[kayakkingoz]

PDA's

Hey there,

I'm moving to HK in a few weeks to take up a contract with cathay

Just wondering - I need a PDA and mobile -

Am I better of getting a PDA/Phone on some kind of contract, or buying one and then getting a SIM?

If I wanted to buy a PDA/Phone - where's the best/cheapest place to get one?

Cheers and thanks

[KnowItAll]

Shop around and buy a phone. You don't want to get stuck on long term contract with a telco with no upgrade options.

[discobay]

Best deals are at electronics chain stores like Fortress, Broadway and Chung Yuen. The phone service shops tend to charge higher for the same models but will offer deals if you sign up. If you have the time and inclination you could walk around Mong Kok for slightly better deals from the non-chain stores.

[vmlinuz]

Originally Posted by discobay

Best deals are at electronics chain stores like Fortress, Broadway and Chung Yuen. The phone service shops tend to charge higher for the same models but will offer deals if you sign up. If you have the time and inclination you could walk around Mong Kok for slightly better deals from the non-chain stores.

Is that really true? Do the big chains actually give the best deals?

If PDA/phone means 'smartphone' as opposed to two devices, I'd head for Mong Kok or Sham Shui Po to the computer centres, rather than the phone shops, but otherwise, I'd head for the phone mall in Mong Kok - I don't know what it's called or exactly where it is...

[discobay]

I suppose I should qualify my comment with my preference for offically warranteed goods from reputable retailers. I've had enough of buying from Jack the Lad types in Mong Kok and Sham Shui Po. You can maybe save 10% buying from them WITH CASH but for peace of mind I would pay the difference and have the choice of using visa or amex.

[jayinhongkong]

Alternatively, check out Ebay. If you know what you're doing, you can get a really outstanding deal on a phone.

[MotoHK]

Originally Posted by discobay

I suppose I should qualify my comment with my preference for offically warranteed goods from reputable retailers. I've had enough of buying from Jack the Lad types in Mong Kok and Sham Shui Po. You can maybe save 10% buying from them WITH CASH but for peace of mind I would pay the difference and have the choice of using visa or amex.

I got mine from MK with a cash discount and it has a full warranty and the retailer was nice even bowing when I left the store with the phone. Yes its real because I checked with the manufacturer afterwards and had tole the retailer if it wasnt I would be back to kick his arse for ripping me off. I think its an unfair accusation unless one has proof. It also helps if one goes with a local Chinese person or at least tries to speak in Chinese. Shows respect and in turn they treat you the same way. If you walk in like some deep pocketed wanker I dont blame them for ripping you.

[discobay]

You might also want to visit Wanchai Computer Centre as there are several stores specialising in pdas/smartphones and their accessories. Not all are kosher and are probably staffed by ex-Mong Kok retailers but a couple are very friendly, sincere and offer good prices.