How to Compare Wireless Cell Phone Plans

Cell phone plans vary considerably.

There are several components to cellular phone plans that vary from provider to provider, including data-usage plans and talk-time packages. Carefully compare plans that best suit your individual or family needs.

Instructions

Instructions

1. Compare the minutes provided by each plan. Different plans can offer different packages of talk-time. For example, some plans may offer a discounted rate on night and weekend minutes, while others only place limits on minutes used during "peak" calling hours. Consult the documentation provided with each plan for the applicable minute-usage restrictions.

2. Compare the data usage limits of each plan. When using smart phones, Internet bandwidth usage is closely monitored by the cellular phone company. These interactions include: browsing a web page (the page must be downloaded to the phone before it can be read); downloading files (such as office documents or music files), and uploading files to the web (such as videos or pictures). Email usage can also be included in data usage plans.

3. Compare the text messaging limits of each plan. Many plans will allow only a limited number of text messages to be sent, which may include both standard text messages and multi-media messages.

4. Compare the coverage offered by each plan. Cell phone coverage will vary from carrier to carrier. Consult with friends and colleagues that use each plan you are evaluating. Ask them about available coverage in places that you frequent. Additionally, some websites, such as CellReception.com, offer reports on cellular phone reception for various carriers.

Tips & Warnings

• Spend a few months observing your phone usage habits. There is no benefit to an unlimited messaging plan when you only send 20 text messages a month. Monitoring your usage can help you to choose a cheaper plan that better fits your needs.

• Make sure to ask about any overage charges on the plan. Many plans charge an additional fee for usage that exceeds what is allowed in the plan.

References

• Wireless Guide: Choosing a Wireless Phone Plan

Resources

• Cell Reception: Cell Phone Coverage Maps