Cell phone & service buying guide

Before you buy a phone, consider the service provider. (See our Ratings of service providers, available to subscribers.) Service providers determine which phone models work on their networks. So when you're replacing your phone, use this cell phone guide to help you decide whether you'll stay with your current cellular service carrier or switch to a new one. Major carriers rely heavily on two incompatible digital networks. Sprint and Verizon networks use mainly Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) technology, while AT&T and T-Mobile use Global System for Mobile communication (GSM) technology. All of those carriers also support high-speed data networks. The network plays a big part in the capabilities your phone will have and, to some extent, its performance. Learn more about the service providers in our Ratings (available to subscribers).

When you're ready to buy a phone, you'll first have to decide which of the two types, conventional cell or smart, meets your needs and budget. Choose a conventional model if you mainly need voice and text-messaging capability, and perhaps a music player and camera. Smart phones, with their advanced operating systems, larger displays, QWERTY keyboards, and other computer-like features, are a better choice for people who need frequent access to multiple e-mail accounts, a sophisticated organizer for appointments and contacts, the ability to open Office documents, and Internet-based services. One compelling advantage of most smart phones is their ability to access a host of applications consisting of productivity tools, shopping, multimedia, games, travel, news, weather, social, finance, references, etc.

Useful features such as support for wireless Bluetooth headsets, GPS navigation, and high-speed data access can greatly enhance user satisfaction.

Before you choose your new phone, be sure to check out our exclusive Ratings of service providers (available to subscribers).

Most models are priced from $20 to $150, but they often come free with a two-year contract. You can also buy prepaid phones, which are quickly becoming the leading low-price option in cellular. Conventional phones are often compact, and keypad and overall operation are generally straightforward. All allow you to store frequently used numbers and to send and receive text messages. Many have cameras and support for wireless Bluetooth headsets for hands-free communication. Many can access high-speed data networks to enjoy music and video-based services. Other capabilities might include a touch screen, a QWERTY keyboard, a full browser, a multi-megapixel camera, memory-card storage for music and pictures, and more options for custom ring tones, games, and other services.

A smart phone can typically handle multiple e-mail accounts (including corporate types), has a sophisticated organizer, and can handle Office documents. Some allow you to create and edit spreadsheets and documents, and they usually support Microsoft Exchange. Their touch-screen displays are larger, and their cameras are more advanced than those on conventional phones. And they typically have Wi-Fi, and support higher mobile wireless data speeds that facilitate better Web browsing and streaming media. Their advanced operating systems give them access to a host of applications: productivity tools, shopping, multimedia, games, travel, news, weather, social, finance, references, etc. Popular, high-profile models such as iPhones, Motorola Droids, and Samsung Galaxy phones command the highest prices ($200 to $350 with a two year contract, and more still if you buy a smart phone with prepaid service). But there are a growing number of less-glamorous "entry-level," smart phones that can perform most of the same functions for much less (often under $100), albeit with lower-speed processors, slower data connections, less-capable cameras, or lower-resolution displays.

This technology enables the phone to work with wireless headsets and most hands-free car systems for tangle-free calls. (But avoid using any phone, even hands free, while driving.) Some phones support stereo Bluetooth headsets for music and other multimedia. And some can wirelessly exchange pictures, contacts, and other files with other compatible Bluetooth devices, such as a computer, cell phone, or printer

Most phone cameras are capable of producing respectable snapshots. Look for models with 5- or 8-megapixel cameras or even higher if you intend to print some of what you shoot.

Those models take photography more seriously by pairing sharper image sensors with high-grade lenses, auto focus, zoom, and brightness controls for greater photo control. Many smart phones can record HD video, though they're still not as good as their stand-alone counterparts. Some camera phones may be a bit sluggish at taking pictures. Another common smart-phone feature is a second, front-facing camera for self portraits and, often, video chats.

All smart phones, and some conventional cell phones, allow you to review documents. Some models add the convenience of creating, deleting, and editing them out of the box.

