Cell phone & service buying guide

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.

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

Many new phones have cameras with resolutions of 2 megapixels and up that are capable of producing respectable snapshots, though many lack a flash, which is helpful when taking pictures in dark environments. Look for models with 3-megapixel cameras or 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. A growing number of smart phones can record HD video, though they're still not as good as their stand-alone counterparts. Some higher-megapixel camera phones may be a bit sluggish at taking pictures. Another increasingly 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.

Many phones can act as mass-storage devices when connected to Windows-based computers, but only some can do that with Macintosh computers.

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 32GB. 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, 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.

Apple has arguably revolutionized this category with the iPhone introduction in 2007. It provides superb ease of use via a highly interactive multi-touch screen and a customizable icon-driven interface. It also has robust multimedia capabilities, including one of the best music players we've seen in a phone. Its e-mail application is among the easiest to set up. The iPhone 4S builds on the versatility and innovation of its predecessor by including one of the best cameras we've seen on a phone, and a fascinating, built-in voice-activated "assistant" called Siri that's fairly good at following complex orders.  What's more, this model lacks the signal-reception problem we confirmed on the iPhone4 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.

HP purchased Palm in 2010. The company's webOS operating system, which drives the Pixi Plus and Veer, is recognized for its strengths in organizing, contacts, and calendar features and has a user-friendly touch-screen interface that provides relatively easy access to its many features and applications.  In August 2011, HP abandoned its Smartphone development when it announced that it will discontinue operations for webOS devices, specifically webOS phones and the TouchPad.

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.  HTC is also notabe for the world's first 4G smart phone: the EVO 4G; and one of the first phones to capture 3D photos and video, the EVO 3D, both with Sprint.

Kyocera Communications has historically focused on feature phones sold through prepaid carriers such as Virgin Mobile and Metro PCS. They introduced an innovative smart phone on Sprint called the Echo, which features dual touch screens that can operate independently. Kyocera also licenses the Sanyo brand and manufactures phones sold exclusively at Sprint Nextel.

LG's lineup ranges from basic models to those with full QWERTY keyboards and large touch-sensitive screens that adroitly integrate solid phone features and robust multimedia, including live TV service and messaging applications. The LG Prada, which debuted in Europe in 2006, holds the title of the phone with the world’s first complete touch-screen interface. The company was also among the first to add QWERTY keyboards to conventional cell phones.  Some notable phones include the LG Thrill 4G, one of the first phones to capture 3D photos and video, and the LG Revolution with a brilliant 4.3 inch display.

Motorola is an industry trendsetter, introducing the StarTAC, the world's smallest phone, in 1996.  In 2004, it introduced the iconic RAZR, an ultra-slim folding handset with a sleek metallic finish, and continues to turn out a wide selection of smartphones and conventional phones. Motorola's noteworthy Android smart phones include the DROID Bionic, the Atrix, and recently resurrected the RAZR name with it's latest 4G phone: the DROID RAZR.  In August 2011, Google announced that it would aquire Motorola Mobility.

Though Nokia is the world's leading handset maker, its phones are not as widely available through U.S. carriers, from which most U.S. consumers buy their phones. Nevertheless, the company offers a broad lineup of high-end smart phones, many of which are sold unlocked, including the Lumia, N, E, and C series.

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.

Reasearch in motion's trademark BlackBerry smart phones are well established in the business world and are enjoying growing appeal among consumers. The BlackBerry operating system is one of the best for e-mail, among the easiest to set up, and among the best for account management. Most models have easy trackball or trackpad navigation, and a button for instant voice call access. Most new phones have touch screens. Notable 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.  A noteable new line includes the Samsung Galaxy S II 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 mid-level market.

Sony Ericsson, a joint venture between the Japanese Sony Corporation and the Swedish Ericsson, offers a wide range of handsets, from low-end budget models to sophisticated smart phones. Like Nokia's, many of its phones are sold unlocked, without carrier contracts. Notable lines include Xperia, with it's Xperia Play phone with built-in Playstation controls.

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, starting at $500.

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 4.5 and a bit larger. 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 800-822-8837 or visit www.rbc.org.

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 17 percent of buyers polled got a new phone because the old one broke, and only 3 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.

