The Nokia 2720 Flip is a curious blend of nostalgia and modern functionality, a device that harks back to the heyday of flip phones while attempting to cater to contemporary needs. It’s not a smartphone, nor does it pretend to be. Instead, it occupies a unique space in the market—a reliable, no-nonsense communication tool with just enough smart features to keep it relevant in 2023. For those seeking simplicity, durability, or a detox from the endless scroll of social media, the Nokia 2720 Flip presents an intriguing option.

At first glance, the Nokia 2720 Flip is unmistakably a throwback. Its clamshell design, complete with a physical keypad and a small external display, evokes a sense of familiarity for anyone who owned a flip phone in the early 2000s. The build quality is solid, with a sturdy hinge that snaps satisfyingly into place. The phone feels robust in hand, a testament to Nokia’s reputation for durability. The matte finish on the back provides a secure grip, and the overall design is minimalist yet functional. It’s available in black and red, with the latter adding a pop of color for those who want something a little more vibrant.

Opening the phone reveals a 2.8-inch QVGA internal display with a resolution of 240x320 pixels. It’s not going to win any awards for sharpness or color accuracy, but it’s perfectly serviceable for its intended purpose. The external display, at 1.3 inches, shows basic information like time, date, and caller ID. Both screens are bright enough for outdoor use, though they can struggle under direct sunlight. The physical keypad is tactile and responsive, a welcome change from the frustration of typing on a touchscreen keyboard. Each press has a satisfying click, making texting or dialing a breeze.

Under the hood, the Nokia 2720 Flip runs on KaiOS, a lightweight operating system designed for feature phones. KaiOS brings a handful of smart features to the table, including support for 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, and even some popular apps like Google Assistant, WhatsApp, and Facebook. The inclusion of 4G is a significant upgrade over older flip phones, ensuring faster data speeds and better call quality. The phone also supports GPS, which, combined with Google Maps, makes it a surprisingly capable navigation device. That said, don’t expect a seamless smartphone-like experience. KaiOS is functional but clunky at times, with noticeable lag when switching between apps or loading web pages.

Performance-wise, the phone is powered by a Qualcomm 205 chipset paired with 512MB of RAM. These specs are modest even by feature phone standards, but they’re adequate for basic tasks like calling, texting, and light web browsing. Multitasking is limited, and apps can take a few seconds to load. Storage is equally sparse, with just 4GB of internal memory, expandable via microSD card up to 32GB. This is fine for storing contacts, messages, and a few photos, but don’t expect to load it up with music or videos.

One of the standout features of the Nokia 2720 Flip is its battery life. The 1500mAh removable battery easily lasts two to three days on a single charge with moderate use, and even longer if you’re primarily using it for calls and texts. This is a stark contrast to modern smartphones, which often struggle to make it through a full day. The phone also includes Nokia’s classic emergency button on the side, which can be programmed to send an SOS message to a predefined contact—a thoughtful addition for older users or those in need of extra security.

Camera capabilities are predictably basic. The rear 2MP camera is serviceable for quick snaps in good lighting, but don’t expect anything resembling quality. There’s no front-facing camera, so selfies are out of the question. The phone does include a 3.5mm headphone jack, a rarity in today’s devices, and supports FM radio, which can be a nice touch for music lovers. Call quality is excellent, with clear audio and minimal distortion, even in noisy environments.

In terms of connectivity, the Nokia 2720 Flip covers the essentials. It supports 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.1, and GPS. There’s no NFC, but that’s hardly a dealbreaker for a phone in this category. The inclusion of Wi-Fi is particularly useful for accessing apps or browsing the web without eating into your mobile data. The phone also supports VoLTE, ensuring clearer voice calls over 4G networks.

So who is this phone for? The Nokia 2720 Flip is ideal for anyone looking to simplify their digital life. It’s perfect for seniors who want a straightforward device, travelers who need a durable backup phone, or smartphone users seeking a “digital detox” without going completely off the grid. It’s also a great option for emergency kits, thanks to its long battery life and reliable performance. While it won’t replace a smartphone for most people, it serves as a refreshing alternative in an era of increasingly complex devices.

To summarize, the Nokia 2720 Flip is a well-executed modern take on the classic flip phone. It’s not without its limitations—the underpowered hardware, basic camera, and clunky OS can be frustrating at times. But for what it is—a simple, reliable communication device with a few smart features—it delivers. If you’re in the market for a no-frills phone that prioritizes function over form, the Nokia 2720 Flip is worth considering.

Key Specifications:

Display: 2.8-inch QVGA (240x320) internal, 1.3-inch external

Operating System: KaiOS

Chipset: Qualcomm 205

RAM: 512MB

Storage: 4GB internal, expandable up to 32GB via microSD

Rear Camera: 2MP

Battery: 1500mAh removable

Connectivity: 4G LTE, Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n, Bluetooth 4.1, GPS, 3.5mm jack

Dimensions: 104.8 x 54.5 x 18.7 mm (closed)

Weight: 118g

Colors: Black, Red