Author Topic: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones  (Read 9169 times)

cthoops

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Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« on: October 01, 2014, 04:43:02 AM »
Mr. cthoops and I each currently have an iPhone 4 from AT&T.  They are both off-contract and we switched to Airvoice Wireless several months ago.  We've used the pay as you go plan and have generally been able to keep it to $10 every couple of months by turning off all data and sticking to wifi, and using FaceTime or Google Hangouts for our calls.  We've also been able to keep the cost low because our texts to each other have been free due to iMessage.

His phone is showing signs of dying and now that I've seen how low-cost the MVNOs are, I can't go back to a contract.  However, I also can't bear to fork out the money for a new unlocked iPhone.  Ebay and Craig's List look like there are too many opportunities to get ripped off.  So I think we'e going to have to look at non-iPhone options.  The problem is I have no idea where to start.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated for mustachian ways to pull this off.  Again, no data use is necessary.  Just phone calls and texts, but I'd rather not go the "dumb phone" route because it takes so long to text.  What would be the most appropriate MVNO, plan, and phone?

Thanks.

TheBreeze

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #1 on: October 01, 2014, 07:17:40 AM »
MVNO: Republic Wireless
Phone: Moto G or Moto E

Sounds like you're around WiFi a ton and if you don't need data then Republic is essentially built for you. Say hello to $5/month plans.
« Last Edit: October 03, 2014, 05:14:39 AM by TheBreeze »

jzb11

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #2 on: October 01, 2014, 07:33:12 AM »
If you want an android phone it's a matter of your budget and what you're looking for.

Motorola.com

x $500 (top of the line)
http://www.engadget.com/2014/09/11/moto-x-review-2014/

g
http://www.pcworld.com/article/2689334/moto-g-2014-review-the-best-smartphone-under-200.html

Really it depends on what features you're looking for. You have a ton of options and high end phones are cheaper than iphones for sure.

At the end of the day if you're really budget minded and want something newer, it seems you can't go wrong with the 2014 G (2nd gen).


For used options:

http://swappa.com/devices/unlocked/us



Daley

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #3 on: October 01, 2014, 08:49:02 AM »
If you're concerned about getting ripped off buying used/refurbished, have some guidelines on how to safely shop for used phones. If you know what to ask and look for, it makes the process a lot easier.

davisgang90

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #4 on: October 01, 2014, 09:46:15 AM »
I've purchased 2 used phones through Glyde for use on Ting (sprint MVNO) and have been very happy.  In my case it was an Iphone 4 and 5.

unseenstache

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #5 on: October 01, 2014, 10:23:11 AM »
I would also recommend Glyde.   We purchased an iPhone 5.. and Galaxy S III cheap and are very happy with them.  I also found if you sell your old phones on Glyde.  Ting will give you a credit for the difference

sol

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #6 on: October 01, 2014, 10:37:13 AM »
At the end of the day if you're really budget minded and want something newer, it seems you can't go wrong with the 2014 G (2nd gen).

In the world of android phones, I fail to see how the Moto G is better than the Galaxy S3.  The S3 has equivalent or better specs, a larger screen, better camera, and longer battery life.  And can be had refurbished like new for $200.  Because it's now an older phone, prices have really come down even though phone technology hasn't really advanced since then.

They're both quite a bit higher end than you need for just calling and texting.  They're both so much better than the iphone4 that the OP is used to using that they'll seem amazing.  It might be better to get an android phone from like 2010 or 11, which will still feel like a step up but can be had on the super cheap.  Leftover stock of the HTC Evo can be had "brand new" for under $200 (or $50 used) and is still better than the iphone4.

cthoops

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #7 on: October 02, 2014, 09:26:53 AM »
Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. I've been researching this for awhile and decided last night to give Republic Wireless' $10 plan a try with the Moto G. Yes, I've read the pros and cons and without getting into the boring details I think it will simply be best for us, as long as the coverage is ok here for the minuscule amount of time we're away from wifi. I figured with the ability to return it for a refund within 30 days, I don't have anything to lose.

Thanks again.

acroy

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #8 on: October 02, 2014, 09:37:37 AM »
good call :)
Myself and DW have each had Moto G for a year and like it.
Running LycaMobile pay-as-you-go on the Tmobile network. The cell bill is about $5 a month for both phones!!!
We use wireless @ home & work for data. Use the phone just for calls & text when not on wireless.
Best of luck!!

urover

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #9 on: October 03, 2014, 03:54:44 AM »
Well, MotoG new is atleast 1/3 the price of a Samsung S3 so that's where it wins. Been using a G for 8 months and loving it. Solidly built phone and very snappy.

Bbqmustache

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #10 on: October 03, 2014, 04:23:38 AM »
We plan to jump to Republic next May , $when we no long have huge early termination fees hanging over our heads.  Five Motorola E phones, $10 a month plans.  Total bill will save us over $150 a month over our current plan.  Soon we will say goodbye to Verizon Wireless, Woo Hoo!

sol

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #11 on: October 03, 2014, 08:56:16 AM »
Well, MotoG new is atleast 1/3 the price of a Samsung S3 so that's where it wins. Been using a G for 8 months and loving it. Solidly built phone and very snappy.

