Cell phone or Service - Which comes first?

What comes first?

Most people want to pick the coolest phone they can find and then choose a service plan. However, that course often does not work well, since not every phone works with every wireless network.

What comes first -- the phone or the service plan?

The answer is "It depends."

 

First-time Buyers and General Users

For a first-time user, it is better to choose your plan first, then the phone. Because choosing the wrong plan can cost you extra money each month, while the phone is a one-time decision. In addition, most carriers offer a full range of phones for each service plan, from inexpensive to full-featured. Unless you have your heart set on a specific, hot new phone, go for the plan first.

Wireless systems in the USA (unlike Europe and Asia) are not compatible with one another. This means that a Sprint PCS phone, for example, won't be compatible with VoiceStream Wireless or AT&T Wireless service. Even if you just want to switch carriers, you will probably need to buy a new phone.

 

Experienced Users

For experienced users and high-tech junkies, you can start from chooing your favorite cellular phone. Based on your phone, you may choose you applicable rate plans, but first-time buyers may find this harder.