What is the BEST WAY to buy a cell phone?

[Mike and Claudia]

I sat down here while back and calculated what my iPhone 6 has cost me# Yowza!!

 

What is the BEST way to buy a new phone?

 

Then If I don't get it from one of the "Big Two" then if I need help with it, how do I get help if I didn't buy from my carrier?

 

In climbing the learning curve, I admit I have asked some really dumb questions in trying to get familiar to it. I used to have the "TECH Gene" but it seems that age has stolen it from me.

 

Any ideas; suggestions?

[LFDR3116]

I recently found out that some of the larger Walmart stores have a wireless center at the front of the store. It is Walmart employees that can help you with Verizon, AT&T, Net 10 and Trac Phone - they have phones available and then can help with set up - getting your current phone # switched as in our case the old sim card did not fit into the new phones, and you walk out with a ready to go phone. This is all a free service and I found out that if I had let the AT & T store across the road help me with the same issue with the sim card, they would have charged me $10. The AT&T store did not have the same phones in their showroom as was available at Walmart - of course all of theirs required a new activation and the monthly charges were all higher. Walmart did have some of the more expensive phones also.

 

I think the providers will still assist you no matter where you bought the phone, they just might charge for things that may be free to someone just buying with them. I also think you could go online and get assistance using the chat feature.

[LindaH]

The last few phones we've bought have been at the wireless kiosk inside Costco. They're usually cheaper than buying directly from Verizon (in our case), and I've found that they know what they're talking about (unlike the person at Best Buy we were originally going to buy from...until I found out *I* knew more about the phones than he did!).

[Max Signal]

I sat down here while back and calculated what my iPhone 6 has cost me# Yowza!!

 

What is the BEST way to buy a new phone?

 

Then If I don't get it from one of the "Big Two" then if I need help with it, how do I get help if I didn't buy from my carrier?

 

In climbing the learning curve, I admit I have asked some really dumb questions in trying to get familiar to it. I used to have the "TECH Gene" but it seems that age has stolen it from me.

 

Any ideas; suggestions?

I just transferred to cricket after 24 years with Verizon . Had to pay for my phone . $500 , But my bill is 1/3 third of what it used to be with more data . So I will recoup the cost of the phone in 6 months!

[Hikers]

We full time RV so I like to have the ability to use any carrier at any time as the situation arises. Also, I'm not a fan of monthly device payments or contracts. That's why I bought an unlocked Nexus 6p. It works with any carrier in the USA. To switch carriers all I have to do is put another SIM in my phone and activate it. The 6P can also work as an internet hotspot if you have a data plan. The phone cost $425 on sale when I bought it but the flexibility to use different carriers should pay for the phone. For example we have unlimited talk and text plus 1 GB of data on Bluegreen mobile for $25/mo (which includes all the taxes and charges that the big two carriers like to hide in the fine print). The plan uses AT&T's network. But the best part is that when a better plan comes along on any carrier I can easily and cheaply switch to it.

 

I'm no expert but my advice is to consider only unlocked phones, that work on all carriers and stay away from contracts and payment plans.

[Smitty77_7]

Well the 'best' is always subject to what you're looking for:)!

 

We've bought several phones via Swappa.

 

https://swappa.com/buy

 

We usually buy the previous generation phone, when the new ones come out. And look for a phone for our specific carriers. For example we bought my wife ATT iPhone 5S, and I recently bought a Samsung S6 on Verizon for my Mother In Law. Once you choose the carrier, and the phone, then filter with what you are comfortable with. I always select New Retail, New Resale or Mint. And I usually choose a reseller with plenty of previous sales:)!

 

Either 4 or 5 phones now, never a problem.

 

We then go into the carrier, and have them both activate and help move over any contacts, etc.

 

We do this because we've always been protecting both of our Grandfathered Unlimited Data plans, for ATT and Verizon.

 

I did one time buy a phone from a gent off of Craigslist, and that was fine too. It was New In Box, where he took the then free upgrade, and the resold the phones for profit. I met him at Verizon store, and before funds exchanged, we went in and had Verizon validate that the phone was not locked up or out for any reason.

 

If you go the Craigslist route, do your homework, and do insist on meeting only a the authorize store.

 

Best of luck to you,

Smitty

[docj]

 

 

We do this because we've always been protecting both of our Grandfathered Unlimited Data plans, for ATT and Verizon.

 

 

 

 

I assume you realize that the last change in Verizon's rules about grandfathered plans allows those customers to buy new phones from Verizon using a 2-year, no interest payment plan. That's how I purchased my S7 a couple of months ago.

