Please help me decide what kind of device to get
September 3, 2013 2:34 PM
Currently I have an extremely cheap, non-smart phone (no apps) with an excellent and highly affordable plan. But my old e-reader broke and rather than get another device which can only read, I want to get a device that has other kinds of apps. I've never owned such a device so I need help deciding. I don't know what options I may be missing.
I've never owned a smartphone or any kind of device that uses apps but I am intrigued by what I see other people doing with them. I would like to: track buses and know when they are coming, plan running routes and track distance, read pdfs and epubs I either download or put on the device, listen to music. I don't even know but the world of apps seems endless.
Options as I see them:
1. Get a smartphone. Smartphones come with plans and they are all much more expensive than what I currently pay ($5 a month). I cannot get a smartphone on my plan. Besides, I really only want data. I really do not need texting or calls because I like my plan, I just want apps. I would consider a smartphone that is data only but I'm having trouble finding things like this (Sprint relay plan is one, but only for the hard of hearing).
2. Get a tablet. They are all quite large, 7-10. I'm not sure how well this would work when most of what I want to do will be outside, particularly jogging.
3. Get an IPOD Touch. I am not familiar with Apple products to the extent I'm not sure I've even seen an Ipod touch in person. However, when I did a search for a small, phone-like device for apps (and music I guess), this came up. I like that I wouldn't have to pay for a plan every month, but there's no internet connection and I'm not sure how to make it work or even if this will do what I want.
Thanks.
I've never owned a smartphone or any kind of device that uses apps but I am intrigued by what I see other people doing with them. I would like to: track buses and know when they are coming, plan running routes and track distance, read pdfs and epubs I either download or put on the device, listen to music. I don't even know but the world of apps seems endless.
Options as I see them:
1. Get a smartphone. Smartphones come with plans and they are all much more expensive than what I currently pay ($5 a month). I cannot get a smartphone on my plan. Besides, I really only want data. I really do not need texting or calls because I like my plan, I just want apps. I would consider a smartphone that is data only but I'm having trouble finding things like this (Sprint relay plan is one, but only for the hard of hearing).
2. Get a tablet. They are all quite large, 7-10. I'm not sure how well this would work when most of what I want to do will be outside, particularly jogging.
3. Get an IPOD Touch. I am not familiar with Apple products to the extent I'm not sure I've even seen an Ipod touch in person. However, when I did a search for a small, phone-like device for apps (and music I guess), this came up. I like that I wouldn't have to pay for a plan every month, but there's no internet connection and I'm not sure how to make it work or even if this will do what I want.
Thanks.
If you do want data, one way to go would be an iPad mini. Not a pocket device, still, but smaller than most tablets, and with data plans starting at $15/month. The iPod Touch doesn't have cellular data.
posted by mr_roboto at 2:51 PM on September 3, 2013
posted by mr_roboto at 2:51 PM on September 3, 2013
I don't care how much the thing costs it's the plan that comes with it that would be a problem. I don't know how to estimate how much data I'd use and unlimited is cost-prohibitive. Also, what do you mean it will work with wifi? A data plan means where-ever I go that has coverage, I don't have to worry about, say, using the app to track when the next bus is coming. But wifi would mean...what exactly? I'd have to be at a hotspot?
My budget is about $300 dollars or around that, to get the device. I could go a little higher. But my monthly budget after this is much tighter.
posted by Danila at 2:54 PM on September 3, 2013
My budget is about $300 dollars or around that, to get the device. I could go a little higher. But my monthly budget after this is much tighter.
posted by Danila at 2:54 PM on September 3, 2013
You could also use something like this along with a smartphone. Just connect the smart phone to the wifi network broadcast by the mobile hotspot device.
posted by mr_roboto at 2:55 PM on September 3, 2013
posted by mr_roboto at 2:55 PM on September 3, 2013
I don't know how well bus app(s) track actual bus progress vs expected bus arrivals in Philly, so I'll let others speak to that, but getting (semi) live bus route information and tracking routes would require some internet access, either via cell phone data plan (it looks like there are some pay-as-you-go plans, but I'm blocked from those sites at the moment) or via WiFi. Here's a site that charts free WiFi spots in Philadelphia and other locations, so you can see if relying on free WiFi is at all realistic.
There are a few competitors to the iPod Touch on the lines of a smart device without the phone elements. Here's a 2011 comparison list, so it's a bit dated, but you could find some good discount/used items from this list. Here's a comparison of products from early 2012, so we're not quite up to the present year, but its closer.
Of course, as brainmouse points out, you could get a smart phone by itself.
As for smart devices themselves, I use my Android-based smartphone to jot quick notes to myself, make a grocery list, take quick pictures, play silly little games, map routes and get directions, look up reviews of restaurants, schedules of events, and check my email. For your own use, think about something spiffy you'd like to do with a small computer, and search for the app and read reviews. This might give you a more personal view of what a smart device could do for you. Heck, people have even made metal detecting apps for smart phones! Note that this is utilizing the built-in magnetometer. What do you want to do with a small hand-held computer? Translate signs in real-time? Sure, let's try it! Think big and wild, and see if there are apps that fit your interest.
posted by filthy light thief at 2:59 PM on September 3, 2013
There are a few competitors to the iPod Touch on the lines of a smart device without the phone elements. Here's a 2011 comparison list, so it's a bit dated, but you could find some good discount/used items from this list. Here's a comparison of products from early 2012, so we're not quite up to the present year, but its closer.
