Three key phone shopping essentials

1. Don't be a cell phone cheapskate

Because of the way most people buy phones in the U.S. -- under a two-year contract -- chances are that once you commit to a handset, you'll probably have it for a while. Unless you're buying an unlocked device that's not subsidized or a basic feature phone, it makes sense to spend as much as you can. This will help your handset stay fresh for a long time.

2. Know what phone features you want

If you understand exactly what skills and abilities you'd like to see in your new phone, it'll help you avoid paying too much for features you don't want or need.

3. Find the right design

Buying a cell phone means entering a deeply personal relationship with a highly portable physical object. That's why you should think hard about how it's designed, since you and it will be spending plenty of quality time together. Make sure you're comfortable with the way it looks and feels in-hand, and make sure it reflects your sense of style. This holds true whether you use a sleek iPhone, cutting-edge Android, simple flip, or armor-plated rugged handset.