Thank you for being a valued part of the CNET community. As of December 1, 2020, the forums are in read-only format. In early 2021, CNET Forums will no longer be available. We are grateful for the participation and advice you have provided to one another over the years.

Thanks,

CNET Support

Question

buying cell phone for daughter...?

by Dec 16, 2015 8:08AM PST

Want to buy a phone for daughter who lives away - her last phone 'broke' and hasn't bothered getting a new one....I'll pay about $200.

She never had a contract & used pre-paid cards before, so I should probably get her one that she can decide how she want to 'hook up'...I have 3 IPhones in my household - all w/ contracts- but don't want to buy her a contract, just a phone...Heard Samsung is a good choice...

Any input as what might be a great option....?
thanks!

Discussion is locked

3 Posts
- Collapse + Expand Details
- Collapse -
Answer
Nod to...
by Forum moderator Dec 16, 2015 8:16AM PST

There are good phones but Android based in that price range. I'd look at the BLU models with 1GB RAM (or more) with 8GB (or more) Storage. Try that BLU Life One.

Look at Ting.com for their GSM SIM card and you may cut your bill by a lot. You didn't reveal what carrier you had so I can't guess if this is an option.

Also, Tracfone continues to be a good low cost pre-paid card option.

- Collapse -
thanks!
by EsmeH Dec 16, 2015 8:29AM PST

She just moved across the country, so I have no idea what carrier she will want to use - was considering getting her an older model IPhone and letting her manage her own contract....? But didn't know if a) IPhones are in the $200 range or b) if she can do a pre-paid situation w/ that...

- Collapse -
I've yet to find an iPhone 4 or better for 200.
by r. proffitt Forum moderator Dec 16, 2015 9:06AM PST

And if they are, usually stolen or issues like this person: http://www.cnet.com/forums/discussions/iphone-4s/

I picked up the BLU Life One on sale for 99.99USD and slipped the GSM Ting card into it. Total outlay with tax was about 129USD and monthly runs about 15 dollars a month (we turned off data and my son makes few phone calls.

Back to Phones forum

CNET Forums

Operating Systems
Software
Electronics & Gadgets
Hardware
Tablets & Mobile Devices
General Help
Brand Forums
Roadshow Autos
Off Topic

Other Forums

Forum Info