Consumers swayed most by device and also price

In our world of social media, Internet searches and instant messaging, the smartphone is king. That’s why, according to cellphone contract comparison engine Phonefinder.co.za, consumers choose their contracts primarily on the device offered.

“Upwardly mobile consumers want the latest smartphone technology, but many are not yet able to purchase a device outright,” explains Lance Krom, founder and managing director at Phonefinder. “In these instances, they consider a cellphone contract to be the ideal means to get the phone they want without the capital outlay or traditional financing.”

However, due to increased competition from a broader cellular provider market, which now includes four major players in MTN, Vodacom, Cell C and Telkom, and literally thousands of contract options, Krom says consumers often find it frustrating to compare options.

The website lists all available contract options in a neat, searchable and easy-to-understand manner. “Importantly, we’re unbiased. Visitors to our portal can search every mobile contract deal available based on the type of handset they desire, their preferred network, monthly costs, data bundles and voice minutes, or any combination of these criteria,” continues Krom. “Once they’ve selected their preferred option and submitted their details, a simple click of the ‘call me’ button will result in a service provider calling them back to sign up.”

Phonefinder has gained numerous insights into the buying habits of cell phone contract subscribers. “With over 20,000 inquiries received per month, we’ve been able to establish key trends in the sector,” he states.

Samsung is the most popular brand, accounting for 47% of phones selected with contracts purchased via Phonefinder.co.za. “The Samsung Galaxy J5 Prime is the top-seller as it is the preferred device in 20% of all contracts sold via the website,” adds Krom. The Samsung Galaxy Grand Prime Plus is selected in 6% of deals, ranking it fourth most popular.

Chinese smartphone manufacturer Huawei is the second most popular brand, with a 24% share among contracts purchased via Phonefinder.