 

Joel

[RV_]

I'm not grandfathered but we were using Verizon towers on Straight Talk that we bought on Amazon, one my Lumia 822. I didn't like the speeds on ST so went prepaid with my phone to Verizon. Once I realized it was faster they also were 5 bucks cheaper if both of use went over as $45X2 is more than $45+20+20 for Verizon's new regular no contract plans. They took our old phones in even trade and gave us a free month of service, a veteran 10 or 15% discount (I forget) and no extra charges. And we both got very nice Lumia 735s with the OLED screens and great cameras.

 

If no big sale and offers then I would buy on Amazon or eBay from the big new or refurbished sellers. I'd also buy used from an individual as long as I could see it working with the owner's account to be sure it worked perfectly and that it was not stolen.

 

My main criteria is good Bluetooth and a great camera in addition to replaceable battery.

 

My other must have is a SDXC card slot because I take that much music (64GB in mp3's) with me to play in the car.

 

If used and from a well reviewed eBay seller or Amazon it can usually be returned within 30 days if not happy for a full refund. Or exchange if you like that model. Lumia factory refurbished always looks like new.

 

If I wanted a new $600.00 phone I'd have to pay cash. No contracts or no deal. If I can't afford the phone cash, then I can't afford the phone. I don't do payments for anything.

[Devilishjim]

If I wanted a new $600.00 phone I'd have to pay cash. No contracts or no deal. If I can't afford the phone cash, then I can't afford the phone. I don't do payments for anything.

If a phone was going to cost me 5-$700 I would be learning morse code in smoke signal talk !

[Bill Joyce]

We bought our last two phones online from vendors and then went to a real Verizon store to get free nano SIMs installed. Both phones work on all networks. My wife's phone is a Moto X Pure, which you can sometimes find for $300 for the 16GB model, but it also has a microSD slot for more storage. We bought it on Amazon. Mine is a Nexus 6P, like Hikers recommended, and sometimes it is $100 off online from it's $500 starting price. I bought mine directly from the Google Play Store. These are both large phones, it you want something smaller the Nexus 5X is on sale right now for $230 (http://www.androidcentral.com/heres-lowest-price-weve-seen-nexus-5x).

 

Note: I just recommended someone get a Moto X Pure for $300 on the Father's Day sale for use with T-Mobile. The person wanted to add a T-Mobile plan to use their Binge On video streaming, since it does not count against their data plan. The Moto X Pure will cast the phone screen to a Smart TV (or DVD/Bluray player) that has Miracast support, which this person has. (The Nexus 5X and 6P do not support Miracast, they want you to get a Google Chromecast instead.) For these people, the T-Mobile phone would be in addition to their phones, mainly for video streaming and potentially for international use.

[RV_]

My phone is an exceptional value despite its being in the limbo of the Windows 10 mobile uncertainty. However, I just started the Windows 10 mobile update on my phone and it will likely be a PITA at first, considering that they are releasing the final version next month, along with the big anniversary update to Windows 10 on computers which includes Desktops, laptops, and tablets. Windows tablets use the same OS as the full size computers, so they also use the same programs and apps as the desktops and laptops.

 

I am waiting to upgrade Lynn's 735 until I use Windows 10 mobile for a while, or at least until the final version is released next month. If it is all OK I'll do hers next and post in a separate thread. But it shows the folks wondering about their other options to buy their phones, that have been overpaying for years with provider payment plans and getting the latest and greatest every two years, think of how much you can save if you wait an extra two years and save the monthly payment then pay less in cash. Or like me buy last year's latest and greatest after they are already replaced.

 

I am paid up and can upgrade anytime I choose to one on their payment plan, or take it to another

 

Some folks with Apple or Android tablets still have difficulty wrapping their heads around the fact that Windows tablets are exactly the same as the desktops and can load exactly the same programs. However in the Microsoft ecosystem the Desktops can also use the same Apps that the tablets and phones use in most cases.

