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Cell Phone Buying Guide
Likely the biggest revolution in technology in the last decade has been the emergence of the cell phone. Phones now come in all different shapes and sizes, so you can get a slim, pocketable device or a full-featured device. There are also Smartphones, which combine cell phone and PDA functionality, allowing you to access documents like Word or Excel files, go online, check email, and do a host of other things.
The main expense in choosing a cell phone is the service plan, which you'll probably purchase from one of the major carriers in the United States: AT&T, Verizon, Sprint or T-Mobile.
If you don't want to commit to a multi-year contract, which you'll need to do with most carriers, you can opt for a pre-paid phone, which comes with a certain number of pre-paid minutes and no monthly fees or contractual obligations Tracfones
Phone Styles
Phones started out as simple models with a screen and a keypad, but there are now plenty of options out there. The traditional "candy bar" phones are still made, although a trend in recent candy bar models has been towards reducing the number of buttons in favor of a large touchscreen, where the buttons appear on the display and change depending on the context. There are also flip phones, which open up to reveal a keypad, and slider phones, where an external screen will slide up. Many flip and slider phones nowadays can flip or slide open two different ways, horizontally and vertically, to allow access to a full QWERTY keyboard, great for text messaging or sending emails.
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Flip phones are becoming less popular as smart phones raise in the popularity ranks. However, these are still great starter phones for someone who just does the basics! |
Non-Flip Phones Non-flip phones include less sophisticated Nokia candy bar |
Slider phones can offer the simplistic front screen with a slide out QWERTY keyboard. |
Shopping Tips
Whichever style you choose, you'll want to keep some of these basic points in mind when shopping. Be sure, when you have the chance, to compare real phones side-by-side in store. There is a big difference between a floor model and a functioning model. Even better, at some locations you can make a local call to check the sound quality.
- Size, Weight, and Handling
- Big or small, the test of a perfect phone is how it fits in your hand and how it feels.
- Heavy or light? Bulky or so slim you think you'll break it?
- Can you open it and manipulate the keys with one hand?
- Does the phone feel like it's well constructed? Trendy, slim phones look hot, but if a phone isn't built to last, chances are it'll hit the trash can before this season's jeans go out of style. That's not a good thing when you've just signed a two-year contract.
- Check the screen size. Is it big and easy to read? Compare the screens of two models and see which has a clearer picture. You might be surprised at what you see. When in doubt, choose a backlit screen for better viewing in low-light situations.
- Battery
- How long does it take to charge?
- How much talk time do you get and how much is just standby time?
- Does the phone have an optional rapid battery charge?
Cell Phone Features
| Now that you've decided what kind of body you want your phone to have, it's time to start looking for features. Most phones come with a few of the basic features, like caller ID, call waiting, voice mail, clock, alarm and a phone book. Here are a few other features that you'll want to consider, from the basic to the high-end. Whichever features speak to you, remember the bottom line: Only pay for those features that you have an immediate use for or that you expect you'll need in the near future. Fun Stuff
Getting Productive
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Cell Phones for the Kids
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Firefly The LG Migo |
Top Picks for Flip Phones
Below are the top-rated products from PhoneRated.
| Flip Phone Top Picks | ||||
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Smartphones
Smartphones are the most popular option for most new phones. They offer a level of multi-tasking that was previously unattainable. Key features on any smart phone will include mp3 capabilities, emailing and internet browsing options, full QWERTY keyboards and cameras. Most phones will also have a GPS system.
| Smart Phones | ||
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The iPhone |
Blackberrys |
The Palm Pre |
Related Products
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Related Guides
- Cell Phone Cases and Holsters: Once you have a phone add a phone case or holster.
- Cell Phone Covers & Keypads: Here is a great way to customize your phone with a personal touch.
- Smartphones: Here you can find some more information on Smartphones.
International Resources
For this resource in your home country, please see:
NL: Mobiele Telefoons Shopgids
DE: Handy















