Which Pre-Pay should I get?

[fou09sty]

Hello,

I need some help on picking a pre-paid (pay as you go) phone...... I don't mind if its a clam shell or candy bar, but would prefer a decent size screen and bluetooth. I only have a budget of about $100. No point in getting a contract as I will only be using the phone rarely.

I am in Northern Virginia, so need a network that works well in this area. Most people I will be calling already use Cingular (not sure if it makes any difference but in the UK its cheaper calling to the same network than different networks). The only phone I can find in my budget with them is the LG C1300i, but I don't have any experience with LG phones. If possible I would prefer a Sony, but don't think its likely with my restrictions.

Also, where is the best place to buy online? and is it possible to buy just a SIM card from a provider if I had an unlocked phone? (eg buy a phone off ebay and put in a cingular SIM). I looked on the Cingular website and could not find anywhere to simply buy a "Go Phone" SIM chip.

Sorry for the long post, new to the USA and only have experience of UK phones/plans/providers (where there appeared to be far more options! like SIM cards easily available from all manufacturers)

Thanks.

 

[THE GATEKEEPER]

Ok I have spent a bit of time researching, and I can get a SIM card seperately. Soooooooo I then spent some time looking at phones and found these 2 within my budget.......... Sony Ericsson Z500a and the NEC 535M.

Which of these is better? I have owned many SE phones and do like them, never owned an NEC but its a bit cheaper ($80 Vs $120). So which would people buy? or are there any other suggestions for a similar price?

Thanks!