Take your cell phone bill for example.
The result is a big monthly expense for most people who use a smartphone.
According to Engadget, thats nowa full two-thirds of us.
But technology is changing this and providing consumers with more options for low-priced, high-quality cell phone service.
Probably not as good as youd like.
It always seems like an uphill battle to build (and keep) a decent amount in savings.
But what if your car breaks down, or you have a sudden medical bill?
Companies like Sprint, which owns discount offshootBoost Mobile, do provide service for a lower rate.
But the service isnt in line with what the premium price buys users.
Peoplecouldreduce their cell phone bills if they were willing to give up their smartphones.
Customers are welcome to bring their own phones to the table, as long as theyre compatible.
Republic got off to a shaky start a few years ago.
As with any offering new to the market, they had their share of glitches to fix.
Customers must buy one of these two phones outright, but never have to sign a contract.
(If youll beselling your old phone, ensure to get as much money as possible for it!)
Republic leases cellular capacity from Sprint, which means their coverage is identical to Sprints (because itisSprints).
The service is highly flexible and customizable to your unique situation.
Because I was previously with Sprint, Ive noticed no change in the quality of service.
In my experience, the transitions between Wi-Fi and cellular service work smoothly.
All customer service is dealt with via email, which may be frustrating for some consumers.
FreedomPop
If a low-cost smartphone plan sounds good, wouldnt afreesmartphone plan sound, well… perfect?
WhileFreedomPoptruly does offer free phone service, it comes with a few caveats.
First, customers will have to provide their own Sprint-supported smartphones.
Second, your free usage is comes with a cap.
FreedomPop also piggybacks on Clearwire in certain areas.
Its only available incertain markets, so check availability on their website.
If you could stay within the usage limits, theres not much thats better than free.
(Like this idea?
Click to tweet it!)
Your Turn: Would you make the switch to one of these carriers?
Have you tried a low-cost carrier before?
Kali Hawlk is a freelance writer and content manager who specializes in helping financial businesses.
(Can you sense my millennial sarcasm there?)
You know which ones were talking about: rent, utilities, cell phone bill, insurance, groceries…
