Best cell-phone deals: cut through the static with this step-by-step guide.(Buyers guide)(Table)

If you thought choosing your last cell phone, service provider, and calling plan was a more confusing process than it had any reason to be, just wait until the next time you try it.

Not only are the plans devilishly difficult to figure out--sometimes even for the people selling them--but the phones themselves have become exponentially more complex. Digital cameras are now a common feature on even the most humble phones, and MP3 players aren't far behind. Each new feature seems to spawn new services, as well as new costs.

That's where this step-by-step guide for choosing the best carrier and the right phone can help. To further simplify the process, the Consumer Reports National Research Center surveyed more than 18,000 subscribers about their cell-phone buying experiences. Overall, we found that people who bought online tended to be happier than those who did so at a store. The box at right has the details.

Much depends on whether you're still under a contract, as well as whether you're replacing your phone, carrier, or both. Here's advice for each situation:

WHEN YOUR CONTRACT IS UP

This is the best time to upgrade your phone and, if need be, dump your carrier. Now that you're a free agent, your current carrier may do almost anything to get you to re-enlist. But don't commit too quickly. You can usually stay with your carrier on a month-to-month basis, without a contract, until you find what you want.

If you just want a new phone. Check the Ratings on page 33 to see which phones will work with your carrier.