Key Takeaways

• Explore lease-to-own and rental phone plans with flexible payment options and the possibility to upgrade your device more often.
• Compare different programs in terms of their features, devices, upgrade frequency & cancellation policies.
• Assess budget & credit score before signing up for a plan that fits your lifestyle & budget.

Exploring Lease-to-Own and Rental Phone Plans

Lease-to-own phone plans help those who would like to own their phone at the end of their payment period with lower payments. Instead of paying a large sum upfront, customers can now enter into a lease agreement, make low monthly payments, and eventually own their smartphone.

These plans come with several perks, such as the ability to upgrade your device more often and a flexible lease-purchase agreement provided by the carrier. Some popular lease-to-own programs include the Samsung Leasing Program and T-Mobile’s JUMP! On Demand. However, before committing, you should understand the credit requirements, payment options, and possible fees involved.

Rental phone plans are similar to lease-to-own phone plans, however they typically have a shorter contract or rental term to allow for more frequent upgrades. Gazelle Flex is a phone rental program that allows for 12-month rental agreements on popular iPhone models, complete with a certified refurbished model and a 30-day money back guarantee.

How Lease-to-Own Phone Plans Work

Flexibility and convenience are the cornerstones of lease-to-own phone plans. Typically, you enter into a contract for a set period, usually 18 months, during which time you make regular payments to cover the leasing costs of the smartphone. With some plans, you even have the option to upgrade to a new device before the lease term ends.

At the end of the lease term, you have a few options:

• Buy the phone by paying a buyout fee
• Upgrade to a new device
• Pay off the remaining balance in a few payments
• Return the device

This way, you can keep pace with the latest smartphones without straining your finances, even if your initial request unsuccessful.

How Rental Phone Plans Work

Rental phone programs, such as Gazelle Flex, also provide flexibility with your smartphone with low monthly payments to rent a device. With Gazelle Flex, you can rent a phone for a 12 month rental agreement and then upgrade to your next device.

At the end of your rental agreement, you simply send the device back to Gazelle and either purchase a device from our store or continue to rent with a new rental agreement through Gazelle Flex.

Comparing Popular Lease-to-Own and Rental Programs

Not all lease-to-own and rental programs are the same. Comparing popular options like the Samsung Leasing Program, T-Mobile’s JUMP! On Demand and Gazelle Flex can help you find the best fit for your needs.

The Samsung Leasing Program offers flexible payment options, the ability to upgrade to the latest Galaxy phone every year, a trade-in program for eligible devices and special financing offers. Gazelle Flex also offers the ability to upgrade every year – even at your initial 6 months if you qualify. On the other hand, T-Mobile’s JUMP! On Demand is an 18-month lease agreement. The key differences between these programs include the upgrade frequency, lease duration, and pricing structure.

Samsung Leasing Program

Samsung Leasing, in partnership with Progressive Leasing, offers a lease-to-own option that doesn’t require a credit check. With this program, you can make weekly, bi-weekly, or monthly automatic payments for your smartphone purchase, regardless of your credit history.

The approval process for Samsung Leasing is based on various data points, such as banking history, employment status, and income level. If you’re approved, you can enjoy 12 months to ownership.

T-Mobile’s JUMP! On Demand

T-Mobile’s JUMP! On Demand is an option for customers who like to keep up with the latest smartphone releases that don’t mind a longer lease agreement. This 18-month lease agreement allows you to:

• Upgrade your leased device every 30 days
• Offers a range of devices like iPhones, Samsung Galaxy phones, and other Android devices

The upfront cost, or retailer’s cash price, is relatively low for most base models with approved credit, but if you want a device with increased memory or premium features, you may need to pay a little extra.

Gazelle Flex Phone Rental Program

The Gazelle Flex rental program is a different option than the lease-to-own phone plans. This program allows a customer to rent Gazelle certified preowned device for a low monthly payment. First time renters may be eligible for an upgrade in as soon as 6 months, while all rental plans have a 12-month rental agreement.

