This Is Where to Buy Your Next Smartphone

There's never been a wider choice when it comes to choosing where to buy a smartphone. Popular options include manufacturers, retailers, and cell carriers. Yet, not all of these are created equal. Find out why as we take an in-depth look at where to buy smartphones for sale in 2021.

Many of today's most popular smartphones are available for purchase directly from the manufacturer. Apple, Samsung, Google, OnePlus, and more all sell directly to consumers via their websites. Dealing directly with any manufacturer has a number of pros and cons. Thankfully, more often than not, the positives outweigh the negatives.

For example, manufacturers invariably have more stock of their products than anyone else. Many manufacturers also offer a range of trade-in options. By trading in an old handset, it's possible to save significantly on the cost of a new smartphone.

At the same time, you may be less likely to get a deal by going straight to the source. Apple is a great case in point, rarely discounting any of its products. That said, other brands are sometimes more generous, so it can still pay to look for special offers directly from manufacturers like Google and Samsung.

Today, big-box retailers are an obvious choice when looking to buy countless popular products. Smartphones are no exception, and stores, including Best Buy and Walmart, sell huge numbers from major brands every year.

Big-box retailers typically have one notable advantage over buying directly from a manufacturer, and that's convenience. Whether online or in-store, retailers are invariably more accessible. By visiting a store, it's possible to buy a smartphone immediately. By contrast, choosing to go straight to the source usually means a delay of at least a few days.

Unless your chosen manufacturer has a store locally, which is somewhere that Apple excels, heading to a big-box retailer's nearest location in person is arguably the quickest way to get your hands on a new device. However, beware of their efforts to upsell unnecessary add-ons.

Big-box retailers are notorious for selling hugely expensive extended warranty packages and service contracts. Buyers should avoid betting pulled into overpriced warranties offered at check-out.

Another popular way to buy a new smartphone is from a cell carrier such as Verizon, T-Mobile, or AT&T. These companies routinely offer seemingly heavily discounted smartphones, including the latest models like the OnePlus Nord 2 and Samsung's Galaxy S21 5G.

Unfortunately, these are rarely, if ever, truly discounted. Instead, buyers are charged the full amount and more through a network's accompanying installment and connected device plans. When buying a smartphone from a cell carrier, pay close attention to the monthly cost. Also, be sure to double-check the length of any agreement, which could last for several years.

Much akin to big-box retailers, the same companies are similarly well-known for trying to push vastly overpriced extended warranties, service contracts, and insurance policies. It's almost always best to avoid these.

An increasingly popular way to buy a smartphone is from a company like Amazon. Amazon and other big online-only stores combine a number of advantages and disadvantages.

Choose a trusted online retailer, and it's possible to get a great deal, especially on previous-generation smartphones. With fast, free delivery generally included, it can be an excellent way to save money. On the other hand, delays, returns, and other potential issues can be difficult to manage.

Accordingly, it's important to weigh up these and any other potential pitfalls, particularly compared to dealing directly with Apple or another manufacturer.

Of course, these aren't the only ways to buy smartphones for sale. Many buyers have great success elsewhere, including local Facebook groups plus websites such as eBay and other online marketplaces. A growing number of people also continue to turn to businesses dealing in second-hand and refurbished devices. Sadly, most of these lack much of the consumer protection afforded to buyers elsewhere.

Moreover, turning to social media and other less legitimate online sources involves running the risk of becoming wrapped up in a scam. As such, it's very much a case of buyer beware, and, with that, undoubtedly a better idea to choose between the infinitely more reputable choices outlined above.

Rather than purchasing overpriced warranties at the check-out counter, customers should choose Upsie. Upsie’s subscription warranties for smartphones cost just $9.99 per month. What's more, all of Upsie's smartphone warranties include comprehensive accidental damage protection, among many other benefits.

Upsie has warranties options available for both new and old devices. In addition, they cover manufacturer defects, mechanical failures, and accidental damage. Customers can also file claims 24/7/365, ensuring that your device is fixed as quickly as possible.

Don't overpay for warranties sold under pressure by manufacturers, retailers, and other providers. Simply say no to these unnecessarily costly plans when buying a new phone. Instead, purchase an Upsie warranty.