Your Smart Guide to Mobile Phone Contracts
Phone contracts are one of the most common and preferred subscriptions in the UK market today. This despite surveys claiming that majority of phone contract subscribers are paying more than what they should. This is because phone contracts are the best way to avail the latest handset without paying for it upfront.
Phone contracts also offer affordable deals on calls, texts and data as opposed to the standard rates charged when you opt for pay as you go. But before you go ahead and seal the deal, it’s best to understand the finer points of contract phones.
What are mobile phone contracts?
Phone contracts or otherwise known as pay monthly contracts are phone deals where you are required to pay a monthly fee for a fixed period of time typically for 12 or 24 months. With this type of deal, you get a combo of handset choice and a phone bundle that includes allowances for calls, texts and data.
The cost of your fixed monthly fee will primarily depend on your handset choice and your phone service package. You get to choose the combination that best suits your needs.
What are the advantages of phone contracts?
One of the best things with phone contracts is the freedom to choose your own handset. If you have set your eyes on the latest handset releases, this is a more affordable way to get your hands on said handset. In some cases, all you need is to pay for the one time fee when you sign up.
Another advantage is the fact that you no longer have to worry about topping up your phone with credit, which is the case for pay as you go deals. Some plans, for instance, offer generous allowances for calls and texts perfect for heavy phone users.
Since phone contracts offer phone bundles for calls, texts and data, rates are usually cheaper than the regular rates. You just need to make sure you pick the right plan to perfectly suit your monthly needs. To compare available phone plans for your needs, head over to http://www.uswitch.com/mobiles/.
There are also the free gifts and promotions offered by network providers and are only exclusive for phone contract subscribers. Some free gifts come in the form of another gadget including laptops, tablets, game consoles and more.
What are the disadvantages?
It’s not all advantages with phone contracts, however. When you go this route, you are hooked to a lengthy contract. Like it or not, you are required to pay a fixed monthly until the end of term.
While the rates may be cheaper on calls, texts and data, it doesn’t always translate to savings on your phone bill. In fact, you may end up spending more if you happen to pick the wrong phone bundle. Either you pay for services you are not using or pay more on excess usage beyond your plan’s allowances for calls, text and data.
Finally, phone contracts are not easy to avail if you have poor credit rating. Because you are considered a high-risk customer, you may get rejected until you do something about said rating.
Is it for you?
Though advantageous in many ways, phone contracts are not always the best choice for everyone. At the end of the day, it’s all about your own personal needs. The trick is to always focus on finding the perfect contract plan to meet those needs to a tee.