Network Freedom With Used Cell Phones

Purchasing a used cell phone has many benefits, once of which is that they allow you to have more control over what network you operate on. New cell phones are often sold at discounted prices, with the catch that you then have to sign on for 2 years of service with the carrier or pay a steep early cancellation fee. You also typically find much less selection at wireless provider stores than you can find by searching for a used phone.

When you buy a used or refurbished cell phone you'll obviously still need to shop for one that will work on the network that you want to use. However, most used cell phones can be made to operate on one of a few networks, which opens you up to a much wider selection, so long as you choose a phone that is compatible on the network you choose. For example, a used Sprint Blackberry will be able to be activated on Sprint's network (obviously) even if it is no longer being sold and it can also be unlocked to operate on other, similar networks. Picking a new phone is largely a matter of personal preference, so having a wider variety of phone models to choose from allows you to truly get the phone that suits you best.

There are a number of ways to pick the right carrier for yourself. Spend some time looking at the various plans that different carriers offer and find the one that best suits your needs and price point. Since you won't necessarily be purchasing a phone that is "made" for that network, all you need to worry about here is what plan is the best for you. You will be able to find the phone that you want in the used cell phone market, so do not limit yourself to looking at one network over another because you know they have the phone you want.

Another thing that is important to consider is the kind of network that a particular wireless provider operates on. There are three main "types" of networks being used today: GSM, CDMA, and TDMA. These letters represent different technology platforms that different wireless providers use for their networks. Any phone made to work on a GSM network can be "unlocked" to operate on any carrier's network if that carrier also uses GSM technology. In rural areas, people typically report that CDMA and/or TDMA phones work the best. Providers that operate on this kind of technology include Verizon and Sprint. GSM network phones are usually the best choice for people that do a lot of international travel as that is the technology of choice overseas. Common GSM providers are AT&T and T-Mobile. For use in a city, all kinds of network will get the job done.

After you know what technology you'll be operating on, the final step is to agree to a rate plan, find a used or unlocked cell phone, and activate it. You should be able to avoid having to sign a long-term contract with your provider since you're bringing your own phone to the table. This is beneficial because a lot of things can change in a person's life in two years - you may move and need to switch carriers for better coverage, for example. Having an unlocked used cell phone will make this process a breeze and leave you wondering why other people continue to buy new phones that lock them in to contracts.

Buying a used cell phone can require a little more effort on your part to make sure you get the best deal available. Not all refurbished cell phones may be in the best condition, or they may be missing features that a new cell phone offers. Some used cell phones can also be locked into one specific mobile service, which can end up costing you more money if you have to switch providers. Knowing what to look for before you make your purchase is the best way to ensure you find exactly what you want.

Figure out what Model is Best for You

There are literally thousands of different models of cell phones out there. Trying to sort through the wide selection can be a daunting task. So, one of the first things you need to do is to determine what model or type of phone you want/need. If you want a phone with internet and email capabilities, look at used cell phones like the Blackberry. If you're a big texter, perhaps a phone with a full keyboard will be ideal.

It is also important that you don't limit your search to one phone. You may find that the phone you really want isn't supported by your service provider or that it has some flaws that you are overlooking, so keep your options somewhat open. Instead of focusing on one particular model, try to focus on a type of phone or brand that you prefer (i.e. Smart phones, phones with touch screens, Blackberry phones, etc.). You may have success finding an unlocked cell phone in the model you want.

Do Your Research

Not all cell phones are supported by all mobile service providers. You can end up finding the deal of a lifetime on the perfect used cell phone - and then find out that it's locked for use with one specific carrier. If you happen to be with another carrier, you have to cancel your current plan, which can cost you hundreds, and switch to the other carrier to use your cell phone. Otherwise, the phone is completely worthless.

Alternatively, you can buy an unlocked phone, which means that the software or technology within the phone has been altered to allow the phone to work on multiple networks that use the same basic technology. However, keep in mind that this is still not going to solve every problem as there are a few "basic" types of networks out there and phones can only work on the network that supports the same basic platform. If you look at unlocked cell phones, make sure that they are unlocked to work on the type of network that your provider, or the provider you plan to switch to, supports.

Finally, ask questions & get answers.

Not all used cell phones are the same. They will vary by condition, age, and so on. It is important that you learn as much as you can about the phone's condition before purchasing it. Ask the seller questions. Check for defects. See if you can get a warranty, and so on.

Used cell phones are a great way to save you money, and with these guidelines, you should be able to find exactly what you're looking for. With the money you save, you may find yourself being able to cell phones more often - which can be a great way to satisfy your need for the hottest and newest cell phones!