You get what you pay for when it comes to cell service. Virgin, T-Mobile, and any other one of these cheapo wireless companies all have lower price points because of inferior products. I went from Verizon to T-Mobile and the cost savings still aren't worth it. I can barely use my phone in a lot of areas and I live in a pretty big city. Local carriers are good if you don't plan on leaving the area but if you step 1 foot outside of town then you will have no service. If you are going to use it a lot then get something that will work and be worth it. $30 a month for a paperweight isn't a good deal.
My advice is that before you consider buying from Carriers you may try one of the advice from a members about eBay. It will give you a chance to buy a cheap but quality phone, and a smart one for that matter!