That was true when the S3 was new.  Now that the S5 is so common the S3 has come way down in price. 

Especially if you're buying used or refurbished phones, almost anything can be had for less than $200.

CCCA

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #12 on: October 03, 2014, 05:04:58 PM »
Mr. cthoops and I each currently have an iPhone 4 from AT&T.  They are both off-contract and we switched to Airvoice Wireless several months ago.  We've used the pay as you go plan and have generally been able to keep it to $10 every couple of months by turning off all data and sticking to wifi, and using FaceTime or Google Hangouts for our calls.  We've also been able to keep the cost low because our texts to each other have been free due to iMessage.

His phone is showing signs of dying and now that I've seen how low-cost the MVNOs are, I can't go back to a contract.  However, I also can't bear to fork out the money for a new unlocked iPhone.  Ebay and Craig's List look like there are too many opportunities to get ripped off.  So I think we'e going to have to look at non-iPhone options.  The problem is I have no idea where to start.

Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated for mustachian ways to pull this off.  Again, no data use is necessary.  Just phone calls and texts, but I'd rather not go the "dumb phone" route because it takes so long to text.  What would be the most appropriate MVNO, plan, and phone?

Thanks.

If you are at least considering sticking with an iPhone (like if you have a bunch of apps you've purchased), you don't need to buy an unlocked iPhone for use with Airvoice.  You can get any AT&T iPhone (the 5 is a good one which runs iOS8) or the Verizon iPhone 5/5C/5S where the SIM slot comes unlocked. 

dsteele713

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #13 on: October 04, 2014, 03:02:19 PM »
I was using Airvoice's plans for a while, but now I'm jumping ship for Cricket Wireless. They've been acquired by AT&T and are now a GSM provider with a BYOD policy. Currently they're offering 5 lines with unlimited talk, unlimited texting and 1GB of data each for $100/month. That breaks down to $20/month per person, and it's a framily-style plan, so you don't all have to be living under one roof. I'm going in with a few relatives that are also interested. Currently there are only 4 of us, so it's $25/month, but it's still cheaper than my 500MB Airvoice plan, and it comes with more data and they only throttle instead of shutting you off once you hit your limit.

StangStache

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #14 on: October 08, 2014, 09:12:33 AM »
I was using Airvoice's plans for a while, but now I'm jumping ship for Cricket Wireless. They've been acquired by AT&T and are now a GSM provider with a BYOD policy. Currently they're offering 5 lines with unlimited talk, unlimited texting and 1GB of data each for $100/month. That breaks down to $20/month per person, and it's a framily-style plan, so you don't all have to be living under one roof. I'm going in with a few relatives that are also interested. Currently there are only 4 of us, so it's $25/month, but it's still cheaper than my 500MB Airvoice plan, and it comes with more data and they only throttle instead of shutting you off once you hit your limit.

I just jumped ship to Cricket, too, and couldn't be happier.  I think it might be overkill for the OP's type of usage, though.  If you want AT&T-native coverage and reliable fast data, Cricket is the way to go in the MMM world in my opinion.

I can provide a referral for the $25 credit if it's needed.

Scandium

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #15 on: October 08, 2014, 10:59:50 AM »
At the end of the day if you're really budget minded and want something newer, it seems you can't go wrong with the 2014 G (2nd gen).

In the world of android phones, I fail to see how the Moto G is better than the Galaxy S3.  The S3 has equivalent or better specs, a larger screen, better camera, and longer battery life.  And can be had refurbished like new for $200.  Because it's now an older phone, prices have really come down even though phone technology hasn't really advanced since then.

They're both quite a bit higher end than you need for just calling and texting.  They're both so much better than the iphone4 that the OP is used to using that they'll seem amazing.  It might be better to get an android phone from like 2010 or 11, which will still feel like a step up but can be had on the super cheap.  Leftover stock of the HTC Evo can be had "brand new" for under $200 (or $50 used) and is still better than the iphone4.

But the S3 is over 2 years old now so any you buy will have a crap battery, and I owned a 2 year old galaxy nexus (based on S2) which in the end struggled to survive 5 hours off the charger. Samsung's crapware skin is also awful, whereas the moto skin on the G is pretty good.

And where to do you see that the S3 battery is better anyway? Samsung always has pretty bad battery life. Anandtech doesn't have an S3 test, but the S4 is crushed by the Moto G in browsing battery life. Iphone of course is even better. Even an old iphone will probably have longer battery than samsung.
http://anandtech.com/bench/product/1156?vs=1195

I got a G for $150 on ebay. You can get them new for $200. That's the 2013 version, not the 2014.

