Is AT&T Wireless the Cheapest Cellphone Service?

AT&T offers an assortment of wireless services, including cell phone services. If you're an AT&T customer or prospective customer, you'll want to know whether your plan is the best one out there. However, since cell phone service providers frequently change their plans, including costs and rebates, providing a definitive answer isn't possible. Instead, here is a guide on how to evaluate your own cell service needs and weigh them against AT&T's current offerings.

The Cost of Data

For an ideal plan, you're only paying for data that you use and rarely going over your monthly data allotment. Take a look at your data usage over time. Most cellular or networked devices have a way to look this up. You can also check your statements. The benefit of looking up this information directly from the device is that you can sometimes also see which apps used the most (and least) data.

Once you have this information, compare it to the service plans AT&T currently offers. If you plan to pay for multiple devices, such as a family plan for phones, tablets and wireless hotspots, don't forget to factor in that data.

The Cost of Your Device(s)

AT&T allows you to purchase your own device from a different retailer or to lease a phone from them. This is an inexpensive way to get the latest model smartphones, as they usually only charge a moderate fee upfront and then a certain amount each month. If you terminate the lease early, you're responsible for either paying the difference in full or returning the device.

If you do want to purchase a new device along with your plan, make sure you check to see how much you will owe on a down payment and how much extra you'll be paying monthly. Take some time to compute the interest as well. Interest payments can add up to 25% to the overall cost of the device.

And don't forget to include the cost of various accessories, such as Bluetooth earbuds, USB keyboards, or screen styli.

Extra Costs

When plan-shopping, account for extra costs. Some examples might be phone insurance, sales tax, service charges, or extra fees if you pay your bill one way instead of the other. These costs can inflate the total phone bill by as much as 33%!

Rebates and Deals

And don't forget to check for deals, too! For example, if a new model iPhone has just been released, you can usually get the last generation's model at a deep discount. Alternatively, if you bring your own device with you while activating a new line, you might get a bill credit. And since AT&T also provides Internet and TV services, you can sometimes find discounted bundles or other types of rebates. An AT&T customer service representative can usually walk you through the rebates you qualify for.