Here’s why Gazelle Flex may be the best choice for most:

• Initial 12 month rental agreement that rolls over to a month-to-month agreement
• Certified unlocked iPhone models that pass a 30-point inspection
• Possibility for upgrade after first 6 months
• Small $49.99 initiation fee for rental agreement

Tips for Choosing the Right Lease-to-Own Phone Plan

In the end, the right lease-to-own or rental phone plan choice comes down to evaluating your budget and personal preferences. By comparing the features and devices offered by different programs, you can find the perfect plan for your needs and stay connected with the latest smartphones.

Assess Your Budget

Assessing your budget is fundamental to determining the lease-to-own phone plan that’s right for you. Review your monthly income, expenses, and discretionary spending to see if a lease-to-own or rental phone plan is a viable option for your financial needs.

Compare Features and Devices

After gaining a clear insight into your financial and credit situation, proceed to compare the features and devices different lease-to-own programs offer. Pay close attention to the following factors to find the plan that best meets your preferences and requirements for a smartphone:

• Monthly cost
• Contract terms
• Device condition
• Ownership rights

Summary

In conclusion, lease-to-own and rental phone plans offer an attractive alternative to traditional cell phone purchasing methods. With low monthly payments, flexible terms, and the ability to upgrade devices more frequently, these plans can help you stay connected with the latest smartphones without breaking the bank.

If you’re prioritizing frequent upgrades with low monthly payments for your next plan, Gazelle Flex may be the best option. Our program isn’t only light on your wallet, but it also provides a certified refurbished iPhone model with flexible options to make the most out of your personal smartphone preferences. We also offer a 30-day money back guarantee and annual upgrades to help you stay flexing with the best in tech.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does lease to own mean on a phone?

Lease-to-own means you lease an item from a company and when the payment is complete, you own the item. This applies to phones, making it an option for people who want to own their device at the end of their lease agreement.

What does a phone rental entail?

Renting a phone from a company means that you can rent the device for low monthly payments, then return the device back to the company at the end of your rental agreement. With Gazelle Flex, this allows for faster upgrades and less electronic waste by recirculating refurbished devices.

What fees are associated with lease-to-own and rental phone plans?

Lease-to-own and rental phone plans typically have associated fees such as processing fees, initial payments, and fees for damaged devices. It’s important to read the terms and conditions before committing to a plan. Visit the Gazelle Flex’s terms and conditions for all information regarding our rental program.

The post Comparing Lease to Own and Rental Phone Plans Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

If you’re looking for something techy, we’ve got your back. Here are our top 10 tech gifts for Mom that will rock her Mother’s Day.

10 Great Tech Gifts for Mom

From cameras to smartphones and everything in between, here are the top 10 gifts that we think any techie Mom would dig!

1. Smart Home Devices

Smart home devices are becoming increasingly popular due to their convenience and ease of use. These devices can make a great Mother’s Day gift for tech-savvy moms who love to streamline their daily routines. From smart thermostats that can control the temperature of the house with just your voice, to smart plugs that allow you to turn on/off appliances remotely, these gadgets will make mom’s life easier and more connected than ever before.

2. Fitness Trackers

Fitness trackers are a great gift for moms who love to stay active. These devices come with various features that can help them keep track of their fitness progress, such as the number of steps taken, distance traveled, calories burned, and even heart rate monitoring. Some models also offer sleep tracking and personalized coaching programs.

When looking for the perfect fitness tracker for mom, consider her activity level and personal preferences. There are different styles available from sleek wristbands to clip-on trackers that can be attached to clothing or accessories. With so many options on the market today, you’re sure to find one that fits your tech-savvy mom’s needs and lifestyle perfectly!

3. E-Readers

E-readers are a perfect gift for the techie mom who enjoys reading but wants to minimize clutter and save space. With e-readers, books can be downloaded instantly, eliminating the need for physical copies. The latest models have advanced features such as glare-free screens that make reading easy on the eyes even in bright sunlight, waterproof designs that allow moms to read by the pool or at the beach worry-free, and long battery life so they can enjoy their favorite books without any interruptions.

