BlindShell Classic 2 vs 3 vs LITE: Which Accessible Phone Is Right for You?

The smartphone revolution has not always included blind or visually impaired people. Touchscreens and fancy interfaces work well for most, but for many, they’re frustrating and restrictive. That’s where BlindShell comes in — a maker of simple, tactile-button, screen reader-compatible accessible phones.

But with options like the BlindShell Classic 2, Classic 3, and LITE available, figuring out which one is right for you isn’t always easy. Each model has its strengths, weaknesses, and ideal users. In this guide, we’ll break down those differences and help you make the right choice.

Quick Comparison Table

BlindShell LITE: The Simplicity Champion

The BlindShell LITE is ideal for customers who don’t want or need the internet, apps, or a camera. And that’s precisely why it can be ideal for many.

What It Offers:

• Tactile keypad with physical buttons

• Loud, clear voice feedback

• With Key Features: Calling, SMS, alarm, calendar, FM radio, media player, and audio book player

• Long-lasting battery

• Lightweight and highly durable

What It Skips:

• No internet or Wi-Fi

• No apps or email

• No camera

• No NFC

Best For:
Older people, people who are trying to go back to basic phones, or people who just want a simple phone that works without any distractions. It’s the cheapest and simplest of the range of BlindShell models.

BlindShell Classic 2: The Happy Medium

If you don’t want the latest – or the oldest – in your BlindShell, this outstanding device is just what the doctor ordered.

And the BlindShell Classic 2 appeared in the world like a game changer. It was a complete phone experience designed specifically for the blind — without the complexity of a touchscreen.

Top Features:

• Large tactile buttons

• Voice dictation and commands

• Internet and Wi-Fi connectivity

• App support: Whatsapp, Facebook & FB Messenger, email and more!

• 13 MP back, 2 MP front camera

• FM radio, music player, e-reading capabilities

• Screen reader talking menus and button sounds

Best For:
Folks in search of an in-between for convenience and smartphone features. It’s perfect for technologically inclined users who don’t need (or want) apps, but still want Internet access, all on a basic button-based layout.

BlindShell Classic 3: The Flagship Update

BlindShell Classic 3 is the latest model available (2024) from the product family, though it is the most advanced. It is an upgrade of the Classic 2, with more responsive performance, stronger connectivity, and 5dbi WiFi for broader access.

What’s New:

• Quicker processor and more RAM for better performance

• NFC support (great for tap-to-pay)

• Upgraded front-facing camera (5 MP)

• More (better supported) apps and better voice command accuracy

• Better sound quality and battery duration

Why It Stands Out:
The Classic 3 isn’t so much an incremental upgrade—more of a quantum leap forward. Featuring NFC, better app compatibility and a more responsive voice assist app, it’s for folks who want the best in the accessible phone world without transitioning to a big-name smartphone.

Best For:
Users with vision impairments who are tech-savvy and want the most feature-rich toy. Also perfect to future-proof your purchase.

Which One Should You Choose?

Here is a brief breakdown to help guide your decision:

• If you want the latest functionality, app compatibility, NFC and top performance, plump for the BlindShell Classic 3.

• Get the BlindShell Classic 2 if you’re interested in a phone with smart features without a full commitment to advanced technology, or if you want something more affordable (and proven) than the 3.

• Opt for BlindShell LITE if you (or someone special) require a straightforward, dependable phone with no clutter or internet hullabaloo.

Final Thoughts

BlindShell phones are changing what it means for a device to be accessible — not merely by offering features, but by minimizing friction. Whether you want all the bells and whistles or basic call-making and message sending in a user-friendly package, there’s a BlindShell for you.

Before you choose, think about:

• Comfort with technology

• Need for apps or internet

• Budget

• Preferred level of complexity

No matter which model you choose, you’re getting a phone that was built from the ground up with accessibility and usability in mind.

BlindShell Protective Screen: Protect Your Classic Phone by BlindShell

When it comes to whichever version of the BlindShell you’re using — whether it be the Classic 2, Classic 3, or Classic LITE — one thing is for certain: you need to protect your screen. These phones are supposed to be rugged, convenient and easy to use, but no matter how well designed they are, they can suffer from scratches, smears and drops.

Our Screen Protector Range Includes:

• Nano Glass screen protector (Clear or Anti-Glare): Advanced everyday protection with options for anti-reflectivity in high glare environments.

• Premium Film (Clear, Anti-Glare, Anti-Viral): Smooth touch-sensitive cover — including an Anti-Viral screen protector that provides protection against the presence of viruses and bacteria, including COVID-19.

• High Quality Blue Light Blocking screen protector: Blocks blue light to reduce fatigue for long periods of online time, and protects your vision.

Precisely Crafted for Every Model

We have a large selection of precisely cut screen covers for the BlindShell phones. Whether you have the Classic 2, the Classic 3, or the super-simple Classic LITE, there are custom choices that both add to durability and usability.

Each shield is handmade strictly in our petite workshop, guaranteeing a precise fit for the particular dimensions and forged of all models. They are easy to apply, very hard-wearing, and are ideal for the daily wear and tear which earrings endure.

Proudly Australian Made

And the best part – ScreenShield is 100% Australian owned and operated. We're based in Melbourne and we manufacture and send out our screen protection Australia wide. Thousands of happy customers trust us to protect the devices they depend on — Because when you buy Australian made, you’re only getting the highest quality.

image source: blindshell.com/eshop/blindshell-classic-lite