: In Canada, as of December 2017, all new phones must be sold unlocked by law.
: Carriers often offer gift cards or account credits (sometimes over 18–36 months) for new subscribers. 2. Identify Your Needs (The "Big Three" Features)
In 2017, the landscape of buying a cell phone is shifting away from traditional two-year contracts toward more flexible options. Whether you are looking for a flagship powerhouse like the or a value-driven hero like the Motorola Moto G5 Plus , 1. Choose Your Buying Method: Carrier vs. Outright best way to buy a cell phone 2017
: Purchasing a phone at its full retail value from manufacturers like Apple or Samsung or retailers like Best Buy gives you the most freedom.
: You aren't tied to a 24-month contract and can switch carriers whenever a better deal appears. : In Canada, as of December 2017, all
Don't pay for specs you won't use. Focus on these 2017 benchmarks: 9 Tips to Get the Best Price on a Cell Phone | PCMag
The "best" way to buy depends on whether you want to pay upfront or over time. Identify Your Needs (The "Big Three" Features) In
: You pay $0 or a small amount down and spread the remaining cost over 24 months interest-free.