Unlocked GSM phone for use in Europe

*This message was also posted in Wireless/Wired Transmitting*

I'd like to get an unlocked GSM mobile phone for use in western Europe. Can anyone suggest a reputable source for phones as well as advice on where to buy SIM cards?

Should I buy when I arrive or can I get what I need from U.S. vendors?

Will the GSM phones for Europe work on the North American GSM networks like Cingular and TMobile? How about Mexico and the Carribean?

My knowlege is limited so any advice is appreciated.

[PJ_Heller]

Here's a starting point for some information:

www.telestial.com

www.planetomni.com

If you get a cell phone from a US vendor, you'll need to make sure it's a tri-band (or even quad band) so it can operate on the proper frequency. You'll also need to set it to make sure it works on that frequency . . . I have an older Motorola and it has an option to automatically detect the proper operating range (nothing more frustrating than wondering why you can't get your cell to work only to discover it's set for the wrong frequency, DUH).

If you get an unlocked phone, it's a simple matter to just drop in a new SIM card from a company like telestial. I've used their SIM cards and have never experienced a problem.

Depending on where you're going and for how long, you might want to consider renting a phone once you arrive. Still another option, depending on which cell phone provider you use, is to enable worldwide roaming; that way you should be able to use your phone (assuming it can cover the right band) when you are overseas. The downside to this option is it is often pretty pricey.

I'm sure others who have more experience can provide more info. Check out the links above; they should provide you with some useful information.

[PJ_Heller]

One more thing I forgot to mention . . .

If you want an inexpensive way to be able to call back to the US from overseas, rather than using your cell phone, consider buying a calling card like the MCI card available from Costco. Just make sure you bring along the access phone number(s) for the country(ies) you're planning to visit. You can also recharge the card (add more time) while on the road by putting the fee on your credit card.

You can also use the card to make calls within the country you're in; I think there's an extra fee if you make the call from a pay phone.

[Doug_Demarest]

This article explains well what frequencies you need, so check the phone's specs before you buy

http://www.thetravelinsider.info/roa...bandphones.htm

plenty of unlocked phones are available on ebay. US GSM providers will often unlock phones after your contract period. Also, many phones are simple to unlock...look around on that travelinsider site...you can buy a code for $5 for many phones, type it in and presto...unlocked. (unfortunately not for my motorola

[Doug_Demarest]

....here is a quick summary of frequencies pasted from that article:

If used only internationally
If you intend to use your phone only internationally, then decide if you'll be using the phone in countries that use the international frequencies, or in countries that use the US frequencies, or in both.

If you only need to use the phone in countries with international frequencies, get a dual band 900/1800 MHz phone. A single band phone with only 900 MHz will give reasonably good coverage, but most international phones these days have both bands.

If you need to use the phone in countries that also have the US 1900 MHz frequency, get a tri-band phone with 900/1800/1900 MHz.

If used in both the US and internationally
Two frequencies are 'must have' frequencies - 900 and 1900 MHz. The other two bands are nice to also have, with 1800 MHz typically opening up more of foreign countries than 850 MHz would open up in the US.

I bought a brand new Triband 800/1800/1900 GSM SonyEricsson phone from an Ebay dealer last week for $60.00. I plan to buy a SIM card when I arrive at my destination next month.

[Olivier_Thomas]

I use a tri-band Nokia cell phone, i am based in Paris an i travel a lot.
My cell phone works all other the world, in the US, in China, in Africa....
So, if you need to travel , by a tri-band phone with 900/1800/1900 Mgz.