Tips for Buying a Cell Phone to Suit you.

Tips For Buying A Cell Phone To Suit You

Cell phones are one of the more popular items being sold on eBay right now. Anyone who has lost or damaged a cell phone and gone into their local retailer can tell you why. If you are not going to sign a new 2-year contract, a new cell phone can cost from $150-$400. EBay offers prices many times under half of what the big companies offer. Used cell phones can often be a cheap way to replace your phone until your contract expires.

For first-time buyers, this can be a confusing process, as there are many different styles, features, and types of cell phones - not to mention carriers. This guide will hopefully help the new user to know how to approach the market and get the best cell phone for them at the best price.

Know your carrier

Many carriers have both local and national requirements regarding which cell phones they will activate. Some require the phone to be GSM or CDMA, while others will only activate phones specifically made for their company or already have the electronic serial number (ESN) in their system.

Before buying a cell phone you need to know what will work for your carrier. Call the local or national office and ask them what works for them. If you've already decided on a model you haven't owned before, ask specifically about that phone.

If the ad says Unlocked, make sure itâs the right band for you - which one does your carrier use? CDMA, TDMA, GSM, GAIT, or PCS? Remember, too, that a GSM phone requires a SIM card and that may not be provided. If you are currently using a SIM card in your phone, you can should be able to use any phone that says GSM Unlocked, or GSM and your carrier name. You wonât need to buy another card.

With some carrier... ...read the full guide >>>