Best Cell Services
Cell phones keep getting “smarter,” and customers keep getting more frustrated with the
high cost of staying in touch. Consumer Reports has just released its annual ratings of
cell-phone carriers and has advice for people who are upset about their bills.
The big nationwide cell-phone carriers come up short when it comes to value for the
money. Sprint edged out the others. It is the last of the big carriers to offer unlimited
data plans, which can make a big difference if you surf the Web or if you download lots
of apps and videos.
If you’re someone who only calls and texts, a small national carrier—Consumer
Cellular—beat out the big carriers for value. Consumer Reports says that if you use
the Internet sparingly or not at all, Consumer Cellular is definitely worth considering.
Consumer Reports compared plans and found that Consumer Cellular had the best
rates most often, especially for the basics.
A prepaid service is another money-saving option for people who call or text
occasionally. There’s no contract. You just pay for minutes or texts as you go. TracFone
was rated among the best prepaid carriers in Consumer Reports’ satisfaction survey.
Another way to cut your costs—shop for a phone in stores such as Walmart, Costco,
or RadioShack. The selection may not be as wide, but you can save money—a smart
move whether you’re getting a smart phone or not.
How did the other carriers do in Consumer Reports’ survey? For overall satisfaction
Verizon tied Sprint. Although Verizon didn't do as well for value, it edged out Sprint for
texting. AT&T rated last in the survey—a dubious distinction the carrier has held for
years.
Complete Ratings and recommendations on all kinds of products, including appliances,
cars & trucks, and electronic gear, are available on Consumer Reports’ website.
Subscribe to ConsumerReports.org.