For moms who love to read but also want access to newspapers and magazines, there are e-reader devices that offer subscriptions to popular publications. This is an excellent way for busy moms who don’t have time to stop at a newsstand or bookstore regularly to keep up with current events and stay informed about their interests. E-readers provide convenience while still allowing readers to indulge in their passion for literature effortlessly.

4. Tablet Devices

Tablet devices are a popular choice for moms who want to stay connected while on-the-go. With their larger screens and portability, tablets offer the perfect balance between functionality and convenience. Whether it’s catching up on emails or streaming movies during downtime, a tablet device is sure to make any techie mom’s life easier.

For those looking to splurge, high-end tablet models like Apple iPad Pro or Microsoft Surface Pro are great choices that can handle everything from work tasks to entertainment needs. Alternatively, more budget-friendly options like the Amazon Fire HD 10 or Samsung Galaxy Tab A7 Lite provide solid performance without breaking the bank. No matter which option you choose, a tablet device will be appreciated by any tech-savvy mother on Mother’s Day.

5. Portable Chargers

Running out of battery on the go can be a hassle. That’s why portable chargers make for a great Mother’s Day tech gift. Moms are always busy, so having a reliable way to charge their devices anytime and anywhere is essential. With various sizes and styles available, finding the perfect one that suits your techie mom’s needs shouldn’t be hard. Consider getting one with multiple ports or fast-charging capabilities for added convenience.

6. Wireless Headphones

Wireless headphones are a game-changer for music lovers who want to enjoy their favorite tunes without being tethered to their device. With the latest advancements in technology, wireless headphones offer crystal clear sound quality and noise-canceling features that make them a must-have for any techie mom. Whether she is working out or just enjoying some downtime, wireless headphones provide the perfect audio experience without any distractions.

One of the best things about wireless headphones is that they come in various styles and designs, making it easy to find one that suits your mom’s preferences. From earbuds to over-ear models, there’s something for everyone. Plus, many of these devices are compatible with voice assistants like Siri and Alexa, so moms can take control of their playlists hands-free!

7. Smartwatches

Smartwatches are becoming increasingly popular among tech-savvy moms who want to stay connected while on-the-go. With features such as fitness tracking, message notifications, and voice commands, smartwatches make great gifts for Mother’s Day. Some of the latest models even offer cellular connectivity, allowing users to make calls and send texts without needing their phone nearby. If your mom is always on the move or enjoys staying active, a smartwatch could be the perfect gift for her this Mother’s Day.

8. A Refurbished Smartphone

Has Mom’s phone seen better days? Now may be the time to surprise her with an affordable upgrade to a like-new phone. Gazelle has a ton of different brands and models in a variety of price options to best fit your Mom’s lifestyle. Plus – they’re a fraction of the retail price tag so you’ll be getting a killer deal that would make any Mom proud!

9. Virtual Assistants

Virtual Assistants are a perfect gift for tech-savvy moms who need help managing their busy schedules. These voice-activated assistants, such as Amazon Alexa or Google Home, can set reminders, make calls, and even order groceries with just a simple command.

By utilizing smart home integration capabilities, virtual assistants can also control other devices in the home like lights and thermostats. This hands-free technology is not only convenient but can also save time and energy for busy moms on-the-go.

10. Robotics

If your tech-savvy mom loves innovation, then a robotics gift might be the perfect fit for her. Robotics is an exciting field that offers many different options for those who love technology. From robot pets to cleaning robots, there are several choices to pick from when it comes to finding the right robot companion for your mom.

Some of our favorite picks include robot vacuums that can sweep and clean floors with ease, or even a fun little robotic toy like a smart dinosaur or unicorn pet that she can control with voice commands. The possibilities are endless, making robotics one of the most versatile categories in this year’s Mother’s Day Tech Gift Guide!

Upgrade Mom for Less with Gazelle

If you’re ready to upgrade Mom’s smartphone, tablet, or MacBook, you’ve come to the right place! Gazelle has a large inventory of refurbished devices to fit any budget and lifestyle. Treat Mom this Mother’s Day and save big with Gazelle!

