By Last updated Jul 4, 2016.
.In the United States, the FCC allows for wireless phone signals over two type of networks - CDMA (Code Division Multiple Access) and GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication). Each of these network technologies enable voice and data transmission with cellphones, but do so in ways so different that they are incompatible with each other. Simply put, this means that you cannot use a CDMA phone on a GSM network, and vice versa. American carriers such as AT&T and T-Mobile all use the GSM network, while Sprint, Verizon, MetroPCS and U.S. Cellular use CDMA.
CDMA coverage in the US is expansive and quite reliable. Nevertheless, foreign carriers do not support CDMA network technology in many parts of the globe. Worldwide, GSM technology is much more prevalent by far. Subsequently, American users that travel abroad frequently usually insist on a carrier that provides GSM-compatible phones. The primary reason GSM is more compatible around the globe is the fact the compatible phones require a SIM (Subscriber Identification Module) card. Most carriers around the world issues SIMs to users so they can access compatible networks. Therefore, if you have an American GSM phone that supports use of a SIM, you can use it virtually anywhere by simply switching out the module when you reach your destination country.
Generally speaking, manufacturers produce many more phones for GSM networks than they do for CDMA. This means you have many more choices for cellphones that will work not only in the United States but in other countries as well.
At ReviewGist, our list of phones also includes some of the best basic GSM cellphones as well as more advanced models. The list provides phones of every color, style and feature level you could imagine. Nevertheless, when choosing a GSM cellphone to suit your needs, there many variables to consider.
Browse All Top GSM Cell Phones of 2016 »
#1 |
#2 |
#3 |
#4 |
#5 |
|
---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
|
|
|
|
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
![]() |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Release Date |
|
|
|
|
|
Network Type |
|
|
|
|
|
Digital Camera Resolution |
|
|
|
|
|
Installed RAM (GB) |
|
|
|
|
|
Screen Size(Diagonal) |
|
|
|
|
|
Front Webcam Resolution |
|
|
|
|
|
Processor Type |
|
|
|
|
|
Battery Capacity |
|
|
|
|
|
Operating System |
|
|
|
|
|
Carrier |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
© 2025 ReviewGist.com. All Rights Reserved.
Best GSM Cell Phone of 2016