Of course, as brainmouse points out, you could get a smart phone by itself.
As for smart devices themselves, I use my Android-based smartphone to jot quick notes to myself, make a grocery list, take quick pictures, play silly little games, map routes and get directions, look up reviews of restaurants, schedules of events, and check my email. For your own use, think about something spiffy you'd like to do with a small computer, and search for the app and read reviews. This might give you a more personal view of what a smart device could do for you. Heck, people have even made metal detecting apps for smart phones! Note that this is utilizing the built-in magnetometer. What do you want to do with a small hand-held computer? Translate signs in real-time? Sure, let's try it! Think big and wild, and see if there are apps that fit your interest.
posted by filthy light thief at 2:59 PM on September 3, 2013
Also note: if you do get a pay-as-you-go data plan, you'll have to be diligent about keeping your device in WiFi-only mode, and make sure app and system updates are only done on WiFi, along with downloading apps on WiFi, because some of those things can eat data quickly. Of course, there are data manager apps to help you keep track of what your phone is doing and has done.
posted by filthy light thief at 3:00 PM on September 3, 2013
posted by filthy light thief at 3:00 PM on September 3, 2013
Apple's got a special event in about a week-- some rumours are indicating a cheap entry-level phone with retina display, essentially an iPod touch with cellular data (perhaps no amazing camera?). Might be worth holding out to see what's arriving from them as the quality of their app catalog is lightyears ahead of their competitors.
posted by Static Vagabond at 3:07 PM on September 3, 2013
posted by Static Vagabond at 3:07 PM on September 3, 2013
I just recently went to a new smartphone after stepping on my ancient flip phone as I got out of bed.
I have a Nexus 10 and an iPad 2, both of which I received as a K-12 science teacher. I fall on the Google side of the Apple/Google/Microsoft wars, so I kept the Nexus and gave the iPad to my wife. She has an iPhone. I don't know if I'm just prejudiced, or just used to a Google environment, but I hate her gear, but enjoy grabbing the Nexus to use on the front porch or in the kitchen. My go to main computer is a Samsung Chromebook. I don't see any of those options working well for jogging.
When I went to buy a subsidized smart phone from ATT I decided on the Samsung Galaxy Rugby Pro. This model is the rugged, militarized version. I don't jog, but I do enjoy fossil hunting. I wanted something that could take some abuse. It's waterproof to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes, and according to review won't come undone unless you throw it at a concrete wall.
I got the 3 GB data plan from ATT and don't think I will come close to using it. Most of the time I'm within range of a WiFi hotspot--home, work, hotels, most restaurants. Many of the apps I use for fossil hunting can use the GPS on the phone without using any cellular data.
This has replaced a car GPS, a hiking GPS, a point and shoot camera, and serves as mobile computer and phone. It was 99 bucks with a two year plan.
posted by mikecable at 3:08 PM on September 3, 2013
I have a Nexus 10 and an iPad 2, both of which I received as a K-12 science teacher. I fall on the Google side of the Apple/Google/Microsoft wars, so I kept the Nexus and gave the iPad to my wife. She has an iPhone. I don't know if I'm just prejudiced, or just used to a Google environment, but I hate her gear, but enjoy grabbing the Nexus to use on the front porch or in the kitchen. My go to main computer is a Samsung Chromebook. I don't see any of those options working well for jogging.
When I went to buy a subsidized smart phone from ATT I decided on the Samsung Galaxy Rugby Pro. This model is the rugged, militarized version. I don't jog, but I do enjoy fossil hunting. I wanted something that could take some abuse. It's waterproof to 1 meter for up to 30 minutes, and according to review won't come undone unless you throw it at a concrete wall.
I got the 3 GB data plan from ATT and don't think I will come close to using it. Most of the time I'm within range of a WiFi hotspot--home, work, hotels, most restaurants. Many of the apps I use for fossil hunting can use the GPS on the phone without using any cellular data.
This has replaced a car GPS, a hiking GPS, a point and shoot camera, and serves as mobile computer and phone. It was 99 bucks with a two year plan.
posted by mikecable at 3:08 PM on September 3, 2013
I was making a very similar choice last month and ended up with a Nexus 7, which I love and which set me back about $200 for the WiFi only model. I do look up bus info with it, but it can sometimes be a pain in the butt to walk to a WiFi hotspot and then back to the bus stop. Also would look ridiculous jogging. Honestly, if you're happy with your phone then an iPod touch with a 3g connection sounds perfect.
posted by theweasel at 3:20 PM on September 3, 2013
posted by theweasel at 3:20 PM on September 3, 2013
I have an iPod touch. I love it - I have all the apps, and no big monthly bill.
BUT unless I have access to a wireless hotspot, any app that requires Internet access is useless. There are lots of apps that don't need Internet access - I read epubs (screen is too small for PDFs), listen to podcasts and music, play games, make lists, write down knitting patterns, check my contacts. I have also downloaded offline maps. I have access to most of the very large IOS selection.
But I obviously can't check email, twitter, post on metafilter, or check when buses are coming if I'm not at home, or otherwise have access to a wireless hotspot. Also, iPods don't have GPS at all; there are some crude location functions based off wireless networks, but it's not the same.