The post 2023 Mother’s Day Tech Gift Guide Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

Since 5G is still evolving and being rolled out, it can be hard to follow what exactly you get with certain devices and which ones are the best options for those looking to make the most of 5G. Hopefully, we can clear things up in this guide to the best 5G phones in 2022.

What Is 5G?

The “G” in 5G refers to the word “generation,” as it does in 4G and 3G. It’s the newest version of wireless technology that has a whole new approach to creating networks, so data can move much faster and more responsively. It’s great for cell phone users, but it also has some big implications for connected technologies, like sensors and smart devices.

Wireless networks are made up of various cell sites across the coverage area. They are divided into sectors that transmit data over radio waves. 4G networks use massive, high-powered cell towers that send signals across long distances. 

5G takes a different approach, sending signals through a large number of small, discreet cell stations. They’re attached to structures like light posts and buildings. These smaller cell stations are important because 5G works on a different radio wave spectrum — millimeter wave (mmWave) — that can only travel short distances. Weather and physical objects can also interfere with it.

Because of this change in infrastructure, the 5G rollout has been a long process, especially since there are different “tiers” of 5G. The highest band, mmWave, is the fastest but shortest option. Currently, mmWave is only available in select areas, so for many people who already have 5G, it feels similar to 4G. In fact, they may even be running 4G most of the time, depending on the area. That should change soon, as more networks expand 5G capabilities. Even if your phone doesn’t feel too different now, the fun stuff is starting to roll out, and a 5G-capable device is primed to take advantage of it.

Different carriers approach 5G in different ways, and not all phones are capable of supporting low-, mid- and high-bands. For the most part, high-band 5G is only available in major cities, but it should be more widespread in the future. Low-band 5G is pretty well-covered across the country. You can always check your carrier’s website for more information on coverage. 

Keep in mind that carriers might call their high-band networks something different, so here’s what you’ll need to look for:

• Verizon: Verizon offers mid- and high-band coverage under 5G Ultra Wideband (UW).
• AT&T: AT&T’s high-band option is called 5G+, alongside their standard 5G coverage. Keep an eye out for the term 5GE, which refers to 5G Evolution. This is technically a 4G network that’s a bit more advanced and lays the foundation for strong 5G performance when the time’s right.
• T-Mobile: T-Mobile’s low-band service is called Extended Range (XR) 5G, while their mid- and high-band option is called Ultra Capacity (UC) 5G.

You might also see the term C-band, which is typically a mid-band option. Other carriers may have different terms, so be sure to read carefully and check the coverage map before you buy.

The Benefits of 5G

We know how it works and that it’s fast, but what else do you get with 5G? This latest wireless technology offers:

• High data transmission rates: The actual speed of 5G networks depend on many different factors, but theoretically, you could get data transmission speeds of 1-10 gigabytes per second (Gbps), with an average speed of about 50 megabytes per second (Mbps). For comparison, 4G speeds reach a maximum of 150Mbps, with an average of around 10Mbps.
• Low latency: Latency is the amount of time it takes for a phone to send data and receive a response. If you’ve ever been playing a game and your player doesn’t move for a few seconds after you push a button, that’s latency in action. In fact, gaming is one of the best applications for 5G, as far as cell phones are concerned. 5G should offer latency of around 10 milliseconds on average and as low as 1 millisecond in some situations.
• High bandwidth: With higher data capabilities, 5G also supports more devices on networks at once. Many cities and crowded areas, like arenas and concert venues, deal with congestion problems with so many people accessing the network simultaneously.

These are just the main effects of 5G on cell phone users — it also has huge implications for businesses and advanced technologies, like self-driving cars and drones that need immediate responses and high-volume connections. We could see some truly game-changing technology thanks to 5G.

Which Are the Best 5G Phones?

If you want to see what 5G is all about, you’ll need a phone that can support it. Here are our picks for the top 5G phones currently on the market.

