Shopping for a new smartphone can be as overwhelming as buying a new computer. You have to consider the operating system, design, carrier, data plan, and hardware specs.

Smart Versus Basic: There's no shame in toting a basic phone-calls-only mobile phone if it meets your needs. Smartphones can be pricy and complicated.



Here are a few things to consider before buying your smartphone:

• Email: While being constantly connected can sometimes be more trouble than good, having quick access to your email is a huge benefit in case of emergencies or urgent requests.
  
  
• Web access: need to look up something quickly? Your smartphone’s browser will come in handy.
  
  
• Camera: Having a good quality camera on you at all times is a big help when you want to document events, fund- raisers, or staff meetings. Apps: There’s a world of productivity apps out there that can help you work more efficiently—but you can only use them if you a have a smartphone.
  
  
• Operating system: Microsoft. Google or Apple? Choosing an operating system can be tricky. If you’re looking for  more options in design  and models. Android  is your best bet. IOS Apple operating systems look identical across all their models. Windows like Android, Windows Phones come in a variety of designs from different manufacturers.
  
  
• Hardware: Design and display informs the design of your phone. Smartphone’s range in display size , colors,  capabilities, however the average  display size for most new phones  is 4.7 inches. Cameras, also have various  specs to look for in each system. HD video capture, megapixels, flash and extras all need to be considered. Processors, this year  boast quad-core but you can still purchase dual core phones. Call quality is essential so calls don’t drop (disconnect). Battery life if you’re concerned about conserving battery life be conscious of what you’re doing on your phone and how often.
  
  
• Choosing a carrier: The “Big Four” (AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and Verizon) all now offer 4G support.  Find the right plan that offers at least 2 GB of data. You can download apps, browse the web, stream media without worrying about going over your limit. Going prepaid has seen a boom in the past few years.
  
  
• Tablets: an alternative mobile device , decide whether you want to be tied to your carrier like your smart phone or if you’ll use it with available Wi-Fi. You can consider cellular connectivity  to be connected anytime or  anywhere when you have both cellular and Wi-Fi connectivity. Price and contract options are offered by the Big Four carriers. Selection can be limited so  keep in mind that your carrier won’t have every tablet model available. The three main candidates for tablets are Android, IOS, and Windows 8. 

This is a lot of info to take in, but a mobile device is some-thing you may use daily.  Hopefully these tips will help you make a good decision.

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