You will be locked into a service contract if you purchase a phone through a carrier.The cost of your phone will be included in your installments, so you're still paying for it.If you buy an unlocked phone, you'll save money in the long run as they allow you to pay less for phone service since the phone is not locked to any particular service provider.
Step 1: Shop online for a phone.
brick-and-mortar stores and major carriers often have higher prices for phones than online retailers.Amazon, Flipkart, and eBay are some of the popular websites to purchase a phone.The websites have a lot of choice and convenient search features.You know the features you want to use when searching online.Most websites will allow you to use filters to narrow it down to phones with a specified amount of storage and a camera.Before buying a phone online, check the website's return policy.Don't buy from websites that do not accept returns or charge a restocking fee.
Step 2: Pay in monthly installments for your phone.
You can pay off the cost in monthly installments if you buy your phone online or in person.You can prevent paying a large lump sum upfront.Many retailers will allow you to pay off your phone in installments.Major carriers have business models that focus on locking you into a contract.If possible, avoid interest.You will end up paying more for your phone in the end if interest is charged on the amount you owe each month.eBay offers ways to purchase a phone on installments.You can make a monthly payment with the website's BillMeLater option.Amazon only offers payment plans for its products.
Step 3: Buy a phone from the manufacturer.
The advertisements for expensive phones aren't the only ones available.For more affordable prices, phone manufacturers are making more and more high quality phones.Some mid-range, or "affordable flagship" phones aren't even available on contracts and can only be purchased online from the manufacturer.Major carriers sell last generation phones from all sorts of retailers.These are often cheaper than the newest models.If this isn't important to you, the last generation may be a better choice than the newer model.They don't sell the phones directly, but they keep track of the best deals.
Step 4: Purchase a unlocked phone.
The main advantage of buying an unlocked phone is avoiding a contract with a major carrier.You have access to cheaper service options and the freedom to upgrade your phone whenever you want.Purchasing an unlocked phone may allow you to pay less for service and avoid fees the next time you upgrade your device.You can sell an unlocked phone for more than a phone that was sold to you as a major carrier.You can get unlocked phones from popular brands like Apple and SAMSUNG, but you should look for options from other brands as well.
Step 5: Check the phone's network compatibility.
Some phones won't work with the service provider you plan to use.You can find the device's specifications on the website of the manufacturer.You are looking for the frequencies and bands that the device needs.Check the service provider you hope to use to ensure that the bands and frequencies they provide service for match those of the phone you're considering.In the U.S., unlocked phones are more likely to work with AT&T and T-Mobile than with other carriers.Information on a phone's compatibility with major carriers is included in Amazon listings.
Step 6: Choose a carrier or wireless service.
Your service options are limited by the phone you pick.You have the option of getting service from a major carrier or a more affordable option.Most carriers, including major carriers like AT&T and T-Mobile and budget options like MetroPCS will allow you to purchase service through them and insert a carrier-specific sim card into your phone to use your service plan.There is a fee to get service on an unlocked phone.
Step 7: What features do you actually need?
There are many different types of phones.They have a wide range of different costs.Determine what features are actually used to determine what types of features you don't need.Two different phones may have the same camera, but the quality of the lens may be different.Storage is an important specification.If you want to store photos, music, and more on your phone, you will need a phone with more storage, which will increase its cost.
Step 8: You can trade in your phone.
Many retailers will give you a financial incentive to trade in your old phone.You can offset the purchase of your new phone by selling your old one to a third party.You can usually get the most money for an old phone from websites that will quote you a price, send a postage-paid box, and send you money when they receive your phone.There are online programs such as NextWorth and EcoATM.Best Buy and Radioshack will buy your phone back.You should check multiple stores and websites to get the most money for your phone.
Step 9: Purchase a used phone.
A refurbished phone can cost hundreds of dollars less than a new one.You can buy refurbished phones from carriers or retailers.Some refurbished phones are labeled like new.
Step 10: Consider options from multiple carriers.
You should compare the cost of the phone and service from different carriers if you want to purchase your phone through a carrier.Carriers try to lure you into a contract by making the phone seem cheap.The cost of the phone is included in the contract.One carrier may offer the phone for free with a two year service contract, but charge $80/month for service.If you sign a two year contract, another may charge you $300 for the phone.The second option costs less than the first, but you have to pay more up front.