You have to figure out what will work for you. I am rarely out of a wireless signal - I have it at home, at work, at my favourite hangout spot. And I also have a cheap android which I use to create a hotspot on the road. (it's too dumb to use for much else other than that and, you know, telephone stuff). This works out for me, but I still have to pay $25 for talk/text/data. (Great for Canada, way more than you pay).
posted by jb at 3:24 PM on September 3, 2013
BUT unless I have access to a wireless hotspot, any app that requires Internet access is useless. There are lots of apps that don't need Internet access - I read epubs (screen is too small for PDFs), listen to podcasts and music, play games, make lists, write down knitting patterns, check my contacts. I have also downloaded offline maps. I have access to most of the very large IOS selection.
But I obviously can't check email, twitter, post on metafilter, or check when buses are coming if I'm not at home, or otherwise have access to a wireless hotspot. Also, iPods don't have GPS at all; there are some crude location functions based off wireless networks, but it's not the same.
You have to figure out what will work for you. I am rarely out of a wireless signal - I have it at home, at work, at my favourite hangout spot. And I also have a cheap android which I use to create a hotspot on the road. (it's too dumb to use for much else other than that and, you know, telephone stuff). This works out for me, but I still have to pay $25 for talk/text/data. (Great for Canada, way more than you pay).
posted by jb at 3:24 PM on September 3, 2013
Don't sign a cell phone contract. The cheapest contracts tend to be about $80 per month. They give you a "free" or "low cost" phone, but you're going to pay for the phone plus a huge amount over the long term (generally two year) length of the contract.
You're probably going to get steered to Apple products, which is likely a mistake on your budget. Apple's cheapest phone right now is something like $600, or you sign a contract that's going to cost you $1,000 per year or more for a discount on the phone. The "discount" Apple phone coming out next week will likely cost $399 or more, or you get the $1,000 a year contract to get the phone "free."
Nearly everyone buys phones on contract like this, and it's a bad deal for people who don't have a lot of money.
If you want a smartphone, you can get a two or three year old Android phone (that will run lots and lots of apps) on eBay for $100 to $150. There are businesses called MVNOs that resell cellular phone and data service from major carriers for far, far less money.
Straight Talk offers unlimited minutes, texts and 1.0 to 1.5 GB of data on AT&T's network for $47 per month. Too much? TMobile offers a plan wih 100 minutes, unlimited text and 5GB of data for $30 per month.
Still too much? Ting uses the Sprint network and everything is pay as you go. If you don't use many minutes or texts, you pay almost nothing for them. Ting also sells relatively low cost smartphones, so you don't have to deal with eBay. Sprint's network isn't the best, but that's all relative. It should serve your needs without too much of a problem.
One thing to keep in mind is that a cell phone plan that includes more minutes can enable you to get rid of your home phone, saving money.
posted by cnc at 3:35 PM on September 3, 2013
You're probably going to get steered to Apple products, which is likely a mistake on your budget. Apple's cheapest phone right now is something like $600, or you sign a contract that's going to cost you $1,000 per year or more for a discount on the phone. The "discount" Apple phone coming out next week will likely cost $399 or more, or you get the $1,000 a year contract to get the phone "free."
Nearly everyone buys phones on contract like this, and it's a bad deal for people who don't have a lot of money.
If you want a smartphone, you can get a two or three year old Android phone (that will run lots and lots of apps) on eBay for $100 to $150. There are businesses called MVNOs that resell cellular phone and data service from major carriers for far, far less money.
Straight Talk offers unlimited minutes, texts and 1.0 to 1.5 GB of data on AT&T's network for $47 per month. Too much? TMobile offers a plan wih 100 minutes, unlimited text and 5GB of data for $30 per month.
Still too much? Ting uses the Sprint network and everything is pay as you go. If you don't use many minutes or texts, you pay almost nothing for them. Ting also sells relatively low cost smartphones, so you don't have to deal with eBay. Sprint's network isn't the best, but that's all relative. It should serve your needs without too much of a problem.
One thing to keep in mind is that a cell phone plan that includes more minutes can enable you to get rid of your home phone, saving money.
posted by cnc at 3:35 PM on September 3, 2013
I have a refurbished iPad mini. The Apple refurbs are great. If you want all the time 3g (or 4g or whatever) access, you can get the iPad with a data plan (that I believe costs $20 or $30 a month).
I had a full sized iPad, and I have NO regrets going to a mini. It is comparable size wise with an older Kindle, and I use it in place of a computer when I am not at home.
posted by bibliogrrl at 3:39 PM on September 3, 2013
I had a full sized iPad, and I have NO regrets going to a mini. It is comparable size wise with an older Kindle, and I use it in place of a computer when I am not at home.
posted by bibliogrrl at 3:39 PM on September 3, 2013
I have an iPhone on a (loophole) prepaid plan, and these days you can get several prepaid plans that work with iPhones. If you're mostly in range of WiFi networks like I am, I recommend them. (I have WiFi at home and work - only use cellular data when I travel - so it works very well for me.)
My wife has an iPad 3 - we paid extra for the version with a cellular radio. We've never used the cellular data capability, nor do we plan to, but the cellular radio also enables GPS on the device, so it can be used with pre-cached maps using apps from Apple, Google, or "true" GPS providers like Motion-X.
An iPod Touch is a fantastic device, but for your use case, you'd need to have accessible WiFi everywhere. Do you? If not, it probably won't work.
