How to Comparison Shop for a Mobile Phone Online

If you visit Web sites such as Froogle, BizRate, PriceGrabber and MySimon, you can comparison shop to find the best prices on mobile phones. Just follow these steps.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Internet access

1. Consider the features you want on your mobile phone to narrow your choices. For example, if you are likely to conduct business over the phone, you will probably need a wide range of communication options including email transmission and retrieval.
2. Navigate to a comparison shopping website such as Froogle, BizRate, PriceGrabber or MySimon.
3. Type your search terms--"mobile phone" or "cell phone"--into the search box and hit Enter.
4. Narrow your search results. Enter a brand name or price range if the site gives you those options.
5. Compare the features of different mobile phones. If you can’t find enough information, visit the manufacturer’s website.
6. Select a mobile phone and start comparing prices. Include shipping charges and applicable sales tax. Some vendors offer free shipping or other incentives.
7. Check several comparison shopping sites to get the best deal.

Tips & Warnings

• Mobile phones can send text messages, take photos, connect to the Internet, play games and music. Decide which features you need.
• If you rely heavily on email, text messaging, or instant messaging to stay connected, pick a phone with these functions. Discover how many messages you can send and receive each month on the mobile's plan.
• If you intend to use your mobile phone for work, you probably will need a speakerphone and conference-calling. If you often travel between US cities, your phone will need 850 and 1900 MHz bandwidth to provide maximum coverage.
• Many states require you to use a hands-free headset while driving. Phones that are Bluetooth wireless enabled give you access to a wide selection of wireless headsets. Consider a model that you can operate with voice commands.
• Select a phone with a broad range of accessories specifically designed for that model. Even if you don’t want all the extras now, you may need them in the future.
• To protect your investment, examine the vendor's return policy and the manufacturer's warranty before buying your phone. Read every word of the contract for your service plan.
• Even if it's legal in your state use a phone without a headset while driving, it's not safe.