Changing cell phones...

Since I'm leaving Cingular, one of the big things I'm going to have to change is my cell phone service. I'm not looking forward to having to pay for my cell phone. The only thing is now that I do have to pay for it I want to make sure I'm going to get one I'm happy with.
I don't know if it's harder getting a phone knowing what I know about the wireless industry or not. I just have to make the leap I guess.