"Tis the season for being broke.
Actually, "more broke than usual" may be more apt.
This is the time of year when everyone will push their products to the max. Getting a smartphone for Christmas just isn't a reality for most. These devices are insanely expensive in many cases. But, you can treat yourself, can't you?
First, we'll assume that you either have a feature phone or a really crappy smartphone (think Windows Mobile 6, Symbian, pre-4.0 Android). If not, this article is not for you.
Why do you want a smartphone? Are you willing to spend extra money for mobile data? I used to think that it was stupid to get a smartphone and not have a data plan. I used to be right. Smartphones used to be very expensive. But, then Android (and later Windows Phone 7) came along and that was no longer the case. In fact, if you spend most of your time in areas with WiFi access (your home, school, or work), you don't need a data plan (but it's always nice).
A smartphone will ensure that you're always connected. If you love web surfing, social media, and taking frequent snapshots, a smartphone would make your life easier.
The first smartphone I would recommend would be the Nokia Lumia 710. You can get one for about $200 from carriers, which translates into being able to get a second-hand one (Kijiji or Craigslist) for as low as $120. Yes, there is a reason why this phone is so cheap, but it's not because it sucks. The Lumia 710 runs Microsoft's Windows Phone 7.5 operating system (OS). This OS has been orphaned only a few years after it was introduced (as Windows Phone 7). Phones that shipped with this OS will not be upgraded to Windows Phone 8, Microsoft's latest release. And yes, WP8 is better than WP7.5. But, do you need it?
If all you do is surf, Facebook, e-mail, text, take notes, shoot photos, and make calls (sadly, a foreign concept for some), then this phone is for you. If you are an app lover, it might not be. There is a severe lack of apps on WP7.5 compared to Apple's iOS or Google's Android, but this may not be an issue for you. I've used both iOS and Android phones and while there are some really nice apps that I can't get on my WP7.5 device, I can live without them.
The Lumia 710 provides you with a very smooth experience. Browsing is smooth. Scrolling is smooth. The keyboard is in my opinion better than any other stock OS keyboard. There is a dedicated camera shutter button (with half-press to focus) that makes accessing the camera and taking photos extremely easy. Even at the retail price of $200, this phone is a bargain. But, considering its low resale value, you're better off buying second-hand.
But, what if you can spend a bit more? The Lumia 710 only has 8 GB of storage with no room for expansion and it's hardly a beautiful device. For about $200 (second-hand), you can have its siblings, the 800 and the 900. I purchased a brand new unlocked 800 for $200. The 800 and the 900 are much nicer looking phones and they both have 16 GB of storage and a better camera. The 900 is also capable of LTE (on Rogers) and has a bigger screen with a front camera for video conferencing (Skype). For $200-240, these phones will be in mint condition.
And what if you don't want a Windows Phone? There are bargains to be had with both iOS and Android phones. You can find an iPhone 4 for as low as $200 or a 4S for about $300. But, these phones will be less likely to be in mint shape and will be out of warranty. Still, considering that these are still quality phones, you can find yourself a bargain. If you want to go Android, you can find a Samsung Galaxy Nexus or Galaxy S2 for $200-240. They'll be in better shape than the iPhones, but still not as in good shape as the Windows Phone devices.
There you have it. A very nice smartphone for everyday use for only $120-300. There's something for everyone's taste and budget.
For detailed reviews of the phones I mentioned, you'll have to exercise your fingers. Also, please bear in mind that some of these phones may not be compatible with your network. Find out whether a phone will work with your network before you buy it.
Finally, when buying a second-hand device, test it out with your SIM card first (unless you know that it's locked to a different network and if it is - check to see if the phone turns on and if there are any glaring problems). If you're a novice, have someone who knows what to look for come with you.
