Finding a cell carrier

[Frenchy]

I'm in the process of stepping into the smart phone arena for the first time.

Looking around a bit I think I narrowed it down to the Treo 700p.

I currently have Sprint as my carrier but my contract ends this month so I'm able to switch carriers if I want to.

I was wondering if there was a clear winner for choosing a cell carrier when it comes to smart phones?

I'm mainly going to be using my Treo for sending recieving email, IM, and some web surfing I'm sure. Probably put a few mp3s on it and possibly watch a video or two. I will also be sync'n it up with Outlook.

Data bandwidth is something I'm interested in and plans of course.

I stopped by the Verizon store today but they were swamped and I didn't get a chance to talk to them unfortunatly. I did grab a couple of brochures but they're pretty limited in information.

Any thoughts on the matter would be great.

Frenchy

[kdallen]

Hello, Frenchy, and welcome to ET. Choosing a carrier, IMHO, is really about individual needs/preferences. For me, coverage is important, in the places I spend the most time (work & home). You'll be using data a lot, so price may be a factor. Sprint's unlimited data is $15/mo, versus $45/mo (I believe) on Verizon, though that won't matter if you have no signal in your area. I used to have Verizon, which worked everywhere...except in my house. People have had good/bad experiences with both providers. Since you've had Sprint, you should know about their coverage in your area, which gets you a little ahead of the game. In the end, though, it will come down to a personal choice.

[rachris2]

You're right kdallen... it's $45 a mo. for unlimited data w/Verizon. I've been with both Sprint and Verizon. I loved Sprint, but in the end it was a matter of personal choice. Verizon did everything they said they would and better.

BTW, does Sprint do EVDO for $10/mo? That would be pretty sweeeet!

[kdallen]

Mine was $10 and now it's free but I only have EvDO when I travel, like this past weekend. None here in SC yet.

[Frenchy]

Could one say that the Sprint and Verizon EVDO data bandwidth is comparable?

Anyways, thanks for the responses. I may just stick with Sprint. I've been with them for 10 years now. Had my ups and downs with them but I can have the same experience with any carrier it sounds like.

Frenchy

[kdallen]

Could one say that the Sprint and Verizon EVDO data bandwidth is comparable?

Can't say. I was on Verizon before EvDO.