If you are in London and looking for a reliable shop from where you can buy a new phone, be it the latest iPhone or the best Android, you most definitely are spoilt for options.
London has innumerable phone shops ranging from huge flag-ship stores from leading chains to small trustworthy local shops.
But the question is: where will you go for the best experience, best deals, and true service?
Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular phone shops in the city, what makes them stand out, and what kind of customers they cater to.
Whether you’re after something shiny and new or just need a decent second-hand device, there’s something here for everyone.
Apple Stores
If you’re an iPhone fan, it’s hard to beat the official Apple Stores.
London has a few of them, most famously the one on Regent Street, which is as much an experience as it is a shop.
Walking into the Apple Store feels more like stepping into a tech showroom than a retail shop.
Everything is laid out cleanly, you can try the latest models, and there are plenty of employees around to answer your questions or help set up your new phone right then and there.
You’re paying full retail price in this case, but at least you’re getting the assurance that everything is on the up and up, brand new stock, and warranty-backed.
So, if you’re the kind who insists on getting an iPhone directly from the source, this is the way to buy.
Samsung Experience Store
For Android enthusiasts, especially Samsung people, the Oxford Street location of the Samsung Experience Store is heaven.
It’s the Samsung version of the Apple Store, and whatever latest phones they have out, you can play with. The people who work here are very knowledgeable, particularly when it comes to side-by-side model comparison or discussing the Android-exclusive aspects of the phones.
What’s great is that they also offer trade-in options and have regular deals, especially when new devices launch.
Plus, you can often get same-day screen repairs or support services, which is a huge plus.
Carphone Warehouse
Though Carphone Warehouse has downsized over the years, there are still plenty of locations across London, and they remain one of the go-to options for people who want to compare different brands all in one place.
This is ideal if you’re not loyal to Apple or Android and just want to see what’s out there.
A good aspect there is that you can compare various phones side by side and usually discover bundle deals, especially if purchasing on a contract.
They typically stock all the heavy-hitters: Apple, Samsung, Google Pixel, Xiaomi, OnePlus, and the rest.
Their sales people are accustomed to customers asking lots and lots of questions, and they’ll typically provide a balanced recommendation without over-emphasizing one brand over another.
EE, O2, Vodafone, and Three – The network shops
If you’re purchasing a phone through a mobile contract, chances are you’re visiting one of the large network stores.
EE, O2, Vodafone, and Three all have stores all over London, particularly in popular areas such as Oxford Street, Westfield, or Stratford.
They will typically stock the latest iPhones and Androids, often with promotional offers or early upgrades if you’re an existing customer.
It’s a good way to check out signal strength and coverage in the area too, as you can ask staff to check on the spot.
One thing worth considering when buying from a network shop is their phone insurance options.
Let’s be honest, phones aren’t cheap anymore, and theft in a busy city like London is a real concern.
So, it’s a good idea to get a decent insurance policy for your prized device.
Many of the network providers offer insurance for different mobile phones right at the point of sale.
If you want to purchase it, make sure it covers theft, as many times it only covers accidental damage.
That said, if you already have home insurance or contents insurance, it may cover phone theft in certain circumstances.
You can also pay for specific add-ons for extra protection including legal protection cover, etc.
CeX – For second-hand Bargains
If you’re looking for deals and don’t mind buying a pre-owned device, CeX (an abbreviation for Complete Entertainment Exchange) is a shop you should look into.
There are various CeX shops scattered all over the face of London, including Camden and Clapham.
The variety in the phones they stock varies, including the most up-to-date iPhones and Android flagships.
You will typically see unlocked models, and the 24-month warranty on every device provides peace of mind.
Prices are typically fair, and there are trade-in opportunities if you wish to sell the old phone as well.
Just be sure to inspect the phones carefully before buying, especially if you’re picky about cosmetic wear and tear.
But for many people, the savings make it worth it.
Final thoughts
London has got a lot.
Whether you’re tech-savvy and looking for specific features, or you just want a phone that works and doesn’t cost a fortune, there’s no shortage of places to explore.
The best bit? You can go into most places, speak to someone who knows what they’re on about, and leave with just the right thing.
You may even get the better deal that you were hoping for.
Feature image: Free to use from Unsplash
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