All phones have some type of location-based technology to help emergency responders find you when you dial 911 or 112. Many of them support GPS navigation services that access information wirelessly over the carrier network. They integrate GPS with maps and search engines to give you real-time, spoken, turn-by-turn directions to an entered address, and also traffic info. You can even find nearby businesses by name or category. Menus and features are similar to other portable systems. Having GPS on your phone eliminates the need to carry an additional device for navigation, and you'll have the ability to call ahead to a destination with the push of a button. The service is often free on Android phones, but otherwise adds about $10 per month to your cell-phone bill, or about $3 per day--handy if you need directions only occasionally.

Some phones interfere with hearing aids. Even those with hearing-aid compatible designations are not guaranteed to work with all hearing aids. Your doctor can help you choose a phone compatible with the aid you use. Or go to www.accesswireless.org.

Out of the box, many phones can act as mass-storage devices when connected to Windows-based computers. Doing this on Macintosh computers may be more of a challenge, sometimes requiring the installation of addional software on your computer.

Many phones have very competent media players, allowing you to view videos and sort music tracks according to genre, album or artist, playlists, etc. They also typically have more than one playback option, such as repeat and shuffle. Some phones, such as the iPhone, have media capabilities better than other stand-alone players. The small number of phones that lack those convenient features are rather cumbersome to use.

Many phones have slots that accept memory cards, typically microSD, to expand storage capacity by as much as 64GB. The removable cards can also serve as an easy way to shuttle files between your phone and other devices--provided that the phone's maker didn't bury the card slot behind the battery cover.

Besides providing a quiet means of communication, text messages have been known to get through even when networks are overloaded. Most phones come with preset messages, such as "running late" or "call home." And most allow you to program customized messages for an emergency or frequent use, for example: "I've dropped Billy at soccer."

These let you assign functions to the phone's controls (touch screen, jog dial, etc.) so that you can quickly access contacts, apps, widgets, text messaging, and other frequently used features.

Keyboards make composing and editing text and e-mail messages much easier than a keypad does. Some phones have keyboards that try to save space by having some letters, numbers, and symbols share a key. Those "condensed" keyboards, though still more convenient than a keypad, are not quite as easy to handle as full QWERTY keyboards. Phones with virtual keyboards tend to be less bulky than models with physical keyboards, but virtual keyboards block a portion of the display screen. Physical keyboards often have raised keys, which make it easier to type without looking. Some phones have a physical and virtual keyboard.

A built-in speakerphone, which allows hands-free use in a car or elsewhere. (But avoid using any phone, even hands free, while driving.)

The standard connector on the handset, also known as a 2.5-mm or 3.5-mm connector, is compatible with most aftermarket wired headsets. Some phones with a proprietary connector might include an adapter to a standard connector.

Full touch-sensitive displays respond to light contact with a stylus, finger, or both. They provide an alternate, and sometimes more direct, method to input data and launch phone features and controls. But they often require two hands to operate, and they smudge more frequently than their non-touch counterparts. Basic, or single-touch, displays typically allow you to zoom in and out of Web pages or photos with a double-tap of the screen, or a slide-bar, or another type of virtual control. Advanced touch displays, or multi-touch, let you perform these maneuvers by pinching or spreading you fingers, which gives you greater control.

This feature allows you to dial numbers from your phone book by speaking the name, without the usual training. You can also dial numbers by pronouncing the digits.

Cell phone data networks­--even those designated "3G broadband"--are much slower than the broadband Internet connections many people have at home. But a rising number of phones have a built-in Wi-Fi radio that gives them faster Internet and e-mail access through home networks and Wi-Fi hotspots. On some phones, the Wi-Fi is just for Web browsing; on others, you can use the connection to swap files with a PC or make calls using Voice over Internet Protocol.

There's only one product line to choose from, and only one new model is introduced each year.  These models complement their sleek, trend-setting designs and intuitivey simple operation with top-notch displays, cameras and music players. They also provide superb ease of use via a highly interactive multitouch screen and a customizable icon-driven interface. Newer iPhone models have a fascinating, built-in voice-activated "assistant" called Siri that's fairly good at following complex orders.  iPhone 5, the first iPhone with a 4-inch display and support for fast 4G LTE data networks, is the best one yet. Consumer Reports has recommended every iPhone model except the iPhone 4, which had a signal-reception problem confirmed  during testing.

