Post: #1

I am using sprint right now and tired of paying almost $100 a month.
Like everyone else, I use mostly for txting and data.

I am looking at non major carriers like boost mobile and virgin mobile who use sprint network but charges almost half.

I am worried about its image though.

I remember my friend said how ghetto it was to use carriers like cricket (no offense)
I had a business in the same plaza as cricket and yes I saw lots of unappealing people. The landlord was even considering not renewing the lease because of typee of the crowd they bring.

I think majority of people choose to go with major carriers because of those negative image in non major carriers even though they offer the same service.


Am I caring about this too much?

Post: #2

Yes.

When you talk on the phone or use it to browse the internet, no one is peeking over your shoulder to see if you might be using a "ghetto" carrier.

The only thing you should be caring about is reliability, i.e. if that cheapness comes at the cost of poor coverage or billing problems. If there are no indications of that, I don't see why its image would be a problem. Let their marketing department worry about that.

Post: #3

I've used straight talk for months. 45 a month and use att service. only problem I ever had was then making me pay for a replacement SIM card.
unlimited talk text and data

besides that I use att towers. get awesome service everywhere and it auto pays, so I don't worry about but cards at stores.

no contract so I can drop it when I want

Post: #4

Nothing wrong with it. I really like Cricket which only has service in major metropolitan areas.

I just don't like the lack of major coverage outside of the cities. Verizon for me.

Post: #5

I've been using bargain carriers for years for texting game. Your concerns were probably valid five years ago. At this point, you can get a Galaxy S3 on Virgin Mobile and while that's not a mega-baller phone, it's certainly a long-way from some Kyocera clamshell with a 1" display.

Post: #6

I used Virgin Mobile for a few years, but now I use MetroPCS and won't look back. Used to have Verizon for several years. Way too expensive.

MetroPCS uses Tmobile's network anyways so I'm getting good service for a low price.

Post: #7

To the OP: Im guessing your friend gets the newest phones as soon as they're released like that fancy schmancy iPhone 5 . Don't worry about what others think of you, especially over something so expendable as a cell phone. Instead, look at it as a way to be able to quickly judge someone's character. If a girl busts your balls or gives you shit over you carrying a non-popular cell carrier then she's probably not worth your time anyway (although you can use this as an opportunity to work to your favor with a little game but it's usually not worth it). The same goes for most guys who will use their phones as status tools. Get a phone that will fit your needs but won't break your wallet. Do whatever is more convenient for you but don't let your life be dictated by a piece of replaceable electronics.