How to buy a smartphone

They're smaller, more user-friendly, and more addictive than ever. Fortune's guide for those who don't get a company freebie.

Wireless network
Wireless network
Data-plan prices (unlimited e-mail, web, etc.) vary for the big carriers but start at roughly $20 more than the typical voice plan.

The decision boils down to who has the best coverage in your area and whether you'll use the device overseas. Fast third-generation (3G) service doesn't cost extra, but you'll need a 3G-ready device.
Hardware Operating system Wireless network Key questions Should I get...
The smallest, the fastest and the best phone for a power user. (more)

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Most stock quote data provided by BATS. Market indices are shown in real time, except for the DJIA, which is delayed by two minutes. All times are ET. Disclaimer. Morningstar: © 2018 Morningstar, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Factset: FactSet Research Systems Inc. 2018. All rights reserved. Chicago Mercantile Association: Certain market data is the property of Chicago Mercantile Exchange Inc. and its licensors. All rights reserved. Dow Jones: The Dow Jones branded indices are proprietary to and are calculated, distributed and marketed by DJI Opco, a subsidiary of S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC and have been licensed for use to S&P Opco, LLC and CNN. Standard & Poor's and S&P are registered trademarks of Standard & Poor's Financial Services LLC and Dow Jones is a registered trademark of Dow Jones Trademark Holdings LLC. All content of the Dow Jones branded indices © S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC 2018 and/or its affiliates.