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How to Buy a Cell Phone

Here's what you need to know to get the cell phone and service plan that are right for you.

PC World Staff

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Cell Phone Shopping Tips

Here are PC World's recommendations for cell phones and service plans that fit the needs of most users.

Service Plans

Does your plan have enough minutes? The basic plans of most carriers offer 300 to 450 minutes. Unless you intend to use your phone only for emergencies, you'll need at least that many.

Go national: Even if you don't travel extensively around the country, a national calling plan often provides the best mix of minutes, features, and cost.

Phones

Get at least 3 to 4 hours of talk time: Make sure a single battery charge on your phone covers at least that. This can save many headaches later.

Pick up a headset or earphones: Inexpensive hands-free earbud headsets let you safely converse while driving, working, or just walking. Some phones even allow you to set voice commands to dial frequently called numbers, so you rarely need to touch the keys.

Ask about E911: This is especially important if you are purchasing a cell phone to replace your home phone line. Ask your provider if its emergency services can track a handset to its exact location. Enhanced 911 service is critical if you intend to use the phone for emergencies.

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