Casio is known for its rugged phones, such as the G'zOne, which are designed to be water and shock resistant. This brand is sold primarily through Verizon.

HTC has blossomed from a little-known player to one of the top smart-phone brands in the market, with a wide variety of innovative Android and Windows products. Its lineup consists primarily of multimedia-focused touch-screen models with large, vivid displays. It introduced the first phone running on the Android operating system, as well as the first phone camera capable of simultaneously taking video and still pictures. HTC is also notable for the world's first 4G smart phones and among the first to offer devices that run Windows Phone 8. Its Droid DNA has the first display with 1080p resolution.

Kyocera Communications has historically focused on feature phones sold through prepaid carriers such as Virgin Mobile and Metro PCS. Kyocera also licenses the Sanyo brand and manufactures phones sold exclusively at Sprint Nextel.

LG has been relatively quiet in the smart phone market, but has recently introduced several promising new devices including the Optimus G.  It has a brilliant 4.7 inch display, long-lasting battery, and offers an impressive blend of top-notch hardware and intriguing Apps for work and play--including Quick Memo, a pull-down menu option that let's you use your finger to scribble notes on anything you see on the phone's screen, from photos, email, and calendar appointments to the home screen itself.  Other notable phones include the Nitro HD, Spectrum II, Viper, and Lucid.

Motorola Mobility is owned by Google.  It offers a small but robust collection of leading-edge phones, including the Droid Razr HD's on Verizon and the Atrix on AT&T.  Some compelling Motorola features include Smart Actions, which lets you automatically change phone settings according to your GPS location, battery level, and other conditions.

Nokia is one of the world's leading handset makers. In the U.S., they are mainly known for their Lumia line of phones that run on the Windows Phone operating system.  They are among the first to offer devices that run Windows Phone 8.  Nokia's flagship Lumia 920 has some intriguing features, including wireless charging based on magnetic induction, and a capacitive touch screen you can use even when you're wearing gloves.

Pantech, a Korean maker originally known for its tiny clamshell handsets, has limited presence in the U.S. with conventional and smart phones.  Its relatively small product lineup is primarily sold through AT&T.

Though plenty of people still use a BlackBerry, the company has been struggling to compete--in large part because its long-delayed new operating system, BlackBerry 10, won't be out until early 2013.  For now at least, we have no BlackBerry models to recommend because our tests have found that the company's older models just can't compete with the best phones on other platforms. RIM's lines include the Bold, Torch, and Curve series available on multiple carriers.

Samsing is well known for its innovative designs and has one of the largest lineups of smart phones that run on the Windows and Android operating systems.  Samsung smart phones have the industry's most advanced technologies the Android platform has to offer.  That includes a feature that lets you play a video on a minimized screen so that you can perform other tasks, and front-facing cameras that monitor your eyes while you're reading a Web page or other documents to prevent the screen from timing out.  Some Samsung phones can also wirelessly share large files between each other after the phones are bumped together. Noteable lines include the Samsung Galaxy S, Galaxy Note, and Nexus series, which have some of the largest and brightest displays in the industry.

The Sanyo brand is licensed by Kyocera Communications, a Japanese cell-phone maker. The product line is relatively small and is marketed exclusively though one carrier: Sprint Nextel. Offerings mostly fall within entry-level and midlevel market.

Sony Mobile offers a relatively small,  but competant lineup of  midlevel Android smart phones for the U.S. market.  It's premier line is the Xperia.

The major national cellular service providers are AT&T, Sprint Nextel, T-Mobile, and Verizon Wireless. There are also many local or regional providers.

You can find cell phones in many outlets, including cellular service providers' stores, independent wireless retailers, electronics stores, and Web sites. But the cell phone is only part of what you need. You also have to sign up for service with a wireless provider and choose a calling plan.

