I hear this question a lot and I decided to do some research. Here is what I found:
It all depends on several factors:
1) What phone are you used to? What type of computer do you prefer to use?
If you use Macs and Apple products then an iPhone might be best. The main drawback though is cost. iPhones are expensive and if something goes wrong or you don’t know how to do something it may require a trip to an Apple Store.
If you prefer using Windows PC computers, then a Windows phone might be good. The drawback here is that because not as many people have Windows phones you will have access to fewer apps and software. You may also have a harder time getting help to fix problems.
A third option is Android phones. Some people feel that these are not as user-friendly as an iPhone but the big advantages are that there are many different types. You can shop around and get a very good phone for much less than an iPhone. There are also some very nice user interfaces with newer Android phones.
2) How much can you spend on the phone?
Android phones are cheaper than iPhones or Windows phones.
3) How are you going to use the phone?
If you are just going to email, surf the web and make phone calls then a Windows phone might be fine for you. If you want access to lots of apps then an Android phone or an iPhone would be better. If there are specific apps that you want then make sure that they are available on the Android and the iPhone. Some apps are only on one type of phone and not the other so you do need to check.
4) Try before you buy. Before you buy a phone, visit a store if possible and try them out. Or ask a friend or family member to show you their phone.
5) Look up reviews of popular phones.
I usually check the Reviews and Editor’s choices on the CNET and PC Magazine websites. You can also check reviews in Consumer Reports but you will need to pay for a subscription to see these online. You can go to your local library and they should be able to provide free access to Consumer Reports.
Here are some good links to check:
- Best phones of 2014 from CNET
- Cell phone buying guide – The most important things to know when shopping for a cell phone.
- PC Magazine reviews of cell phones
- How to Buy a Cell Phone
I have provided more links on this topic below.
- Simplified Smartphones For Boomers And Seniors
- What’s the Best Smartphone for People Who Aren’t Good with Technology?