The Pros and Cons of a Cellular Phone Contract: What Should You Do?

When it comes to your cellular device, having a contract isn’t always a good thing. It’s not always a negative decision either, so it’s important to know which option is right for you. Knowing which contract to get into (if at all) entirely relies upon your usage and needs. Find out whether a contract is right for you, and how to avoid one by securing other options.

Pros and Cons of a Cellular Phone Contract

A contract is likely right for you if you plan on upgrading your cellular device often, and don’t plan on switching carriers anytime soon. Contracts usually give you access to awesome upgrade prices, provided you are willing to secure a service contract with them for 2 years or more. If sticking with the same company for 2 years or longer is not daunting to you, then a contract is a great way to nab a great deal on an upgraded device.

You may also benefit from a contract with your carrier if you use your device for talking, texting, and the Internet often. Many people who use their devices several times a day find themselves saving money when they choose to go with a contract with their carriers as opposed to paying on a per-minute or month-to-month basis. If you plan on using your device in large amounts, consider an unlimited plan with a contract through your carrier. This is especially beneficial if you watch your usage closely to avoid overages.

When not making a commitment works out best for you

Just as there are many great reasons to jump into a contract with your carrier, there are surplus of reasons why you should avoid a contract at all costs. Perhaps the biggest deterrent for a contract is your commitment to your provider in the first place. If you are unsure of the service you are getting, attaching yourself to a 2-year plan is likely not in your best interest.

The same can be said for your usage. If you don’t plan on using your cell phone that often, or if you are just fine using the same device over and over again for years, then a no-contract plan will often work out best in your favor and be your cheapest option. If you only plan on using your device for emergency calls or a few texts every now and then, for instance, joining a contract may not be in your best interest.

What options do you have?

If you don’t want to have to sign on the dotted line, consider a pay-as-you-go plan, which only charges you for the minutes, texts, or Internet usage you actually use. You pay in advance for your services in certain dollar amounts, then re-up your account when you have used up your funds. This option is great for the casual cellular device user.

Or, you can opt to go on a month-to-month plan. This allows you to have many of the same benefits as a contract plan, without the long-term commitment to any carrier. This option is great for people who use their devices a lot but don’t want to stick with a contract for a long period of time.

Whether you choose to go with a contract or not, make sure you explore all your options before you make your final decision. For many people, a contract is no big deal and it can actually be the cheaper option. Take free cellphones as a part of the government’s Lifeline program for example.  For still others, a pay-as-you-go or monthly plan is a more suitable route. Compare your options side by side to see just which style of contract (or lack thereof) works for you. You may find yourself saving lots of money by doing a little comparison shopping.