I think an iPhone on a prepaid plan is your best bet - but as others said upthread, wait to see what Apple offers as far as the iPhone 5C is concerned before you buy.
posted by RedOrGreen at 3:40 PM on September 3, 2013
My wife has an iPad 3 - we paid extra for the version with a cellular radio. We've never used the cellular data capability, nor do we plan to, but the cellular radio also enables GPS on the device, so it can be used with pre-cached maps using apps from Apple, Google, or "true" GPS providers like Motion-X.
An iPod Touch is a fantastic device, but for your use case, you'd need to have accessible WiFi everywhere. Do you? If not, it probably won't work.
I think an iPhone on a prepaid plan is your best bet - but as others said upthread, wait to see what Apple offers as far as the iPhone 5C is concerned before you buy.
posted by RedOrGreen at 3:40 PM on September 3, 2013
(Although an iPad Mini might do the trick too if you bought it with cellular capability. Look for new product announcements Real Soon Now.)
posted by RedOrGreen at 3:41 PM on September 3, 2013
posted by RedOrGreen at 3:41 PM on September 3, 2013
Adding - given your budgetary limitations, be aware that the Apple iPad Mini (tablet) that can be used with a data plan that people are recommending costs $460. Google makes a competing product (Nexus 7) with a far, far better screen for $349. The lowest end iPad Mini is $329. Again, Google's Nexus 7 (tablet) is similar and has a much better screen for $100 less.
posted by cnc at 3:45 PM on September 3, 2013
posted by cnc at 3:45 PM on September 3, 2013
The Nexus 7 is actually $229! The single best value in all of technology right now. I just used one and my jaw dropped at the screen and horsepower on such a cheap device.
From what you've said, I would suggest a Nexus 7 and a "hot spot" device of some kind. FreedomPop offers a crazy cheap option for 4G data. Works well here in Seattle.
No reason to get a smartphone as your current plan + a freedom pop will be MUCH cheaper and offer you a better solution.
posted by lattiboy at 3:51 PM on September 3, 2013
From what you've said, I would suggest a Nexus 7 and a "hot spot" device of some kind. FreedomPop offers a crazy cheap option for 4G data. Works well here in Seattle.
No reason to get a smartphone as your current plan + a freedom pop will be MUCH cheaper and offer you a better solution.
posted by lattiboy at 3:51 PM on September 3, 2013
I have wifi in my apartment, my main issue with this device is when I go out. A Nexus 7 is a tablet, right? That would be a good tablet option except it won't fit in my pocket and I'm wary about pulling a tablet out on the streets in my neighborhood. They just seem large to me but it may be because I'm not used to it.
I am concerned about the iPod's lack of GPS. I was going to get the Bad Elf GPS device to go with it. But that doesn't solve the issue of wondering whether or not there is wifi where I will be. A mobile hotspot would resolve that issue, so long as I can find something under 40 per month. But then, not being able to read PDFs is a dealbreaker! It might be a lot to make that work.
TMobile offers a plan wih 100 minutes, unlimited text and 5GB of data for $30 per month.
I was just reading about this plan. But I can't see how to find smartphones that will work with this. Will any smartphone work with Tmobile? On the website you can't actually choose this plan and a phone to go with it, for some reason.
posted by Danila at 3:59 PM on September 3, 2013
I am concerned about the iPod's lack of GPS. I was going to get the Bad Elf GPS device to go with it. But that doesn't solve the issue of wondering whether or not there is wifi where I will be. A mobile hotspot would resolve that issue, so long as I can find something under 40 per month. But then, not being able to read PDFs is a dealbreaker! It might be a lot to make that work.
TMobile offers a plan wih 100 minutes, unlimited text and 5GB of data for $30 per month.
I was just reading about this plan. But I can't see how to find smartphones that will work with this. Will any smartphone work with Tmobile? On the website you can't actually choose this plan and a phone to go with it, for some reason.
posted by Danila at 3:59 PM on September 3, 2013
Ooh, didn't know there wasn't a 3g option on the touch. In which case, let me strengthen my Nexus 7 rec - it IS a tablet, though it's paperback book sized (I think they even make covers that look like books, which might allay your security concerns a little). What I did was search for a deal on the original model (2011? All I know is they came out with a new one recently, which means the older model can be found for less. The main difference in the online reviews I found is the lack of front facing camera which, whatever, I have a camera). It is not the kind of thing you clip to your belt, but it's fast, Android (upgraded to jellybean) is both newbie friendly and endlessly adaptable to your needs. And if you get pay as you go 3g, you can be careful to switch it on only when you need it and cut the costs.
Mine is my first "smart" ANYTHING, and honestly it's almost scary how fast I've adapted to having it all the time....
posted by theweasel at 4:12 PM on September 3, 2013
Mine is my first "smart" ANYTHING, and honestly it's almost scary how fast I've adapted to having it all the time....
posted by theweasel at 4:12 PM on September 3, 2013
A few years back when I was getting my first smart device, I went with a wi-fi iPod. At first I loved it and all the apps, but eventually the lack of mobile data really got to be a pain. Bus tracking alone makes having some kind of 3/4G worthwhile. Once I got a (less powerful) smartphone, that was basically all I used.
Right now, I'm on Ting, and with moderate texts, call, and data usage, I run about $20/month. If you don't text or call, that might drop to ~$12 (their site has an better bill estimator.) They way they do their buckets is really nice - you can select the lowest one (lowest is $0) and they only charge you for the next tier up if you overfill.
