Put the World in Your Pocket: A Smartphone Buyer's Guide for Students

August 07, 2013

You already know you need a smartphone, but finding the right one to fit your needs won't be easy. What operating system best suits your work and play habits? Is a large screen more important to you than the ability to slip the phone into a tight pocket? And will the model you want even work with your carrier? A smartphone puts a browser, camera, audio recorder, music player, calendar, and even a plain old phone into your hand. You're going to use this gadget to research homework, record lectures, schedule social activities, and ask your parents for more money. You need to get the right one. Provider availability In the United States, when selecting a smartphone, you're limited to models available through your service provider. For instance, only Verizon customers can use the HTC Droid DNA, while the Samsung Galaxy S4 is currently only available to AT&T subscribers (although Verizon will support it soon). Luckily, many popular models, including the iPhone and the Samsung Galaxy Note II, are available from multiple venders. Buying through the service provider saves you money. You'll pay $100-$200 for a phone that would otherwise cost more than $600. The downside: You'll have to commit to a two-year contract. To read this article in full or to leave a comment, please click here

Link: http://www.pcworld.com/article/2044762/put-the-world-in-your-pocket-a-smartphone-buyers-guide-for-students.html#tk.rss_all