Android and iOS are different worlds though. I know my wife would flip out if she had to switch to android now. If you like your iphone I suggest look for a used 5 or 5S (or 5C?). try Swappa.com
Used unlocked 5 looks like $300. 5S is $450+.

sheepgetlambs

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #16 on: October 10, 2014, 08:16:57 AM »
I bought a used iPhone 2gs (unlocked AT&T) on craigslist for $90. Since I tend to drop things I bought a used Otterbox on craigslist (differ seller) for $20. I immediately dropped the phone and it survived. Dropped it a bunch since then and now the Ottbox has a crack but the phone is fine.
Bought a SIM card from H2O wireless (online - they shipped it to me). Setup took me about 5 minutes. I have the cheapest plan. $10 for 200 talk minutes for up to 90 days. More minutes than I use. Texts cost 5 cents each. Can get on WiFi so don't use data. The unused minutes roll over. I've had the phone over a year and experienced no problems. H2O is 3G, which is fine for me. Coverage is beyond excellent in all the weird woodsy places we go. DH has a work phone on Verizon and I ALWAYS have signal when he has none.
The SIM card, phone, and otterbox were in last year's budget so this year my cost for cell phone will be minutes only. $40.
We have Ooma for our house phone. DH's work pays for our Internet service so we pay a little over $3 per month for our home phone. If I round that up to $4 per month, that's $48 per year. Add that to my cell phone cost and I spend a grand total of $88 per year on phone costs. Pretty badass, huh?

StangStache

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #17 on: October 10, 2014, 10:29:12 AM »
I bought a used iPhone 2gs (unlocked AT&T) on craigslist for $90. Since I tend to drop things I bought a used Otterbox on craigslist (differ seller) for $20. I immediately dropped the phone and it survived. Dropped it a bunch since then and now the Ottbox has a crack but the phone is fine.
Bought a SIM card from H2O wireless (online - they shipped it to me). Setup took me about 5 minutes. I have the cheapest plan. $10 for 200 talk minutes for up to 90 days. More minutes than I use. Texts cost 5 cents each. Can get on WiFi so don't use data. The unused minutes roll over. I've had the phone over a year and experienced no problems. H2O is 3G, which is fine for me. Coverage is beyond excellent in all the weird woodsy places we go. DH has a work phone on Verizon and I ALWAYS have signal when he has none.
The SIM card, phone, and otterbox were in last year's budget so this year my cost for cell phone will be minutes only. $40.
We have Ooma for our house phone. DH's work pays for our Internet service so we pay a little over $3 per month for our home phone. If I round that up to $4 per month, that's $48 per year. Add that to my cell phone cost and I spend a grand total of $88 per year on phone costs. Pretty badass, huh?

Totally badass!

Dee18

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #18 on: April 05, 2016, 06:38:08 PM »
Thanks unseenstache for the Glyde suggestion.  My SO needed a new phone to replace his broken iPhone 4.  I bought him an iPhone 5s on Glyde for his birthday ( for < $200) and he is delighted.

shanghaiMMM

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #19 on: April 06, 2016, 07:24:48 AM »
I don't know about the availability of Chinese phones in America but I've seen lots of great Chinese phones lately. Brand new, great specs, around $150—$200 brand new. Xiaomi, Meizu, One2one. Saw an advert for Oppo r9, spitting image of an iphone 6 if that's the look you're after!

falsekrakk808

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #20 on: April 06, 2016, 12:30:55 PM »
I, too, am in need of a major change from the smartphone industry. Paying +$85/mo is not the cool thing to do anymore like I once thought it was when I was younger. This is the next change I am looking to make after I assess the options. Thanks for this post. I've never heard of Glyde and will be checking that out soon.

Daley

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #21 on: April 06, 2016, 12:41:36 PM »
Paying +$85/mo is not the cool thing to do anymore like I once thought it was when I was younger.

Here, have an entire guide (abridged) on the subject.

By the way, for anyone not paying attention and looking to respond, this thread is from October 2014.

HAPPYINAZ

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #22 on: April 10, 2016, 02:36:07 PM »
I love my Motorola Droid Turbo2!  Great camera!  My iPhone friends always say they have camera envy when they see my pics :)

Tjat

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #23 on: April 10, 2016, 05:04:05 PM »
Another vote for glyde. Bought and sold there with success

freeedom

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #24 on: April 10, 2016, 06:42:34 PM »
I got an iPhone off swappa for a good price. I use cricket, AT&T mvno. Works great.

HenryDavid

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #25 on: April 11, 2016, 03:11:27 PM »
Is her phone truly dying? Maybe a new battery?
Dropped my iphone 4 and smashed the glass back. Got a new metal back installed for $20, a gigantic, huge ripoff! But still less of a ripoff than a new phone. Mine still works fine.

Daley

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Re: Can't stomach cost of new iPhone - suggestions for plans/phones
« Reply #26 on: April 11, 2016, 03:30:35 PM »
Is her phone truly dying? Maybe a new battery?

This thread was from October 2014.