That said, I also have a (2013) Nexus 7, and it's amazing! Great for reading, and with a mobile hotspot, it'd do everything I ever want. It's SMALL too - about 4-3/8" wide, and super thin. It fits in both my front and rear pants pockets if I take the case off. I'd highly recommend it. Also as a Google device it runs a really clean version of Android without a lot of the junky "features" that other devices come loaded up with.
posted by Wulfhere at 4:18 PM on September 3, 2013
Right now, I'm on Ting, and with moderate texts, call, and data usage, I run about $20/month. If you don't text or call, that might drop to ~$12 (their site has an better bill estimator.) They way they do their buckets is really nice - you can select the lowest one (lowest is $0) and they only charge you for the next tier up if you overfill.
That said, I also have a (2013) Nexus 7, and it's amazing! Great for reading, and with a mobile hotspot, it'd do everything I ever want. It's SMALL too - about 4-3/8" wide, and super thin. It fits in both my front and rear pants pockets if I take the case off. I'd highly recommend it. Also as a Google device it runs a really clean version of Android without a lot of the junky "features" that other devices come loaded up with.
posted by Wulfhere at 4:18 PM on September 3, 2013
I had an iPod touch for a few years, but recently bought a secondhand iPhone 4 via Craigslist and activated it on PagePlus using their smallest monthly plan which is $12.99 a month. That plan includes a base 10MB of data per month, which is only enough to check email occasionally and open a few web pages. Data overages are 10 cents/MB, so if I use 30MB then the monthly cost is $15 instead of $13. I wouldn't download apps or stream music or video over the cellular connection, but for occasional utilitarian purposes like email, navigation or looking up a restaurant review, it's fine. My only regret is that I should've spent a bit more and bought an iPhone 4s rather than the 4. The model I got has antenna problems that mean it doesn't cope well with weak cellular or wifi signals.
posted by jon1270 at 4:39 PM on September 3, 2013
posted by jon1270 at 4:39 PM on September 3, 2013
Let me be a third voice in favor of ting if you do want to make calls via cellular. My referral code will get you $25 off a device Their line-up is basically Android plus a Windows 8 phone.
I take some degree of care with my data usage, and it's always under 500MB/month, but usually above 100MB. And you have the option to disable data entirely for your device, and just use it on wifi, or to pull the plug at 100MB (100MB is $3 and 500MB is $13). Plug your texting and talking figures into their usage calculator and see how you make out. You won't get down to $5 a month but you can do OK. ($15/month plus taxes for the lowest levels of talk, text, and data)
Neither my phone nor my wife's phone is currently in the new device line-up, but check out their used devices page (where the referral code doesn't help with the price, but the prices are much lower) to respect your $300 budget. Samsung Galaxy S2 was a hot phone when it came out, though it's now two models old…
posted by jepler at 5:16 PM on September 3, 2013
I take some degree of care with my data usage, and it's always under 500MB/month, but usually above 100MB. And you have the option to disable data entirely for your device, and just use it on wifi, or to pull the plug at 100MB (100MB is $3 and 500MB is $13). Plug your texting and talking figures into their usage calculator and see how you make out. You won't get down to $5 a month but you can do OK. ($15/month plus taxes for the lowest levels of talk, text, and data)
Neither my phone nor my wife's phone is currently in the new device line-up, but check out their used devices page (where the referral code doesn't help with the price, but the prices are much lower) to respect your $300 budget. Samsung Galaxy S2 was a hot phone when it came out, though it's now two models old…
posted by jepler at 5:16 PM on September 3, 2013
@lattiboy The Nexus 7 with LTE is $349. The $229 model is Wifi-only.
@Danila - re: the TMobile plan. You are looking for an unlocked GSM (that's the network type) phone or a T-Mobile phone. Any of the phones on this T-Mobile page would work with that plan. You'll have to click each one to see the price.
Amazon also sells unlocked phones, which will work, as will no contract phones that are T-Mobile phones. (Remember the T-Mobile part if you're going no-contract and you pick that T_Mobile plan).
Like some other folks have mentioned, Ting might be the way to go to save you money and hassle. It's one stop shopping, inexpensive and doesn't require you to sign up for a contract.
posted by cnc at 5:17 PM on September 3, 2013
@Danila - re: the TMobile plan. You are looking for an unlocked GSM (that's the network type) phone or a T-Mobile phone. Any of the phones on this T-Mobile page would work with that plan. You'll have to click each one to see the price.
Amazon also sells unlocked phones, which will work, as will no contract phones that are T-Mobile phones. (Remember the T-Mobile part if you're going no-contract and you pick that T_Mobile plan).
Like some other folks have mentioned, Ting might be the way to go to save you money and hassle. It's one stop shopping, inexpensive and doesn't require you to sign up for a contract.
posted by cnc at 5:17 PM on September 3, 2013
I got a used, refurbished iPhone (3G, but that was two years ago - the 4 was just about to come out) for $200 or $250. No contract. I put in a T-Mobile SIM card, with the cheapest, pre-paid plan. No data plan. I have a land line at home (soooo much better for actual conversation), so I don't use the phone unless I'm out or need to text someone, but I've paid ~$10/month for this.
You'll pay more if you make more calls. Text messages are inexpensive.
I read books when I'm out, and look at maps before I drive places, and I don't miss the data plan at all. It's nice to have at home or when I've got time at a cafe with free WiFi, though. Sometimes I do a crossword on it at night.
The main reason I bought it was to have resources for practicing and looking up foreign language vocabulary when traveling. I paid a little money for a good French-Englisn/English-French dictionary app, and less money for a couple of quiz apps, and they were extremely helpful. They don't need to have an active connection to work (the information is stored on the device).