The leading cell-phone brands include LG Electronics, Motorola, Nokia, Samsung, and Sanyo. Prices range from free with a two-year contract (including rebates) to $200 or more for an unlocked phone without carrier commitment.

Major smart-phone makers include Apple, HTC, LG Electronics, Motorola, Nokia, Research in Motion (RIM), and Samsung. Most are sold by the major carriers: AT&T, Sprint Nextel, T-Mobile, and Verizon Wireless. Phone prices with a two-year contract, including rebates, range from about $50 to $300. Smart phones purchased unlocked without a contract can cost significantly more--$500 or more for some marquee phones such as iPhones.

Some carriers sell their own brand of phones manufactured by Casio, HTC, and other phone makers.

Consider shape and size. Phones that fold, slide, or swivel are typically more compact when closed. Phones shaped like candy bars can be used without first being opened. The best choice depends largely on personal preference, so visit a store and hold the phone if possible. Make sure that you can comfortably use most major functions such as phone calls and messaging with one hand. Make a test call and access menu items. We've found that flat or virtual keypads make dialing more difficult without looking. Other call clunkers include keys that are small, oddly shaped, or arranged in unusual patterns, especially if you're trying to dial a number in dim light.

The size of the display is an important point. Screen sizes range from just over 2 inches to 5 inches, and even larger for a few models. Consider models with larger displays if you plan on viewing lots of Web pages or watching videos. Readability is also important. Most displays are fine in dim and normal light, but some are harder to see in daylight or under bright light. Try the phone outside or under bright light. Also make sure indicators such as battery life and signal strength are clearly visible. Touch screen displays provide an alternate, and sometimes more direct, method to input data and launch phone features and controls. But they often require two hands to operate, and they smudge more frequently than their non-touch counterparts.

Also remember that not all touch-screen displays function the same way. Basic, or single-touch, displays typically allow you to zoom in and out of Web pages or photos with a double-tap of the screen, or a slide-bar, or another type of virtual control. Advanced touch displays, or multi touch, let you perform those maneuvers by pinching or spreading you fingers, which gives you greater control.

A phone's shape and size are largely determined by its keyboard and display. Some models have a QWERTY keyboard that slides out from behind the phone and tucks away when not in use. Others open like an eyeglass case to reveal a keyboard, or leave the keyboard in plain sight. Still other models have a virtual keyboard on their touch-sensitive displays. Overall, we found pecking out messages on their mirror-smooth, buttonless surfaces to be a challenge.

If you plan to do a lot of typing, look instead for a keyboard with keys that are clearly labeled, well spaced, and well sized. Make sure that the keys provide solid tactile or vibration feedback. The keyboard should be easy to read under different lighting conditions. Overall, we've found that a full QWERTY keyboard, similar to a computer keyboard, is best for composing and editing text and e-mail messages. Some keyboards cram multiple letters, numbers, and symbols on a single key to save space. But those "condensed" keyboards, though still more convenient than keypads, are not as easy to handle as full keyboards. Phones with virtual keyboards tend to be less bulky than models with physical keyboards, but virtual keyboards block a portion of the display screen. Physical keyboards often have raised keys, which make it easier to type without looking. Some phones have a physical and virtual keyboard.

Consider the operating system. Smart phones all share the ability to browse the Web and run apps (Web applications), handle office and personal e-mail, multitask, and facilitate social networking. But how easily and how well you can do those tasks varies by operating system (OS). Many smart phones have relatively large, multi-touch displays. Apps, which can be downloaded by the smart-phone user, vary widely in number, variety, and price, according to the operating system. Many apps are free, others cost a buck or two, and some go for hundreds of dollars. Here are some of the leading systems:

Using a phone's extra, network-dependent capabilities requires a regular (voice/text) phone plan and a data plan for Web surfing and sending and receiving e-mail. Depending on the carrier, prices for the two combined start at $45 to $80 a month with a two-year contract. But you can easily spend much more than that as you add minutes, messaging, and other services.

