In-store vs. Online Upgrade Dilemma

[DroidDukie]

Alright...here is my situation

I'm on a family plan and looking to upgrade to a Droid and add a Data plan. I'm eligible for an NE2 upgrade. The 1400 minute plan with the 10 FF #'s seem like the best option for what we need.

So for updating a service and getting a new phone should I do it online or go to an official verizon retailer to do business? I understand the instant rebate online versus the mail-in rebate for in store purchase.

Is there any reason or advantages that are not obvious to utilize one purchasing system over the other? Is the activation fee the same? Since I have an existing account does that matter? Your thoughts? Experiences?

Thanks for help!

 

[webdave]

If you order online they waive the activation free from Friday through Monday.

 

[ggp]

Instant rebate and personal preference are the only real factors. There is no activation fee on upgrades.

If you like personal attention, the folks at the store are happy to help you, you send in your rebate, end price is the same.

Don't feel like making the trip, then online is the way to go, and no form to mail in.

 

[DroidDukie]

So what about the thought of returning within the 30 day period? Is the phone returnable for full refund or exchange if it is bought in store and returned without the upc code that was cut from the retail box (for mail-in rebate)? Would buying it online make that an easier process? appreciate the help.

 

[dmodert66]

If you have a Verizon Store near you (not VZW), you should go there. Get personal attention PLUS they give the rebates instantly (no mail in). I'm not sure about the activation though (if they charge or not)...

 

[ggp]

If you have a Verizon Store near you (not VZW), you should go there. Get personal attention PLUS they give the rebates instantly (no mail in). I'm not sure about the activation though (if they charge or not)...

If you're talking about indirect stores, their policies vary.

DD, if you're really thinking about returning the device, if you get it at a store, I would recommend holding off on sending in the rebate until you're sure, probably makes for an easier return.

Why not go to a corp store and play with the phones first? They have live demo models (not sure indirect stores have live ones).

 

[dmodert66]

If you're talking about indirect stores, their policies vary.
.

I am not talking about "indirect" stores...I am talking about Verizon Plus stores...

For Example : Store Locator - Verizon Wireless

These stores have cell phones, Verizon Land Line and DSL services, and Verizon Fios services (if available in your area). They are Verizon Corporate Stores. So they sell VZW, VZ, VZ Fios and have hardware and plans for all of the above. About the only thing you CAN'T do at one of these stores, is pay your cell phone bill w/o a bill with you.

All of these stores (according to the sales associate) have the same policies as set forth by VZ, which includes giving the MIR's up front (no need to mail in)...

**EDIT** I only know this because I took my brother to buy his Droid there. I wish I would have known, because I bought mine at Best Buy (for the no MIR deal), and they messed up my purchase twice...

 

[bcltoys]

When you do buy online how do you go about activating.