*** I think that apps that can be used offline are better for you as a user (you have more control, it will work even if you get no cell reception, they use less battery power in network traffic), and probably for the whole system (less net traffic, less power used)..
posted by amtho at 5:27 PM on September 3, 2013
I'd recommend T-Mobile's $30 plan and that you buy either a Samsung Galaxy S2* (from Amazon or Walmart) or if you want something cheaper, a starter smart phone like this one or this one (I wouldn't go below Android 4.0 on any device). You'd also need to buy a T-Mobile activation kit. Once you received both the phone and the kit, you would go here to activate onto whatever plan you've decide to go with. I use the $30 5GB data/100 minutes talk, because data is more important to me than minutes, especially since I can use data or wifi to make phone calls.
I don't think tablets or an iPod touch would make sense considering your use for the device.
*I've never had a Galaxy S2 so I can't swear that it doesn't suck, but I did have a Galaxy S3 and I now have a Galaxy Note II, and I've been quite enamored with those two Samsung Galaxy phones.
posted by eunoia at 5:37 PM on September 3, 2013
I don't think tablets or an iPod touch would make sense considering your use for the device.
*I've never had a Galaxy S2 so I can't swear that it doesn't suck, but I did have a Galaxy S3 and I now have a Galaxy Note II, and I've been quite enamored with those two Samsung Galaxy phones.
posted by eunoia at 5:37 PM on September 3, 2013
I love Ting's pricing, mind you, but I did find the Sprint network data coverage less robust than I had with VirginMobile on older technology. Make sure you check RootMetrics, OpenSignal, or one of the others (can't recall name) where you can get pretty granular maps of both voice and data coverage before you make the leap.
posted by dhartung at 5:39 PM on September 3, 2013
posted by dhartung at 5:39 PM on September 3, 2013
Nexus 7, Nexus 7, Nexus 7. I love my first generation one so much that I've just upgraded to the second generation one and my wife has taken the old one. She's Apple the whole way, but after a week, loves it and the iPad got left behind for the trip we're currently on in favour of the Nexus 7. I've demonstrated it to a few people over the year and the vast majority of them have gone on to buy it for themselves. At $229, it is an absolute bargain.
posted by arcticseal at 7:34 PM on September 3, 2013
posted by arcticseal at 7:34 PM on September 3, 2013
Danila: "Will any smartphone work with Tmobile? On the website you can't actually choose this plan and a phone to go with it, for some reason."
I am using this plan currently. Its a sim only plan. You need to buy the phone separately. it works beautifully for my needs. I use another cheap phone for talking.
This plan would work with any "GSM" marked phone.From the looks of it, you are looking for something rugged and lots of battery life and easy to use.
There are various websites which can help you choose phones as per the features you need. If you find them too complicated, Amazon and Ebay also have cell phone feature selection criteria where you can set a maximum price and then fliter among various features.
posted by TheLittlePrince at 8:05 PM on September 3, 2013
I am using this plan currently. Its a sim only plan. You need to buy the phone separately. it works beautifully for my needs. I use another cheap phone for talking.
This plan would work with any "GSM" marked phone.From the looks of it, you are looking for something rugged and lots of battery life and easy to use.
There are various websites which can help you choose phones as per the features you need. If you find them too complicated, Amazon and Ebay also have cell phone feature selection criteria where you can set a maximum price and then fliter among various features.
posted by TheLittlePrince at 8:05 PM on September 3, 2013
T mobile is different from the others now that the plan is separate from the phone. But yes, going for their $30 per month plan is probably best. If you go in the store they'll have some phones there that work on T-Mobile.
I personally use the Google Nexus 4 as my smartphone (on t mobile) and love it. It is cheap but powerful.
When you're at home, you can use wifi. When out and about use data.
posted by k8t at 8:32 PM on September 3, 2013
I personally use the Google Nexus 4 as my smartphone (on t mobile) and love it. It is cheap but powerful.
When you're at home, you can use wifi. When out and about use data.
posted by k8t at 8:32 PM on September 3, 2013
Perhaps it makes sense to keep your current phone and plan for voice and text and just add a 7" tablet with a data-only plan. You might also look into prepaid data plans. To get a tablet with gps, you often need to buy the model that gets cellular data, not the wifi-only model. Google recently released an updated version of the Nexus 7, so last year's model should be a good value. Apple will probably release an upgrade to the iPad mini later this year.
posted by conrad53 at 9:38 PM on September 3, 2013
posted by conrad53 at 9:38 PM on September 3, 2013
I'm not certain you'll be able to do everything you want with a single device.
track buses and know when they are coming, plan running routes and track distance, read pdfs and epubs I either download or put on the device, listen to music.
A small tablet is going to be ideal for most of that as most have said, though I might consider a large phone as well---my wife loves her Samsung Note 2 for a similar list of tasks. That's a phone though, with all those extra costs you don't want.
I do think you may want to consider a second device to have with you when you run. For fitness tracking, you may want to use something like a fitbit. If you want to listen to music while you run, that's more tricky, and would likely still need a dedicated player of some kind, unless you want to run with a half-pound device in a waist pack or something. No really great options there, I think, though the ipods are still kings of that segment.
