Camera Phone Reviews

"Most cell-phone companies don't offer the type of detailed coverage maps now available from Cingular and T-Mobile. That means consumers need to do more footwork when picking a carrier.

The stakes are higher than you might think when buying a $40-a-month plan.

Carriers generally require customers to sign a one- or two-year service contract, so a $40 plan means a commitment to spend at least $500 or $1,000 after taxes and other fees. If they want to get out of that agreement, customers must pay termination fees averaging about $175 per line. On top of that, some cell-phone stores charge an additional cancellation fee - as much as an additional $300 per line.

To avoid being surprised by such fees, make sure you read all the terms of any contracts you agree to follow. If you're buying from an agent and you're asked to sign two sets of documents, you need to read the terms of both agreements.

If you don't understand what you're signing, hold off on getting the phone.

Take a copy of the contracts with you and get somebody to go over their terms with you.

Here are some other things to consider when buying a phone: When you've decided what features you want in a phone, and how many minutes you need in a plan, visit a cell-phone store and price a handset that meets your needs. Take good notes.
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Read more at Be Sure to Pick up the Right Carrier, Plan