In planning our move down there I'd like to ask about cell phones and various plans available. First off, we'll need to replace our old cell phones with some updated ones, but wondered if it's best to buy the phones here in the U.S. before we come down? Would it be cheaper to buy in the U.S.? And, are there any phones we should look for or not buy that wouldn't work for some reason in Boquete? Also, what are you typically paying for both cell phone internet and what do you pay for a basic calling plan? I'm assuming these are all services we could buy once we get there?
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I buy US phones, because I can get the options I want (like dual chip) for less. Plans here are good, you have to try a few plan chips out to see what is best reception where you live. I had to change plans when I moved, but was able to keep the same number, so that was not a problem. Generally, any UNLOCKED phone will work here. You can get LG and Samsung phones here, just not the selection you have in the US.
Thank you Charlotte. That all makes sense. Again, thank you!
Magic Jack also has apps for smart phones that will make it possible to receive calls when you are away from your computer, but as it uses your data, you will need to be where there is good data reception. We have found it to work most of the time, but not all.
We found that paying $40+ (Consumer Cellular for 2 phones) for a few weeks wasn't cost effective for us. We kept our numbers for 6 months and tried to get the word out. Then Straight Talk led us to believe if we put some money on their plan every so many months, we could keep our numbers active. They lied. We came back to the states and found our numbers had been given away, even though we had done what they told us. So now we only give out our Magic Jack number and get a new number for only when we are back.
Hope your transition to the Panama life goes well for you.
Thank you Ken. I appreciate your sharing. Have a great day!
Thank you Cynthia. So much to learn. That is helpful!
Mobile reception quality varies based on where you live. Mas Movil (Cable & Wireless) works best for us - we pay $12/month for a data plan (4G available in downtown Boquete), and pay as you go (pre-paid) for calls. You can top-up your balance online.
Panafoto in David has the top line phones - see https://panafoto.com/categorias/celulares-y-tablets/smartphones/sma...
However, prices are slightly higher here than US, and different models (particularly for mid-range phones) between US and here.
If buying in the US, just make sure it's unlocked.
Thank you Catherine! Very helpful!
Hi Bonnie. Thank you for your feedback. Most people have told me buying phones there is more expensive than the U.S. Did you buy your phones there? Are you saying too that it would be worth buying there because some of the local carriers would give us a payment plan on our phones and a good plan to go along with it? Any feedback is so welcomed.
Really? I heard that phones are more expensive there than in the U.S. Not true?