1. iPhone SE, 12 and 13 Lineups

Apple has offered 5G support for a while now, and you can get one of the best 5G smartphone experiences with the Apple^® iPhone SE, 12 or 13 lineups. All of these phones — including the mini, Pro and Pro Max varieties — can tap into 5G. The iPhone 12 and SE offer it at a more affordable price point, while the 13 gets you the latest Apple technology. The 13 also offers Smart Data mode, which automatically adjusts to save power if you don’t need those super-fast speeds.

All phones will give you the coveted Apple experience with excellent camera tech and a user-friendly interface:

• iPhone SE: The latest iteration of the iPhone SE, the SE third generation, is a great phone, with 5G and Apple’s fast A15 Bionic chip, all at a retail price of under $500. The camera isn’t quite as sophisticated as the newer options, and it features a home button, unlike the screen-to-screen displays of the other iPhones. Still, the iPhone SE is an excellent way to get an Apple device and 5G without a high price point.
• iPhone 12: Another option is to go to the iPhone 12. This phone came out in 2020 and offers many modern features, like a dual-camera setup and the still-very-fast A14 Bionic chip. It comes in a compact mini version, the standard model, a higher-powered Pro and a massive Pro Max. Compared to the SE, the 13 offers a high-contrast, brighter screen, improved water and dust resistance, MagSafe accessories and Night Mode photography. The Pro and Pro Max add some great photography options.
• iPhone 13: The latest option, the iPhone 13, has all those features and more. This lineup gets exceptional battery life, the lightning-fast A15 chip and a high-powered camera system with Cinematic mode.

2. Samsung Galaxy S22 Lineup

The Samsung Galaxy S22 is one of the best 5G mobile devices for the Android fans out there. As Samsung’s flagship phone, it rivals the other major competitors with a fast processor, excellent camera system and a fairly long-lasting battery. You can choose from the standard Galaxy S22, the S22+ and the S22 Ultra. All three give you 5G access and top-of-the-line Samsung features.

The S22 and S22+ are virtually identical, except for the larger screen size of the S22+. They both have a stellar camera system, with wide, ultra wide and telephoto lenses and a powerful night photography mode. It also gets a high-tech screen that sports adaptive refresh rates, a slick option that adjusts your display’s “smoothness” according to what you’re doing. If you’re gaming and need a super responsive display, it’ll ramp up to 120 Hz. If you’re just scrolling through social media, it can drop down to 60 Hz to maximize battery life. You can choose from screen sizes of 6.1 or 6.6 inches and a wide range of colors.

If you want something a little higher-powered, the S22 Ultra offers a bigger battery, more storage options and a whopping 6.8-inch screen. Its camera system also gets an upgrade, with a 108-MP wide lens and an additional 10-MP telephoto lens with 10x optical zoom. Plus, the front camera ramps up to 40 MP.

3. Google Pixel 5a, 6, 6a and 6 Pro

With the Google Pixel phones, you can get a great mid-range 5G device with everything you need for a great experience. If you’re looking for the best budget 5G phones, consider this one. The Pixels offer everything you expect from a modern smartphone with plenty of premium features thrown in. The Google Tensor chip supports machine-learning processes, like speech recognition and security tools, while the camera system offers exceptional performance with dark and fast-moving subjects.

If you want a 5G Google Pixel, you have a lot of options, including:

• Pixel 5a: The smallest of the bunch, the Pixel 5a, has a 6.3-inch screen, and a new one comes in at under $450 retail. The camera system is solid, with 12.2-MP and 16-MP rear cameras and a wide range of modes and features. One of the Pixel’s biggest claims to fame is its battery life. The 5a offers an all-day battery and can last over two days on the Extreme Battery Saver mode.
• Pixel 6a: Another affordable option, the Pixel 6a has a compact 6.1-inch screen with ultra-high contrast and a handy high-brightness mode. It gets the longest-lasting battery yet, offering a typical charge of over 24 hours and up to 72 hours on Extreme Battery Saver mode. The camera system is similar to the 5a, with a 12.2-MP wide camera and a 12-MP ultrawide rear camera. Otherwise, it isn’t a huge departure from the Pixel 5a.
• Pixel 6: The Pixel 6 is just slightly bigger at 6.4 inches and features improved water and dust resistance. The typical battery lasts longer than a day, and you can even use it to charge other wireless devices. The 6 uses Google’s own Tensor processor and beefs up the camera system with a 12-MP ultrawide lens and a 50-MP wide.
• Pixel 6 Pro: With the Pixel 6 Pro, you get a large 6.7-inch screen with a refresh rate of up to 120 Hz. It also increases RAM to 12 GB and gives you storage options of up to 512 GB. The camera system sports the same lenses as the 6 and an additional 48-MP telephoto camera.

4. Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 and Flip3

If you’re looking for something a little more novel, the Galaxy Z Fold3 and Flip3 are two unique options. Both use Samsung’s folding-screen technology that let the phones collapse in half. The Fold3 opens up like a book, while the Flip3 opens vertically like an old flip phone. You’re not going to get camera systems or battery life that rival the S22, but they’ll cover the basics. These are certainly not the cheapest 5G phones you could get, with the Fold3 starting at well over $1,000.

The Z Fold3’s screen opens up to a whopping 7.6 inches with a built-in ultrasonic fingerprint scanner. It comes with Samsung’s S Pen, but the camera system isn’t very competitive, offering just one 12-MP rear camera and a 10-MP front camera.

The Z Flip3 expands to a 6.7-inch screen, with similar specs to the Fold3. It offers slightly higher RAM and doubles your maximum storage options, but it won’t work with the S Pen.

5. Samsung Galaxy A53 5G

One of the cheapest 5G smartphones is the Samsung Galaxy A53 5G. It offers 5G mmWave performance and a great user experience. It won’t be quite as robust as flagship phones, but it has some surprisingly impressive specs for a sub-$500 phone.

The A53 5G has an optical fingerprint sensor, a large battery, expandable storage up to 1 TB and a 120 Hz refresh rate, along with other common Samsung features like fast charging and various camera modes. The camera is pretty hefty, with four rear cameras — including ultrawide, main, depth and macro cameras — and a 32-MP selfie camera.

Find Your 5G Fit With Gazelle

5G is ushering in the next generation of technology, with faster, stronger wireless service. If you want to start taking advantage of it sooner rather than later, it’s hard to go wrong with one of the devices in this list of the best phones for 5G. And remember, you don’t need to spend a fortune on 5G, especially if you buy your phone used.

Here at Gazelle, we strive to make it easy to buy used phones, with thorough testing procedures and hassle-free 30-day returns. We have a wide selection of 5G phones, so you can choose the right one for your preferences and budget. Plus, they’re unlocked, so you can select whichever provider has the best 5G coverage in your area. Whether you’re looking for top-of-the-line 5G phones or something more affordable, we’ve got you covered. Explore our used 5G phones online to see for yourself!

The post 5G Phones: An Overview Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.

If you’re looking for ways to find a cheap phone, consider our tips for how to get phones at a cheap price.

How to Find Cheap Phones

Phone prices continue to rise as technology advances, and while prices can fluctuate, it’s challenging to know when you’re getting a good deal. Knowing how to get phones at cheap prices can help you save money while still taking advantage of new technology. If you’re looking for the best phones at the best prices, here are 10 tips for finding the best cheap phones.

1. Shop Online

The convenience of shopping online lets you search for great deals from the comfort of your home on your own time. With various ways to purchase phones today, buyers are no longer limited to the selections offered by local providers. Many retailers run their own promotions or sales, giving you the chance to find the phone you want at an affordable price. Be sure to check out various stores’ clearance sections, as you may be able to get a good phone for cheap. 

Check with your provider’s website when shopping online for a phone. Many carriers and manufacturers offer special online-only discounts. For example, your carrier may offer discounted or waived activation fees when buying through their website. Fees like this can add up quickly when buying a new phone, so anywhere you can save money is beneficial.