Note though, this second device thing is ripe for improvement. Apple and Samsung are both just about to announce satellite "smartwatches". The Pebble is an early version, but will not do what you want. Fitness tracking (GPS, pedometer, etc...) hasn't yet been integrated with the smartwatch idea. These things are close to what you might want, but we won't find out for a few more weeks. Something to keep an eye on, maybe.
posted by bonehead at 8:28 AM on September 4, 2013
track buses and know when they are coming, plan running routes and track distance, read pdfs and epubs I either download or put on the device, listen to music.
A small tablet is going to be ideal for most of that as most have said, though I might consider a large phone as well---my wife loves her Samsung Note 2 for a similar list of tasks. That's a phone though, with all those extra costs you don't want.
I do think you may want to consider a second device to have with you when you run. For fitness tracking, you may want to use something like a fitbit. If you want to listen to music while you run, that's more tricky, and would likely still need a dedicated player of some kind, unless you want to run with a half-pound device in a waist pack or something. No really great options there, I think, though the ipods are still kings of that segment.
Note though, this second device thing is ripe for improvement. Apple and Samsung are both just about to announce satellite "smartwatches". The Pebble is an early version, but will not do what you want. Fitness tracking (GPS, pedometer, etc...) hasn't yet been integrated with the smartwatch idea. These things are close to what you might want, but we won't find out for a few more weeks. Something to keep an eye on, maybe.
posted by bonehead at 8:28 AM on September 4, 2013
One other consideration: battery life. Both the small tablets and the large phones (Note 2) really shine here. Smaller phones have smaller batteries and can struggle to get through a day. The larger devices seem to have much longer useful battery capacities.
posted by bonehead at 8:49 AM on September 4, 2013
posted by bonehead at 8:49 AM on September 4, 2013
Your best option in my opinion is get a decent smartphone( Samsung SII etc) along with the Freedom Pop 500mb for free. Isnt that much but for downloading books and maps you should be fine.
Does all of the requirements in the cheapest way possible. would like to: track buses and know when they are coming, plan running routes and track distance, read pdfs and epubs I either download or put on the device, listen to music.
if you want to get extra convienience - Much more extra data (5GB) $30/month walmart tmobile plan would be perfect. Look for Tmobile version or get unlocked version of smartphone. Insert SIM ..enjoy!
posted by radsqd at 8:53 AM on September 4, 2013
Does all of the requirements in the cheapest way possible. would like to: track buses and know when they are coming, plan running routes and track distance, read pdfs and epubs I either download or put on the device, listen to music.
if you want to get extra convienience - Much more extra data (5GB) $30/month walmart tmobile plan would be perfect. Look for Tmobile version or get unlocked version of smartphone. Insert SIM ..enjoy!
posted by radsqd at 8:53 AM on September 4, 2013
I would like to: track buses and know when they are coming, plan running routes and track distance, read pdfs and epubs I either download or put on the device, listen to music.
There's no one device that will be good for all these things.
For checking on buses, tracking running etc you'd probably want a smartphone of some kind, so you can have internet connection wherever you need it, and GPS for location-based stuff.
Smartphones are very bad for reading PDFs which are designed for much larger screens and although you can zoom the page that leads to an intolerable amount of panning around as you try to read it. Smartphones can be ok for reading epubs though.
Tablets are much better for reading, but I presume you wouldn't want to take one running. Esp as for reading PDFs, the bigger the screen the better, and even 7" could be on the tight side for that.
You might want to consider splitting your budget, and getting a pay-as-you-go smartphone along with a budget tablet or e-reader. Something like a Lumia 520 or 620 plus a Nook HD isn't going to cost any more than an iPad Mini on its own for example, and would work out a lot cheaper than an iPhone with a monthly plan.
posted by philipy at 7:05 PM on September 4, 2013
There's no one device that will be good for all these things.
For checking on buses, tracking running etc you'd probably want a smartphone of some kind, so you can have internet connection wherever you need it, and GPS for location-based stuff.
Smartphones are very bad for reading PDFs which are designed for much larger screens and although you can zoom the page that leads to an intolerable amount of panning around as you try to read it. Smartphones can be ok for reading epubs though.
Tablets are much better for reading, but I presume you wouldn't want to take one running. Esp as for reading PDFs, the bigger the screen the better, and even 7" could be on the tight side for that.
You might want to consider splitting your budget, and getting a pay-as-you-go smartphone along with a budget tablet or e-reader. Something like a Lumia 520 or 620 plus a Nook HD isn't going to cost any more than an iPad Mini on its own for example, and would work out a lot cheaper than an iPhone with a monthly plan.
posted by philipy at 7:05 PM on September 4, 2013
I think I will just have to pay a monthly fee of some kind but it really has to be under $35. I'd have to use software to convert my pdfs to epubs I guess for any smartphone. It's just that my college textbooks are almost always pdfs. Well the options as I see them (Ipod touch no longer an option):
1. Buy a smartphone and get the Tmobile 30 plan. I've seen a lot of conflicting information on the net as to which phones exactly this will work with. The secrecy of this plan makes me very unconfident in purchasing.
2. Get a used Samsung SII with the Ting plan. I like this better than the T mobile plan because I'm wary of companies that try to hide things and also because I can just get the phone with the plan. I also like how flexible it is. Everyone in my family has Sprint coverage and I know it sucks.
3. Get a tablet along with some kind of mobile hotspot, such as offered by Freedompop. I will go to a store and see what size this nexus tablet is. Even if it's small enough I'm still very unsure this will do GPS?
