Nowadays, cell phones are a must-have accessory for everyone from teenagers to the urban
career woman. But with so many new models constantly coming out, and the variety of different features they boast, choosing the one that will suit your needs and wants can seem like a daunting task. We’ve got a simple guide to choosing the best cell phone for you.
Pick a style, any style. The type of cell phone you choose is really a question of personal taste. The current trend is to go with a touch screen smartphone such as Apple’s iPhone or the Blackberry Storm. However, some people may still prefer a flip-style phone, classic candy bar, or slider model. More recent phones sometimes also have a slide-out QWERTY keyboard for easy texting and emailing, and sometimes are a combination of the aforementioned styles.
1. LG GB250G, available at
Fido
Make a list of features that are important to you in a phone. Some may simply need a phone with which to make calls and receive text messages, while other people’s priority will be on more advanced functions.
Here are some popular ones:
• Mobile Web capabilities (ability to browse the Internet);
• Wi-Fi connectivity (ability to connect to a wireless Internet network);
• Music player (ability to play files in mp3 or AAC formats);
• High-quality camera (photo and/or video camera);
• FM radio;
• Bluetooth compatibility (ability to connect wirelessly with a Bluetooth-enabled headset and/or exchange data with other Bluetooth enabled cell phones and computers);
• GPS capabilities;
• Expandable memory (usually through a microSD card).
After you’ve decided which functions you can’t live without, write them out on a piece of paper in order of priority. You can also split them into two categories: “Must-haves” and “Nice if possible”, so that you have a clear idea of what you need, and what you want, when it comes time to actually choose a model in store, online, or on the phone with a customer service representative.
Set a budget and stick to it. Check out the main cell phone providers’ websites to see how much you can expect to pay for a model that has the style and features you are looking for. It will also help if you have a few models in mind that you find interesting before you’re faced with the myriad of possibilities at the store.
Choose the best option for you. Everyone has an opinion on what the best cell phone brand, model, and features are; but in the end, you’ll be the one using your phone, so it’s crucial to pick the one that you like the most, and that answers your needs, according to the criteria you’ve decided on above. Happy shopping!
|
Comments 5 comments
|
|
|
Post your comment
Login if you are already a member or join divine.ca for a free account.
|
|
|
|
savingpallas
2010-02-03 11:16
|
When I originally posted a reply to this article I was doing a lot of shopping around. I had a Pay As You Go phone from Rogers, but the LCD screen broke... [more]
When I originally posted a reply to this article I was doing a lot of shopping around. I had a Pay As You Go phone from Rogers, but the LCD screen broke and it was cheaper to just get a new phone than to repair it. That was okay because I was unhappy with Rogers anyway (every month there was a new fee for something or other). I got a great deal on a Samsung Link through Virgin Mobile at Futureshop. It was $79.99 and came with a free Samsung Bluetooth headset and a $50 activation credit! I love it! It has all the features I want (full qwerty board, mp3 player, etc)... plus $100 phone cards don't expire for 365 days and if you sign up for automatic top-up, they give you a 10% bonus and any unused minutes are carried over into the next year. Fantastic deal if you don't use your phone for a lot of talking!!! [less]
|
|
|
shellina410
2010-01-26 13:52
|
And, I would not want to get a cellphone with all this useless stuff on it.If I were to get a cellphone I hope I can get one that is only a phone and... [more]
And, I would not want to get a cellphone with all this useless stuff on it.If I were to get a cellphone I hope I can get one that is only a phone and no extra stuff to it. [less]
|
|
|
|
h.rannik@gmail.com
2010-01-26 21:13
|
|
|
I only have my cell on for emergencies, so it's a pay as u go. I bought it at PC and use my credit card whenever i need it active, usually $15 + tx...
[more]
I only have my cell on for emergencies, so it's a pay as u go. I bought it at PC and use my credit card whenever i need it active, usually $15 + tx each month. for Traveling I add the texting feature. It's a cheap way to keep in touch with family. I need not to have it inactive for more than three consecutive months, then I can loose my number and connection which is through Bell. Helle [less]
|
|
|
shellina410
2010-01-26 13:51
|
Me and my husband share one, but we are thinking that maybe we should go for the pay as you go plan and you use a calling card to top it up. Instead of... [more]
Me and my husband share one, but we are thinking that maybe we should go for the pay as you go plan and you use a calling card to top it up. Instead of paying it every month, which can get annoying to pay every month. [less]
|
|
|
savingpallas
2010-01-20 10:00
|
I've been looking at new phones recently, thinking about upgrading to a smartphone/phone with advanced features. The prices companies like Bell and Rogers... [more]
I've been looking at new phones recently, thinking about upgrading to a smartphone/phone with advanced features. The prices companies like Bell and Rogers are charging for packages that include all the features I'd like to use are absolutely ludacris. This article was interesting but would have been better with information on choosing a provider and rate plan. [less]
|
|
|
|
|
Canada's Online
Search
![[photo]-Choosing a Cell Phone](http://www.divine.ca/en/upload/articles/6571930d6bb60ff44e318c51d70ae432.jpg)
flag]
Print Article
Send to a friend
Save to Favourites