2. Get Last Year’s Model

New phones are released every year or close to it. When new models are released, they’re typically more expensive than previous models because they offer newer and better features and updates. However, this doesn’t mean last year’s model isn’t worth buying. When the new phones are released, the prices of older models are reduced because they’re no longer the newest and hottest product. Luckily for anyone trying to buy a cheap phone, this is an effective way to get a great phone at a reasonable price.

This is a great example of how to get iPhones cheaper than the original price. Many iPhone features are capable through the software. Apple software updates regularly, allowing most iPhone users to take advantage of new features despite having an older model iPhone. Depending on the manufacturer and the model, there may only be a few differences between this year’s new phone and last year’s model, giving you great value for your money.

3. Shop Around the Holidays

Holidays are a great time to get a new phone for cheap. Black Friday and Christmas shopping are popular times to find deals on all the name-brand cell phones. While this time of year is when you’re likely shopping for others, consider taking advantage of a phone deal for yourself. 

Many manufacturers, providers and retailers offer sales and promotions around most other holidays too. For example, you will likely find good phone deals around holidays like Memorial Day and the Fourth of July. Like Amazon’s Prime Day, some companies create their own “holidays” full of hard-to-resist sales. Another way to find cheap iPhones is through Apple’s back-to-school sale. 

Being aware of these types of sales gives you more opportunities to find a good phone on a budget.

4. Do Your Research

One of the best ways to find the most affordable prices on cell phones is to do your research. Phone prices can vary from seller to seller, so looking around can help you determine the average prices and the best places to shop for a phone. 

When researching phone prices, one thing to pay attention to is phone features that can affect price, like storage space and battery life. For example, phones with more storage space likely cost more.

Additionally, researching gives you a chance to compare different models, brands and features to determine what you need. If you just need the phone to make occasional calls and texts, lots of storage is something you can likely avoid paying for. 

5. Trade-In Your Current Phone

When debating how to get a cheap new phone, the first option for many is upgrading or trading in their current phone. Many carriers give you money for your old phone to put towards a new one. Some carriers have special promotions where you’re guaranteed money for a trade-in. These promotions are often easiest to take advantage of if you’re trading your phone in at the same store you plan to get a new one.

However, there are other ways to trade in your phone for money. Companies like Gazelle lets you sell your old phones and devices. Gazelle inspects your device to determine how much they’ll pay you for it, depending on the device’s condition. This means you can still get paid for those old, cracked phones stuffed in the back of your closet. 

6. Look for Unlocked Phones

While unlocked phones may not seem like they’re saving you any money upfront, they can in the long run. Unlocked phones let you avoid being locked in to a specific contract or carrier, which often happens when you purchase your phone directly through a carrier. This means you have the freedom to change your phone plan, switch carriers or find new phones whenever you want. 

The freedom of an unlocked phone can be extremely budget-friendly. Rather than being locked in a pricey contract, you can easily jump ship and take your phone with you if you find a more affordable option. Unlocked phones can also be easily sold when you decide to upgrade.

7. Consider Carrier Promotions

It’s common for carriers to offer promotions to attract new customers. For example, new customers can get a free iPhone when they sign up for an unlimited plan. Be sure to check out promotions like this, especially if you’re unhappy with your current carrier. 

These promotions are often enticing and may seem too good to be true, which they often actually are. If you’re considering getting a phone for cheap through a carrier promotion, be sure to look into the terms of the promotion to ensure it’s actually something you want. There may be hidden fees or stipulations that make the deal less desirable. 

8. Get a New Phone on a Contract

While top-of-the-line phones are most desirable, they also cost the most — sometimes more than $1,000. Like many others, you may find this an unrealistic amount of money to spend on a new phone every year. If you foresee yourself being with the same carrier for an extended time, consider getting that top-of-the-line new phone on a contract. While contracts vary between carriers, most let you make smaller payments on a phone throughout the contract. 

By the end of the contract, you’ll have paid off your phone and can either continue your plan or sell the phone and begin a new contract. While you need to be cautious when entering carrier contracts, this is a great example of how to get cheap mobile phones.