This carrier scored lowest in satisfaction in almost all cities in our survey and was the worst-rated in almost all other respects.

AT&T, the second-largest premium-priced carrier, was the only carrier with scores that dropped significantly in our satisfaction survey of Consumer Reports readers. AT&T is now positioned in last place overall and in almost every market we rate. It's home to the iPhone. AT&T's unique rollover minutes allow you to carry over unused minutes for almost a year. AT&T 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 Go Phone service was among the lowest-scoring no-contract services in our Ratings.

This carrier was among the more satisfying in a large majority of cities in which it was rated in our survey.

Sprint has made significant strides in overall satisfaction, virtually tying with perennial front-runner Verizon, (T-Mobile is close behind). Sprint scored better in some aspects of customer service, which is a remarkable turnaround from past years, when that was a weak point for the company. Sprint has strength in its generally lower pricing and its high-speed network. Sprint uses CDMA-based technology and offers a high-speed 3G wireless data network. Some phones also support its "4G" WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) allowing faster streaming, downloading, and uploading of high-definition videos and other large files. The faster network also facilitates better Web browsing and supports video chats. Consequently, its home to the world's first 4G phones: The HTC Evo 4G and Samsung Epic 4G. The company merged with Nextel in 2005, and maintains the Nextel network separately to offer walkie-talkie ("push to talk") capability between compatible Sprint Nextel phones and those from Boost Mobile, a prepaid service that Sprint owns. Our survey results exclude customers who receive Nextel service from Sprint because their phones operate on the different iDEN technology. In July 2009, Sprint entered into an agreement to acquire Virgin Mobile, another prepaid carrier that uses Sprint's CDMA network to deliver its service. Its WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access) 4G network is available in many cities throughout the U.S. There has been discussion of plans to roll out LTE in the future.

This carrier was among the more satisfying in more than half of the cities in which it was rated in our survey.

T-Mobile's typically lower prices, combined with overall satisfaction similar to that of Verizon in most cities, makes this carrier a bargain, though it doesn't match Verizon in connectivity or customer service. Home to the T-Mobile myTouch and Motorola Cliq series (the "Google phones"). T-Mobile is among the least expensive carriers for Web access and for text and multimedia messages. T-Mobile uses GSM-based technology. It also has a HSPA+ "4G" network. Most phones can be used outside the U.S. T-Mobile now offers most of its phones, smart and regular, with or without a contract.

This carrier was among the more satisfying in almost all cities in our survey.

Verizon Wireless, the nation's largest carrier, is no longer the clear top dog in overall satisfaction with our subscribers, a position it held in most years since 2003. Sprint has pulled even in overall satisfaction, and T-Mobile is close behind. Two or even three of those top carriers are statistically tied in satisfaction in a majority of the 23 cities in which we rated service. Home to the Droid line of phones, Verizon was the first to prorate termination fees. Verizon uses CDMA-based technology and offers a high-speed 3G wireless data network. Verizon has rolled out its faster LTE (Long Term Evolution) 4G network in many cities across the U.S. Verizon now offers most of its phones, smart and regular, with or without a contract.

You're going to hear a lot about 4G as wireless carriers continue upgrading their networks to fourth-generation wireless communications. Promising better performance than today's high-speed 3G networks, carriers say 4G will alleviate network congestion, and allow faster streaming, downloading, and uploading of high-definition videos and other large files. The faster network also facilitates better Web browsing and supports video chats. The first carrier to offer a "4G" network is Sprint. Using a network known as WiMAX (Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access), it's offering 4G service in many cities throughout the U.S. Verizon and AT&T offer a competing 4G network known as LTE (Long-Term Evolution), and AT&T and T-Mobile have upgraded the performance of their networks to HSPA+ (High-Speed Packet Access).

Phones that support the 3G networks are still fine for Web surfing, streaming videos or music, and downloading attachments. Verizon and Sprint Nextel customers should look for models that support EV-DO data networks. AT&T and T-Mobile customers have a more complex choice. 3G protocols on those carriers include HSDPA, HSUPA, and HSPA, which have their own sets of data speeds and other characteristics. 3G phones typically "downshift" to slower data protocols (1xRTT, EDGE) when 3G service is not available. 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: