Cell Phone Features

Cell Phone Features

The following is a list of features to look for before buying a cell phone:

Service Plan

The first thing to consider before buying a cell phone is what service plan would best fit your calling needs. Don't pick a certain brand until you decide what service plan will work for you. Some cell phone models won't have the plan you want.

Mode

Are you looking for analog or digital? Do you prefer PCS or cellular? TDMA or CDMA? Be sure to read How Cell Phones Work to understand these terms. Look for dual mode/dual band phones if you travel a lot.

Battery type

Cell phones use either NiMH (nickel-metal hydride) or Li-ion (lithium ion) batteries. NiMH is a high capacity battery for extra power. This will give you extended use. Li-ion usually costs more because it comes in a lightweight package. Note how long the battery takes to recharge and whether a rapid charger is available.

Display

All cell phones have an LCD display. Other display features include:

Size - The larger the display, the more you'll pay. But a large display is needed wireless Internet.

Color vs. monochrome - Most cell phones have monochrome displays (16 grays), but color displays are increasingly popular. Keep in mind that they are more expensive and require more memory.

Reflective or backlit - Most cell phones come with backlit screens and are good for low-light conditions.

Functions

The most expensive phones have all these features while the cheaper phones will only have a limited number of these features.

Phone directory
Calculator
Clock
Games
Appointment reminder/calendar
Personalized/custom sounds
Incoming-number storage
Automatic redial
Mute/hold button
Last-number recall
One-touch dialing/speed dialing
Voice-activated functions
Vibrate mode
Lock/alarm
Multi-party calls
Call forwarding
External volume/ringer control
Hands-free headset/speakerphone
Rapid charger/built-in charger
Car adapter

Special Features

Some special features that more expensive phones will have.

Text messaging
Wireless Internet
Modem function
PC synchronization
PDA
MP3 player
GPS receiver

When looking at phones with a headset or speakerphone connection, see if the plug is necessary. If it is, then check the cost and availability of the headset or speakerphone. Cell phones come with a charger, but not all come with a rapid charger.

Size

If you plan on using your cell phone mostly in a car, you are better to save your money and buy the larger phone. But paying for a phone that is lightweight is a better option if you have to carry it around all day. Lightweight phones will cost you more though.

Price

Shop around for the best cell phone options and the best price. Don't pay for features you don't need.

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Related Articles:
Tips for New Cell Phone Customers
Cellular vs. PCS
How Cell Phones Work