When people commit to a new phone, they tend to hang onto it for quite a while. As a result, according to CNET, it is imperative that you buy not only the best device you can afford, but also what fits with your lifestyle and interests. Whether the question is whether to buy a used versus new phone or which manufacturer to go with, there are things you’ll need to ask yourself before making a final choice.
Buying on a Budget
Your budget should be the first thing you consider before making a purchase, as it will limit or expand your choices. In almost all situations, pre-owned or refurbished phones cost less than new ones. Be careful when evaluating the cost of a phone that’s subsidized by a contract —you may end up paying more in the long run.
Smooth Operator
Today, the choice between operating systems (OSs) on smartphones is largely limited to Android, Windows or iOS. Each of these OS ecosystems varies in terms of user experience, app availability and user base. iOS devices tend to be pricier than their Android counterparts, Statista notes. Android apps also tend to be less expensive than both Windows and iOS apps.
It’s worth noting that some apps may be limited to a specific operating system. If you require certain business or personal apps that are only available on a certain platform or generation of device, then the choice becomes clear—and could potentially overrule the used versus new phone debate.
Keeping Up Appearances
A pre-owned phone might be the best choice for you if you don’t mind a bit of an older design aesthetic or a few superficial blemishes. Even so, used phones are always cleaned up and shined to meet certification requirements. At Gazelle, all smartphones go through a 30-point inspection and certified as ‘like-new’ or good.’
Do You Want Locked or Unlocked?
Unlocked phones provide more flexibility when choosing a carrier. As a result, these phones may run you more than their locked, carrier-specific counterparts. Both used phones and new ones can be factory- or carrier-unlocked. Make sure you understand all the repercussions of buying and owning an unlocked phone before you make a choice.
Have you purchased a new or used phone? Are you planning to purchase one? Share your comments below.
Image courtesy of Flickr
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