The Best Text Messaging Phone

Many cell phones today are capable of text messaging. However, if texting is what you will use most on the phone it makes sense to choose the best texting cell phone to make it easier and faster.

Cell phones are known for their tiny keypads and close set buttons. Because some are designed more for placing voice calls the keypad isn't set up for fast and easy text messaging. Not only does it slow you down, but it can be tough on your hands.

Here are a few tips of things to look for when you are trying to find the best text messaging cell phones:

A full QWERTY keypad. A QWERTY keypad is set up like the keyboard of your computer or a typewriter versus like the typical phone keypad. This makes for much faster texting; especially if you are accustomed to typing.

Menus are also important to consider whe searching for the best texting cell phone. You want one that provides easy scrolling through messages.

The best texting cell phone should have a spacious keypad. Not only is a QWERTY keypad important but one that is large enough, with keys that aren't too small or slippery. The best way to determine if the keyboard is sufficient is to try it out in the store. Then go back on line to buy for the best deal. Clearly touch screen cell phones are great, but some people prefer a physical keyboard, with raised keys for good tactile feedback. However, some touch screens provide feedback which makes using their virtual keyboard easier than others. Try both out and determine what works for you.

A screen you can read is also critical. Again, this is personal preference as to how large and how bright you need the screen but check it in a variety of lighting conditions; indoors/outdoors if possible to see if you will be satisfied. Some screens tilt and some allow you to adjust the brightness and font.

The best text messaging phone may also have predictive text. This can be important for many people who use SMS a great deal. Predictive text can help cut down the number of keystrokes to compose your message.

Threaded messages allows you to keep track of conversations and easy group messaging can save time too.

While you're getting the best text messaging phone it's also critical to match it up with the right plan. If you only use text messaging occasionally then paying the standard 15-20 cents per message won't be a problem and you probably won't be purchasing a cell phone that is a designed especially well for text messaging.

However, for those who text more routinely the right plan is critical to assure that you stay within your budget and the plan allowance. Plans can start as low as $4.99 for 400 messages. Unlimited plans can be good for those who send/receive several hundred (or more) messages each month.

Several of the major cellular providers in the US even offer data only plans minus any voice calling for those who would use a cell phone only for it's text messaging capabilities. These are targeted toward the deaf and severely hard of hearing.

The most important factor when choosing a data plan is to assure that you know your usage. If you only use 300 messages per month, then you shouldn't go the route of an unlimited plan as it won't be the most economical option. However, you want to purchase a plan with a high enough limit, because exceeding the limit is expensive. Any data usage over the limit is charged at a higher rate.

You can check out Text Messaging Plans for details on what is available through the major US cellular providers or see our page about Text Only Plans if you don't need voice calling at all.

Photo Credits

Introduction: hyku.
Choosing the Best Cell Phone for Text Messaging: James Cridland.
Choosing the Right Plan for Text Messaging: renaissancechambara.