Not everyone wants a contract with a cellular company. In fact, most people would rather not have a contract; however, it's hard to find a decent phone from a carrier that offers prepaid services with no contract. That's what we're here for.
Recently, I've found that more and more of our readers - you guys - are asking me about prepaid phones and services. Which is the best? Which phone is worth paying the off-contract price? To that end, I've compiled a list of the top five messaging phones currently offered from the most popular U.S. prepaid carriers. Don't want a messaging phone? That's okay, we've got you covered too. A separate list will detail the top five prepaid smartphones.
Unfortunately, not all of these carriers will have coverage in your area and we couldn't cover the top phones from every single prepaid carrier because there's literally dozens of them. These are the best of the best. Check it out or check out the list of prepaid smartphones!
Why: 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, AMOLED display, capacitive touchscreen, great physical keyboard, and an amazing camera - that's why. This phone just can't be beat. Where else are you going to find a so-called "simple" messaging phone with 4G, Wi-Fi, and a beautiful display? All on a prepaid carrier? This phone is the best there is in its category and the best part is you don't even need to sign a contract.
Why: Apparently consumers are suckers for great displays because the Laser has a beautiful AMOLED display just like the Craft, though it's not quite as impressive. Top that with one of the best physical keyboards on the market and a fresh and fun UI and the Laser is a solid option for consumers looking for a great messaging phone without the ol' ball and chain. Not only that, but it's offered from AT&T, meaning that, chances are, there's coverage in you area.
Why: The UI on the Rumor/Banter Touch may be a little unorthodox and could possibly take some time getting used to, but the keyboard is stellar and one of the best. Not only that, but you get a touchscreen device with a 2-megapixel camera and 3.5mm headphone jack. Now who said that prepaid phones were boring?
Why: In terms of messaging phone design, Sharp really put their best into the FX. It just looks awesome. The 2-megapixel camera may seem a little disappointing considering Sharp did so well with the rest of the phone, but the physical keyboard is great and the 3-inch display is actually a capacitive touchscreen. Pretty nifty, huh?
Why: Awesome camera. I mean, yes, it also has a great physical keyboard and the same capacitive touchscreen that the Sharp FX has, but LG really gives us something to talk about with the 3-megapixel autofocus camera and flash. Yes, I know that most smartphones could outdo this camera easily, but it's one of the best you'll get with a messaging phone. The keyboard isn't quite as good as the Sharp FX's and it did suffer from a bit of a lag, but it's still a solid messaging device and hey, no contract!
