Google Maps, waterproof and dustproof | Up to 43 days standby |
Key Considerations
When choosing a simple phone with WhatsApp and Google Maps, keep the following purchase considerations in mind:
- Network compatibility – Make sure the phone works on your cellular network.
- Price – How much are you willing to pay for basic functions?
- Build quality – Assess durability based on your usage. Rugged phones cost more.
- Battery life – Look at standby times. Some basic phones last weeks between charges.
- Storage – Very limited on these devices. But may be expandable on some models with SD card.
- Features – Double check functions like keyboard vs numeric keypad.
- App limitations – Most basic phones don’t provide full app store access.
Prioritize the features and capabilities most important for your needs. If you want maximum durability for outdoor use, get the most rugged phone in your budget. If long battery life is critical, look for standby times over 20+ days. And make sure any essential apps like WhatsApp and Google Maps are compatible and functional.
The Bottom Line
There are clearly many great options for simple, affordable phones with WhatsApp and Google Maps available today. Top picks include the **Nokia 225 4G** for its outstanding battery life and essential functions at a low price point. The **Sonim XP3** is also ideal if you need extreme ruggedness for outdoor use. And the **Alcatel Go Flip 3** provides a solid middle ground with its flip phone form factor.
Focus on your key requirements like price, network compatibility, battery life, and durability. Look for basic phones that provide the essential apps you need at an affordable cost. With a simple device like these solid options, you can stay connected in a more minimalist way that suits your lifestyle.