andiron wrote:
This has been discussed a bit in this thread:
http://androidforums.com/htc-evo-4g/62157-buying-evo-bestbuy.html
However, I'm still debating where and how I'm going to purchase it.
Here are the overall positives/negatives that I have thought about so far:
Mortar and Brick Sprint Store:
-Best chance to negotiate on price or accessories added.
-Will probably have either best or competitive deal.
-Possibly like Verizon, can transfer your contact info to your new phone. (Not sure on that as I've been with Verizon)
-Can probably get the activation fee waived.
-Take phone home with you.
-Possibly get some tutorials or help if needed.
-Can adjust calling plan and other details as needed.
-Have to mail in rebate from what I've heard.
-30 day guarantee.
Online Sprint:
-As good a price as store, possibly better due to online promotions.
-Less ability to customize plan or change things.
-Have to download contacts to google or something else and then load them to new phone.
-Have to wait for phone delivery, 1 to 3 days possibly.
-Won't be able to waive activation fee unless they have a special running.
-No ability to negotiate on anything.
-Probably same deal on rebate, must be mailed in and then wait.
-30 day guarantee.
Best Buy:
-Instant Rebate - no mail in.
-May be able to get phone cheaper if they match or include different specials, etc..
-No idea on how much you can customize your account/plan/etc... (have never bought phone through Best Buy)
Wirefly:
-Seems like best price available on most phones, but it varies depending on carrier and phone.
-Can get $50 back on Bing Cashback program.
-Instant rebate or less cost matching a rebate price.
-30 day guarantee, they include a shipping label should you need to send it back.
-Usually get the phone next day on FedEx.
-If phone has problems, can still take it to an actual Sprint store for help or trade in.
-Sometimes can't customize the plans as you would want. Not sure how the EVP or SERO programs would be applied to account. Probably have to work through Sprint Customer Service to get applied discounts.
-Have to pay activation fee, Wirefly claims to have no ability to waive those.
That's all I can think of right now. For me it will come down to who has it listed at what price, and what options will I have control over by ordering through them.
I figure if I have waited as long as I have to get the phone, another day or 2 won't kill me.