4. Get an ereader and a phone.
posted by Danila at 10:28 AM on September 5, 2013
1. Buy a smartphone and get the Tmobile 30 plan. I've seen a lot of conflicting information on the net as to which phones exactly this will work with. The secrecy of this plan makes me very unconfident in purchasing.
2. Get a used Samsung SII with the Ting plan. I like this better than the T mobile plan because I'm wary of companies that try to hide things and also because I can just get the phone with the plan. I also like how flexible it is. Everyone in my family has Sprint coverage and I know it sucks.
3. Get a tablet along with some kind of mobile hotspot, such as offered by Freedompop. I will go to a store and see what size this nexus tablet is. Even if it's small enough I'm still very unsure this will do GPS?
4. Get an ereader and a phone.
posted by Danila at 10:28 AM on September 5, 2013
The N7 devices have GPS, as does the iPad mini, I believe. The really cheap no-name tablets, however, I would not be sure of.
Google maps mostly require a full-time net connection, though there is some ability to do small areas off line. Stand alone maps programs however wok just fine with the GPS and not net connection at all. GPS doesn't need phone, data, or wifi connections, but can use them to improve accuracy.
posted by bonehead at 10:46 AM on September 5, 2013
Google maps mostly require a full-time net connection, though there is some ability to do small areas off line. Stand alone maps programs however wok just fine with the GPS and not net connection at all. GPS doesn't need phone, data, or wifi connections, but can use them to improve accuracy.
posted by bonehead at 10:46 AM on September 5, 2013
I'd have to use software to convert my pdfs to epubs I guess for any smartphone.... my college textbooks are almost always pdfs
I do a fair amount of format converting of ebooks, and I have to warn you, the results of converting from PDF can be pretty mixed, especially if the book has diagrams, images, multi-column text etc. Even with perfectly simple novels there can be pretty annoying niggles, including missing or throwing in para breaks, not picking up that sections should have been in italics, and messing up accented characters.
If that's going to be important to you, download calibre and see how well it works out on your books before you decide to rely on converting.
N7 devices have GPS, as does the iPad mini... Google maps mostly require a full-time net connection, though there is some ability to do small areas off line
The cheapest iPad Mini does not have GPS, only the costlier models with 3G/4G do. The Nexus 7 does have GPS, but a lot of Android tablets don't.
Unless there have been updates since I looked, Google Maps is pretty useless without an internet connection. You can download bits of map to your device but you can't do much with them, not even search for a street name to find out where you are on the map. It's a lot like having a paper map but with no index to look places up.
One nice thing about Nokia Lumias is that they are designed to be able to do navigation and other map-based stuff without an internet connection. However being Windows Phones they don't have as big an app selection as Android or iPhone.
Nice review of Nokia offline navigation here, by a guy who did a 1,900 mile trip including hiking in remote places with no cell coverage.
posted by philipy at 12:49 PM on September 5, 2013
I do a fair amount of format converting of ebooks, and I have to warn you, the results of converting from PDF can be pretty mixed, especially if the book has diagrams, images, multi-column text etc. Even with perfectly simple novels there can be pretty annoying niggles, including missing or throwing in para breaks, not picking up that sections should have been in italics, and messing up accented characters.
If that's going to be important to you, download calibre and see how well it works out on your books before you decide to rely on converting.
N7 devices have GPS, as does the iPad mini... Google maps mostly require a full-time net connection, though there is some ability to do small areas off line
The cheapest iPad Mini does not have GPS, only the costlier models with 3G/4G do. The Nexus 7 does have GPS, but a lot of Android tablets don't.
Unless there have been updates since I looked, Google Maps is pretty useless without an internet connection. You can download bits of map to your device but you can't do much with them, not even search for a street name to find out where you are on the map. It's a lot like having a paper map but with no index to look places up.
One nice thing about Nokia Lumias is that they are designed to be able to do navigation and other map-based stuff without an internet connection. However being Windows Phones they don't have as big an app selection as Android or iPhone.
Nice review of Nokia offline navigation here, by a guy who did a 1,900 mile trip including hiking in remote places with no cell coverage.
posted by philipy at 12:49 PM on September 5, 2013
After going to Gamestop to see the Nexus 7, it seems just a little bit large but slim. It could work with a good-sized tight jogging belt/fanny pack.
I also think the Samsung Galaxy Note 2 is a good option because it is like five inches which is large for a phone and does well for reading. It can be used with just wifi and work as a mini tablet. If searching carefully on Ebay for one with a clean ESN, I think this can also be used with a service like Ting.
posted by Danila at 8:31 AM on September 10, 2013
I also think the Samsung Galaxy Note 2 is a good option because it is like five inches which is large for a phone and does well for reading. It can be used with just wifi and work as a mini tablet. If searching carefully on Ebay for one with a clean ESN, I think this can also be used with a service like Ting.
posted by Danila at 8:31 AM on September 10, 2013
I got the Nexus 7 and I think it's a good size and so lightweight. It does everything I want except help me track running distance. As a member of Xfinity I can find hotspots in most places I need to and I can track my buses if I stand in one place but I don't have consistent wifi without some kind of plan so running won't work. It made school and research easier using evernote and the moon reader pro app. It is a little too big for a ladies pocket but it can fit in the pocket of my big coat and would probably fit in a fannypack type thing. The fact that it is light helps immensely.
posted by Danila at 11:54 AM on December 24, 2013
posted by Danila at 11:54 AM on December 24, 2013
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posted by brainmouse at 2:41 PM on September 3, 2013