First, I use my Nextel phones for personal use (I have two i700+ phones - read my review on them!). Most people I have encountered use the phone for business purposes, or to coordinate work schedules. Not Me!

Why do I use it for Personal Use? Have you ever wanted to get ahold of that special someone, child, or parent immediately? No busy-signals, no nonsense...just now? That's why I chose Nextel. With Nextel Direct-Connect, a press of a button (easily located on the side of the i700+) and you are instantly connected to others within your same home calling area.

Coverage Unlike many other epinions review-writers...I have never had a coverage problem on the Nextel Network. I have driven with my phone from Boston, to Albany, to New York City, to Newark, down the NJ Turnpike, through Philadelphia, and into Delaware without a lapse in coverage. Nextel coverage focuses on major cities, and along most (if not all) highways. Service isn't meant for small towns in the middle of no-where. I love the service coverage areas! Nextel also offers no-roaming service in southern Canada INCLUDED in all of their plans! You can't beat it.

Clarity Unsurpassed! I've had AT&T and Verizon phones and plans, and they don't come close.

Features All of the normal features are offered: Caller ID, Voicemail, Call Waiting, 3-Way Calling, Internet Messaging, and Web-Enables Phones w/Service. They also have Nextel's Direct Connect, and advanced Two-Way Messaging!

Cost The costs associated with Nextel are a bit more than most services, but you get MORE for that money! I pay $80/month for two phones with a total of 1000 cellular minutes & 400 direct connect minutes. (It's called a "twin-pack" rate if you were interested).

Customer Service When I initially purchased my phones, they said service would begin within 48 hours - they were updating their computer systems. I needed my phones within 2 hours (the normal setup time). They had my service active within 45 minutes! Thanks to them I had my phones for my recent long car-trip! Customer service is available 24/7 and with a toll-free call (no airtime usage) from Nextel phones. They have an 800 number for use from landlines!

Recommended: Yes

Amount Paid (US$): 80.00