Buy direct from network or from say carphone warehouse?

wannabe_moneysaver

Hi, I was wondering if there is any benefit from buying direct from the network operator or from say carphone warehouse/phones 4 u etc? For example, is it more likely that the handset would be branded with the network logo if bought from the network? Thanks in advance.

Mobile_Mole

wannabe_moneysaver wrote: »

Hi, I was wondering if there is any benefit from buying direct from the network operator or from say carphone warehouse/phones 4 u etc? For example, is it more likely that the handset would be branded with the network logo if bought from the network? Thanks in advance.

A dealer (like CPW or P4U) will tempt you with incentives like cashback or gifts.

The networks will tempt you with tariffs that are only available when you purchase direct.

You are also correct about the branding. There is the possibility (although no certainty) that a handset supplied by a dealer will be unbranded and unlocked.

wannabe_moneysaver

Many thanks for your reply. Think I'd rather have the better tariff. Thanks.

Old_Gold

Mobile_Mole wrote: »

A dealer (like CPW or P4U) will tempt you with incentives like cashback or gifts.

The networks will tempt you with tariffs that are only available when you purchase direct.

You are also correct about the branding. There is the possibility (although no certainty) that a handset supplied by a dealer will be unbranded and unlocked.

Many on here have said that phones from CPW come unlocked depending on the phone and deal. It is most likely that getting a phone direct from the network will land you with a locked phone to their network.

Guys_Dad

wannabe_moneysaver wrote: »

Many thanks for your reply. Think I'd rather have the better tariff. Thanks.

You need to sit down and work out what the net monthly cost will be, taking into account the best network tariff on offer as compared with the best cashback, expressed as a discount over the contract period. On line is almost 100% always cheaper.

Remember that you MUST ensure you claim within the period with the right bills and wisdom on this site recommends staying away from any CPW company and going to a Phones4U offshoot.

If you want to save money, then the best deals should come from retentions from your existing network or a sim-only deal, unless you are struck on a Latest-today (but old hat tomorrow) phone.

And, above all, check that you can receive network coverage at home and whereever you spend most time - don't want to read about the stonking deal you got but no reception in a couple of months on this forum !