US Cellular contract just about up

[Dorkenstein]

I had the idea that I'd get a Blackberry 8700g since the motorola phone we use isn't very good, nor does it have many features.

This is an older blackberry, but I was curious if it's still a good choice. If so, which carrier should I go for? I realize this is not an easy question. I live in central Maine, so choices are limited. The less money I have to spend, the better, but I would like to use data/internet/email on it.

If I am heading down the wrong track, let me know. Are there better phones out there for going "semi DIY"? By that I mean buying the phone on ebay or something and then getting a sim card from the carrier.

Sorry if I seem ignorant, I'm just really non phone savvy. Thanks.

 

[uli2000]

That BB is for GSM carriers, T-Mobile in paticular. If you have good service from ATT or T-mobile or another regional GSM carrier, it should be OK. Blackberrys usually have excellent RF performance, but dont expect much coverage in rural areas from a GSM carrier.

 

[Dorkenstein]

Hmm, strange. I talked to a friend of mine in February who swears by the 8700g and he says he can get reception darn near anywhere in state with it. How is this possible? Thanks.

 

[uli2000]

It will depend on the carrier. Like I said, its a GSM device, so you would have to go with a GSM carrier like AT&t or Tmobile. Both carriers usually have less rural area coverage than a cdma carrier like Verizon or USCC. Personally, if you want a BB and USCC is the best service in your area, ask them about what options they have for BB. I know they have the Pearl and Curve, and if they dont already, maybe the Tour soon. Just remember, most carriers will make you get a data plan with a BB, so if you dont want to pay for data, look at something else.

 

[corkyg]

1. Who is your current carrier?
2. What is it that you cannot do with your present old BB? There is something serene about not being under the heel of a contract.
3. Why the compulsion to go into debt when you are now free?

 

[Dorkenstein]

Now I'm pretty confused. Anyway:

1) U.S. Cellular
2) I don't own a BB at all yet, and I don't plan on going back under a contract
3) I won't be going into debt

 

[corkyg]

If you enter into a contract as a means of getting a "cheaper" up front deal, you are going into debt.

 

[Dorkenstein]

Wasn't aware that I was entering into such deal, unless you're referring to Tmobile Flexpay?

 

[corkyg]

If you pay full retaile price for the device, and then have it activated, you will not have to be under contract. That is the best way to go if you can swing it.

 

[Dorkenstein]

Any suggestions along that line, then? I posted my question at a different forum and got 0 replies, so I'm coming up with nothing at the moment.