Buying a new cell phone? Still deciding whether to get a prepaid phone? Here are some considerations you might want to think about before making a decision:

• How often do you talk on the phone?
• What features will you frequently use (i.e. web browsing, text messaging, etc.)?
• Will you need special services such as roaming?

If you go prepaid, expect the following:

On one hand, you won’t get monthly bills since you will be using credit that you’ve already paid for. This means that you won’t have to concern yoruself if you go over your minutes. There will be no extra charges. Your call will simply get cut-off if your credit is used up. However, there are also prepaid plans that offer unlimited calling on specific times of the day so you can avail of that if you’re the type who live for calls. Prepaid cell phones can be picked up anywhere – from drugstores to electronics stores. You can always reload almost everywhere too.

On the other hand, call and text messaging rates are usually higher than in contract phones. Features such as mobile web are not available in all prepaid phones. Some prepaid phones only work in a local area. So if you plan to go cross-country or abroad, then your phone won’t be of much use. if you are particular about handsets, prepaid cell phones usually come in a limited selection of models.

So what’s the verdict?

It all depends on how extensively you will use your cell phone. if you need them for emergencies then a prepaid phone is a better choice. If you are buying for a child or a teen, then a prepaid cell phone can limit phone use.

However, if the cell phone is indespensable because it is needed for work and such, then a contract cell phone might be a better choice for you.