Is the Best Dumbphone a Smartphone?

Over the past year, I’ve tested multiple devices in my quest to find a better balance between technology and life. What I’ve come to realize is that the issue isn’t necessarily smartphones themselves—it’s how we use them. My ultimate goal is to use my smartphone in a healthy and intentional way.

What does this look like for me? It means treating my smartphone as a tool to accomplish specific tasks: communication, professional correspondence, and content production. As a full-time content creator—though I hate to admit it—smartphones are essential for my work.

By focusing on the tools I truly need, I can better identify which aspects of my smartphone aren’t serving me. I don’t need shopping apps or endless social media platforms that guilt me into staying connected for fear of missing out on someone’s latest photo. I’ve made it clear to my family how they can reach me and which social media platforms I use professionally. If they want to connect with me there, that’s fine—but I no longer feel obligated to maintain unnecessary apps for others’ convenience.

To make my smartphone usage more intentional, I’ve gone to great lengths: removing distracting apps, installing minimalist browsers, and tracking my screen time. Is it perfect? No—but neither was relying solely on a dumbphone. I found myself using tablets and computers far more than I wanted.

Digital minimalism is a lifestyle that continues to evolve with my needs. For now, a “dumbed-down” smartphone strikes the best balance. I use a BlackBerry Classic as my personal phone and a Google Pixel 8, customized with the Niagara Launcher, as my professional device. I also limit the number of apps installed on my Pixel to around 30, ensuring that it remains a tool rather than a distraction.