13 Jun 2005

Buying Your First Cell Phone

In 2004, estimates the Cellular Telecommunications Industry Association (CTIA), the number of people with cell phones grew by 13.7% in the United States -- to more than 180 million. That's 60% of the population now subscribing to some type of cellular plan. And existing cell phone users are spending more time on their cell phones as well. CTIA's semi-annual survey indicates that the time spent on cell phones in 2004 exceeded one trillion minutes, and that usage continues to grow nearly 33% each year.

It's no wonder that the cell phone and cellular plan options available to you keep growing every day. So, even if you're not a first-time cell phone buyer, where do you begin to find the right combination for you?

First, Pick Your Cell Phone Provider

It's easy to fall in love with that great-looking new phone that's being advertised in commercials or surreptitiously placed in the hands of the action hero in this summer's blockbuster. But a cell phone can only be as good as the service the cell phone provider can offer.

Do your research. Find out which cell phone providers offer service and then research which ones are known for the best reception in your area. Don't base your decision purely on comments from friends. The difference between cellular service providers isn't as great as it used to be. Check out the cell phone providers' coverage maps, and focus only on locations where you'll need to make and receive a lot of cell phone calls.

If you get your new cell phone and realize that the cellular service you chose has a dead spot right in your driveway, you can cancel the contract and return the cell phone without penalty within 30 days -- whether you got it from the carrier directly or from an authorized cell phone retailer

Second, Pick a Cellular Plan

Cell phone providers usually subsidize the cost of the cell phone when you commit to a one- or two-year contract. Even if they didn't, the cost of the cellular plan over time would probably still be higher than the up-front cost of the cell phone itself. That's why it's important to pick a cellular plan that best fits how you will be using your phone.

Don't worry, the plan you choose generally does not substantially limit your options of cell phone models, but you do want to keep in mind the total cost of the cell phone plus the cost of the cellular plan over the life of the contract when evaluating a deal.

Finally, Choose the Best Cell Phone for You

Are you ready to pick a phone? With literally hundreds of features to choose from, finding the perfect cell phone can seem like a daunting task. But chances are you already know what two or three features you're looking for. Camera phones are one of the most popular types of cell phones on the market. Smartphones are a great choice for people who frequently access email, calendar, and other mobile applications when they are on the road. For some, a traditional bar-style phone is preferred, while others swear by the flip phone design. Travelers might look for multiband GSM-technology or just a very light and compact cell phone. Providers and their authorized agents offer a selection of phones that meet almost any combination of criteria you could come up with.

Since you'll have your phone for a little while, don't just reach for the cheapest phone or the best cash-back deal. Your cell phone is going everywhere you are for at least a couple of years, so go ahead and get one you'll still be happy with 24 months from now. While it's possible to upgrade your phone later, the best cell phone deals are available when you're signing up for a brand new cellular plan.

The internet offers innumerable resources for doing product research. If you don't know where to start, ask your friends what they like about their cell phones. Providers of cellular service also run stores where you can see cell phones in person. But don't let a salesperson talk you into buying anything right then and there, because you'll almost always find better deals and better free cell phones when you sign up for a new cellular plan from the cell phone service provider's authorized online agents.

Once you have an idea of what you want, visit a site like Point.com that highlights some of the best sales from across a wide variety of online shops. Here you'll find deals on all types of devices, with plans from every cell phone provider. In fact, we often find online retailers offering, for free, cell phone models that are normally priced at several hundred dollars. In that case, the best choice for you might just be the featured "cell phone deal of the week."

Related article: Choosing a Cell Phone Plan

Back to Cell Phone Articles Archive

Comments

Thanks for this article, I've been looking to buy a new cell phone and wanted to start at back at the beginning.

Posted by: Marcus at June 30, 2005 02:00 AM

Marcus - We're glad you found our website useful. Please let us know if there are other article topics you'd like to see covered. And don't forget to recommend us to friends.

Posted by: The Point.com editors at July 19, 2005 09:20 AM

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