 

Amazon brand new for $119.00

https://www.amazon.com/gp/offer-listing/B00TRLXO6U/ref=sr_1_4_olp?ie=UTF8&qid=1466358068&sr=8-4&keywords=lumia+735&condition=new

 

eBay new/refurbs/used:

http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_dcat=9355&Storage%2520Capacity=16GB&_nkw=lumia%20735&rt=nc&LH_BIN=1&_trksid=p2045573.m1684

 

Bill, an example here is the MotoX for well under $300.00 new on eBay:

http://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_odkw=lumia+735&Storage%2520Capacity=16GB&LH_BIN=1&_dcat=9355&_osacat=0&_from=R40&_trksid=p2045573.m570.l1313.TR0.TRC0.H0.XMoto+X+pure.TRS0&_nkw=Moto+X+pure&_sacat=0

 

Here's your Huawei phone new for $417

http://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-Huawei-Google-Nexus-6P-4G-32GB-Memory-Cell-Phone-Unlocked-Aluminum-w-gift-/131842760467?hash=item1eb270df13:g:-SUAAOSwLnBXWLPI

 

BTW,

The advantage to having a newest Lumia is that the eBay and Amazon sellers cannot sell them easily so the prices get rock bottom. I'm glad for this thread because it got me off dead center, and when I checked the prices in eBay I found they had brand new Lumia 735 factory Qi wireless charging backs in our favorite color, red! back a couple of years ago I ordered one for my Lumia 822 for $19.99. I just got two for $13.36, brand new!

 

If you don't care about all the apps and just use your phone for calls, texts, email, videos, and music on its up to 128GB Micros SDXC card (optional), these can be had ~$100.00 if you take your time shopping new. Microsoft has committed to supporting the Lumia's they sold recently and the 735 is one of them. Terrific optics, especially for selfies (5mp facing you) you might consider one. Here's a review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V3JzZslkYYQ

here are new ones buy it now on eBay. The OLED screen beats any non OLED hands down. Awesome colors.

 

I suggest for those wanting to buy their own phone to shop your sources like I show here for the phone you want, use the top rated sellers and then you are covered. Even used, the top rated plus sellers on eBay, and the ones on Amazon, will go out of their way to give great service.

[Technomadia]

Guess it really comes down to what 'BEST' means to you.

 

All of our primary tech is Apple, so we stick to iPhones ourselves. We always buy them direct from Apple at full price (although they do now have a payment plan that includes their extended Apple Care and upgrades). They come unlocked, so we can put them on whatever carrier we like or need in our current location.

 

With Apple products, if you ever need support you have someone to call. Either their support line, or our favorite - taking them into the Genius Bar (appointments are free), located in all Apple stores across the country.

 

 

If you're looking to switch your operating system.. then you have a bunch of other options and price points, as have been shared above.

- Cherie

[whj469]

I was wondering about cell phones replacements? The one that I have would cost about $650.

If you needed to replace it that is a lot. When I complained about the cost my IT Director, I am the CEO of a company with

more then 375 staff, he told me that my phone can do almost anything that a computer can and that is why it cost so much.

I am to retire on September 1st and when it is time for a new phone I will get a new one with the two year contract with Verizon.

[SCClockDr]

The last time I was in a Verizon store the associate explained if I wanted to replace the phone we were having issues with our plan would change (more $$$). We were free to purchase outright elsewhere and they would add it to our existing plan.

 

So with Verizon & a grandfathered plan the best approach seems to be, purchase equipment @ full price and maintain the current plan.

[Bill Joyce]

"I am to retire on September 1st and when it is time for a new phone I will get a new one with the two year contract with Verizon."

You do not get a price brake anymore with Verizon. They add time payments to your plan to pay for the phone and the "retail" price is often higher than a similar unlocked phone.

[SpaceNorman]

The marketing practices of any and all the cellular providers seek to intentionally obfuscate what your cell phone and associated service will cost you. Every one of the providers promote the hell out of the savings you'll get on one facet of the deal (i.e., the hardware, or the service, the quantity of "free" minutes you'll get or the value of "unlimited" data, etc.) - praying that you'll walk out thinking you got a good deal as a result while they absolutely rape you on some other facet of the deal that you weren't paying attention to.

 

My take on the "best" way to buy a cell phone / cellular services is to try to understand your personal cellular needs (i.e., how many minutes of air time do you need?, how much data do you typically use each month, etc.) and then calculate what the total cost of ownership will be for the expected life of the device. You've got to factor in hardware acquisition cost, protection plan costs, line access fees, anticipated airtime costs, anticipated data plan costs, and every other type of expense they'll be itemizing on your bill to figure it out.

 

I'm a heavy smart phone user ... it's a tool I use throughout the day as part of my job, as well as in my personal life. I plan on getting two years out service out of a new phone ... much past two years and I' start having issues with battery life, reliability, wear and tear, etc. So I plan on my phone lasting two years. I know that I typically use 1,200 - 1,500 minutes per month of "prime time" voice calls - and send/receive somewhere in the vicinity of 300-500 text messages a month. I typically use between 2.5GB - 3GB of data per month on my cell phone alone.

