Used Cell Phone Buying Guide


At zendoo.com we understand that everyone's needs are different
and choosing the right phone can be overwhelming.
In order to simplify the process, we have put together this cell phone buying guide
to assist you when making your next cell phone purchase.

Below, you will find a list of the most common factors and features that you will want to consider before Making your next cell phone purchase.

Carrier:

Your choice of phone depends, most importantly, on your choice of carrier. All carriers have their own mutually incompatible networks. This means that a Sprint PCS phone, for example, won't be compatible with Verizon Wireless or AT&T Wireless service.

Be sure to read our item listings to be sure that the phone you want ot purchase will work with your chosen carrier.
If you do not currently have a service plan with a carrier, you will first want to check the different plans and options available in your area.

Style:

There are several basic styles to choose from. Below is a short list of the most popular styles as well as some of their features and functions. Each style has advantages and the style of phone you choose will depend on your particular needs. Flip Phone ( aka Clam Shell)
IE This type of phone consists of two halves, connected by a hinge. The phone folds closed when not in use. The top half usually contains the speaker, and the display or battery, with the bottom half containing the keypad and remaining components. Most clamshell phones have a feature called Active Flip, which means that calls can be answered and ended by simply opening and closing the phone.

Bar ( aka candybar; Block)

IE This is the most basic style. The entire phone is one solid unit, with no moving parts aside from the buttons and possibly antenna. To prevent keys from being pressed accidentally while the phone is in a pocket, etc., a "key guard" feature is usually provided, requiring a special key combination to "unlock" the keys.

Slider

IE This type is usually designed similarly to a clamshell, with a large main display and speaker in one half, and the keypad and battery in the other half. But the two halves slide open instead of using a hinge. Slide designs allow the display to be seen when closed, and are generally easier to open and close one-handed.

Smart Phone (aka Personal Digital Assistant; PDA)

IE A PDA is a handheld device with organizer and basic computing functions. Most PDAs have a large touch-screen. Many also have a stylus and support handwriting recognition. A typical PDA also has faster processor and more memory than a typical phone, and can run more complex software. Most PDAs run a standardized operating system (OS), such as PalmOS or Windows Mobile for Pocket PC. In the spectrum of mobile devices, PDAs fall in-between a laptop computer and a cell phone.

Features:

As a general rule, you shouldn't buy anything more than you need. If you want a handset just to make calls, stick with something simple that doesn't offer a lot of extra features. Though basic phones are often overshadowed by high-end handsets in carrier stores, a variety are available directly from us and you should be able to find a phone that will suit you needs perfectly.

If you're going to use your cell phone for e-mail or organizational tasks, go with a higher-range model or even a smart phone. Alternatively, if you'd like entertainment options on your handset, consider a camera phone or a device with an MP3 player or streaming video.

A full range of features is discussed in the following sections
Accesories:
All of our items include a battery and wall charger, unless the listing specifically states they are not included. Several of our items do include other accessories such as a car charger, manual etcÖ
Applications:
the most basic cell phones offer a wide range of applications. Typically, you'll find a calendar, an alarm clock, a stopwatch, and a calculator. Higher-end handsets will have many more options, while other models will offer offbeat applications such as a compass or a thermometer.
Phone book / Voice Dialing:
Consider how many contacts you will need to store. Voice dialing lets you make calls without using the keypad, which is particularly handy when you're on a headset or if you're using the speakerphone.
Text Messaging
If you'd like to send or receive text messages on your handset, make sure it supports this feature. Text messages are text only and are not the same as e-mails.
Messaging and e-mail does cost extra, so consider purchasing a data plan if you'll be using the features frequently. You might also consider a phone with an alphabetic keyboard for faster typing.
Web Browser
This allows you to access the internet and enables you to access e-mail as well as general online content. It also lets you download files including games and ring tones. Many of the newer and higher end phones are equipped with a web browser; however, they run slowly and can not access many websites. If you will be using your cell phone to access the internet on a regular basis, you will most likely need a PDA
Camera / Video recorder
Most cell phones offer some type of digital camera feature. Some have a low-grade VGA resolution, but many camera phones now have resolutions of a few megapixels or more, which offer much better photo quality. Similarly, while some camera phones offer just a few extra features, other models offer flash and editing options that resemble those on a regular camera. However, there are models that do not offer these features.
Push to Talk
A walkie-talkie-like service that lets you immediately connect with individuals or call groups, which is especially useful for business users who need instant contact with their colleagues. Best of all, you don't need a cell signal to use them and you won't use standard calling minutes. Not all carriers offer this feature, however, and it's not available on all phones
Bluetooth
This feature lets you wirelessly connect via low-frequency radio waves with external devices, such as a headset for making calls. (Donít forget to checkout our HUGE selection of Bluetooth Headsets) Many phones also allow you to use Bluetooth to exchange or sync data with other Bluetooth devices or to connect to stereo headphones to listen to music.
Multimedia and Memory Options:
Some features to look for include a digital music player, support for MP3 files, and an FM radio. Also, many phones now support streaming video through 3G wireless broadband networks, live TV, and wireless music downloads. There will be an extra fee, of course, and you'll need 3G service in your area.
Personalization options:
These can include a choice of display wallpaper, screen savers, and ring tones. Handsets will also differ on their support for extra applications. For example, every cell phone supports games, but not every model comes with integrated titles. Extra applications will be available depending on your phone model and your carrier.

Please keep in mind that most of the phones we sell on this website are USED. Be sure to read the item description to determine the condition of the phone you are interested in.
Check out our rating system to determine whether the phone is scratched or has any other minor blemishes.