Which Smartphone

[agardener]

Like just_George yesterday, my contract renewal is coming up. I currently have a Samsung Ace 3. That was on the recommendation of someone whose opinion I trust and I've been happy with it in general. That same person advised me weeks ago to get a HTC one A9 on renewal. However they are now saying HTC are going down, I should get a Sony Z series. My head is starting to spin. Anyone got some useful advice please. I should add that the network is not the question, it's the handset.

[alavahalf]

Your Samsung Ace 3 is a fairly low end phone as far as smartphones go. But if you are happy with a Samsung then why not stick with a new samsung phone on your new contract.
The HTC A9 is an altogether different beast and is quite a step up from your Ace 3.
Contact your contract supplier and see what they have to offer. They will almost always upgrade your handset if they think you are going to leave.

[agardener]

Thanks for that alavahalf. My current provider is offering me a HTC Desire 530 for £4 odd more a month. They say it has a better camera and a faster processor. I know I can shop around but when you don't know what you're doing that's a risky business. Carphone warehouse has also been suggested. Are there any others?

[alavahalf]

It's difficult to choose the 'Right' one when there are so many to choose from and they all have their own little features and merits. I'm sure if HTC are going down this year, next year they will pop out a flagship model to rival the competition.
If it's a camera you are after and a budget phone, my choice is a Moto G 3rd generation with it's waterproof case and a great 13 mgp camera. The 5" screen is really good .. it saves me squinnting to see text on a smaller screen.
You wont go far wrong if you stick with the big named manufacturers.
Ask your current supplier for your PAC code a few weeks before your current contract ends and they are guaranteed to try and keep you onboard with a better deal.