Blackberry's are all the rage these days, almost everyone seems to be fiddling about with their tiny little devices. Emails flying here and there, but how do I know what to buy, or who to sign up with? Just about everyone offers some unbeatable deal, offering the world upon a silver platter. Quite frankly, I think the only way to know what to buy, is to ask yourself do I really need one?

1. Does your work require you to stay in touch with the office? If you need to know what's going on the right device will keep you connected. Some companies even have a link between the Blackberry and the workplace that controls exactly what is transmitted.

2. Am I going to use my Blackberry for making calls? First check the carriers, confirm that your main point of travel includes ample coverage. Technology is either GSM, T-MOBILE, AT&T, ROGERS, ect. Or it will be CDMA, VERIZON SPRINT, BELL MOBILITY, TELUS. Next decide what plan is right for you.

3. Data plans, am I using it just for email or more? If your a light user or heavy user ensure you pick the right plan. Research on-line, and checkout the special offers. Contracts may land you a sweet deal, but beware of the hidden clauses that may catchup later on.

Next we have to choose the device. Do I want to use it for simply email with some light calling? Do I plan on using text messaging, or long winded emails?

1. Blackberry types come in every shape and size. If your a nimble typer you may do quite well with either a SURETYPE (multiple letters per key), or the tradition QWERTY (like a full computer keyboard). If you like your device to predict what your typing SURETYPE is definitely a good fit. If your an old school typist, who just likes to peck away, than stick to the dependable QWERTY.

2. Goodies and features, may be fine and dandy, but are you going to use them all. If you don't need GPS, go with an older device to save money. If you want to listen to music, and watch video than you need a more recent device with a media player. If your not tech savvy than you may just want a simple device, and get some assistance setting up the included software package. This will allow you to move contacts from your device to your computer using something like MS OUTLOOK. If you don't care to do this, you still might want to back it up in the event your device goes missing.

Lastly do some research to get the best price, and stay away from the bargain bins. These devices are cheap for a reason, some are still locked, or refurbished, or even worse; stolen.

Waiting until around holiday time, or at least a couple months after a device has been on the market will prove to be a cost saving measure. Most sales like boxing day blitz, and just around New Years, are excellent since most consumers are shopped out, which prompts stores to generate sales to improve their sales figures.

The Pearl is SURETYPE, and it has a camera.

The 8703 is an older color but media capable device.

The new curve has QWERTY and a camera.

The 8820 is GSM wih QWERTY, and has WiFi, but no camera.

The 8830 is CDMA and GSM with QWERTY but no camera.

Older devices are the 7200 and 7100 series and are not as media capable, and mainly use for email and as a cellular phone.

Hope this helps you find the right Blackberry!

Learn more about this author, Raven Storme.
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