I could end this review quickly by giving you my top pick, however, each provider gives their consumer something unique. In order to decide what service you want, you will have to make the following decisions:

1. What am I using this service for, primary phone, occasional chats, or something in between? 2. Do you like technology? 3. Will this be the primary tool used to contact many people in your circle? 4. Do you want your phone to work?

If you are using this phone for occasional chats, you will find a value in using T Mobile (http://www.tmobile.com/). They provide a decent service for a rather low price. You may be giving up some things by going with T Mobile, like drop calls, or spotty customer service, but they work. Their phone selection is limited, but relatively up to date. If you like technology this would be an okay option.

If you are like me and use your phone for every call you make, then wait no more, Verizon wireless (http://www.verizonwireless.com/) is the way to go. They have great service, infrequent dropped calls, okay customer service, and their plans are priced competitively. Verizon's greatest downfall is their phones. They lag so far behind on technology that it can become frustrating. But keep in mind it is only frustrating to those who want the latest and greatest toys.

If you want a phone that has walkie talkie functions, then Nextel has a plan for you, but not without cost. Their plans run a little high, and to be honest they no longer provide a service that is unique. During my time with Nextel (http://www.nextel.com/) I dropped calls, couldn't get service, you name it, it didn't work. I can't with a good conscience give Nextel an overall satisfaction rating greater than poor.

Well, I am left with a review on Cingular (http://www.cingular.com/) , and I would say behind Verizon, it is the next best alternative. They give you okay service, but their technology shines. They are the leader in coming to market with the greatest advancements in cell phone technology. They are currently running a campaign about leading the industry in the least amount of dropped calls, but I haven't found that to be the case. Again, they are an okay provider who has cornered the market through the use of technology.

I am not sure if all that rambling has helped, so I will summarize. Go with Verizon if you want a phone that is going to work the majority of the time. Go with cingular if you want the newest phones, and avoid the rest.

Coming soon I will tell you how to get out of your current cell phone contract.

http://www.imaman.com/