How to choose between CDMA and GSM cell phone systems

There are a lot of choices facing cell phone users and one of the new ones is whether to choose a CDMA or GSM phone system. This si dependent on a number of variables and there is not one right answer for everyone. That said there are a few things to look at that should clarify your decision.

CDMA or GSM refers to the type of network technology the phone will be using. Companies usually use one or the other and do not openly advertise which one. This is a vital choice that could have no-signal ramifications either way so choose carefully.

The CDMA is a newer method that spreads data out over a channel only after digitization. Calls are laid across the entire channel. It is widely considered the more efficient of the two. It increases signal power, rang and battery life. All the experts are pushing for it to overtake the most currently used technology, GSM.

The GSM is the dominant technology used in networking systems today. It operates on four separate frequencies. It utilizes technology that allows for digital transmissions between a base station and a cell phone. It is divided into these four channels with all the calls as a single stream. That is why this dominant technology is often refereed to as "narrowband". The basic benefit is that it allows multiple users to occupy the same channel all at once.

Even though both methods have good coverage, but there are a few things to consider. GSM is slower for connections, but unlike CDMA you can use the voice functions on the phone and send data at the same time. GSM phones also require the use of SIM cards which allow for easily transferable storage of numbers.

If you are planning on using your phone Internationally, GSM wins by a landslide. This is the best service to use abroad since it dominates 78% of the market! Your chances of going out of range with a CDMA phone are much greater.

So there you have it. If you multitask or travel a lot, go with the GSM. If not, you should get a phone with a CDMA system. Either way you are likely to get a lot of use out of your cell phone, but knowing the differences between the two methods can be the difference between having a workable phone or a flashing no-signal sign.