Syncing your phone with your computer has some advantages. For example, you'll most likely find it easier to update calendar events and contact data using your computer's larger keyboard and display. You'll also have peace of mind knowing all of your documents and personal data will be safely backed up should your phone be lost or stolen. But before you buy, check with the carrier or phone maker to make sure the phone is compatible with your computer or its operating system. Also confirm phone compatibility with your company if you plan on setting up corporate e-mail and calendar access. Some phones support cloud storage, in which your files are stored on remote servers accessible online.

Cell and smart phones are increasingly becoming like pocket computers, adding touch screens, keyboards, and the ability to run numerous applications. This complexity has increased the odds that they won't always perform as promised. Often the cure for a buggy performance is downloading a software patch into your phone. You might automatically be notified about an update (for example, via a message to your phone), but you should check for phone updates even if you're not experiencing any problems. Manufacturers and carriers often use updates to improve performance, such as battery life, or even add new features. In many cases, you can update your phone by looking for "update" under the settings menu, and following the instructions. Make sure you're in a good reception area to ensure that the file downloads fast and error free. You should also periodically look up your phone on the websites of your carrier and phone's manufacturer. You might discover new features or learn how to use the ones you know more effectively.

Today's phones come equipped with many useful calling and multimedia features, including a media player, a camera, and Web browsing, and child-location and call-management services. Some features, such as programmable shortcuts, Bluetooth, speakerphone, and voice command help, make the phones easier to use.

Rebates and special offers can be substantial, but they change frequently. To get the best deal, check the carrier's offerings online and in its retail stores, and then see what independent dealers offer at their websites and in their outlets. If at all possible, buy a new phone when you're switching carriers or signing a new service commitment with your existing carrier. You almost always get a better deal--either a deeply discounted price or even a free phone--when you're signing a contract. Be aware that some rebates are offered only if you also sign up for a data plan.

Make sure you can return the phone if you're not happy with it. Some stores attach stiff service-cancellation fees on top of what a carrier might charge. Also, if you want to recycle an old phone or the battery, call 877-273-2925 or visit www.call2recycle.org.

Before turning in your smart phone for recycling:

1. If you haven't synced your photos and other personal documents with a "cloud" service like iCloud for iPhone, SkyDrive for Windows Phone, or one of the several dozen available to Android phone users, back them up to your computer. Don't worry about e-mails, calendar appointments, and apps. Their data are stored on remote servers and will automatically flow into your new phone when you sign into your accounts. If all of your pics and docs are on a removable memory card, just remove the card.
2. Go into your phone's settings and look for "Factory Data Reset," or something to that effect. This may be a Settings sub-menu item under "Backup and Reset" or "Privacy." Make sure you select the "erase everything" option if there is one.
3. Repeat the reset process one more time.
4. If your phone has a removable SIM card (fingernail-sized card that has your phone account on it), remove that as well.

Cell carriers will insure your phone for about $4 to $8 a month with a $25 to $100 or more deductible, but they can replace your lost, stolen, or damaged phone with a repaired, refurbished one. We don't think insurance or extended warranties are worth it. Only 15 percent of buyers polled got a new phone because the old one broke, and only 2 percent because the phone was lost or stolen. A better idea: Keep your old phone until the new phone's contract ends. If you lose or break the new phone, reactivate the old one and use it until you qualify for a free or low-cost phone.

AT&T is one of the two largest carriers, along with Verizon, and uses GSM-based technology. It also has LTE (Long Term Evolution) and HSPA+ "4G" networks. Most phones can be used outside the U.S. AT&T's prepaid service is GoPhone.

Sprint is now distinguished, along with T-Mobile, as among the only two major carriers that still offer contract plans with unlimited data consumption, rather than those that set data limits or tiers.

Sprint uses CDMA-based technology and its high-speed 4G network uses both older WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) technology and newer LTE technology. It also maintains but is phasing iDEN-base Nextel network, Sprint's other brands include Boost Mobile and Virgin Mobile, which are prepaid carriers that uses Sprint's network to deliver their respective services.