9. Switch to a Cheaper Phone Plan

Part of what makes phones so expensive is the cost of having a phone plan. You could save a lot on the device itself and have to put the money you saved right into paying for your plan. Unlimited data plans are the most expensive because users can use endless amounts of data, though these plans are unnecessary for many people. 

Depending on how you use your phone, you may not need an unlimited plan. For many people, unlimited data is too much, and they’re paying for more than they need. Instead, opt for a smaller plan that costs less. There are many options available to help you save money. 

10. Buy Refurbished Phones

One of the best ways to get a cheap phone is to buy one refurbished. Refurbished phones are typically used phones that have been cleaned up and repaired to operate like new. Despite looking and operating like new, refurbished phones are significantly more affordable. Refurbished phones may have updated or replaced parts like a new screen or battery. Depending on where you buy from, you may be able to get a warranty on the phone.

When purchasing refurbished phones, it’s important to buy from trustworthy sellers like Gazelle. Doing so ensures the phone is properly refurbished and inspected, and you’re sure to get a quality phone that comes as described. You’ll find a wide range of refurbished devices, including iPhones and Samsungs, as well as phones that are unlocked or compatible with specific carriers.

Other Considerations When Buying a Used Phone

Buying a used phone can be extremely cost-effective, though it’s important to understand what you’re getting. There’s a bit of a difference between a used phone and a refurbished phone, and it usually has to do with the condition of the phone. While refurbished phones are repaired, used phones typically show signs of wear and tear. Here are a few important considerations to make before buying a used phone.

Pay Attention to the Phone’s Condition

When buying any used phone, it’s crucial to note the condition. Used phones for sale should include a description of the phone, including its physical condition, operating condition and any other details disclosing wear and tear on the phone. It’s common for used devices to have scratches or dents. Even if you’re OK with that, you want to be aware of those things before buying.

Unfortunately, many people and places try to sell used phones without disclosing the phone’s condition. This can be frustrating if you pay for a phone, thinking it’s in better shape. Another aspect that makes a big difference is knowing who you’re buying the phone from. Be sure to buy from trustworthy sources. Know what to look for and how to determine if something is worth your money.

Check for a Return Policy

If you’re buying a used or refurbished phone from any type of reseller, be sure to check for a return policy. If you get your phone and it unknowingly has scratches on it, you may consider returning it. Understanding the return policy, if there is one, ensures you know the available window of time you can return the phone and the process for getting a refund or replacement. 

While you can typically detect scratches and physical damage immediately, issues with the software or internal components of the phone may take more time to notice. 

Take note of the return window in case issues like this would arise, so you have a chance to make the return if needed. The last thing you want is to be stuck with a broken phone and unable to get your money back. 

Gazelle offers shoppers a 30-day return policy — an optimal amount of time to decide whether the phone is right for you or to detect any unknown issues and make the return. 

Does Anything Come With the Phone?

We’ve mentioned several times that it’s important to understand what you’re getting when it comes to buying any phone. Another aspect of that includes phone accessories. 

Find out if anything comes with your phone. Depending on who you buy a used or refurbished phone from, things like chargers, cases, stylus pens and screen protectors could be included in the price. In other cases, you may have to pay separately for these items. Most sellers include a compatible charger for the phone, at the very least, though it’s worth checking to be sure. 

Shop Budget Phones Through Gazelle

iPhones and other name-brand phones are often thought of as must-haves, though they come at a high price. Luckily, sellers like Gazelle make it possible for people to get great phones and other devices for affordable prices. 

At Gazelle, we thoroughly inspect all our used phones, checking features like charging ports, cameras and WiFi connection. We include honest descriptions of each phone, so you know the phone’s condition from the start. Gazelle makes the phone-buying experience easy — with no contracts and guaranteed lower prices, we take pride in providing a good experience for our customers. 

If you’re considering buying a new phone and want to avoid manufacturer-suggested retail prices (MSRP), explore our selection of used phones to find the right model for your needs. For more information on how to get a phone for cheap or regarding our products, contact us today!

The post 10 Tips for Finding a Cheap Phone Claire Calvet appeared first on Gazelle The Horn.