 

Now that I'm travelling and working remotely from my coach - I know that I burn between 200MB to 250MB per work day worth of data via my cellular connected router. That translated to roughly 6GB per month worth of data plan required to support my work laptop.

 

Having a good understand of my needs allows me to make valid comparisons between plans that tout "unlimited" this ... while charging thru the nose for that. Same​ thing applies to the hardware purchases. In the end I calculate the "total cost of ownership" for the various hardware purchases and data/connectivity plans offered by the providers I consider - and pick the best deal from there. The cellular providers are banking on consumers getting excited about "unlimited" this and "free" that so they dangle those things out there like bait knowing if you bite on it ... they've got ya! Unless you know your needs and understand the total cost of ownership of your cellular equipment is - it just too easy to pay more than you need to.

[RV_]

We bought our phones for Straight Talk about $100 each. Then it was 45 each for 90 bucks and unlimited slow data. Then I tried Verizon for the speed of 4G and it was great. Then they offered a deal for prepaid and new customers to do their small, medium, or large, service for 45 dollars and shared data of 3GB plus 20 dollars per phone. They took our phones in trade for new $200 Lumia 735s leaving a 16 cent balance each for the phones owed. Then I get a military retiree discount. it costs us $85 then take off the military discount brings it to $72 and change and add taxers and other "stuff" and we pay~77 bucks a month.

 

Bear in mind we are off the road, and use our desktops and tablets at home for any Internet, at most using the data on cellular for a fast look up or a scan of a product in store. I use my phone as a camera more than anything else. With two phones we have never used more than .5 to 1GB.

 

The key is buying our phones and forget about contracts or phone upgrades, which we have never done, with Verizon now. They're cheaper than Straight Talk for a veteran by far.

 

I spend my money for computing on my home systems, tablets both Fire HDX we use only as kindles and free movie downloads. We bought both used and pristine condition from ladies who never used them and left them cased. They sold new for over 230 bucks. My Surface Pro and her Venue 11 Pro and our all in one desktops are where we put our computing hardware dollars. If we were on the road our streaming 200 GB plus usage a month would cost a bit more.

 

EZ PZ!

[whj469]

Thanks, Bill Joyce, I was unaware of that. My wife used to work for GTE Wireless

which merged with Mid Atlantic Bell to become Verizon and she doesn't want to use any other carrier. I have been with them since 1991.

With what you stated in mind I better just keep my Note 4 for a very long time and go month to month?

[RV_]

Here is an example of how I buy. Here is a company that refurbishes the phones and sells them for about 50% pof new or less and ofer a 30 day warranty to boot. Here is their Verizon selection today. http://stores.ebay.com/MyWitOutlet/Verizon-/_i.html?_fsub=4681378014&_sid=1048335104&_trksid=p4634.m322

 

Here is my Lumia 735 Windows 8.1, now Windows 10, mobile phone open box/new for $105.89 and it is the same 16 GB system as mine. I believe they come with the wireless charging back as mine did. They do retail for about $200.00 so that is about right for a low demand Windows phone. Me I am tickled pink with it especially since I switched it over to Windows 10 mobile. It has a micro SDXC slot and while I only have a 64 GB card in it, it takes as much as a 128GB micro SD card.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Nokia-Lumia-735-16GB-No-Contract-for-Verizon-Wireless-Black-MS735G-/401114846443?hash=item5d644ed4eb:g:Gs0AAOSw~oFXJ3fn

 

Here's a LG Google Nexus 5X 32GB 12.3 MP Camera Unlocked GSM + CDMA LTE Hexa-Core Phone
US Model, 5 MP Selfie Camera! For $239 New! MSRP $599.99. http://www.ebay.com/itm/LG-Google-Nexus-5X-32GB-12-3-MP-Camera-Unlocked-GSM-CDMA-LTE-Hexa-Core-Phone-/191905311354?rmvSB=true

 

My point is that if you go with a reputable eBay or Amazon seller you can get one that works fine for half or less of new retail. Let's face it, if it looks new enough and runs great on receipt, odds are it is perfect because when used, it is broken in (burned in) and the defective units already died in the first few weeks and are no longer in the market.

 

I could have a million dollars liquid and more in the bank and I would still buy my electronics and even vehicles and RVs used, and not from a dealer.

[Mike and Claudia]

TO ALL MY FRUGAL FRIENDS:

 

Thank you!! This is exactly my wildest dream when I started this thread. It is REALLY exciting to read all of the different ways you have figured out how to "Beat the systems."

 

Thanks and keep it up!