Does your Cellular Service Match Your Lifestyle? (Part 2)
Now that you have found the perfect phone turn your attention to finding the perfect plan for you.
Foremost on your list should be reliability. How well does the carrier's network perform? Ask friends, colleagues who use the service for their opinions. Research the web for reviews and ranking reports. Test the customer service by calling in and asking a "pre-sales" question. I shop constantly onlline and always test out "support" this way before I buy.
You should consider whether you want to sign a new contract or pay-as-you-go.
Contracts require credit checks, long term commitments and sometimes deposits. In exchange, traditional wireless like this usually gives you free phones (at least our providers do). The plan is usually cheaper for x amount of minutes, but remember you are locked in for at least one or two years.
Prepaid, Instead?
Prepaid, or pay-as-you-go wireless is very popular these days. The carriers are major players now and have attractive plans and phone selections. Usually the selection of phones is a bit limited and there is a discount price rather that a freebie. For example, instead of getting the Motorola Razr for free with traditional Cingular Go Phone, it would cost your $49 with Cingular/AT&T Go Phone.
Remember that pay-as-you-go cellular doesn't require a commitment, credit check or deposit. It's a great budget-conscious service for teenagers and students!
Family Plan for the Group?
Another choice is the "Family Plan" something that T-Mobile became known for. One plan, one price, and add phone/lines for as little as $10 a month for each family member. This save money over a separate $40 plan for each child. Remember though, that these are shared minutes - and if you have a teenager, you may not get any minutes of your own without setting some limits!
These are the basics of how to choose your cellular/wireless lifestyle - the one thing that should determine your cell phone and your cell plan. If you know your lifestyle, you are on your way to a match made in heaven!