How to Avoid Buying a Bad Phone

The ZTE Grand Max X was rated as one of the worst phones by CNet. Image from CNet

  There are literally dozens of new phones released every year, and all of them claim to be great values with fantastic specs and so on. Unless you’re involved in the business of phones and wireless networks or you’re something of a techie, it can be hard to distinguish between the legitimately good phones and the phones that only have good advertising. If you’re looking to buy a new phone and trying to avoid a lemon, here are some tips to ensure that your newest companion is all you want it to be:

1. Check It Off the Worst Phone List

If you’re absolutely bamboozled at where to start, check out this fantastic list that CNet updates occasionally with the worst phones on the market. Then, obviously, stay away from those devices. The list isn’t extensive, but it certainly is a good place to start. CNet reviews a lot of phones, so you know those devices are pretty close to the bottom of the barrel if they make CNet’s list.

2. Look at the Hardware

Even if you aren’t a techie, there are some things that can automatically rule a phone out of the lineup. Take a peek at how much RAM the phone has for starters. If it’s less than 1 GB, don’t even waste your time. Also be sure to check the phone’s memory and make sure that it has an SD slot or enough memory for your uses. Look at the expected talk time to gauge battery life as well.

I tend to use GSMArena for double-checking hardware specs. Their phone list is extensive and the information is pretty accurate. The specs should also be listed on the page where you purchase the phone as well.

3. Check Its Street Cred

 It seems pretty obvious, but be sure you read some user reviews–both positive and negative–from several different sites. Don’t let one or two bad reviews scare you away though–there are always people who have bad experiences or problems with every device out there. However, if you see the same issue or problem repeated over and over again, then make a note of it. Don’t pay too much attention to average user stars unless there are a lot of reviews.

4. Read Professional Reviews

 Sites like CNet and PhoneScoop do professional reviews of pretty much all of the upcoming smartphones, so take a peek and see what the experts say. I tend to give such reviews a bit more weight, as these people handle way more phones than your average person does and can give a better perspective. Just be sure you pick a reputable site that isn’t being paid off for their good reviews!

5. Try It Before You Buy It

Last, but not least, go to a Tier One dealer and actually play with the phone. For older or cheaper phone models this might not be possible, but it’s worth a shot. Try out the camera and swipe through the screens to test response time. Launch a couple of apps and make sure you like the feel of the device before you buy.

How do you decide which phone to buy? Let us know in the comments!]]>