Your search for a new mobile phone store is about to get a whole lot easier: It’s online!

Long gone are the days where you had to stand in a crowded smartphone store, or a long line at a carrier’s branch with tons of paperwork, to apply for a smartphone contract.

E-commerce has grown from clothing and furniture to mobile phones, and more in recent years and with Mobile Store, you can buy a smartphone from the comfort of your couch. Learn more about why you should choose an online mobile phone store for your next smartphone contract.

The pros and cons of buying a mobile phone online

Pros

You can order your phone from the comfort of your home.
Getting approval for a contract online is quick and paperless.
You can spend as much as you want comparing phones and contracts before making a decision.
E-commerce sites are trustworthy with your personal and banking info.
Stock availability is not an issue; unlike physical stores

Cons

You can’t physically touch or browse through the phone, unlike at a store.
You’ll have to wait a few days for the phone to be delivered to you.
You’ll have to do your own research instead of asking one of the store consultants.

8 top tips when shopping for smartphone contracts online

1. Prioritise your budget.

We understand more than anyone the awesome feeling of unboxing the latest shiny smartphone, but at the end of the day, your monthly budget needs to be your top priority. The appeal of having the latest smartphone may ware off, but the monthly cost is something that sticks for the entirety of your contract period. Whether it’s R200 or R1,000 — stick to your budget.

2. Data, airtime or minutes? Opt for what you need.

Depending on your job or lifestyle, you can choose a contract offering data, airtime or minutes or a blend of all three. If you’re looking to spend a lot of time on social media, data is the best option. If you need to make a lot of calls for work or if you’re living far away from friends and family, minutes would be a top option. Airtime can be converted into data, which is a viable choice for those who like both options.

3. Consider a model that’s 1-2 year’s old.

Since 2019, the technology in mobile phones sees its customers getting the very best in battery life, camera quality, operational speed, storage and more. So what’s the rush in always having the latest smartphone every 12 months? You could have a top-of-the-range mobile phone released anytime in the last two years and experience the best in smartphone technology.

4. Do your reading. No, we’re not giving you homework!

Well, maybe a little. When buying online or committing to a phone contract, it’s important for you to read any FAQs (frequently asked questions) on the website and any T’s and C’s (terms and conditions).

5. Android or iOS? The ultimate question.

iOS is said to be the leader in smartphone operating systems and have had little to no security breaches. However, Android phones are known to be more affordable than iPhones. Users of the two systems are as loyal to their chosen systems as fans of opposing soccer teams, with pros and cons on both sides. Do a little research and chat to your iPhone or Android-loving friends before making your decision.

6. Consider getting a top-up contract.

Oops! You’ve run out of data or airtime and your contract doesn’t allow you to buy more. You may find yourself broken down on the side of the road or in an emergency situation at home, where you need data or airtime to make a call. Consider how much money in total you’d like to be spending on your phone including possible top-ups at month-end. Telkom offers a wide range of mobile contract deals, with free top-up options for data-heavy users.

7. What features are most important to you?

This is where the fun begins! Shopping for a new smartphone is like being your very own Father Christmas. Is it a triple-lens camera system with a ultra-wide camera for scenic shots you’re looking for? Is it a phone that can last up to 24 hours in battery life? Is it a phone so advanced that you can create epic videos, movies or Instagram reels? Across five brands of mobile phones, Mobile Store can help you choose the phone with the best features for you.

Digital Trends offers a comprehensive guide to the features you should consider when purchasing a mobile device online.

8. Choose a trusted mobile provider.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the choices in front of you — pick a trusted provider.

Not only will you be able to speak to friends and family who already hold contracts, and have purchased devices with them — you can more than likely see online reviews to get a better sense of their levels of customer service.

Other Online Platforms

In case you didn’t know this, you can also purchase cell phones on Gumtree!

Buying phones from Gumtree can be a great way to find affordable deals on both new and used mobile devices. Gumtree – the popular online classifieds platform where individuals can buy and sell various items, offers a wide selection of listings. When it comes to cell phones, you can find different brands, models, and price ranges to suit your needs and budget.

However, as with any online marketplace, it's important to be smart and take necessary precautions when buying from individual sellers. Ensure you thoroughly inspect the phone, ask for relevant details, and meet in a safe public place for the transaction. By doing so, you can potentially save money while acquiring a quality phone through the Gumtree app.

For more tips and tricks on getting the best mobile phones contract deals online, read Understanding Ecommerce’s guide.

Shop on a mobile phone store for top smartphone deals!

Purchasing a smartphone online may be a novel concept to some who fear the new-age way of shopping. E-commerce in South Africa has an annual growth rate of 8% and is projected to be valued at US $6.8 million by 2025. Needless to say, an online mobile phone store is the way to go for your next purchase! Not only does purchasing a mobile device online help you take the time to sit back and analyse all the stats — you can also do this all from the comfort of your own home.

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