Cheap pay as you go phones can be a great alternative to costly contract services. There is no contract or credit check needed to purchase a pay as you go phone, and if you don't use it all that much it can be impressively cheaper than traditional mobile service. Finding cheap pay as you go phones is surprisingly easy, with several big name phone providers now offering this service.

You will not be able to use your regular mobile if you have a contract plan- even if you choose the same company for your pre-paid plan. You will have to purchase an additional mobile that is compatible with the company you use's pay as you go service. The good news is that these phones are often much cheaper than the one you purchased with your contract plan.

Electronic retail stores are a great first place to begin looking for a pay as you go mobile. They will usually carry cheap phones from several different companies. Generally, each service provider will have several styles of phones available for their pay as you go plans. They can range from the incredibly cheap just for phone calls kind, to elaborate pay as you go phones that allow you to talk, text, and surf the web much the same as you can from your regular mobile.

Second hand shops and online retailers are also a great option. You can find refurbished or gently used phones through these places for a fraction of the cost of buying new. If you are only using this pay as you go phone for a short time, or for very little use a cheaper used phone would be a great option for you.

Cellular phone company stores will also carry their pre-paid phones. The same company specific retailer where you would purchase your contracted mobile service will also offer their pre-paid phones and plan service there. Keep in mind they will only have their specific brand of pay as you go phones available. You may want to shop around and compare price between companies before selecting one specifically.