T-Mobile is now distinguished, along with Sprint, as among the only two major carriers that still offer contract plans with unlimited data consumption, rather than those that set data limits or tiers. T-Mobile uses GSM-based technology. It also has a HSPA+ "4G" network, and has announced plans to roll out LTE in 2013. Most phones can be used outside the U.S. T-Mobile offers most of its phones, smart and regular, with or without a contract.

Verizon Wireless is among the two largest carriers, along with AT&T. Home to the Droid line of phones, Verizon was the first to prorate termination fees. Verizon uses CDMA-based technology and has rolled out its faster LTE (Long Term Evolution) 4G network in most cities across the U.S. Verizon offers many of its phones, smart and regular, with or without a contract.

Cell carriers continue upgrading their networks to fourth-generation (4G) wireless communications. Compared to 3G networks, 4G networks enable faster streaming, downloading, and uploading of high-definition videos and other large files. They also facilitate better Web browsing and support video chats. All four of the major carriers provide varying 4G coverage based on one or more of the following technologies: HSPA+ (Evolved High-Speed Packet Access), LTE (Long-Term Evolution), and WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access).

Verizon's 4G network, which launched in 2011, is exclusively based on LTE, potentially the fastest and most dynamic of the three technologies. Sprint was the first carrier to offer a "4G" network in 2010 that was based on WiMAX technology. The carrier began migrating to LTE in April 2012, though it continues to support WiMAX. AT&T and T-Mobile launched 4G services based on HSPA+ technology, which is actually an upgrade of their existing 3G networks. AT&T has since deployed a 4G network based on LTE. Many of its smart phones have the ability to run on both its LTE and HSPA+ 4G networks. T-Mobile's 4G network is currently based on HSPA+, though the carrier has announced plans to roll out LTE in 2013.

Phones marooned on 3G networks are still fine for Web surfing, streaming videos or music, and downloading attachments. Check with your carrier to see which broadband data networks are supported in your area.

You may encounter phones described as quad- or tri-band, dual-band, or multi-network. Those terms describe the ways a phone can connect to one or more wireless networks, which affects the coverage your phone provides. Here are the specifics:

• Tri-band, quad-band, or "world phones" operate on Global System for Mobile communication (GSM) networks in the U.S. and abroad. Tri-band phones with 850/1800/1900 MHz capability can operate on two frequency bands domestically and one internationally. Tri-band phones with 900/1800/1900 MHz capability operate on one band in the U.S. (1900 MHz) and two bands internationally. Quad-band phones can operate on all four bands for maximum potential coverage.
• Dual-band phones can connect to a digital network in two different frequency bands. For example, Code Division Multiple Access (CDMA) dual-band phones will work in the 800/850 MHz band and the 1900 MHz band in the U.S., and usually won't work abroad. GSM providers often use the term 850/1900 MHz bands only for the U.S. and 900/1800 MHz only for abroad. A 900/1900 MHz phone will work on one network in the U.S. and one abroad.
• Multi-network phones are compatible with more than one digital network, often in two frequency bands. They are best for people who travel frequently overseas and who are customers of Sprint Nextel or Verizon. Those two carriers offer multi-network phones that operate on GSM networks internationally, and domestically on their CDMA networks (for the Sprint Nextel and Verizon phones) or iDEN (integrated digital enhanced network) networks for the Nextel phones that have walkie-talkie capability.
• Band II, Band IV, and Band V are U.S bands associated with WCDMA "3G." Band II (1900 MHz) and Band V (850 MHz) are currently associated with AT&T, while Band IV (1700/2100 MHz) is associated with T-Mobile. Fourth-generation "4G" networks such as Verizon's LTE operate on the B13 700MHz frequency band, AT&T's LTE operates on the B17 700MHz frequency band and B4 1700/2100MHz frequency band, while Sprint's LTE operates on the B25 1900MHz frequency band. AT&T and T-Mobile support "4G" HSPA+ in the frequency bands mentioned above, while Sprint's WiMAX operates on the 2600MHz band.